Big Bend Bash 2/26- 2/28/2010

[Mellow]

Actually, looks like I may not be going or I'll be showing up late.

My mom went into the hospital Friday due to an intestinal obstruction, they were monitoring her to see if the meds they were giving would help but looks like today she's getting moved to a bigger hospital in Fort Smith, AR that can handle the surgery.

So, I'll head up there tomorrow instead of heading south and stay with her. I don't know what the rest of the week looks like so I'll just take it one day at a time. She recovers from surgery pretty darn fast.. she's tough.. so you never know.

[Dinkie Diesel]

Terribly sorry to hear that, Joe. Prayers and good wishes coming her way.

[motomac]

Actually, looks like I may not be going or I'll be showing up late.

My mom went into the hospital Friday due to an intestinal obstruction, they were monitoring her to see if the meds they were giving would help but looks like today she's getting moved to a bigger hospital in Fort Smith, AR that can handle the surgery.

So, I'll head up there tomorrow instead of heading south and stay with her. I don't know what the rest of the week looks like so I'll just take it one day at a time. She recovers from surgery pretty darn fast.. she's tough.. so you never know.Sorry to hear this Joe, Mama just landed a spot in my prayer list.

[Trailace]

Actually, looks like I may not be going or I'll be showing up late.

My mom went into the hospital Friday due to an intestinal obstruction, they were monitoring her to see if the meds they were giving would help but looks like today she's getting moved to a bigger hospital in Fort Smith, AR that can handle the surgery.

So, I'll head up there tomorrow instead of heading south and stay with her. I don't know what the rest of the week looks like so I'll just take it one day at a time. She recovers from surgery pretty darn fast.. she's tough.. so you never know.
Sorry to hear this man hope the best for you and her.

Your just trying to delay your start so you can ride with me. Right?

[Trailace]

Well, once again we are not gonna make it.:mad: Gotta have another CT scan in the morning and then see the Dr. on Fri to discuss options.

Ya'll have a good time and be safe.

Hey old man do you want me to come by and pick up Cindy and your nice camping setup and take them down to Big Bend for ya. No need for her to miss out on all the fun. :lol

[Chief]

Hey old man do you want me to come by and pick up Cindy and your nice camping setup and take them down to Big Bend for ya. No need for her to miss out on all the fun. :lol

I would but I require her full time nursing talents.P^

[TOMB]

Take care of your mom Joe. Here's hoping the best for her.

[Mr. Guy]

There are many rides, but only one Mom. Take care of her while you still can. We'll see ya somewhere down the road.

Guy

[Ironheadziggy76]

Sorry to hear about your Mom Joe, hope she gets well soon.

[TOMB]

Have a big camp fire ready on Thursday 3 nancy boys headed your way on Wednesday morning.:fire4::tent6:

[MikeP1300]

Sorry Dude, No open fires.

Bring your personal heat source of choice, as long as it doesn't burst into flames.


Get Well Soon to your Mom Joe.

[Dinkie Diesel]

If I make it to Big Bend National Park, I deserve the right to refute the "Nancy Boy" comment. Current forecast calling for 18 degrees at 6:30am, our departure time. I do not have electric clothing, I do not have an over-sized windshield, I do not have fairing extenders, I do not have grip heaters, I do not have a seat heater and I do not have grip deflectors from a V-strom retro-fitted to my ST1300.

Right now, the vision of Artie Johnson from Laugh-In falling over on his tricycle is crossing my mind as I motor down the highway in a cryogenic state. The only thing affecting my psyche for this trip is the mid 70's upon arriving in Big Bend.

I have re-read all the posts. Sounds like tent sites cannot be reserved. Guy has site #83 reserved. Everyone pretty sure there will be enough sites available for all of us?

I'm kind of hoping we hear some good news from Mellow on his mom before we leave tomorrow.

[TPadden]

If I make it to Big Bend National Park, I deserve the right to refute the "Nancy Boy" comment.....

Refute all you want Nancy Boy. From those who know you, consider it a compliment P^.

[Ironheadziggy76]

WEATHER UPDATE FROM A COUPLE OF SNOW BUNNIES! :lol

I just got off the phone with Ernie and Colleen (Black and Blue) and they are camped at FT Stockton, about 127 miles from Big Bend. They are camped in 2" of snow right now with more possible. They are doing well and are hoping the weather clears out. They told me they had some good pics to post when they can get to some internet service.

Y'all watch for my frozen buddies on your way in for me! :cold1:

[Dinkie Diesel]

Refute all you want Nancy Boy. From those who know you, consider it a compliment P^.

I take it you're still coming? Looking forward to seeing you. My teeth may still be chattering when you get there. :D

7000 miles out west, 2500 to BB and back and then to Bike Week? Giddy Up!

