NHfcSToc?

[GRN]

Here's the plan... We have rooms at The Woodstock Inn for Friday Sept. 30 - Sunday Oct. 2. http://www.woodstockinnnh.com/relax/rooms.asp
800.321.3985

The Sat. 10.01 route:
From N. WoodSTock:
112 E to Bear Notch Rd. N
Bear Notch Rd. N to 302 E
302 E to 16 N
16 N to Errol, pick up 26 N (or W?)
26 N to 3 N
3 N to WeST STewartstown, rt 114 W cross the river to VT 102 S
VT102 S to 2 W
2 W to to River Rd / Covered Bridge Rd E
Covered Bridge Rd E to 135 S
135 S to 302 E
302 E to 117 S
117 S to 116 S
116 S to 112 E
112 E back to N. WoodSTock

One variation, depending on time and the conditions, would be to take a jaunt up 3 past W. Stewartstown to the Conn. Lakes, pretty area, lots of Mooses!

The route plan is attached.

We're up to 15 folks / 10 bikes, and still some folks kicking it around... we may get a few more just for the ride.

:04biker: Greg & Judi - O'Tool's RooST
:biker: Carl - Trillium
:03biker: John - Trillium
:03biker: Bones - Trillium
:03biker: STeve & Maureen - Elsworth
:03biker: Alex - Moosilauke
:04biker: Steve & Brenda - Zealand
:03biker: Paul and SO to join us on the ride Saturday
:03biker: Dwight & Barbara to join us in Bartlett for the rest of the ride
:06biker: Dave (lives in NWS) to join us on the ride, and host post ride BBQ :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

[rwl1955]

I`m game. All the leaf peepers will be out thou.

[GRN]

It should still be early enough that the good color will be to the far North... everything up here season wise has been running late, and most of the flatlanders don't go a lot further North than where we'll be starting from. The Kanc. will be our Southen limit, Canadian border the Northern limit. If the Kanc. is the start of the ride early Sat. morning, the caged peepers shouldn't be too bad.

[Carl_T]

I want to do this, and my wife Dawn will want to come along. Carrying camping gear for two is going to be impossible due to the need for two warm sleeping bags on the bike, however wouldn't lodging be all booked up because of the peepers also??? I've been itching to see and ride that part of the US for a long while now, the roads and scenery are a bit of a legend.

[GRN]

lodging here, as in most places has rarely seen capacity since 911. We shouldn't have any trouble if we can come up with some solid commits and #'s in the next few weeks. I'll have my wife do some calling around, she has a little xtra time on her hands at the moment...

[Carl_T]

Cool! Let us know what she finds.

[GRN]

Will do. Let's just call the lodging option a plan. I forget that we're in the minority in that we have separate bags and gear for three ranges of conditions including winter (not to mention the mass of warmer gear two up)... nights in the first of Oct. will get frost fairly regularly, but hard to tell what it will be for sure. We'll look for a good reasonably priced lodging option that will offer a small group rate, and some dedicated parking space, and preferably a good kitchen on site.

Any other recomendations along these lines?

[AgSTreak]

Camping is good, reasonably priced accomodations with adult beverages nearby is good. There is nothing to compare with bsing around a campfire with the stars for a ceiling and a cooler filled adult beverages. Either way or possibly a combination and I will be there.
- :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: foliage.

[rwl1955]

AHHH! BEER!
A Pub!
It could be a little nippy to sit around the campfire and make samoah`s thou.

[Kempo-STer]

AHHH! BEER!
A Pub!
It could be a little nippy to sit around the campfire and make samoah`s thou.

We'll just have to make the fire bigger then! :cf1: :D

[Kempo-STer]

Sorry GRN..
Forgot to mention that I am interested as well..
2 Planets have to line up..Babysitting and Oct 1 is my Daughter 's Bday :confused:

Keep me in the loop.

Todd

[GRN]

http://www.eaglemt.com
Eddie... sweet spot, love Jackson, we're getting details.

Todd, if the masses agree to a nicer resort type of place like the link above, my plan is to take my family (second vehical), go early on Friday, and have some time to spend with them Friday and Sunday... then ride towards home with some folks headed the same way. I think we can get my Sis-in-law to come over Saturday and play "Auntie" so Judi can get a chance to ride... she (we) misses it a lot.

[Kempo-STer]

http://www.eaglemt.com
Eddie... sweet spot, love Jackson, we're getting details.

Todd, if the masses agree to a nicer resort type of place like the link above, my plan is to take my family (second vehical), go early on Friday, and have some time to spend with them Friday and Sunday... then ride towards home with some folks headed the same way. I think we can get my Sis-in-law to come over Saturday and play "Auntie" so Judi can get a chance to ride... she (we) misses it a lot.


OOOHHH good plan Daniel-san!!! :cool:
Maybe Auntie wants some more relatives for the day.. :D
I smell a money making opportunity here :D

[SteveST1300]

:D Do you guys have any dates yet? I still have a couple of days off left. I think I could pull this off. :03biker:

[royws]

If my schedule allows, I'd like to make this trip as well. I'll keep watching this thread and hopefully I can make this happen. Sounds great !!!

Royws

[AgSTreak]

Sounds like we have a rolling freight train here, ain't no one gonna stop us now. I'll be happy to lead a group north over some choice secondary byways. This is just a little payback for the favor done us by Carl. Just be ready for some serious Sargent saddle time. I just love mixing metaphors and alliteration :D .

[GRN]

oh yeah... and the important part...

http://www.woodstockinnnh.com/brewery/beer.asp

[rwl1955]

The Woodstock Inn sounds good to me. it has all the essentials. I love the brew pub.
My kind of place.
Keep us informed.

[GRN]

This is now a bonafide event... please go back to the first post of this thread for info and updates.

[SteveST1300]

You guys are killing me. This sound very good I just spoke with my wife and we may be in for this one. I will have to try and talk her in to it tonight :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: ;)

[rwl1955]

Good job Greg.
Sounds great

[Carl_T]

This is so cool! Greg you are the man (lets not forget your wife who probably did all the calling also :p: ).

I have just booked the Zealand room on the second floor, Dawns likes the canopy bed thing :)

So, Dawn and I will be there. C'mon guys get hooked up with a room . Hey Eddie see how little good it did for you to try and convince me NH had crappy roads?

John, Dawn and I could meet with you somewhere and follow you on up with whoever is going up with you. It’ll be nice not to be checking the tank-bag for the next U turn… I mean turn off. I've wanted to see this area for a very long time, OUTSTANDING! It will be a pleasure getting together to ride with you guys.

Now where is Bones??? This ride would be up his alley also. Nothing like an article about riding in the fall.

Steve, you and M. gotta make this one way or another.

[GRN]

John, Eddie, Todd, STeve, Bob, Brian, Bones, Paul, Mongo, Royws, Alex... do it up, we only get to take this ride once!

I have edited the first post for current info, and will keep it as updated as well as I can. I went ahead and grabbed the other two available rooms (all but Notchview on 3rd floor) let's use 'em up.

Carl, looking forward to meeting you and Dawn. After the rave reviews of your lead in the Skills, U turns and all, it will be a great pleasure to ride with you man. I made the calls, too jazzed to wait for J, besides, I set her loose on a coin collection in bad need of a catalog... I can't sit still long enough to do that!

Bones... would love to contribute some image content to anything you want to put together. That would be a lot of fun man. I miss shooting :(

Looking forward to this folks... ride on :04biker:

[eddiemack]

If it's okay with you guys I'll meet the group for breakfast & a day of riding. I'm going to ConStoc Sept 16th so getting two weekends off in Sept for riding is not going to happen. I only live a couple hours south of Woodstock so I could boot up 93 and arrive in Woodstock before you even heave your micro brew. :coffee1:

[GRN]

Absolutely man.

Where are you down south... maybe hook up for part of the the roll to ConSTOC?

[Carl_T]

:) Cool Eddie, so long as you make it one way or the other so we get to say Hi. Technically it's an Oct. weekend... no go eh?

I booked to stay for Fri. and Sat. night to head home sometime Sunday.

Greg, yeah, that was an outstandingly good ride no doubt, made so by the excellent riders that attended. Good on ya for calling before we got froze out of lodging :) Glad you got itchy to get it moving.


Charlie, thanks for doing that for us.

[GRN]

Thanx man :)

So who wants to be in charge of talking Charlie into making this an iron butt event :D

[GRN]

Eddie, I'll be rolling from Lebanon/WRJ shortly after lunch... at least that's the goal. I maybe able to hook up w/ Paul and Peter on their way down 91 to Springfield before we depart the slab, looks like you might follow 395 or there abouts... may not work out this time.

I'm taking J out for a day to get her broken in on the new ride and scout some of the roads up north for NHfsSTOC next Sat. 25th or Sun. 26th. You're welcome to join us man.

:04biker: :04biker:

[rwl1955]

I will be heading to CONSTOC from the Springfield area. If you guys are heading down 91 I`ll meet you somewhere.

[GRN]

I will be heading to CONSTOC from the Springfield area. If you guys are heading down 91 I`ll meet you somewhere.

You're on man :)

[rwl1955]

Anybody want to share a room for NHFCSTOC?

[SteveST1300]

Ok I just booked the Elsworth room. We are in! Now to convince my wife ;)

[GRN]

AH, Elsworth... fireplace & hot tub :clap2: , somthing tells me you're going to be pretty popular Saturday night! Glad ya can make it man! Are you bringing your bride?

[SteveST1300]

Yes she wouldn't miss it. And it will be a chance for us to get together with some new found friends we met at NESTOC. I can't wait. Although I am in no hurry for summer to end. :03biker:

[rwl1955]

I just booked the Ammonoosuc room on the 3rd. floor. I guess I`m in.
Let`s start praying for good weather now.
the way the weather has been around here this year we might need a lot of prayer.

[GRN]

Bob, glad to hear you're in!

