Jefferson National Forest, VA

Met up with RH & PJ for almost 200 miles or riding in the National forest.  About 2/3 of the ride was off-pavement.  Having grown up in the area, RH really knows those roads!  If it wasn't for the GPS, I would have never known where we went.  I waypointed several great spots to revisit later.

Many of the roads were washed out and rutted, but all the new lighting mounts held.  I'll count the day as a test.  We never made the obligatory coffee stop, I guess tradition must break occasionally.  On the way back home, I dawdled on more dirt roads.  Coming up the road to the house I felt the unmistakable squishiness of a flat tire.  I think now is the time to try the Slime fix.  When I change the tire/tube, I'll just have to be prepared to clean up a big green mess in the garage.  It will make a great photo!

Early Spring Parkway

With WI being rainy, it's a pleasant surprise to have a solid week of beautiful WX for riding in NC.  Took a spin over White Top in VA, then over to Damascus along the Virginia Creeper trail.  A quick jaunt went into TN to ride some technical twisties along US 421.  I'm liking the new Ohlins and RaceTech suspension components!

Lighting

As a result of the turkey debacle, the aux light bar was damaged beyond repair.  I attempted to straighten it out without success as did my neighbor Luke, even with his considerable resources. 

Unfortunately I can't find an exact  replacement. Thanks to Tony @ Cycle Nutz and Denver BMW for new mounting solutions.  The big 16 watt lights are mounted at the turn signal brackets, about even with the headlight. They're not as rigid as I'm used to, especially with the heavier lights. 

The little 10 watt Denali's are mounted pretty much where they were before and turned out for more side illumination.  I installed the lenses with the most diffusion and also aimed them a bit high so they brighten the road ahead in curves.  At least that's the theory!  I've only had 10 miles of night riding to test all this stuff so stay tuned for my reality adjustment.  Headed to NC for several weeks of riding where I always stay out later than I intend to, so maybe the lights will get a workout.

Added  power to the Pelican top box for keeping some things charged.

Albion

It's a nice early spring day, supposed to be in the 60's but windy.  Albion is always a nice place for a coffee ride. +gene seprish   Track