Experience the Thrill of Ignition in Season 1, Episode 4

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Launch Day
3. Leaving the Subdivision
4. Riding Through Farmlands and Vineyards
5. Stop at Fort Hope Ontario
6. Arriving at the Campsite
7. Eventful Day and Navigation Issues
8. Bike Troubles
9. Camping Preparations and Challenges
10. Tips for Camping with a Heavy Motorcycle

Introduction

In this article, we will Delve into the thrilling world of motorcycle travel. From the excitement of launch day to the challenges faced on the road, we will explore the ups and downs of embarking on a long-term trip on two wheels. We will take You on a Journey through picturesque landscapes, encounter unexpected surprises, and share tips for making the most of your motorcycle camping experience. So grab your helmet and join us as we hit the road!

Launch Day

The anticipation is palpable as we prepare to embark on our motorcycle adventure. After months of planning and packing, the day has finally arrived. Our motorcycles are fueled up, our gear is securely strapped, and our GoPro cameras are ready to capture every thrilling moment. With a mix of nervousness and excitement, we set off from our driveway, knowing that we won't be coming back for a while.

Leaving the Subdivision

As we leave the familiarity of our cozy subdivision behind, the reality of our journey begins to sink in. The open road stretches out ahead of us, offering endless possibilities and unknown adventures. It's a surreal feeling to realize that We Are leaving behind the comforts of home to live solely off our motorcycles and the essentials we've packed on them. While we will be back here in the future, for now, we are ready to embrace the freedom of the open road.

Riding Through Farmlands and Vineyards

Away from the city limits, we find ourselves surrounded by the serene beauty of the countryside. We traverse through picturesque farmlands and vineyards, immersing ourselves in nature's splendor. Each twist and turn of the road unearths new surprises, such as an old bridge that seems to have stood the test of time. Occasionally, we encounter train tracks, but fortunately, we are spared any lengthy waits. The journey thus far is filled with intriguing sights and experiences.

Stop at Fort Hope Ontario

Our first stop brings us to Fort Hope Ontario, a place we have frequented on previous rides. As we make a pit stop to grab some eggs, we stumble upon a film crew shooting scenes for a Stephen King adaptation. The entire town is transformed into a 1950s setting, complete with vintage cars. It's a delightful and unexpected start to our trip, setting the tone for the adventures to come.

Arriving at the Campsite

After a long day of riding, we reach our campsite, number 32 in Cosmo Campgrounds. It's been an eventful day, with a few unexpected detours courtesy of our navigation system. We quickly learn that our Garmin system operates differently than familiar smartphone apps like Google Maps. A bit clunky and with peculiar assumptions, it takes time to master. Nevertheless, we manage to navigate through the challenges and reach our destination.

Eventful Day and Navigation Issues

Despite the scenic beauty and the thrill of the ride, our day has been filled with ups and downs. The most frustrating issue arises from my bike, which recently underwent a major service. Now, it's throwing up speed sensor errors, causing it to believe that it's stationary. The odometer doesn't change, and even the gas gauge remains unaffected. While the bike is still perfectly rideable, it's disconcerting not to have accurate speed and mileage readings.

Bike Troubles

On this trip, I ride a 2013 model, while my partner Sue rides a 2010 one. Surprisingly, her older bike outperforms mine, exhibiting no issues whatsoever. It's a stark reminder that even with modern machines, unpredictable problems can arise. However, we remain undeterred and Continue our journey, making adjustments along the way.

Camping Preparations and Challenges

Camping is an integral part of a long motorcycle trip, providing a Sense of adventure and an opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature. However, it comes with its own set of challenges. Forgetting essentials like a can Opener and roasted vegetables in the fridge remind us of the importance of thorough preparation. Despite these hiccups, we adapt and find alternative solutions, enjoying the simplicity and spontaneity of campfire meals.

Tips for Camping with a Heavy Motorcycle

One of the challenges we faced at the campsite was finding stable ground for our heavy motorcycles. The weight distribution and Height of my bike made it necessary to find a sturdy rock to keep it upright. We realized that with taller and HEAVIER bikes, it's imperative to ensure they remain as vertical as possible, especially on soft ground. We also acknowledged that lighter bikes, like Sue's, have a lesser tendency to lean and face fewer stability issues.

Highlights

• The exhilaration of launch day as we set off on our motorcycle adventure.
• Riding through scenic farmlands and vineyards, discovering Hidden Gems along the way.
• Unexpected encounters at Fort Hope Ontario, where a film crew transforms the town into a 1950s setting.
• Navigational challenges and frustrations with the Garmin system.
• Bike troubles and the triumph of Sue's older model outperforming the newer one.
• Camping preparations and adapting to unexpected situations on the road.
• Tips for keeping heavy motorcycles upright on soft ground during camping.

FAQ

Q: Can I go on a long motorcycle trip with a heavy bike?

A: Yes, it's possible to embark on a long motorcycle trip with a heavy bike. However, it's essential to consider the weight distribution and stability issues due to the bike's height. Proper precautions and techniques, such as finding stable ground and keeping the bike as vertical as possible, can help ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

Q: How do you deal with navigation challenges?

A: Navigation challenges are common, especially with motorcycle-specific GPS systems like Garmin. It's important to familiarize yourself with the system's quirks and assumptions to effectively override them. Additionally, having backup navigation options, such as smartphone apps or physical maps, can be helpful.

Q: What should I pack for a motorcycle camping trip?

A: When packing for a motorcycle camping trip, prioritize essential items such as camping gear, spare clothes, toiletries, and tools for minor repairs. It's important to strike a balance between packing enough supplies and keeping the weight manageable. Additionally, consider weather conditions, terrain, and the duration of the trip when selecting appropriate gear.