The weather here has indeed SUKD... for fly fishing and riding... if anyone knows an effective Native SUN DANCE, please post video so we can learn it and get busy drying out and warming up. Had the heat on yesterday... I thought it was June, guess I had better double check :(

STeve - Summer to end? It hasn't even gotten here yet, 44 at my place this morning :eek: , wouldn't mind the cold if we could just shake the Noah's Ark thing we have going on :cool:

[SteveST1300]

Our heat wave just broke instead of 92+ it went down to 84. And it feels good. Sorry to hear about your bad weather head south my friends! :cool: I just spoke to Maureen and she is looking forward to the trip. :)

[Carl_T]

Cool! this is shaping up to be a good ride already.

STeve, Dawn and I say Hey to both you and Maurine and we're glad you guys will make it. THE Ellsworth??? MAN how in the heck will we ever lever you guys out of that room to go riding??? Good choice! Maybe we can meet up with John and ride up with him leading on some nice roads.

John, get ye a room and then maybe a room partner to cut costs? :)

Eddie, man tell your boss you will be coming to work looking like that Polar Bear if he doesn't cut you a break for some serious bike R&R so near the end of the riding season. :D Maybe you will suddenly need a sick day to heal your sore butt with a motorcycle seat massaging?

[eddiemack]

Carl,.. the break has been cut,.. hence the weekend at ConSToc & I can get a day off to ride with you guys in NH ... BTW: The boss is my wife and she likes help around the house... not to mention she signs for all the farkle deliveries I order. If I'm not careful she'll end up with the UPS man... he knows to deliver when my bike is gone. :ups1:

[GRN]

You ship them HOME?, are you :nuts1: . That's what work is for man... ship to, and pay out. Now we see why she is "The Boss"... talk about setting yourself up to fail :shtf1: ......... :p:

Glad you can make it man, and if you change your mind there are probably going to be some folks who would like to share a room... maybe squeak in one night? Sounds like a sound compromise to me :)

[Carl_T]

Eddie,

Ohhh, OK understood you need say no more, do the right thing by her.

Hmmm, how about talking her into coming along, staying over Sat. and or Fri. night, then heading home real early Sun. morning and doing some house stuff??? it's fall after all.

Sorry for busting your horns, just wanna see you have some extra fun with us all. I'm glad you can make it for a day I do understand as I'm sitting out CONSTOC and trying to buzz in for a day of riding there and not sure I can do that.

[SteveST1300]

Always keep the boss happy! Thats why I sprung for the Elsworth room, how could she say no once she read the description of the room ;) Not to mention the people who are going to be there :D And she is letting me go to ConSTOC solo. The price for that was a cruise in December :cool:

[Bones]

I'd sure love to make this event, too.

[Carl_T]

The price for that was a cruise in December Oh man STeve, you are playing the worlds littlest violin with that one. Oh the pain... I must bask in the sun sipping Island drinks on a lavish Cruise Liner.... Oh the horror :crackup

[AgSTreak]

I'm on board. I'm just recovering from what started out as a simple camp outing and turned into a glorius honeymoon (jacuzzi's?? :eek: ) getaway. The loan application is all filled out and my eldest male offspring is being packed off for bank collateral.
Bones if you're looking for a roomy, you got one. The Trillium room looks like it can accommodate several very comfortably. Anyone else suffering from sticker shock?? This is the time to start working on arrangements for sharing. Fall is simply the most beautiful time of the year in that part of the country. Getting up for a sunrise ride is just an absolutely awesome experience in the White Mountains.
Got a great route planned up and back.

[GRN]

John, Bob (rwl1955) was looking to share a room... can't get to the Inn's site to check details at the moment, but most have 2 beds.

[Carl_T]

Glad to hear you are in John, you are right about the fall being a great time to ride the northeast, especially early enough to avoid the biggest part of extra traffic (I’m hoping that turns out since there were rooms available, trying last year later on in the month of Oct. yielded everything being booked solid). Besides, I'd never find the place without following you and your "GPS good road route" John, the mini tank bag won't hold that big a map :rolleyes: There's bound to be roomies wanting to save costs to go in on a room with you.

Find a way to make it pay off and happen Bones, it's gonna be another good ride (can you feel it in your Bones?... OK that was lame).

One thing Greg, when you plan out the route could you please schedule in a short rest stop every hour of so for Dawn's and my creaky old bodies?

When you do get it mapped out, one of us could put it on MS Streets and Trips and distribute it to the guys who have that program, it's an outstanding inexpensive routing program which I think a number of us have. It even shows eateries in many towns.

[SteveST1300]

Sounds like we may be following you this time John. Carl are you going to follow John if he makes the trip? Just let me know where to meet you all. Bones you have to try and make it! John are you going to plan in some of those U-Turns LOL!!! :D

[Carl_T]

I swear I will wet myself laughng if John has to U turn with the GPS :wink: . misery loves company or something like that. :D

STeve, yes I do want to follow John up to Woodstock Inn this time. He has to tell us which way he is thinking of going though to know where to meet up with him.

You gotta study that GPS of yours a bit to learn it's quirks by then also. :)

Man, the Northeast riders here are riding fools.

PS Hey John feed and exercise the eldest real good to up his potential manual labor output. You get maximum $$$ that way.

[SteveST1300]

I got it figured out OK now. Remind me to tell you the story of our trip back to Cobleskill after we left you and Dawn. :mad:

[Carl_T]

I got it figured out OK now. Remind me to tell you the story of our trip back to Cobleskill after we left you and Dawn. I smell a good laugh in there somewhere :)

[AgSTreak]

Sorry Carl, you can leave the Depends at home. Don't need GPS, I've done these roads more than a few times. The roads we'll be taking are too good to be ridden just once. Once we know who wants to ride with us we can set up some meet up points. Lincoln NH is about 270 miles from my home, actual not indicated. So be ready for about 300 total miles, a little farther for you Steve.

[SteveST1300]

No problem John we did alot of miles up in NY and I got no complaints from Maureen that sargent seems to have done the trick. All we will need is a meeting point. We will be ready to ride! :03biker: I guess if you know the roads that well we won't be doing those U-turns eh? :bow1: :03biker:

[Carl_T]

Sigh, I never thought I'd post this for those silver riders who think their color is fastest, but I guess Friday John it will be
:biker: :bow1: ~~~~~ :03biker: :p: Pleased to have it that way.

I'm thinking we might want to travel the route you came to the house on 199 over to 44 to 7 or 8 if that hooks into your route. not sure where you are going.

[SteveST1300]

Once you guys have a meetiong place I will slab as far up as I can to cut my time down a bit. We are looking forward to this ride.

Ride safe all! :03biker: :biker: :biker:

[AgSTreak]

I've sent out a priliminary map of the planned route to North Woodstock. As stated, I've included a ride through a covered bridge, a lot of great sweepers and some neat twisties to liven things up. Plus the country scenery is glorious. Steve please pm me your e-mail address. We need to get your input on this ride.

[Carl_T]

I forwarded the STreets and Trips file to Steve, and sent you his email addy John. It looks like an unbelievable route, though we have to consider what rest stops might be needed, along with lunch stop and how that would effect the timing of the trip etc.

[Carl_T]

I don't know what they are like in the real world, but on the map it looks like we could cut over to 91 on 9 or 131 if we decide we need to shorten it some. It would be coolest for sure to be able to stick to John's awesome route if at all practical though.

I will start the amazing, clear sunny day, superb fall weather chant now. :D

[GRN]

Sounds like ya'll are going to have a blast coming up in the fall... can't read the file you sent John, on a Mac and no map apps. I'll bet it ends with 118 to 112 though... just a hunch ;)

So here's a raw steak waving in front of some hungry dogs...
John, Eddie, Scott, Carl, Todd, Brian, royws, anyone...
I've been scouring the NH DeLORME, lots of red roads on the east side on both sides of the Maine border that have some potential for the east/north portion of the NHFCSTOC ride that I have yet to ride... it's going to take a weekend long ride to scout well... an opportunity for us to get a :cf1: trip out of our system? Thinking that if folks could escape early on a friday, slab it up to White River/Lebanon and/or Plymouth and hook up, we could make a campground on the Kanc by dark. We spend Sat. rolling around a bunch of stuff and end up in Pittsburg for Sat. night, then back down the west side Sun. for home. I could pull this off in late July or early Aug.

I can smell the wheels turning! :D

[AgSTreak]

The pre-ride sounds good to me. I haven't ridden that part of NH yet. Getting a Friday off is easy for me. Slabbing it sucks. Make the plans and we'll see what we can work out.
Greg, I pasted the map and directions into a word document that you should be able to download. Talk about waving raw meat!! Right about the finish- 25A, 25, 118 and then 112. :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

[Carl_T]

Hey STeve and Maurine,

If you want to make Fridays ride up more human for yourselves, since it is so far even from John's or my place, you guys could slab up to our house Thursday night after work and sleep on the fold out couch bed (we can get a board for under the mattress). Then we can leave in the morning from my place and hook up with John in CT at Rt. 8 somewhere. That way you wouldn't have to get up at 4am.

Yes, no?

[AgSTreak]

Great idea Carl. This way we can start a little earlier and take our time. Todd, let me know if you would like to join us for the ride up. Camping is available at Housatonic Meadows State Park near the meeting point. Anyone else care to camp overnight before the trip? Greg, Bones, Bob, Royws?
I feel stupid for not thinking of this earlier. :nuts1: :banghead: :banghead: :spank1: .
Do the entire NHfcSTOC experience!!!! Common Brian, you know you wanna. Remember the roads we took back from the R9 M&G, these are better. 300 miles of the best the NE has to offer, with yours truly as guide. Think about it.

[Carl_T]

Well, the camping pre-ride sounds cool, though I'd have to get away on my own for that one. I'll let you know soon.

I still say Bones could turn a dollar pitching a HONDA ST riders on New England roads in the fall article to Red Rider.

[SteveST1300]

Carl I will have to see what I can work out. That would be a great idea but I dont get off work until 8:30 PM. But I will work on that and see what can be done. Maybe I can get out earlier. If not it will be an early start :(

[Kempo-STer]

Hey Guys..
Sounds interesting..Gotta work the logistics on my end...Like I said..I really would love my wife to join me on this one as well wokring out the concesion to my daughter who is turning 12 on Oct 1 :eek:

I just came back from Laconia and I want to head back and work on some video footage from the bike..

