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I'm new to this forum and wanted to say hi. I just bought 1989 R100GS - and am new air-head owner; although I've been around them I've never needed to maintain, care and water one before.

I am planning a cross-country trip from Southern California to Rhode Island. Weather permitting, I'm plotting a northern course through Wyoming and Wisconsin - planning to leave So. Cal early/mid-September and ramble for 2-3 weeks. I see loads of topics to start off with from road picking to upcoming events, but welcome any suggestions and advice for the trip: from your favorite camping site in Idaho of that great hamburger in South Dakota or a rally along the way.

Hello Ananadabandit! I've got an Airhead and a Bandit too! Now that we have a woman on board I'll have to behave.

Stay tuned!

Zombie Master wrote:Now that we have a woman on board I'll have to behave.

Stay tuned!

Popcorn at the ready, ZM.

Welcome, anandabandit. Sounds like a great run.
My advice is to stick to B, C and D roads.
O, and posting ride reports with lots of photos is a Good Thing.

Zombie Master wrote: Now that we have a woman on board I'll have to behave.
Stay tuned!

Yeah right.
Welcome anandabandit.

Welcome and hello from way down South !

dougie wrote:

Zombie Master wrote: Now that we have a woman on board I'll have to behave.
Stay tuned!

Yeah right.
Welcome anandabandit.

That was my first reaction too! Thanks for the welcome though!

I'm am absolutely sticking to non-interstates (except in plains). The only "monument" I have lined up so far is Niagara Falls, as I've never been there. Anybody want to weigh in on camping vs. B&B vs. hotel for the area? I may head in to Canada from there to make this an international motorcycle adventure.

I bet I'll be able to manage a ride report or two.

I gain ownership of the GS this week. Plan to take it in for a fluid change and service. Advice is welcomed on anything I should pay special attention to.

Hi Ananda, do you know the history of the GS? I would always check the age of the tires, there's usually a 4 digit number molded into the sidewall like "4202", this indicated the week (42) and year (2002) when they were manufactured. While older tires might look good, they do dry out with age and lose pliability and traction. If you do run into a problem on the road, you can get free internet access at the friendly local public library. Sounds like a great adventure! Are you going up though California or heading east of the Rockies for your first leg? . Myself, I'd like to go the camping route. Back in the day I'd just ask the local police where the good campsites were. A few times I was recommended the city park, in very small towns. Interesting people to meet, talks around the campfire... You can always hit a motel if you need a hot shower and laundry. Something else to consider, some national parks have signs recommending not camping or walking the trails in bear / mountain lion country, if you are a woman having her period, FWIW. Have fun!

Tim Shepherd wrote:... Something else to consider, most national parks have signs recommending not camping or walking the trails in bear / mountain lion country, if you are a woman having her period, FWIW.

It never occurred to me that menstruating might provide such a hazard. Ya learn sumpin' new every day.
There is this -



I'm glad Australia has no big predators. Apart from the sharks and saltwater crocs and humans, of course.

welcome! have a great trip the aspen leaves are usually turning in Colo the last week in Sept, if it works into your route

On that GS; make sure the steering head bearing are not notched and are well lubed. It would be a lousy ride if those bearing are not up to snuff. The GS is also prone for wear on the universal that joins the drive shaft to the transmission. Also make sure that the battery is in excellent condition; a weak battery will stress the charging system. As Tim said tires. And what kind of tires are you running? If you are staying on pavement you will enjoy a more road based rubber and get much better life and comfort for a long tour.

I enjoy options when touring so I'd be prepared to camp and stay in hotels too.

Two words: Gor Tex. My entire riding get up from gloves to boots is lined with Gor Tex. I stay dry and comfortable in all kinds of conditions. Of course the quality of the garments matter. Fit is crucial.

Heated grips and vest but if you run these your charging system must be up to snuff. I use a heated bib from Riderwearhouse. It packs down to nothing and uses half the current of a normal vest.

Riderwearhouse is a good source for what kind of gear is available for all kind of touring.

Get some bear spray buy two and practice how to use one. Keep it handy. If they ask about it at the border explain you will be camping in bear county. It can also be use to fend off bears.

I live on Vancouver Island and can suggest routes and info for Alberta and BC if you are coming that way.

Any bikini shots?

And watch out for the socialists here; they will try to make you feel guilty for living in the USA