[jkrup47]

Well it looks like I might not be able to get on the road outta Houston til about 8pm, Rick.. I will try to call you .. going to have everything ready to go.. and would be willing to blaze out for at least a couple hours on wed night.. to try to get as far as we need.. San An? maybe...

Josh

[Black and Blue]

Thanks for posting for us Ironheadyziggy 76.
Snow is supposed to quit by 6 pm and it will start warming up tomorrow after a cold night tonight.
Looks like Big Bend/Rio Grande will have some nice weather too.

The daschund and I don't do well in the cold. We were going to have Ironhead bring his plow!

Colleen

[Ironheadziggy76]

Thanks for posting for us Ironheadyziggy 76.
Snow is supposed to quit by 6 pm and it will start warming up tomorrow after a cold night tonight.
Looks like Big Bend/Rio Grande will have some nice weather too.

The daschund and I don't do well in the cold. We were going to have Ironhead bring his plow!

Colleen

Glad I could help, you can delete your voicemail from me as it's a weather report from NOAA. Stay warm tonight, it gets nice for the rest of the week.

Be safe out there!

[Dinkie Diesel]

Mellow said on the other board that he is with his mom and she is doing fine! That's good to know!

[Mellow]

Mellow said on the other board that he is with his mom and she is doing fine! That's good to know!

Thanks Jeff, yes.. it looks like she had an old hernia that was putting pressure on your intestines and caused blockage... go figure... She's ready to come home. I went to see her and she kept falling asleep so I left her to get some rest and will head over in the morning.

Thanks for all the great wishes, I didn't hit any snow at all from Dallas to SE Oklahoma. Ride safe and hopefully I'll see everyone at least one day this weekend.

[TPadden]

I take it you're still coming? Looking forward to seeing you. My teeth may still be chattering when you get there. :D

7000 miles out west, 2500 to BB and back and then to Bike Week? Giddy Up!

Heading out in the AM, Thursday night in San Antonio, see ya Friday afternoon P^.

[motomac]

OK, Meanst, Womantriker, and I are in Sierra Vista AZ. We'll hit Tombstone for breakfast in the AM and spend the night in Van Horn TX and make Big Bend Thursday.

[tankereng]

Heading out in the AM, Thursday night in San Antonio, see ya Friday afternoon P^.

What time are you headed out from SA on Friday morning? I'm hitting the road Friday AM as well....P^

[BuddingGeezer]

Plan on leaving Thursday AM, spending the night at San Angelo SP. Hope to arrive BBNP Friday after lunch.

Everyone ride safe. Look for the Black/Silver '91 ST1100.

Ralph Sims

[TPadden]

What time are you headed out from SA on Friday morning? I'm hitting the road Friday AM as well....P^

Staying with a friend north near Hill country Village (281 and 1604 Loop). Not sure of departure time but if you want to join up with us my cell is (352) 942-7117. :)

Tom

[Lat]

You guys are so inspirational I went so far as to break out my ole SVEA 123 stove this evening and made hot chocolate. Just know you have at least one cheerleader sitting on the sidelines cheering you on! Be sure to take lots of photos, please!

Joe, I hope your mom is better everyday.

Be safe, folks. Happy Trails! ~Jeff

[Black and Blue]

Today the weather 127 miles north of Big Bend, (Fort Stockton) is great. You wouldn't have believed it snowed yesterday. Everything has melted and drying. Looks like good weather in Big Bend...hopefully that will not change. Anyway, here are a few pics of what we woke up to Tuesday morning. Heading down tomorrow, (Thursday). Everyone ride safe!


Mellow...Hope everything is fine with your mother.:)

[Mr. Guy]

All packed up, only thing left to do is drag my butt outa bed in the morning and head that way. Not sure if I'll drive straight through or stop at San Angelo State Park, but I'm leaning towards straight through. That would put me at BBNP around 8:30 or 9:00 I think.

Everyone ride safe and Joe I'm glad to hear your Mom sounds better.

Guy

[tankereng]

The residents of west Texas cringe as the Motocampers migration begins to Big Bend....:eek:

[Whosoever]

Today the weather 127 miles north of Big Bend, (Fort Stockton) is great. You wouldn't have believed it snowed yesterday. Everything has melted and drying. Looks like good weather in Big Bend...hopefully that will not change. Anyway, here are a few pics of what we woke up to Tuesday morning. Heading down tomorrow, (Thursday). Everyone ride safe!


.:)

I'm sitting here in this nice, warm, room with my "main dog, Jack" snuggled beside me...I might even throw in...that I'm scratchin' my head.."how do you seriously keep warm camping with snow on your tent? I've never camped in snowy weather but from your pics...if you spent the night in that tent....it would be like me leaving this comfy couch and crawlin' into my fridg's freezer! How do you do it...would really appreciate hearing your secret. I can remmber sleeping under a "lean to" in a creek bed while hunting deer in Texas. It was colder than a "bears butt" and I got cold!