My replies will be spotty over the next week as we are heading to FL from Tuesday (6/21) to Tuesday for vacation and a Personal training seminar as I find new ways to torture people :) ...

I'll get back soon..Picking up the ride with some of you up to NH sounds great..I rode route 9 (to 91 in Brattleboro VT) back from Laconia and it was really nice..

[GRN]

Did 263 Sun. morning checking out the west side, which will be the south bound return leg of the ride, found a couple of nice new legs of road, and did a few U turns just to get them out of the way for you John ;)

I could do a scouting/camping weekend Aug. 5-7, I can get out of work after lunch on Friday, and hook up wherever w/ whomever can make it. I'll see about getting some sites reserved in a week or so, let me know if your interested.

Todd, glad you got out of Laconia in good order... friend of mine who' a state trooper suggested to all he knew to stay clear if possible due to rumors of conflicting bike gangs rolling in from the west coast... or something... didn't pay much attention due to not being big on densely populated places - tend to stay clear of there that week anyhow. Saw a lot of bikes on the ride up north Sunday. Saw a :biker: at "the sugar shack" on 175 just south of Woodstock Sunday about 10 AM morning riding with a crew of mixed hardware... you?

[Carl_T]

STeve,
I'm guessing somewhere around 3 hours up to my place? If you could bail one hour sooner, have the bike and everything set to jump right on and go, you could be up here before 11 unless you have a really long ride home from work.

It sure would be a lot easier on you guys due to the distance overall.

If you get off the NY State Thruway at New Paltz exit 18, it's easy to get to my house, about 7 more miles on a main drag.

I'm not positive where you are from me. On the slabs it's about an hour and a half from Newark Airport, and about 3 and a half to 6 flags Great Adventure.

[AgSTreak]

Greg, make the reservations as soon as we get a final count. Todd, and anyone else interested we could meet off RT8 at the rt4 exit (exit 44 I think)in Torrington. There is a Burger King right off the exit. I'll be bringing Carl and Steve, if they can make it. We'll take one of the more interesting legs of the foliage trip before crossing over to I91 near Greenfield. Another option would be to meet you at the first rest area in VT. A lot of slab but fast :( .

[GRN]

John, let me know where you want to meet up here, say in the White River Jct. area, and what time. I'll start working on sites.

[SteveST1300]

Carl I am going to work on getting off at 4PM on Thursday Maureen and I could be on the road by 5:30 or 6:00 PM and be at your house by 9PM at the latest. If that works for you I will try and put it together from this end. It will be much easier to start from up your end than down here. It would make it a 5-6 hundred mile day if we start from here. :03biker:

[Carl_T]

Works fine for us STeve. It would make the better riding on the weekend much more fun for you guys, if you don't overtire yourselves right at the start. When it gets closer I'll email you directions to the house.

[SteveST1300]

Thanks Carl ! :bow1: :biker:

[Carl_T]

If Brian has a site for Dawn and I (and Heather if someone will ride her), then we will be going to CTSTOC also and need to sit out the preride to get things done at home.

If there isn't room at CTSTOC for us, and we don't go to that, I think I probably could trade out that weekend and do the preride. Brian should get back to me in a day or two I would think.

[Carl_T]

Cool STeve, just keep me posted as to how work goes so I know when to look for you.

[AgSTreak]

Greg, what weekend is best for you. I have plenty of vacation time and can make it almost any weekend. At this point it appears I'll be doing this alone although my buddy Frank may be talked into going. His bike will slow me down a bit but not much. I stll plan on doing part of the planned trip up there. Gotta check out 116 in MA and see if it's freshly paved. :hotpepper :hotpepper :hotpepper

[GRN]

John,

Aug. 5-7 works best for me, weekend before could be an option w/ some work; and the weekend after is not an option as Judi is out of town for a workshop.

[AgSTreak]

OK, I'll take off Aug 5 and head on up. If anyone else is up to this brutal challenge, let me know. I have a large enough tent to sleep 3 comfortably and a spare that will hold 2 with some room to spare. Greg, we'll work out the details as things develop. I can meet you at the campground or hook up with you on the ride up. It'll be great fun, campfire and outdoor cooking. :bow1: :bow1: :cf1:

[GRN]

John, I'll ride to work Friday ready to roll, just let me know when you think you'll be in the Lebanon/White River area... maybe meet for lunch and head north. The capmp ground in Pittsburg for Sat. Night is all set, holding off on locking Friday night 'til I can plug timing into it. There are quite a few WMNF grounds that can't be reserved, the one on the Kanc just east of Lincoln is nice, right on the river. I'm egging on Bones to think about an article on "planning a ride", good excuse to join us in Aug & Sept! My tent will sleep 2 if we need it, will probably bring it regardless.

[AgSTreak]

I'll work on Bones too. I know he wants to do it. I've attached my trip plan and map (also a pic from the top of MT Washington and White Lake SP-raw meat :D ). Gotta do rt8 (heaven on Earth- well Mass anyway) and need to scout rt116. I should get there about noon. WMNF camp sounds excellent, gorgeous river :bow1: . I've camped many times at White Lake SP, absolutely beautiful lake but facilities have seen better days. Your choice buddy, as long as we can sit around a campfire and sip (not guzzle) some primo brew.

[rwl1955]

I have to play Army that weekend so I don`t think I can make it.
Sounds like fun thou.

[Bones]

I'm in! :D

[AgSTreak]

Awesome Bones!! Pre-ride, NHfcSTOC or both? Either way, breakfast in Otis??

[Bones]

I'm in for the ConSTOC and NHfcSTOC events.

I'm already booked for the NH pre-ride weekend, so I can't make that one.

Breakfast in Otis sounds good to me, anytime.

[AgSTreak]

Just checked the itinerary for the ride. That would put breakfast at about 10:30. If that's too late, then we'll see what can be worked out. Glad to have you along.

[GRN]

Look forward to meeting you man, 2 outta 3 ain't bad at all... let me know about your lodging so I can keep things up to date. Getting short on blue bikes here...

[Bones]

Getting short on blue bikes here...

As long as you can keep up, we don't care :rolleyes: .

[GRN]

As long as you can keep up, we don't care :rolleyes: .

Hey... who invited this wise guy? :p:

[Bones]

Hey... who invited this wise guy? :p:

That would be YOU. ;)

[AgSTreak]

Bones, I reserved the Trillium so we're all set. :yes:
Get used to it Greg or it's gonna be a long weekend. The secret is to be the only one who knows the route. That way you're up front and no one will dare pass you. Then you go through a few u-turns to disorientate the wise guys. Just keep 'em guessing!! I'll bet everyone thought Carl's u-turns were unintentional. Taking out the maps, looking confused and scratching his head was a stroke of pure leadership genius.
:crackup :crackup :crackup

[GRN]

"The secret is to be the only one who knows the route"

Well, since you and I will have a leg up on that after the pre-ride, I guess I'll concede the lead to you out of respect for your elder status :a13: , and I'll ride sweep ;)

[SteveST1300]

Glad to see you will make both weekend Bones looking forward to some of that NH brew with all of you. Wish I could make the pre ride but I don't think its possible. :mad: :03biker: :03biker:

[AgSTreak]

Steve, it's a haul, but that's why I got the ST instead of a poser. I have a long way to go to emulate my heroes.
:bow1: Dond
:bow1: Crazykc
:bow1: RC

If you can make let me know, we can work out the details.

[Carl_T]

Glad to see you are in Bones. It looks like many of the old crew will make it after all... cool!

[GRN]

Got out for a little over 300 miles Sat. with Judi to do some scouting... had a great ride, and she is about as fond of the seat as I am :hurt1: and had significant issues w/ wind at higher speeds... now she misses the 91 and wishes I hadn't sold it. Oh well... it was after all, her idea :banghead:

So I think we have the last half of the route pretty well locked up: from Errol we'll take 26 west over the pass (Dixville Notch & The Balsams Resort, a beauty of a place for lunch maybe) to Colebrook; then we'll come down 3 south to Lancaster and pick up 135 south along the Conn. River down to Woodsville; then a short juant on 302 east to 112 east back to N. Woodstock.

I know we want to start over the Kanc in the morning, and I've got a couple of ways to get around what's sure to be a fiasco in N. Conway. What I have yet to get nailed down is which way to get up to Errol, 16 North from Jackson to Gorham is chockerblock full of sweet sweepers, but maybe pretty dense with peepers unless we get to it really early, like planning to see the sunrise 0n the Kanc early. There is a cool road if we shoot through Conway east on 302 in Maine, Fryeburg, killer breakfast place too, then 113 up to rt. 2... just don't remembe 113 that well, will go roll it again to see how it fits.

Biker hit a moose 1500 yards from my house on Sat., left in an ambulance and from what I hear, not pretty. Moose walked away, saw him this morning on my way in to work, probably about 1100#'s, male. Guy was from down country and didn't know how to read the environment for possible moose movement... went flying through a stretch that just reeks of moose... oops. Maybe I should share lead duties with John if he doesn't have a lot of time up north, especially that time of year. Can we get a big furry hooved smiley added to the list?

[Bones]

This female was from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. I hung out with her for about 90 minutes -- luckily for us both, this encouter was about a 20 minute walk down a wilderness trail.

Godspeed to our downed biker.

[AgSTreak]

I have no experience studying moose poops, so I have to defer to your vast knowledge :D .
There's a connecting road from the Kanc to Bartlett that avoids Conway and N Conway entirely. The road is closed in the winter but was in pretty good shape and was fun to ride. One of the pictures I posted in the NeSTOC ride thread was taken there. It doesn't show on a lot of maps.

[GRN]

I think you are thinking of Bear Notch Road, N. off the Kanc several miles west of Conway. That's on the list... haven't ridden it lately to check it out, meant to Sat. but missed it due to the construction on the Kanc distracting me a bit. There is also a nice road that runs from Conway just to the west of N Conway, dumps back out onto 16/302 just south of Jackson. Figuring out the best way around N. Conway is a big part of our Aug. mission... and we can screw around on some nice stuff in Maine too :D

I don't mind taking lead , and a moderate pace (easy w/ pillion... not so easy solo) ... looks like the route will fall in the 240-280 mile range depending on what we do going up the east side, and if the timing and all conditions fall into place we can take a real mellow up and back from Colebrook to Pittsburg so folks can see those lakes and pleanty of Moose to be photographed (N. of Pittsburg is called "Moose Alley").

