Coast to Coast to Coast in 30 days?

[imported_Matt]

I was thinking about riding my motorcycle cross country before I go back to school in the fall. I was planning on leaving after a family vacation at the New Jersey shore, making it a true coast to coast trip. I have to be back for school on the 20th of September. I would be leaving on the 22nd of August. This gives me about a month to ride accross the country and back. I am sure it can be done, 200 miles a day, but would I have enough time to make worthwhile stops and actually enjoy the trip? Or would it be a hurried trip to get back in time? My intention was to travel the more scenic routes like US-50 and Route 66. Any recommendations/advice?

[PNW Judy]

I say do it. At only 200 miles per day average, you have plenty of time to explore and move down the road. You could always stay put a day here and there and then just drive extra miles the next day. However, I've never traveled on a motorcycle (except for quick little excursions) so I know that miles on a bike can be much harder than in a car.

My advice would be to go for it but don't worry about the final destination. If you go for two weeks and only get part way there, so what? Just do what you can, do what you want, meander and explore, and follow your muse. And if you only make it to Colorado before having to go back East, so what? You've still had a great time, right?

[Robert Schaller]

Sounds like a great trip -- it will be easy to do in 30 days. 200 miles is an easy day's drive, even on two-wheels. My advice is to plan your day's ride early and quit by late afternoon, and you'll avoid bugs as they are more prevalent in the evenings and at night. You'll still hit some, but it won't be as many -- meaning, you probably won't CHOKE on them like you would in the midwest fields in the evenings! :)

Be sure to wear protective clothing -- it hurts like $*@! when a June bug smacks your jean-clad knee at 70 mph! Bob

[imported_Matt]

It's good to hear your words of encouragement. Anyone else have some input? Also, any suggested camping spots along the way? I will be staying in hotels without a doubt, but I plan on bringing a tent along.

[PNW Judy]

I would try to stay in the Teepee Motel in Holbrook, Arizona.

[imported_Bob]

Matt, I think what you want to do is great. I have made the trip across twice. Once on bike and the other by van. The bike trip was done in May and the van trip done in Nov. Camping out is a great way to see things and also save some money, but nothing beats a nice bed after a long day on the road. My suggestion is to visit as many National Parks as you can on your route and don't worry about sticking to just one route or getting lost, that's where all the fun is. Be prepared for rain and cold and take lost of pictures. Have a great trip.

[imported_Bob]

Matt, I think what you want to do is great. I have made the trip across twice. Once on bike and the other by van. The bike trip was done in May and the van trip done in Nov. Camping out is a great way to see things and also save some money, but nothing beats a nice bed after a long day on the road. My suggestion is to visit as many National Parks as you can on your route and don't worry about sticking to just one route or getting lost, that's where all the fun is. Don't worry about using Interstates unless you have to make up some time, and if you travel them off peak rush hours is a better way to go. Be prepared for rain and cold and take lost of pictures. Have a great trip.

[imported_Matt]

Bob, approximately how long did your trip take on two wheels? I plan on taking my time and enjoying the trip, but it is important for me to return on time for my move onto campus.

[imported_paul]

We did a trip to Alaska last year and went to Panama and
back this year. First trip on a goldwing, second a bmw.
Total of about 20,000 miles.
If you care to read more check out our website at http://www.natureseeker.com

enjoy your trip
<img src="http://www.natureseeker.com/1paulyol2.jpg">
paul

[imported_Ed]

I did a little over 9000 miles around the nation, Oregon through Texas up the east coast to Maine and back, last summer.

I did it on a Harley-Davidson V-Rod.

Cut 'n paste this URL:

http://www.mistered.com/bikestuff-tour.shtml

for the story

Go for it and have fun!!