[motomac]

The 3 of us havehad nothing but beuatiful weather all day. A little chilly into Tombstone, but warmed up to 48 before we left after breakfast. Made it to Van Horn by 5 and we will be heading south to Presidio and the River Road in the AM. Leisurely run should put us in the park mid afternoon.

[Trailace]

Today the weather 127 miles north of Big Bend, (Fort Stockton) is great. You wouldn't have believed it snowed yesterday. Everything has melted and drying. Looks like good weather in Big Bend...hopefully that will not change. Anyway, here are a few pics of what we woke up to Tuesday morning. Heading down tomorrow, (Thursday). Everyone ride safe!


Mellow...Hope everything is fine with your mother.:)

Now that's cool! P^

[Dinkie Diesel]

Still waiting for the other two boys to rise and shine. They act like we had a rough day yesterday or something. A little over 800 miles to Abilene. Started out in 14 degrees. 300 miles later it had made it all the way up to 27!

Rooming with ACL and Booger is an experience! You've heard "sawing logs"? How about clearing the forest?

Left my flash card in the computer at home. I'm Walmart bound now for a new one. Maybe they'll be up when I get back?

400 more miles to go till we see your smiling faces! Can't wait!

Jeff

[Mellow]

I'm still at the hospital w/mom. She's doing well but may not be 'til tomorrow before she gets a normal room and maybe another day 'til she gets released and that's looking at things in a positive view. So, I'm pretty sure I'm out but if for some reason things begin moving much faster we'll see.

[Big Red]

I'm out. My ST1300 hit a large rock on FM187 South 3/4 mile from out first camp site in Lost Maples near Camp Wood TX. We were in between a large cut out; the sun was almost horizontal, blinding us from seeing most road obstructions, TexasST was ahead of me and pointed out one of the big rocks on the road but I didn't see the one I hit. I heard the metalic ring of the front rim and knew this was it for the trip; the bike veered into the guard rail and stopped grinding along it's edge knocking off the mirror and cutting a gouge in the right faring panel and rear hard bag. How it missed my leg I don't know. We camped out on the other side of the guard rail on a narrow strip of dirt with a steep drop-off The rim was bent and there was a golf ball size hole in the almost new tire. At least we didn't have to pay to camp out that night! LOL

[tankereng]

I'm out. My ST1300's front tire hit a large rock on Fm 187 South three quarters. of a mile from our first campsite in Lost Maples near Camp Wood. It bent the rim and made a huge hole in the realitively new tire. I had it towed to Kerrville to a dealership for repair.

Huge bummer Red... I'm headed west in the AM for Big Bend...if there is anything you need tonight or in the AM, let me know...

[Rydah]

Man, sure wish I could be there with you guys. Hope everybody gets there safe, and be sure to keep the rest of us posted about your rides.

[Beemerchef]

So my mind must have been scattered and Spirit failed big time... We decided to go check out of anyone was already here! Went to Cottonwood campground instead... OK, so today we will go to the Village instead...
It was HOT... and today a bit of wind, tailwind I hope!
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[motomac]

We made Rio Grande Village about 1400 yesterday. Gwizz, Black and Blue, Trailace, Meanst, ACL, Dinky Diesel, Tbognar, Art, Dennis, Tom Roger, Toejam, Mr Guy, Arloare here.

[Whosoever]

We made Rio Grande Village about 1400 yesterday. Gwizz, Black and Blue, Trailace, Meanst, ACL, Dinky Diesel, Tbognar, Art, Dennis, Tom Roger, Toejam, Mr Guy, Arloare here.
Here's hoping you all have a great time...be safe...hopefully I can meet some of you all at the TN Campout in May!P^

[Big Red]

Huge bummer Red... I'm headed west in the AM for Big Bend...if there is anything you need tonight or in the AM, let me know...

Thanks Tankereng. A tow truck charged me $175 to tow the ST 1300 to Destination Cycle in Kerrville for repair. The nice folks boxed up my gear and then took me to the bus station for the trip home to Dallas. I have had a lot of positive support from strangers.

[Beemerchef]

We just got back to our own base camp about 70 miles north. Awesome time with the dogs... checking the Urals... Oh! The riders too... I am stuffed... the cobbler was so excellent... and will have photos soon! Great night to ride under an almost full moon...
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[Beemerchef]

Wonder if everyone has really left. Specially the Urals... we are having the strongest winds we ever had here so far! Hoping they are sitting tight or maybe left early and put on some miles to get ahead of... the northerly winds which will smack them right on the nose!
Ara & Spirit

[Black and Blue]

Well after we left today, we were heading toward Van Horn, Texas via 90 West and ran into a bad wind and rain storm west of Marfa. Winds at 35 mph and gust up to 50 per the weather info. Had to turn back and will spend the night in Marfa and hopefully we can get out of here. Hope the others had better weather and a safe trip home. Not sure if this pic will do justice to the actual intensity of the storm.