I'm really getting psyched for this, the whole weekend should be a blast! So far we have no more takers for the camping pre ride?

[Carl_T]

Bear Notch looks very nice an curvy on Streets and Trips if it isn't torn up, dirt, or overly crappy with gravel and potholes. It looks like a possible fun way around. Probably not much help but West side goes up along 16 also right in near Conway. It parallels 16 and hits 302 around Bartlett area.

It's just that 16 looks like a really awesome road what with all those turns and mountain peaks along the way?

Of course maps can deceive. 113 looks a tad straightish boring in Streets and trips for half or more of it with no peaks listed along it. Then again like I said, maps can deceive.

I suppose it's just frustrating if your on a good road doing 3 mph due to peepers though.

[SteveST1300]

Carl e-mail me you address so I can send the T-Bag up to give you time to try it out and make sure it fits on your backrest etc. I can't make the pre ride can't get another Friday off poop :mad: Oh well I will have to do my riding down here. Have done some more farkeling installed some 3 way hyper lites and the belly pan, and got some grip puppies. Looking forward to seeing you all again soon. :03biker:

[Carl_T]

'kay STeve.

[AgSTreak]

That's the road, Bear Notch, we did it 3 times while we were there. It's in pretty good shape, with some very nice overlooks, sweepers and twisties (no dirt or gravel). The road is a must do. 240 - 280 miles is perfect.
Carl did you take a close look at the hairpin on the Kancamagus :D ? Relative smoothy and you can lean way over, gave my Z6's a real workout :D . No problem with a single file, plenty of space between riders, everyone take it at your own pace :D . Yeah, I'm still :D :D about it now!!!

[Bones]

Of course Carl needs to know if there are places to turn around. :crackup

[GRN]

Of course Carl needs to know if there are places to turn around. :crackup

We'll let him lead and demonstrate that expertise on the up and back leg from Colebrook to Pittsburg... on point for "Moose Alley"... won't need no GPS for those U turn instux! :eek:

[Carl_T]

I can't wait John, it sounds like heaven on two wheels. I can't remember if I got a report on how the Z6s corner from you? I think they will be my next tires if you give them good turning marks. Do they change the turn in sensitivity of the bike in any way you have noticed?

I am practicing leaving a bit of extra lean margin in the turns lately as I've started to use up too much of that habitually in recent times. It’s good to have a little wiggle room. I will also continue to secretly practice my infamous U-Turns as unbeknownst to youse guys, they are THE secret "Moose avoidance maneuver tactic" I've been planning for this ride all along :rolleyes:

You can safely let me lead any place completely free of possible intersections or turn offs. Otherwise be prepared to utilize your parking lot practice skills :coffee1: Do I hold the record for most miles traveled before realizing I've gone the wrong way??? I think I must. :p:

No problem with a single file, plenty of space between riders, everyone take it at your own pace

Gotta agree John, one of the reasons the NESTOC ride was so enjoyable and successful was riding our own version of similar to "The Pace" (easy enough in the straights, enjoy the turns). The fun was in part because of everyone's willingness to string out a bunch of room to the rider ahead of them. It allows everyone to adjust the turns to their own tastes without feeling pressure to go quicker or slower than they are used to.

I don't know what you think about it Greg as you are the head Honcho on this ride, but it worked really well for us at NESTOC.

Riders are responsible to see to it his buddy behind makes all turns at intersections and forks (even if you have to stop and wait, but you see them “actually make the turn off” before going on your way normal speed). That way no one has to feel they must ride faster than they are able to in order to keep up (it removes the need for keeping up). No one needs worry about getting lost.

If you are faster and can't see the guy behind you on long straights anymore, you slow down so he is at least visible in the distance on the long straights (you can easily tell if he's doing it to do turns quicker than you, 'cause he catches you through them).

If the guy ahead is slower than you in turns, you use the straights to drop back just enough extra so you can enjoy the upcoming turn, turns, at your own speed before catching back up to him.

You figure following 4 seconds is a good minimum and more than that is better yet (greatly reduces bike to bike accident possibilities, as well as reducing multiple bikes getting into a moose or other problem troubles).

While it strings the group out more than what some are used to in groups, we normally move a bit faster than regular traffic in the sweepers and corners anyway (I don't think anyone caught us when moving at NESTOC), and the benefits seem to outweigh any perceived negatives. It allows the room for both enjoyment of handling the machine on the road AND the looking at the scenery, since you aren't blasting the straights at high speed.

The group seems to self regulate it’s needed speed better this way.

I saw in email that there was one accident at NESTOC, and it was written that it was someone riding with a reputed "fast rider". It is never good to feel you have to go over your head to keep up or get left behind, it makes for problems, which are best avoided.

At NESTOC everyone seemed laid back enough to go with the flow of both riding, scenery, sight seeing or whatever come up (including my infamous U-Turns), and that attitude made for lots of fun as a group.

Like I said Greg, you are the Head Honcho on this ride :bow1: so I will go with any of your group rules you want (that are safe for me to utilize, I have points on my license from an unfortunate passing maneuver, with a trooper on the other side of the interstate rise, in my car). I want to avoid collecting any more points until they are off. I can always ride sweep if everyone wants to fly on the straights. (plus 5mph to 9mph over is usually OK in NY, I've no idea in HH, VT. Also the STeed's speedo is 4 or 5mph optomistic)

One thing I'd like you to post if you will Greg, are any tips you might have on spotting where Moose may be hanging out. It would be good to know that early so I can write it down and go over it a few times. That's so my sieve type brain will retain it in long-term memory, I need a bit of repetition for new info. It seems to me best to avoid tangling with an animal that large, but I sure hope we get to see one or more. Do they have a time of day like deer where it is more likely they are on the road?

I'm gonna look at the initial proposed route at full Streets and Trips Zoom level tonight. :) I wish I could have the fun of the pre-ride with you guys.

[Bones]

Carl, I had OEM Bridgestones and went to Z6's after 11,000 miles. I have 4,000 miles on the Z6's and much prefer them. Better stick wet or dry, quieter, more predictable turn-in, no searching on steel deck bridges, and a quality that's hard to quantify. Maybe "supple" is the right word...they have great "feel."

Some of the LD crowd likes a Z6 in front with an ME880 in back (somewhat harder compound). That could be worth considering since you do two-up riding.

[GRN]

Carl,

your points on group behavior/riding are great. As I have been primarily a lone wolf for most of my many miles, my intended approach to making suggestions as to how we keep the group organized, orderly, safe and comfortable for everyone was to call upon you folks that have group experience for suggestions. In having thought about it quite a bit lately, I have crossed most of the same ideas you have presented.

Fall in the area we will be riding is not a great environment for overly spirited riding... wet leaves, large animals overwhelmed with testosterone, rubbernecking flatlanders - all bad no matter how many wheels ya got. My goal in getting folks together for this gig is to supply a guided tour of some of the areas sweet roads, views, and destinations in a very enjoyable, relaxed, and easy atmosphere. Smiles for everone!

I plan to post a short and hopefully humorous and insightful dissertation on the avoidance of Moose Poop in the near future (but probably not 'til I get back from Maine).

[Carl_T]

Greg,
It sounds like a perfect fall weekend ride to me.

Good point about leaves on the road, we'll all need to bring our eyes and attention with us for avoiding bad and enjoying good, even if the pace remains pleasantly laid back.

I'm definitely bringing a camera. Eddie has graduated past his old bellows style camera, and should have a digital at the ready also. ;-)


OK Bones, the Z6 is the next tire for me. I think I'd rather keep to the better stick of the 6 over the cruiser 880. Even if they wear out a bit faster, Ill spend a couple extra $ on tires for the integrated package & stick.

[AgSTreak]

Z6's rule!!!! :bow1: :bow1:

[Carl_T]

I look forward to them then. I'll just have to scrub those 020's away all the faster.

[GRN]

I look forward to them then. I'll just have to scrub those 020's away all the faster.

or you could just happen to "pick up" a nail... :D

[Carl_T]

or you could just happen to "pick up" a nail... hmmmmm

or the 020s could become a storage backup for that.
Maybe I'll have them on for NHfcSTOC after all. :D

[GRN]

there ya go... keep going with that thought and you'll have me talked into it (PLEASE). I don't like this front tire at all. I remember switching from Metz to Dunlop I think, may have been Stones, on my ST11 and not liking them for the same reason... high on center, fall into transitions too fast... Metz's had much better geometery IMO. I think you nailed it Bones, supple works.

[SteveST1300]

:( Ok guys I have the Avon AV45/46's on my STead and they are awsome. I have only had them on about 4000 miles but they are very good in the wet and dry. I still have to see how they wear. I wanted Pirelli Diablo Stradas but of course they dont make a fron tire in the size the beaST needs. THANKS HONDA! LOL but seriously the AVONS are very good. I got to see a moose last summer in NH it was just standing by the side of the road. Let us get a couple of pictures then trotted off. Man they are BIG! We never made it as far as moose alley I wanted to go but was voted down by the group :(

[Carl_T]

Yeah the 020's a pretty steeply rounded tire, that seems to make for a pretty quick turn in transition.

It sure seems to slide very easily in the tar snakes and on gravel also. There was a heavily tar snaked section in Cobleskill where I was getting lots of front end sideslip (slip-grab slip-grab slip-grab). The sideslip was large enough for Dawn to feel on the back, even without her hands on handlebars for feel, and we weren't pushing the turns there to max lean either (course it was max for me with that going on).

While I know the front is lighter two up, I think the 020's steeply rounded profile puts out a pretty narrow contact patch. STeve said he was having none of that side slip two up, with his Avons in the same section at the same speeds (I think they were Avons).

