[thegreyman]

Ok seasoned vets- I need some good lessons learned from the road. I am heading on a my first solo trip this SAT. Heading from Monterey Ca to San Diego Ca. Trying to do it in one shot. I am on a time constraint, so i have to bypass HWY 1 and take the 101 to the I5. It will be pretty windy as I5 is known for it's side winds.

I have a 15inch windshield and bags. What else do i need? What should be prepared for?

 

[SmokenJoe]

Rain gear. You just never know.

 

[Craig]

A toothbrush, you will be grinning. Have a safe ride.

 

[nogard]

Here is another thread in terms of making the bike more comfortable on longer rides:

http://www.yamahastarstryker.com/index.php/topic,3759.msg60067.html#msg60067

It's prob too late to do any mods for the trip, but Toby has a great suggestion in that thread. If you are having a touring bag on the back, turn it around and possibly tie a pillow to it. Any form of backrest should help with the longer rides.

 

[kraaazymike]

I actually just drove up to San Jose from Orange County yesterday for the weekend. The weather is beautiful and warm. But there is a lot of random construction on the 15 both ways so expect flying rocks and slowing.

 

[strykenshane]

Take breaks once an hour whether you feel you need it or not, your elbows, hands, knees and ass will thank you

 

[toby]

Here is another thread in terms of making the bike more comfortable on longer rides:

http://www.yamahastarstryker.com/index.php/topic,3759.msg60067.html#msg60067

It's prob too late to do any mods for the trip, but Toby has a great suggestion in that thread. If you are having a touring bag on the back, turn it around and possibly tie a pillow to it. Any form of backrest should help with the longer rides.

Ya something to lean back on, Water and jurkey or energy bars so you can save time at gas stops, just hydrate and energy up and off you go. 8 hrs no problem. Oh ya sun block and maybe by one of those slime tire fix it kits. Comes with a pump and green slime.

 

[///Matt]

What day/time are you expecting to depart? I would catch the 5 at the 101 instead of the 15. 15 is 'on the wrong side of the hill', and will be much, much hotter, and is also significantly longer of a trip.

I live at the north end of SD county, by the 5. I travel up to Santa Clarita a few times a month, and have tried all the various routes.

If you are expecting to be in the LA county area on a weekday during rush hour... ok, maybe the 15 will be easier... But the time/day of your trip could also mean the 15 will be crazy too, for instance on a friday afternoon.


Basically, just ride comfortable, stop every 1.5 hours for gas (unless you need it sooner) and stretch your legs, walk around, relax for 10-15 minutes. Wear a full face if you've got it (for wind-deafness, and bugs/rocks in the face), and some headphones if you're ok with 'em. The helmet insanity on an 8 hour trip can get real.

 

[thegreyman]

Great advice everyone! and off I go

 

[strykerhulk]

If u have a CCW take ur gun with u. You never know.

 

[saclean]

You need to take 101 to 126 over to the 5 south for 8 or 10 miles then catch the 210 stright out to the 15, its a little longer but i nice easy ride and it bypasses the majority of the traffic. that is a long ride plan on at least 7 to 9 hours. good like, my advice take a route with the least amount of traffic and best open roads. i have made that ride in my younger days on a Harley low rider. and severl times in the car. do what you can to by pass LA. Good luck and ride safe.

 

[kraaazymike]

...... do what you can to by pass LA.....

AMEN!!! Best advice so far!!!

 

[The_Joker]

I actually just drove up to San Jose from Orange County yesterday for the weekend. The weather is beautiful and warm. But there is a lot of random construction on the 15 both ways so expect flying rocks and slowing.

Sounds like your in my neighborhood..........

Should have taken the 1 thru Big Sur......a much nicer ride...longer but much more enjoyable.....