[Beemerchef]

Well after we left today, we were heading toward Van Horn, Texas via 90 West and ran into a bad wind and rain storm west of Marfa. Winds at 35 mph and gust up to 50 per the weather info. Had to turn back and will spend the night in Marfa and hopefully we can get out of here. Hope the others had better weather and a safe trip home. Not sure if this pic will do justice to the actual intensity of the storm.

Glad to hear you are alright... thanks for posting!
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[tankereng]

Made it back to San Antonio with TPadden, Motomac / Womantriker, and Gary...about 315pm this afternoon.

VERY Windy on the ride back once we turned east at Marathon...:eek: I was getting blown all over the place.. Motomac sure had his hands full towing that bunkhouse:eek:

If anyone knows someone that is missing an ST1100 side bag, have them contact me. I picked one up in Study Butte and a little gas station.

[Trailace]

Man I had a great time the weather was just right for sleeping and riding. It sure was nice to finally met and talk to you all. P^

The ride home was interesting with that 30MPH head wind. Hope everyone makes it home ok. Time to go unpack and eat will type more later.

Big Red sorry to hear about your misfortune but glad your OK! :(

[Big Red]

I hope every one makes it home safely!

[George]

Khris, I posted the saddlebag info at ST-Riders.net.

Hope youse guys had a good time. Raven's event at Triangle T Ranch in S.E. AZ was a huge success, about a hunnert dual-sporters in attendance. There will be pics at ADV Rider.

I did about 400 miles on the Yam, about 1/2 dirt. I gotta post my ride report over there with pics.

Black And Blue, I did a cobbler in my new (little) dutch oven on Friday. Turned out pretty good though the bottom was burned. We just scraped the good part off and ate it. Cheated, tho, used Pillsbury pre-made crusts and canned blackberry pie filling. :D

Glad youse guys had a good time. We got rain starting about 3AM this morning, rained on me all the way back to Phoenix. I'm sure it's pushing east, sounds like some of ya hit it on the way back west. It's gonna be beautiful in the desert in a few weeks.

[motomac]

I'm in Palestine TX and they are predicting rain tomorrow. Womantriker is probably in San Diego, she flew out of SA. The wind knocked the fire out of gas mileage for me. And it didn't do near the pushing around that we had leaving San Diego. We had gusts there that blew us over the white line on the shoulder. I got a day and a half to get home. Great to meet so many Motocampers. Black and Blue and the dogs, Beemer chef, Gwizz and bride, Toejam, Mr Guy, down on the ST end of camp, Mark, Rick, and Roger. I think we had at least 20 folks there. ACL, Tom, and Dinky Diesel bailed to Coop's dig at the Chisos Basin Lodge when he couldn't make the trip. Looking forward to the next one.

[BuddingGeezer]

Guys, I wimped out. Left central AR Thursday AM 21 degrees. Wind really picked up before Dallas, TX and blew hard into my left side all the way to San Angelo SP. Camped in primitive sites, I was the only one. Planed on a good night sleep. NOT! Heavy equipment ran all night long close by. Crawled out of the tent around 6:30 am to terrible wind and 33 degrees. I was freezing. I figured if I went to BBNP it would take me 2 days to get home and only one from where I was. Since no one had met me, I rationalized no one would miss me. I fought the sidewind riding at the angle of the bike on the sidestand 500 miles. 38 degrees and raining for 300 miles along with the wind. The wind had a deafening boom in my helmet with ear plugs.'t fun.

I am more tired than much longer rides and legs are sore. Guess I'm getting older. Maybe not as tough as last year. I don't know. It wasn't fun.

Riding through Dallas on a Friday afternoon in the rain and wind is definitely adventure touring.

[Beemerchef]

And now all that weather is gone!!! Full Moon, stars are out.., You should have stayed another day... at least!!!
Ara & Spirit

[Black and Blue]

Guys, I wimped out. Left central AR Thursday AM 21 degrees. Wind really picked up before Dallas, TX and blew hard into my left side all the way to San Angelo SP. Camped in primitive sites, I was the only one. Planed on a good night sleep. NOT! Heavy equipment ran all night long close by. Crawled out of the tent around 6:30 am to terrible wind and 33 degrees. I was freezing. I figured if I went to BBNP it would take me 2 days to get home and only one from where I was. Since no one had met me, I rationalized no one would miss me. I fought the sidewind riding at the angle of the bike on the sidestand 500 miles. 38 degrees and raining for 300 miles along with the wind. The wind had a deafening boom in my helmet with ear plugs.'t fun.

I am more tired than much longer rides and legs are sore. Guess I'm getting older. Maybe not as tough as last year. I don't know. It wasn't fun.