[Carl_T]

Hah! STeve, you posted about the Avons while I was writing. :)

[SteveST1300]

I only have experience with the 020's and the Avon's and I can say there is no comparison. I just feel more secure with the Avon it has more grip. I just hope they last if not I gues I will have to try the Metlers. Although everything I have read about the Pirelli Diablo Strada sayid they were excellent wet and dry. But what can one do. We have that odd size front that they don't seem to want to make.

[Carl_T]

Yes, it is really annoying Honda went with an odd duck size on the front. I don't know what the thinking was on that one. I got a 60 mile back road turny turn ride in after work tonight, If I can do that every work night, maybe I can wear those suckers out sooner. :D

[Carl_T]

So, if we run Bear Notch road and up 16, STreets and Trips says 224 miles and 5hr. driving time at normal speeds. That makes about 7 + hours out on the road with stops, maybe 8hr. depending, plus if held up in traffic a bit.

Maybe if we are feeling our oats we could do a slow cruise a little way into your Moose alley if we haven't already seen one. :rolleyes: then double back.

It seems like an awesome route on the map and plenty of riding, should be the highlight of the year for me.

[AgSTreak]

I guess we're mixing threads here. The Z6's are so much more sure footed and supple (suppleness is a prized characteristic for bicycle race tires) that I have already decided that they are worth the trade off in milage. If the Avons share the same qualities, then I am certain that they are also much better than the OEMs.
Greg, my buddy Frank and I will be passing through your neck of the woods on our way to Farmington, Maine on Sat. The plan is to stop at Peg's in North Woodstock for lunch before crossing the Kanc, Bear Notch and rt16 to pick up rt2. Nearly 380 miles in one day will be my personal best on the ST so far. Let me know if you'd like to meet for lunch. If you do, we can start earlier to give us more time to talk.

[AgSTreak]

BTW, Peg's is optional if you can suggest a better place. :D

[GRN]

John, lunch... that maybe an option... my trip to Maine got pushed back to Sun morn. and aside from packing and some truck and boat maint, Sat. is wide open. I'll call ya. There's a great little diner in Fairlee if your coming up that way, would give me a chance to roll with you a bit after too.

[georgeorge]

Sorry guys....I'm not gonna be able to make this. I pretty much used up my time off with eaSTOC and ConSTOC, so I'm out. I wish I could. We should do a bbbrrrrSTOC event in the off camping season. It's much easier for me to take time off when our campground is closed.

[AgSTreak]

The Fairlee Diner it is. I'll add it to the trip schedule. Maybe we can start a little earlier and meet you there about 11:00. We have a pretty long day planned and so it may be better to get back on I91 and take the more direct rt302 off exit 17 to rt112. I'll call Frank tonight and see what he'd prefer. In any case plan to meet us for lunch. Be great seeing you again. We can talk moose poop. :D

[GRN]

11 it is... and I'll take that run with you after lunch and split off of 112 at 118 for home. That way I get in 118/25a/112/118... twist my arm man! The sacrifices I make for my friends ;)

[campernh]

Hi Grn,
I will know in a week or so if I can attend.
I have been swamped with work the past three months.
Shoud I call the Inn directly, or go through you?
Thanks,
Brian

[GRN]

Brian,

Welcome, hope you can make it 'cause it's going to be a great weekend! I continue to update the 1st post of this thread with info/details as I get them. The info on making your res. directly with the Inn is in that post. It will be great to meet some "locals" for some future endeavors. We also have a Aug. 5-7 camping/scouting/planning pre ride if you would be intersted in joining us for that... only AgSTreak and myself at the moment.

:04biker:

[campernh]

Hi GRN,
Are you guys going to be camping in the White on 8/5?
What is the plan for where you will be?
I might just be able to make that...
Let me know,
Brian :cool:

[GRN]

Brian,

yup, camping... plan as of this moment consists of John (AgSTreak) coming up from Conn. and kidnapping me from work in Lebanon noonish or closely there after on Friday, then heading to a yet undecided destination in the southern/central Whites, probably not far off 93 if you wanted to slab it up and hook up. Saturday will be heading up the East side and probably play a little in Maine to stretch out the day, eventually heading over Dixville pass and camping in Pittsburg at Ramblewood... sweet view of the lake. Sunday head South down the west side, maybe a leg on the VT side of the river to Lancaster, then down 135 to 302 to 112... and whatever happens, happens!

We're doing this ride as kind of scouting mission... even though we already have a pretty solid route in mind... maybe more an excuse to do a version of the fall ride camping, as I think both John and I prefer, as that option probably would have been prohibative to some of the folks who want to attend in Sept/Oct, and the weather could make for a less than great weekend if it's wet and cold. The Aug ride will also likely be a smaller group, longer days, less variables, and maybe more spirited riding :D

Hot tubs & brew pub, or, camping in the Whites... hmmm.... I have to do it twice, once each way!

Hope you can make both :cool:

[AgSTreak]

I'll second that, it'll be great to have you along. If you want, we can meet somewhere for the ride up I93 or I91 to hook up with Greg. It shouldn't be hard finding a campsite early in the day in either the WMNF or one of the State Parks. Campfire, a good brew and some great conversation. We can work on the details for the Fall ride. Life is g :) :) d.
I'm also looking at this as a shake down ride for a possible trip to NaSTOC and beyond!! Preliminary plans are for a national tent gathering of ST owners somewhere in Arkansas sometime in May of '06 (gotta get Mellow moving on this).

[SteveST1300]

You are so right John ever since we talked about it at NESTOC I have been looking forward to NASTOC :03biker:

[AgSTreak]

Steve you are the man!! Bet we can get a few people to go with us. :D :D

[SteveST1300]

John I am in after we talked I have thought about what a great ride out it would be, Blue ridge Pkwy, Deals gap, accross Tenn , Memphis BBQ Yum!!! I can't wait it will be a great trip!!! :D

[Carl_T]

Greg,
Question about NHfcSTOC, What is the riding temp/weather normally like that time of year on our route?

I'm trying to figure riding gear to wear for Dawn and I, since we can't afford to pick up Stitches this year. Does it get too hot for leather jackets during the day still, or does it stay down in the 70's?

[Kempo-STer]

OK, I'll take off Aug 5 and head on up. If anyone else is up to this brutal challenge, let me know. I have a large enough tent to sleep 3 comfortably and a spare that will hold 2 with some room to spare. Greg, we'll work out the details as things develop. I can meet you at the campground or hook up with you on the ride up. It'll be great fun, campfire and outdoor cooking. :bow1: :bow1: :cf1:


John and Greg..
I'm IN for the Pre ride Weekend..
Just to verify-- Aug 5 -7 correct?
Only thing left to do is work out a few work arrangements but should not be a problem.

Also, I do not own a tent (or sleeping bag) and My trailer is to heavy even for the mighty ST to tow :D so I'll have to work on those 2 things..Minor details IMO

[Carl_T]

Tent and bags are not such a big deal when riding single, but I'll pass on what I have found, but not tested yet.

Mummy bags are made that roll up to 7x12 inches in a cinch sack. Eureka makes two tents that fold to 7x15 for the two man (will fit in the saddle bag) and 7x18 for the 3 man. I just ordered the 3 man so Dawn and I can use a queen size mattress for the both of us and have a bit of room in there. The two man would be a good one for one guy.

This is the only brand I was able to find anywhere locally or on the internet that folded shorter than 24 inches.

I ordered the 3 man tent from here http://www.campmor.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=26504115&memberId=12500226

They emailed my today that it shipped 2 days after ordering it. I don’t know how good or bad it is yet as it hasn’t had time to arrive.

The mummy sacks I bought don’t let you move your legs apart very much but will bend and roll with you in any other position. They are good down to 30 degrees and I got them locally. They stuff in the sack to 7x 12 or 12 ½.

I found locally pillows that stuff into a sack and are only 4x8 in there.

The sleeping bag is likely not a big deal for one person, but being able to put everything in a saddlebag would be pretty cool. You could get the Eureka tent, mummy bag, pillow, and a one person air mattress all in one I’d bet.

I had a problem needing this camp stuff, clothes, flip flops, bathroom kit, towels, and riding gear liners etc. for 2 people on board though. I think I have it down now. I’ll know for sure within a week and we’ll go test it out first opportunity.

[Kempo-STer]

Carl..
Good choise with the 3 man...You'll need th extra room for any gear that you want to keep in the tent for you.

Also,
Assuming you are borrowing my air mattress for Constoc, do you want me to get measurements?

[Carl_T]

It's probably best to check them, Queens should be the same, but may not be. If for any reason it turns out there is extra room I will bring a queen myself. However it is most likely that the room would be well used for other things.

I'm going to try a pack up next week when I have everything in hand. You may want to wait before opening it up to measure (unless you still have the box, which lists measurements on it) until after I try that pre-pack, so as not to put out unneeded effort.

Short version, I might not need to borrow your mattress, but really think I likely will need to. I surely appreciate the help.

[Kempo-STer]

Carl..really no trouble at all..
I'll check it out when i get home..
The thing about air matresses is that they are contructed so that they are heavy and really can't get them into too small a space..(lets not forget about the pump as well.)

[Carl_T]

Todd,
They must have teleported the tent here. :D When we got home from the movies (seeing the Fantastic 4, outstanding special effects) the 3 man tent was on the porch! I can't believe it, man that Campmor.com was very fast and only charged $5.95 shipping. We pitched it in the living room and it goes up easy enough. It is very thin, light, waterproof material, tons of ventilation, I'm thinking a plastic throw cloth for the ground would be smart since the floor is thin. It has a limited lifetime warranty. I rolled it up and the 18inches is real enough,, the 7 is a tiny stretch though.

The fly has a covered area outside each of the 2 doors for your extra gear.

I am able to put the tent with pegs and poles, 1 sleeping bag, 2 pillows, and maybe a couple of really small things in one saddle bag. That’s pretty cool.

The tent floor is 7ft.7in. X 6ft. 6in. should be enough for a queen air mattress.

I already have a little rechargeable pump that will plug into a cigarette lighter. I'll have to work at installing one of those on the bike.

[AgSTreak]

Wow Carl, you're really starting to get into it. Great choice on the tent and I agree Campmor service and prices are the best. I've got a friend who wants to ride the Catskills. I told him we should camp but at this point he still needs to put together a good kit. Let me know if you want to try out your new STuff some weekend before ConSTOC.