Riding through Dallas on a Friday afternoon in the rain and wind is definitely adventure touring.

We would have like to have met you, but we understand. If it's not fun don't do it. It has to be fun or you won't get a good experience out of it. Glad to hear you will not suffer any ill effect from the cold and wind. We have Urals and we DON'T LIKE THE WIND! unless it's a tail wind.:D Take care.

[Beemerchef]

I cannot believe I did not take a photo of Kirby!!!
So I am making my confession here Black and Blue! Please do not sue me... or Spirit... I am borrowing some of your photos from this thread for my little Journal!!!
Will post the link when I am done with it...
Ara & Spirit

[tankereng]

Khris, I posted the saddlebag info at ST-Riders.net

Thanks George P^

[Trailace]

Guys, I wimped out. Left central AR Thursday AM 21 degrees. Wind really picked up before Dallas, TX and blew hard into my left side all the way to San Angelo SP. Camped in primitive sites, I was the only one. Planed on a good night sleep. NOT! Heavy equipment ran all night long close by. Crawled out of the tent around 6:30 am to terrible wind and 33 degrees. I was freezing. I figured if I went to BBNP it would take me 2 days to get home and only one from where I was. Since no one had met me, I rationalized no one would miss me. I fought the sidewind riding at the angle of the bike on the sidestand 500 miles. 38 degrees and raining for 300 miles along with the wind. The wind had a deafening boom in my helmet with ear plugs.'t fun.

I am more tired than much longer rides and legs are sore. Guess I'm getting older. Maybe not as tough as last year. I don't know. It wasn't fun.

Riding through Dallas on a Friday afternoon in the rain and wind is definitely adventure touring.

Sorry you did not make it over but like B&B said if your not having fun why do it. I'm sure we will have another get together soon. P^

That wind on the way home was a killer.

[Mellow]

Guys, I wimped out. Left central AR Thursday AM 21 degrees. Wind really picked up before Dallas, TX and blew hard into my left side all the way to San Angelo SP. Camped in primitive sites, I was the only one. Planed on a good night sleep. NOT! Heavy equipment ran all night long close by. Crawled out of the tent around 6:30 am to terrible wind and 33 degrees. I was freezing. I figured if I went to BBNP it would take me 2 days to get home and only one from where I was. Since no one had met me, I rationalized no one would miss me. I fought the sidewind riding at the angle of the bike on the sidestand 500 miles. 38 degrees and raining for 300 miles along with the wind. The wind had a deafening boom in my helmet with ear plugs.'t fun.

I am more tired than much longer rides and legs are sore. Guess I'm getting older. Maybe not as tough as last year. I don't know. It wasn't fun.

Riding through Dallas on a Friday afternoon in the rain and wind is definitely adventure touring.

I hate wind..... okay, didn't come out the way I wanted.... okay, neither did that...

Anyway.... sorry you didn't make the event, I couldn't get away but I saw the trees moving around and knew it would be a noisy ride... I'd rather ride in the rain than wind.

[Ironheadziggy76]

Glad to see everyone is getting home safely, or on their way home. P^

[Beemerchef]

So I keep a Journal on the road with Spirit. This is what I wrote and some photos...

It is not a ride report, I write a Life report (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/), just in case you start wondering...

Thank you all for making us feel so "welcomed"...

Be well... Ara & Spirit

http://beemerchef.smugmug.com/photos/800017021_iAD5H-L.jpg

[Mr. Guy]

Hi All,

Well I made it home about 10:00 last night and was beat. I'm sure glad I wasn't fighting that wind, it was bad enough in the truck.

Trailace, Black and Blue, it was nice to see you again. Arlo and Toejam, nice to meet and ride with you guys. Gwizz and Mrs. wizz, it was nice to meet you and the cobbler was GREAT.

It was so nice to meet the few I did from the ST site. I didn't get to spend much time with you guys, to busy riding with those dirt demons, Trailace, Arlo and Toejam.

Ara & Spirit, it was nice to meet you two, I have been reading your blog for quite some time and I enjoyed seeing you in person.

To everyone who let me bum food from them, THANKS. Really I brought my own, but I was taught not to turn down offered food. Thanks again.

Began the clean up this morning and had the usual wrestling match with my gear, what I didn't use gets removed from my bag, what I did gets replenished. I think I took another 5 lbs. off my gear weight. Almost ready for the next trip.

I had a blast and can hardly wait to see ya'll again and meet some new faces next time.

Guy

[Blksilverado]

I had a great time this weekend. Art,Dennis, Roger & I stayed Saturday night in Fort Davis after riding the river road to presidio and then the loop at the observatory. We left out at daybreak Sunday and made it home 4:00 ish... Other than the wind, the weather worked out well for our trip.. Hope it was as good for everyone else..

Nice to see you again Mac & trikewoman, and nice to meet the others that I talked with..

See you'all next time..

Tom

[Mr. Guy]

I've got my pics uploaded now, so as soon as someone starts a trip report, I'll add a few.

Guy

[Trailace]

I've got my pics uploaded now, so as soon as someone starts a trip report, I'll add a few.

Guy
Your up! :D

[Dinkie Diesel]

First, I'd like to thank Rick for putting this together. I am so happy I made it to this event. The landscape is beautiful. The folks were typical moto-friendly and it was great to meet some new riders. We had perfect weather once we got there. To and from not so much.

I always come home after one of these events with a few things that stick out in my mind. This time it was Arlo telling a joke. I woke up Satuday morning in my tent at 4:30am with a belly rolling laugh.....Don't you do it! The brightest moon I have ever seen was another. Friday night I kept hearing something outside my tent. I was sure it was a javelina. Then I realized it was just the wind and my mind playing tricks on me. :D

One thing is for certain, there's a lot of people who take this motorcycling serious. Very serious! That makes it fun to be a part of it. Towing a bunkhouse behind a bike or riding on a bike who's top speed is ~65mph with their pets in a sidecar....serious stuff!

I took a boat load of pictures. As usual, I got too much of one thing and not enough of another. You can take a look and if you see something you want just right click and save it for yourself.

Big Bend Bash 2010 (http://www.tacticalturf.com/photos/big_bend_bash.htm)

Thanks again to Trailace-Rick and to everyone else for the fun.


Jeff Mattie

[TexaST]

Sure enjoyed meeting the gang at Big Bend. Bunch of great characters! Took me too long to pack up camp Sunday morning but got on the road at 7:45 a.m., alone. Caught up with Richard & Todd in Fort Davis just in time for breakfast. We rode up to the observatory and Richard split off for El Peso. Todd & I hit the highway and fought the wind all the way. He got off in Midland and I made it home at 7:45 p.m. 726 miles, in 12 hours. My longest day ever.

[Austin city limits]

Glad to be able set around and laugh,,, listen,,, and ride with you all... I needed a ride bad,,, and Big Bend was a great place to head for!!!

[Black and Blue]

We are still on the road. Right now we are at the KOA in Benson, AZ. Taking our time...we have to we're riding Urals.:D We are really glad that we made the trip to Big Bend. Met a lot of very friendly folks and we mean friendly and some funny guys too...Arlo. Hope everyone had a good time. We didn't ride around Big Bend as we should have, but we are getting enough ride time as it is, but wanted to meet other MotoCamper members and even met some ST guys as well. Made the trip worth it. Hope to do some more of this in the future. Everyone take care.

Beemerchef and Spirit: Very glad to have finally meet the team behind "The Oasis Of My Soul".

Hey, Dinkie. Don't you worry about changing our handle to Green and White instead of Black and Blue. Rick said he's going to change it to "Hobo 1 and Hobo 2". What do you think?

Colleen (Black) and Ernie (Blue)...oh and Kirby and Audrey.

[VFR]

We are still on the road. Right now we are at the KOA in Benson, AZ. Taking our time...we have to we're riding Urals.:D We are really glad that we made the trip to Big Bend. Met a lot of very friendly folks and we mean friendly and some funny guys too...Arlo. Hope everyone had a good time. We didn't ride around Big Bend as we should have, but we are getting enough ride time as it is, but wanted to meet other MotoCamper members and even met some ST guys as well. Made the trip worth it. Hope to do some more of this in the future. Everyone take care.

Beemerchef and Spirit: Very glad to have finally meet the team behind "The Oasis Of My Soul".

Colleen (Black) and Ernie (Blue)...oh and Kirby and Audrey.



How did you guys like that KOA in Benson? I may take a run that way soon & it would make a nice stopping place. I think there is another campground in the vicinity also.

[Black and Blue]

How did you guys like that KOA in Benson? I may take a run that way soon & it would make a nice stopping place. I think there is another campground in the vicinity also.

The KOA in Benson is one of the better KOA's we stayed at, however, the tent areas are a little confusing. They have you set up in a circular compound like area. There is Tent site #12 that is separate from the rest and by itself, near the RV. This is better then the rest. See pic. Site #13 is in the far back and is too far from the restrooms for my liking. The showers are very clean, along with the washroom. Some supplies can be bought at the little store and there is ice and free wi-fi. Hope this helps.

[Trailace]

First, I'd like to thank Rick for putting this together. I am so happy I made it to this event. The landscape is beautiful. The folks were typical moto-friendly and it was great to meet some new riders. We had perfect weather once we got there. To and from not so much.