[Carl_T]

John,
Maybe on the 22d I could work in a Friday night camp after work, Saturday ride, then home type thing, if you guys could come up on a Friday night. You could both camp Saturday night on your own then and have two nights camping in and me one. Gotta check out work and home schedules to be sure though.

Edit: Just remembered John, I'm supposed to go to Cape Cod this month also, and going to Lake George next weekend, so July may be out entirely. What about August? Again Dawn is keeper of the calendar anyway, so I'll know more tomorrow. Oh well back to work.

[Alex]

I reserved a room at the inn. Hope to drive down Thursday or Friday from Moncton, NB. So far alone, but will look to see if anyone else from around here wants to come.

Please keep in touch if anything changes

Alex
nbacount@nbnet.nb.ca

[GRN]

Hey Ya'll, been gone for a week... catching up.

Carl - Beginning of Oct can be just about anything and can swing hard in short periods. The chance of it being too hot for leathers is slim... hard to call, surf weather.com for a few days ahead and we'll collectively interpret their lies a few days ahead of the ride.

Todd - Aug 5-7, cool, glad you can make it. Hope you can get the other one worked out too.

Alex - pretty hard core man, down from NB twice in two weeks... right on. Please let me know which room so I can keep the list updated. Are you coming solo or with pillion? Are you interested in room sharing if solo? If you get down Thursday or early friday I have a intro route we can go roll to show you some of the area you won't get to see on the Sat. ride. Also, keep in touch about your route to ConSTOC.

John, glad you got back from coffee in Maine rubber down.

[AgSTreak]

We rode up for foliage last year. It was early so the leaves in the lower areas were green while those in the higher elevations were brilliant. When we left Sunday the temp gauge on the ST was reading 38F. In some shady areas it hit 35. I lent a less well prepared rider my glove liners, :bow1: :bow1: heated grips. Temps got well into the 70's by noon.
Greg, what time do you want us to meet you at WRJ. I told Todd if he thought rt9 was nice on the East side of I91 he should see the monster the road becomes on the left side.
I was looking at Arliss SP CG off rt12 in VT. Terrific ride up rt14, scenery is breathtaking. It's near rt17(twistiest road in VT according to motorcycleroads.com). We can try it both ways Fri and take rt302 back to NH Sat.
Alex, great to have you on the ride.

[Kempo-STer]

John,
Great meeting you yesterday. Hope you enjoyed your ride out with Brian. Thanks for lending me the video.

Alex..
FundyRider is from you neck of the woods so to speak and he is coming down for ConStoc so you may have a riding buddy. The only thing is that I am not sure he is taking a direct route..
BTW my entire family is from Grand Falls NB and I usually get up there once a year..

Looking forward to meeting you at Constoc

[GRN]

John, Vermont sounds cool... would stretch out the ride to Pittsburg nicely, and I could show you a nice leg of 117/116/112 into N. Woodstock then over the Kanc. and so on. Have to look at a map for an easy meet, say 1-2 pm ish.

[AgSTreak]

Greg, that works out perfectly for Todd and me. We need to work out equipment to bring.
What do you think Todd? Meet for coffee and start out early. We can take a much more scenic route.
Brian what time can you meet up with our group? We can either meet in WRJ (1:00- 2:00) or you can join us for the ride up Hogback MTN on rt9 earlier (have to check timing on that).
Carl, can you make it for Aug 5th (an overnighter in the Green Mts, you'll love it)? We can arrange a meetup. Ride with us up to Hogback, or meet us there.
Sorry about the typos Carl.

[Kempo-STer]

Meeting for coffee and an early start time is fine with me..

Just a matter of when and where..Completely flexible on the whole weekend..

[Alex]

Alex - pretty hard core man, down from NB twice in two weeks... right on. Please let me know which room so I can keep the list updated. Are you coming solo or with pillion? Are you interested in room sharing if solo? If you get down Thursday or early friday I have a intro route we can go roll to show you some of the area you won't get to see on the Sat. ride. Also, keep in touch about your route to ConSTOC.

GRN - Solo, do not know what room I have. Just made a reserv. My plans always depend on :rain1:

Will probably remain solo so can share, "nonsmokin"

Will be at WDGAH week before as well


Have been there twice this year already

Love my 1300

- Alex

[Carl_T]

John, I better stick to the two STOCs for now and catch up on stuff. If things change, I'll give you a shout in time though.

[AgSTreak]

Yeah Carl, my summer is getting pretty busy too. I'll tell you though, long distance riding can get in your system. After riding 950 miles in two days, I wanted to get on and roll up some more miles on Monday. Gotta keep reminding myself that there are things to do around the house.
Todd, I'll work out the start time and some proposed routes for Fri Aug 5th.

[Alex]

What is Nastoc?

Alex :confused:

[AgSTreak]

NaSTOC was a proposed National gathering of ST Owners. It may occur in 2006. CampSTOC is being planned which will serve the same purpose.
Date - May 10-13, 2006
Location - To Be Determined, Arkansas

[AgSTreak]

Greg, Todd, Brian here is the plan I propose for Fri Aug 5th. I'll meet Todd somewhere along rt691, (let me know where you want to meet,Todd). We'll head up I91 with side trips to Hogback Overlook and Cavendish (never been there but the road looks cool). Greg, we should arrive at White River Junction around 12:30 after a couple of short stops along the way. Lunch in WRJ? From WRJ we head up rt14 to the campground, arriving around 2 or 3. My part is done. Plan is attached, I hope you can open it. Map and schedule both need some work. Are there any suggestions? Will post revision soon.

Brian will you be joining us? If so, where will you join us, at WRJ or do you want us to pick you up along the way for one or both side trips?- john

[SteveST1300]

Manyou guys are killing me. I wish I could make the Aug ride but it looks like I will be doing some weekends at work just about that time I havent been out on my bike for 10 days. Was in England. Lots of really good beer though!!! :D
We are looking forward to seeing some of you again and meeting the others for the first time. CAN'T WAIT!!! :03biker:

[AgSTreak]

Steve, can't wait to see you and your wife again. Check out the link below for a taste of what we are going to do on our Aug 5th ride (good story with pics). Wish you were coming, but more important, glad you're back safe.- john


to the colonel's (http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4702)

[campernh]

Nothing like waiting till the last minute! I just booked the Greely room second floor in Riverside!
I look forward to meeting all you :bow1: wise and joyfull STers.
Brian
432-8544

[SteveST1300]

Very nice John. I think we have been on some of those roads. We have done the Kancamangus and went up Mt. Washington. I wanted to get up moose alley but the rest of the crew didn't. So I am looking forward to this trip. :03biker:

[GRN]

Brian, good deal man, with some luck we'll see ya in Aug. too :)

[GRN]

I have made some more updates to the first post... more folks in, more fun! There are 3 rooms left and the nice folks at the Inn have agreed to extend our hold on those 'til Sept. 15!

Bring on the pre-ride! :D :D :D

[AgSTreak]

I only need to know where I'll meet you and where I hook up with Todd. I'm breaking in the Sargent saddle on that ride. Seems pretty comfy now. Bring it on. :D :D :D

[GRN]

John, still have to nail down a spot in WRJ. 12:30 may be a bit early... will have to touch base a few days before to see how the work load fairs.

[AgSTreak]

Later just means Todd and I can do a little more exploring. JuST say when and where and we'll be there :bow1: .

[GRN]

Later just means Todd and I can do a little more exploring. JuST say when and where and we'll be there :bow1: .

To be safe let's say I get out 1:30 ish, meet you at 2 PM... WRJ exit 11 off of 91 STay right at bottom of ramp (rte 5 N), take firST right on Sykes Ave, meet at McD's on corner (sorry, no DQ :( ).

[GRN]

On the weekend of the ride in Sept/Oct, I am taking Friday off, so anyone who wants to come up/over/down thursday night and get in a ride Friday on some roads that won't be covered on Sat., just let me know. Any of you folks that wanted to get in a night of camping can do so, or you can grab some floor at our place, or I can turn you on to some very reasonable accomodations down the road at the local hippie farm/organic farming ed center/hostel...(http://www.dacres.org/) it's a really cool place with very nice facility... more a B&B, but hostel sounds more hippie! Please... come and enjoy as much of this wonderfull area as you can that weekend!

[AgSTreak]

OK, 2 PM works out well for me.
Todd, this opens up some possibilities. I will rework the map. We can do some more exploring, we can start out later or a little of both. Your call.

[Kempo-STer]

More exploring..more exploring...yeah yeah yeah....
:clap2: :mcrider: :headbang: :hotpepper
:biker: :03biker:

Come in throught the adirondacks?? Don't care...

[GRN]

More exploring..more exploring...yeah yeah yeah....
:clap2: :mcrider: :headbang: :hotpepper
:biker: :03biker:

Come in throught the adirondacks?? Don't care...

..........like you had to ask John :biker: :03biker:

[campernh]

Hey Greg,
Does that place really take carnivors as guests?
That is a little too close to VT for me...
Brian
:eek:

[GRN]

Hey Greg,
Does that place really take carnivors as guests?
That is a little too close to VT for me...
Brian
:eek:

Yup, think they'll even serve up some flesh if you want... VT? not quite that bad, very interesting place actually, most of the folks there hold advanced degrees and some have been high on the corperate ladder at one point or another, one is a practicing MD... not VT hippies man.

[Carl_T]

So, you guys must be done with the pre ride. How did it go???? :)

[AgSTreak]

I didn't finish, I had a sudden death in the family and had to get home(this post will be cathartic, thank you). The first day went beautifully, have we got some terrific roads planned. I have already mapped it out (see attached). No doubt about it the roads are absolutely magnificent. Here is the bad news, the trip is nearly 400 miles. I'll let Todd and Greg chime in when they return. Rt110, thanks Greg, is the equal of any rural road I have ever been on. I suppose we could always split up the roads between the trips up and down. To take it in its entirety would be, to be in M/C heaven, but it makes for a long day. I was in Heaven this Friday. BTW have you ever seen a floating bridge, we did.