I always come home after one of these events with a few things that stick out in my mind. This time it was Arlo telling a joke. I woke up Satuday morning in my tent at 4:30am with a belly rolling laugh.....Don't you do it! The brightest moon I have ever seen was another. Friday night I kept hearing something outside my tent. I was sure it was a javelina. Then I realized it was just the wind and my mind playing tricks on me. :D

One thing is for certain, there's a lot of people who take this motorcycling serious. Very serious! That makes it fun to be a part of it. Towing a bunkhouse behind a bike or riding on a bike who's top speed is ~65mph with their pets in a sidecar....serious stuff!

I took a boat load of pictures. As usual, I got too much of one thing and not enough of another. You can take a look and if you see something you want just right click and save it for yourself.

Big Bend Bash 2010 (http://www.tacticalturf.com/photos/big_bend_bash.htm)

Thanks again to Trailace-Rick and to everyone else for the fun.


Jeff Mattie

Jeff,
It was great meeting you and thanks for sharing your pictures. P^

Maybe next time I will have the GS and we can try that air shot. :eek:

[VFR]

The KOA in Benson is one of the better KOA's we stayed at, however, the tent areas are a little confusing. They have you set up in a circular compound like area. There is Tent site #12 that is separate from the rest and by itself, near the RV. This is better then the rest. See pic. Site #13 is in the far back and is too far from the restrooms for my liking. The showers are very clean, along with the washroom. Some supplies can be bought at the little store and there is ice and free wi-fi. Hope this helps.



Thanks, I appreciate it. I have only stayed at one but have visited several & it seems they are more geared toward RVs these days. I'll check it out & give it a try next time I'm over that way.

[TPadden]

Here's the very impressive rider with an impressively loaded ST :D.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_5lbhODyyRoQ/S46ziRsoVZI/AAAAAAAAC8A/Sz50O_6uMo8/IMG_0452.JPG

[Big Red]

The insurance adjuster called about my ST and told me it will cost $2,657.23 for runnning over a rock:D The mirror, mirror housing, right faring, right saddle bag,tip over wing lower faring and of course the tire and wheel will have to be replaced. Hopefully the forks, steering head and frame are not damaged:eek:

[Beemerchef]

Sure enjoyed meeting the gang at Big Bend. Bunch of great characters! Took me too long to pack up camp Sunday morning but got on the road at 7:45 a.m., alone. Caught up with Richard & Todd in Fort Davis just in time for breakfast. We rode up to the observatory and Richard split off for El Peso. Todd & I hit the highway and fought the wind all the way. He got off in Midland and I made it home at 7:45 p.m. 726 miles, in 12 hours. My longest day ever.


92mph winds were clocked at the observatory!!! You left just in time...

Ara & Spirit

[George]

Would have enjoyed this event, but Dace's Desert Daze at Dragoon, AZ was good too. A lot closer for me, 800 mile round trip in the truck, 400 bike miles, mostly dirt. About a hunnert dual sports and a few road bikes. Good times.

I'll catch up wif youse guys some'er else this season.

[Austin city limits]

This year??? Well,,, lets see the Theme was,,, "Things I Lost"... :o

# 1 ~~~ I lost a phone when putting on more clothes at 4:54am in Big Bend...

# 2 ~~~ I lost 1 Held "Steve" Glove somewhere down there too...

I WISH SOMEONE WOULD HAVE FOUND IT!!! Good thing I always have 2 pair of everything...P^

[Beemerchef]

This year??? Well,,, lets see the Theme was,,, "Things I Lost"... :o

# 1 ~~~ I lost a phone when putting on more clothes at 4:54am in Big Bend...

# 2 ~~~ I lost 1 Held "Steve" Glove somewhere down there too...

I WISH SOMEONE WOULD HAVE FOUND IT!!! Good thing I always have 2 pair of everything...P^

I hope you show up with two bikes next time... just in case you know...

So how is everyone doing? Is this the right place to ask or do we have to wait till next year!:(

We are ourselves out of here monday...
The big change is the Diet now!!! HEALTHY is the word again... no more salt and sugar... so... hunting for fresh veggies and fruit! Gave all my cans away today... :D

Anyhow... I have a video of Spirit again here... (http://theoasisofmysoul.com/)
Be well... Ara & Spirit

[G wizz]

Beemerchef,
Hows Spirit? Last time we heard from you he had his paws tore up. Are they healing ok?

Hows about you and Spirit making a trip to Tennassee in May?
Motocampers is having a big camp out there on the second weekend of May.
That would be the 14th, 15th, & 16th.
Check it out on the "Events" listing for Chilihala Chill Out.
We'd love to have you come to it.

I'll bake you a cobbler if you show up. Or maybe even a Vinegar pie ...

G wizz

[Beemerchef]

Beemerchef,
Hows Spirit? Last time we heard from you he had his paws tore up. Are they healing ok?

Hows about you and Spirit making a trip to Tennassee in May?
Motocampers is having a big camp out there on the second weekend of May.
That would be the 14th, 15th, & 16th.
Check it out on the "Events" listing for Chilihala Chill Out.
We'd love to have you come to it.