[GRN]

have you ever seen a floating bridge, we did.

We missed ya John, had a great run, left Todd with a big goofy grin on this AM as we split at 302 where 135 drops into Woodsville. From Pittsburg we headed south on 3, then crossed the river into VT in WeST STewartstown, then came down VT102 all the way to 2, crossed back and came down 135... that is now in the plan for sure.

So if one of ya'll software endowed map type freaks would care to help me out, here's the plan:

From N. WoodSTock:
112 E to Bear Notch Rd. S
Bear Notch Rd. S to 302 E
302 E to 16 N
16 N to Errol, pick up 26 N (or W?)
26 N to 3 N
3 N to WeST STewartstown, rt 114 W cross the river to VT 102 S
VT102 S to 2 E
2 E to 135 S
135 S to 302 E
302 E to 117 S
117 S to 116 S
116 S to 112 E
112 E back to N. WoodSTock

If any of ya'll are worried about flat spots from having to slab up for this ride, this route will round 'em back out pretty well :D

Looking forward to Todd's post... he was a pretty happy boy this weekend, took a bunch of fun pics to post too.

[GRN]

The first day went beautifully, have we got some terrific roads planned. I have already mapped it out (see attached).

I hope you indicated for us where the speed trap was where you guys got BUSTED! Mums the word man, I won't tell a soul :D

[AgSTreak]

It wasn't a speedtrap. It was a huge black SUV with Springfield POLICE stencilled on its side. We were just blinded by the awesome beauty of our surroundings :D :D :D .
You should have seen the look on your face at the floating bridge, priceless. Too bad there aren't any pics. Talk about a Kodak Moment! That was a u-turn that would have made Carl proud. Hey man, great trip. You make an excellent Road Captain.

[GRN]

but... but... uh, well.... would a GPS have caught this little discrepency? *** now? Yup, new one for the boooks for sure... but it had a purpose - we would have never found out about that killer eatery if we hadn't been parked there, crippled in disbelief for 30 minutes either... :bow1: Crab Cakes, :bow1: Duck Breast, :bow1: really cute friggin waitress!!!

[AgSTreak]

That's what's magical about u-turns and other ways of losing your way on a M/C. Everything is an opportunity. Ariels was an excellent find. We would never have seen the place if that kind gentleman hadn't pointed it out. And we got to witness a strangely colored Wingpod consume an innocent bystander (sitter actually) in frustration after failing to convert another STowner :eek: :eek: :eek: .

[AgSTreak]

Greg, see if I got the directions correct.

[AgSTreak]

Time to Bump this baby :D :D :D .

[GRN]

Greg, see if I got the directions correct.

John, two problems:
1. I gave you some bad info... sorry, was tired... should be 26 to Colebrook, turn North on 3 to West Stewartstown, then left on 114 to 102 South.
2. looks like the map app wants to bypass 135 for the shorter alt using the slab. 135 winds down the river crossing 93 twice, we just stay w/ 135. 135 does turn right immediately ater you cross 93 the first time.

I'm also not sure what's going on where it has us back on 2 in VT again (second time)... weird. Once we hit 2 at the end of 102, we head east back into NH where 2 and 3 run together, and then take 135 and stay on this side of the river for the rest of the run.

Thanks for your help man
:)

[GRN]

John,

1 more... shouldn't be slab between 135 and 302... we go 135 to 302, take a left East and then take a right South on 117 (several miles). Give that map app a good :spank1: ... slab indeed. You need the MC version of that ware with the anti slab filter installed!

[Carl_T]

John,
I'm so sorry to hear that. :(

On another note, I just love the floating bridge! I've never even heard of one in the northeast. That is just plain strange since it wouldn't take a genius to get the boards just out of the water.

What cool photos. I am stoked and going to pour over the route after work today. Streets and trips has a filter to put slabs on low priority. However you sometimes need to know the route in areas where it still chooses slabs so you can put in way points there and force it's hand.

[Kempo-STer]

John and Greg...
My sincerest thank you for your companionship..It was truly a fun weekend.

John,
My deepest condolances and we really missed you..
I have your tent back with me and we'll make arrangement to meet again when your family matters are in order..

I have a ton a really great pictures that I will post a bit later this week..

Got back to the campground yesterday around 4:15..
I'll post details of my experiences this weekend when I can include the pics..

Mileage:
Friday: 377
Saturday: 281
Sunday: 338
Total: 996

[SteveST1300]

Sorry to hear of your loss John. Sounds like we are in for a great ride. 400 miles? Well that will break in those new seats lol. Looking forward to the pictures. And only 38 days till ConSTOC! See you all soon. :03biker:

[GRN]

Got back to the campground yesterday around 4:15..

Mileage:
Friday: 377
Saturday: 281
Sunday: 338
Total: 996

Damn... we made better time in the first 111 miles of twisties than you did on the slab the rest of the way home :eek: hence proving all colors go faster when :04biker: is leading!!!



:bsflag: :BDH:

[Carl_T]

hence proving all colors go faster when :04biker: is leading!!!

Will everyone be OK experiencing the obvious hallucinogenic effect of those superb NH roads :D

I guess it's harmless dreaming the blue or silver is faster than the red though.

[AgSTreak]

Greg, I gave it another try. It was hard keeping the trip on rt102 since it is so close to rt3 and kept defaulting there. The ride looks good.

[GRN]

Greg, I gave it another try. It was hard keeping the trip on rt102 since it is so close to rt3 and kept defaulting there. The ride looks good.

Hey Buddy, thanks but it's still getting pretty funky on us, taking some shortcuts. Maybe the best thing is for me just to mark up a map and scan it for the masses.

[SteveST1300]

So is this the official route if so I am going to enter it into my GPS. Nice work guys looks like a great ride. :bow1:

[GRN]

So is this the official route if so I am going to enter it into my GPS. Nice work guys looks like a great ride. :bow1:

Reply #174 is indeed the route, I'll get an extra map to mark up, scan it and post that soon... busy as chit at the moment... it's a fun route, we may have some traffic on 16 up to Berlin, but after that we should have it mostly to ourselves... I hope anyway.

[Carl_T]

Greg,
Building on what John did and following your posted route to the letter (as I could understand it) I came up with this route in Streets and trips. The file has both the map and routing info.

I removed the slab portion bettween 135 and 302 that is in the one John posted. I stuck to 117 to 116 as you posted instead of circumventing the town with Easton Rd. also.

In addition I added 15 minute stops about every hour and added a restaurant in Colebrook in order to add 1.5 hours to eat. I did this just to get in rest time and eating time on the trip estimate not to say these are the places to stop.

That brings the trip to 230.2 miles and 7 hours 50 min road time, 5 hours 25 minutes bike time. If you started at 9AM it says you'd end at 4:50PM.

I put stops at #3 #4 #7 lunch #13 and #17 on the map This was to include generous stop times in the time estimate software, not to say exact stopping spots.

The number 13 stop looks like a covered bridge from the map road name. The 13 was placed not at the bridge, but a bit farther to get the map software to choose the right roads.

Is this accurate? If it is I'll make up a route sheet for myself.

If anyone grabbed the file before 5:53 it had uploaded the wrong one at first, I corrected it at 5:53PM.

[GRN]

Carl,

Thank you, this is 99%... the option to bypass Lancaster (in your's and John's maps) is an interesting one, I will have to check that out. I had us taking a left on 2 through Lancaster, then a right on 135, but why bother with town if we don't need services, right?

There are some great palces up near WeST STratford/Cannan for lunch, and that timing should work out well if we leave at 8am with a 4pm return goal... that way any variables don't have us in the dark on the way back, days are getting short up here then and dusk is the worst time of day for Moose.

Thanks you guys for the help... your gonna love this ride... I surprised we haven't heard more from Todd... his smile factor was way high this weekend after a sampling!

[SteveST1300]

Carl which numbers are the U-Turns ROFLMAO!!!! :bow1: Seriously nice work guys this will make it easy to program the GPS. THANKS TO YOU ALL :bow1: :biker: :04biker: :03biker:

[Carl_T]

Greg,
Avoiding the bother of in town traffic is always a kind of plus in my book, so maybe going the other way on Rt2 to avoid Lancaster would turn out good. It does add a few more corners along the Connecticut River, and with a road name like covered bridge, maybe we get to ride across one, which is usually pretty cool (unless they are built under water like that floater). The bridge turns up just about when it would be nice to stretch your legs for a few minutes also. I go with whatever you figure is best. 8AM sounds like a perfect plan light wise.

I can’t wait to see Todd’s pictures and read his report on the preride.

Steve, that's what all the numbers are! I carefully numbered each U turn opportunity on the map :D Did you see how generous Greg was in including a U turn for me in the route up at WeST STratford/Cannan? John got one in on Fridays run up to CTSTOC also. I'm going to feel right at home. :)

[GRN]

Carl, I'm with you on bypassing densities of folks for sure. We'll call it a plan and I'll run up and check out that stretch... all this hard work and suffering for you guys, hope you appriciate it! I know exactly where that road comes one to 135, and yes it's across a very old, historic covered bridge, and will offer up a fine opportunity for a stop... can't believe I just said stop... why stop? :p: Guess that's what I get for riding with a bunch of old farts ;)

[Kempo-STer]

Hey Gang..
I've staying at the campground since I got back..

I will be going home today after work as I have some clients to teach tonight..
Once they are gone I will post the pics..I can't wait to see them on the PC myself..

[Carl_T]

Cool Todd.

Old fart??? well,,, yeah that happens often enough. :D

Mostly it's Dawn my better half, that needs to stretch every so often. Arthritis runs in her family, and she puts up with some pain in order to share the ride. Frankly I'm amazed she agrees to look at the back of my helmet as much as she does, but it's great to have her with me.

I can't lay it all on her either as I have a leg that I need to keep an eye on or it’s no riding for awhile, part of getting older is annoying as hell but it beats the alternative to blue blazes.

The bridge might be a good photo op. A quick STop to stretch out for a couple of minutes every hour and a quarter to hour and a half makes for alert and fresher riding though regardless of age, unless you are doing an iron butt event or similar. There's usually some cool scenery or nice something around to make it interesting.

I know, I know, I sound like the Dairy Queen bunch now :rolleyes:

[GRN]

Watch out man, or a :cbcgw1: might make it's way under ya ;)

[Carl_T]

Watch out man, or a :cbcgw1: might make it's way under ya Oh man! I hope not! (no offense Mellow) Well, maybe a wing and a CBR600f4i in the garage alongside would compensate.

[GRN]

nah... Duc 749, very minimum...

[Carl_T]

Well yah... :D however my wallet would croak before half of even a used one was paid, especially with a wing which would croak it all on it's own.

Maybe a Suzuki GSX 750R? It's got more horsepower and torque, less weight, than the Duc, but then it would have to be a used wing also or the wallet would stab me in my sleep.

See. these are hard decisions, I suppose it's why I have the ST, it's both in one and you get some of each at the same time.

[GRN]

Well yah... :D however my wallet would croak before half of even a used one was paid, especially with a wing which would croak it all on it's own.

Maybe a Suzuki GSX 750R? It's got more horsepower and torque, less weight, than the Duc, but then it would have to be a used wing also or the wallet would stab me in my sleep.

See. these are hard decisions, I suppose it's why I have the ST, it's both in one and you get some of each at the same time.

Duc just sounds sweeter, I can hear the difference from a half a mile.... the way ya do this is you buy the fast one first, then you chance of succcessful escape when robbing the bank for the wing increases significantly!!! :D

Or, you can just get an ST, uh, well... I guess we covered that :o:

[Carl_T]

So you had one, do you miss it?

[GRN]

So you had one, do you miss it?

Had a 99X that began life as a $28K track bike, my buddy who owned it, who was the craziest MF'r I've yet to meet by far (raced all kinds of motorized wheels), got spooked and bailed on life w/ 2 wheels all together (then killed himself and his wife in an S6 a few years later). He had a fire sale - almost 20 bikes, and called me and TOLD me I was taking this bike for what little cash he actually had in it, and that it was up to me to get it "legal", and recomended a shop that might actually bless me with an inspection sticker for a moderate fee.

Loved it... scared the **** out of me... crave it like hell once in a great while or a little/lot more... glad as hell I will most likely never own anything like it again. I saw IS's of 160+ and there was some left, probably not a lot, but more than my eggs were ready to table man... been there done that, got a kid now... good enough for me, I'm bad enough on ole' :04biker:

[Carl_T]

I hear you, ol' :biker: does well by me also. That is one tragic tale and then some. I'm very sorry to hear about your friend and his wife. Staying around means keeping it sane, doing your best, and hoping like hell that works out well in the end.

before we left for Viet Nam we had a fellow in our Unit that finally got sent back home as the paperwork came through on sole surviving son. He had a friend of his (and his family) in the unit also. We heard through the friend when the guy died in an auto wreck back home not all that many months later. I suppose there is something that makes sense in there somewhere, but I'm not really sure what it might be.

There seems to be little point of an all out race bike on the street, the ST currently strikes a nice balance for me.

[SteveST1300]

My son has a GSXR1000 and it is just way too much for a street bike he has worked it some I rode it for a few miles and took it back to the garage and tolds him I wouldn't ride it any more it was a lot of fun but man the power in that thing is awsome! :03biker:

[Kempo-STer]

Hi Guys..
Here is my report as promised..
Friday morning 7:15 meet up with AgStreak and run up rt 8 to grab breakfast at the 'General Store' in Otis Mass...One recommended to John by Bones...Thanks Bones..Great Pancakes
A bunch of glorious riding including Rt8 through MA, Route 9 to Route 100 and the now infamous Route 11..Took a slight detour on route 103 to meet up with: :cop2: Once our handshakes were over :D with Mr Officer we decided to go back on 11 and catch 91 to meet up with Greg..Luckily we were all 1/2 hour late..So far thats the most I have pushed my gas tank..296 miles and showing 35 left on the computer..cool. A lot of great riding slowed by a dump truck and an RV :eek: Whatdya gonna do..

Friday evening highlights included trying to find our campsight and come around the corner seeing a 'floating bridge'??..Yeah floating bridge my ***..It was more like submerged bridge...
No one had any pontoon/submarine farkles installed see we turned and found another route..
Fabulous dinner and some fireside conversation was wonderfull..
Friday's Mileage: 377
Here are some of Friday's pics..Saturday's adverntures and pics will be posted next..

[Kempo-STer]

In Summation...of the 19,000 miles I have done on motorcycles since I started riding in March 04, my ride Saturday had to be one of the best days on a bike I have ever experienced so far..perfect weather..
Every freaking road we were on was flanked by a river, a farm, a mountain or an incredibley charming New England town....Every turn onto a new road I was screaming Yatzee!!!...You guys are in for an incredible treat..It was nice enough without the fall color..but when the leaves turn color..wow..

Really bummed out about not having John with us but of course some things are more important..

There are too many roads to list as they we all incredible..
A couple of cool things to mention though..
Met a fellow STer and his wife who were riding from Michigan..Him on an 03 pulling a trailer and her on a Silverwing 600cc scooter..COOL..We chatted about our bikes and I let him know about our site..Hopefully we hear from him..
Took a run to the Canadian border for a photo op..(See pic) via Moose alley and yes we did see a moose as well as a fox
Got a photo of a sign identifying the 45th parallel marking the halfway point between the North Pole and Equator..very cool

Our campsite in Pittsburg NH on Satursday night had an incredible view of a lake and mountain...And one of the hands down highlights of my 3 days was the view of the stars on Saturday night..Words cannot describe the clarity and magnificence of what I witnessed..shooting stars..satelites..I will never forget it..
Mileage 281

The ride home sunday was fun as well..(Mileage 338)
I hit the MA border and my read end was finally getting to me..Still have the stock seat and no bar risers yet.. :eek:

Greg and John...An honor riding with both of you..May we do it again SOON!!


Enjoy the pics guys..You are in for an amazing treat!!
Your ST brother
Todd

[Kempo-STer]

A couple more...

They include:
The view from our Saturday night campsight
NH Border
A stop along the Kancamagus Highway
Mount Washington

[AgSTreak]

Kempo san, thanks for posting the pics from the ride. Glad you and Greg had an absolutely awesome time(truly an understatement). This is what owning a freedom machine is all about. Great roads with magnificent sweeping vistas, great food served in an exquisite setting by a charming waitress and of course great company. You and Greg were marvelous traveling companions!! Guys, we'll have to do this again some time. Greg, it appears you have selected some really outstanding roads for our fall ride. Thanks for the superb effort. Can't wait for ConSTOC and the NH foliage trip.- john

[campernh]

Very Nice Guys,
Having spent much of my summer and winter in a cabin in Whitefield for the past 18 years, you guys found all the great places.
The whole region is the bomb!
By the way Mt Washington is hiding behind the mountain in the foreground. You can just make out the summitt.
See you in a few weeks!
Brian :bow1:

[Carl_T]

Those things are as light as a 600 and have some awesome hp and torque numbers STeve. It must be some ride.

Greg,
What tank bag is that, I have a super mini, but yours looks handy for those long rides away from home overnight. Does it stick to the tank good? Do the bars or your hands contact it?


Todd,
Thank you so much for the write up and those great pics. Now THAT is my kind of landscape!!!!! :) I love the mountains in spring summer and fall. I'm not a skier or snow fan though. Can't imagine why I'd winter through in NY then. I am so looking forward to this and you guys make the anticipation that much better.

OK so what happened with you guys and the Police? Is your hand shaking going to cost you points and money?

[AgSTreak]

BTW did you notice the shot of the three different colored ST's playing happily together. Now if only the owners could get along that well, peace would reign on this post.
What police, Carl? :D

[Carl_T]

Yeah I'm overtired and cranky today. Dawn spent all of Monday night in the emergency room, colon infection. She's home recovering (we hope). She sees a specialist day after tomorrow.

Took a slight detour on route 103 to meet up with: :cop2: Once our handshakes were over with Mr Officer we decided to go back on 11 Dis here police, that's what police :rolleyes: :D was ya nabbed or did you get lucky and look all innocent and everything?

[AgSTreak]

Carl, sorry to hear about Dawn. My sincerest wishes that she gets well quickly and please give your lovely wife a hug for me. You have been a little edgy lately and it appears with good reason.

Guilty as hell. This will make a good story around the campfire at ConSTOC. Maybe you can break Todd, but I'm not talking till then.

[GRN]

Greg,
What tank bag is that, I have a super mini, but yours looks handy for those long rides away from home overnight. Does it stick to the tank good? Do the bars or your hands contact it?

Carl, my best to your bride, may she heal quicly and completely... not to mention that's about the last part she want's to be nursing with a couple a sweet rides around the corner :)

Cortech Mini mag, bigger than yours, smaller than what I just switched it with last night, the Cortech 21L mag (pic below)... and now for sale unless Kempo wants it (already offered). The Mini is a great little bag, and doesn't get in the way even with the MCL risers that bring the bars back. Only reason I went with something larger is to accomodate some unusual camera gear needs, the hard luggage on the tail is to turbulant for expensive multi-element glass, and I end up on some rougher than usual paths pretty regularly. Not to mention that gear eats up a lot of space... more space good. The 21L is a wicked nice bag, very very stable, rigid sides, some well designed ext pockets with vey fluid zippers, nice wide map window, and the zip off mag base and double shoulder straps are pretty slick indeed. It also elevates the E8500 abouve the dash plane to give me some better range (pic below). It does tangle with the bars a little, not bad, no more than an occasional undesired change of wind shield height... still a far cry better than the bag on my ST11 which always waited 'til I was white knucked and dug in trying to make a feet down move on loose stuff to sound the HORN :22yikes: :cus: ... nothing like a good deep twitch to keep it real though I guess...

Todd, glad you had such a good time dude, was a gas for sure... hey, look at the Harley's... what Harley's... where'd they go :a13: :butt1: ... and thanx for the great pix!

[Bones]

Carl: My best to Dawn. :biker:

[campernh]

Carl,
I will say some prayers for your wife. I hope she is ok.
Brian