I'll bake you a cobbler if you show up. Or maybe even a Vinegar pie ...

G wizz

You know, for over 3 years we never ever planned anything... The one time we are going to be at the Desert Rock Festival (http://www.desertrocks.org/)for 10 days as a Photographer (I know... boring... :D) you go ahead and plan a fun camp out!!! I enjoyed being around you guys... next time. Ara & Spirit

PS: DIET remember...

[TexaST]

Can we please do this again?

[G wizz]

Can we please do this again?

I'd love to go again ... Wanna bankroll my trip?

g wizz

[Mr. Guy]

I wouldn't mind a get together somewhere in the south again in Feb.

Guy

[VABob]

I'd love to go again ... Wanna bankroll my trip?

g wizz

Linda,
If you need some extra jing, you could knit pot holders to sell, maybe knit while you are waiting for passengers to board your bus ... :D

George, I could use some huggies for my titanium-pots....

[G wizz]

George, I could use some huggies for my titanium-pots....

Bob,
I don't knit, I fabracate & weld .. You want me to weld ya up a set of steel ones? Just send me the sizes needed. P^
I can't promise you how well they'll keep you little pots warm though :D

G wizz

[VABob]

How about building some of these stoves:

http://www.nimblewillnomad.com/stove.htm

Could you make a little square grate that would fit on the triangle cut outs? I'd like to use it with my alcohol & canister stoves and the addition of an optional grate would be great.

Here's another video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wkm4GPcyub0&feature=related

[G wizz]

How about building some of these stoves:

http://www.nimblewillnomad.com/stove.htm

Could you make a little square grate that would fit on the triangle cut outs? I'd like to use it with my alcohol & canister stoves and the addition of an optional grate would be great.

Here's another video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wkm4GPcyub0&feature=related

Sure Bob, send your stove here so I can fit the grate to it.
Don't think it'll pay for a trp to B.B. though.

[VABob]

Sure Bob, send your stove here so I can fit the grate to it.
Don't think it'll pay for a trp to B.B. though.

I need the stove built. The grill is an added accessory.

Maybe some other people on here want a stove and you could do a few of them. If you have access to titanium sheet metal, I bet there would be some interest on the Hammock forums and other backpacking sites too.

It would be really cool to also have a slightly larger (longer) stove sized for two burners that would fold down and still fit in our saddlebags. More hamburgers that way! I wouldn't be surprised if some other motorcyclists might want this (e.g., HD forums). The larger stove would be good for a beach picnic too.

Just a thought.

[G wizz]

I need the stove built. The grill is an added accessory.

Maybe some other people on here want a stove and you could do a few of them. If you have access to titanium sheet metal, I bet there would be some interest on the Hammock forums and other backpacking sites too.

It would be really cool to also have a slightly larger (longer) stove sized for two burners that would fold down and still fit in our saddlebags. More hamburgers that way! I wouldn't be surprised if some other motorcyclists might want this (e.g., HD forums). The larger stove would be good for a beach picnic too.

Just a thought.

But Bob, there are already many people marketing these type of stoves, most made in China.
It wouldn't be cost effective for me to tool up to compete with them.

[VABob]

Let me know if you've seen a site that makes these, especially in ti. Otherwise, guess this goes on my winter project list.

BTW- here is the tool list: Tools needed - Ruler (Straightedge), Scribe, Cold Chisel, Round Punch, Hammer, Tin Snips, Hacksaw, Bench/Angle/Disc Grinder, Bastard File, Softwood Block.

A bastard file? And I always called it a circular file! ;)

some other urls for this little stove. I like it, because one can also not put the front and base on and use it as a wind screen. Multi purpose!

http://blackgoatgear.blogspot.com/2009/02/test.html

http://www.backpackinglight.com/cgi-bin/backpackinglight/forums/thread_display.html?forum_thread_id=17881

[G wizz]

I've seen those type stoves come up on ebay every so often. Inexpencive too.

Go for it Bob, you're crafty, chisel yourself out a stove, you can do it P^
Good luck working that titanium though.

BTW... A bastard file is a medium cut flat file. A rat-tail file is round.

[Trailace]

Big Bend or Hill Country in February? Let me know I'm up for either.:run1:

[G wizz]

Well Rick,
Don't know yet as we'll be able to make it to either place, but I know Deb's choice would be the Hill Country. We've been going to ride there each time we've been to Texas, but for one reason or another things just didn't fall into place. Like last years blizzard conditions for instance.
Our vote would be the Hills.

G wizz

[VABob]

Do you have a link for Hill country camping area? I googled Hill Country Tx and a bunch of bbq places came up. That's just not fair way to start out making a choice...

Also, can you start/moveto a new thread for this event? Thanks.

[Trailace]

Do you have a link for Hill country camping area? I googled Hill Country Tx and a bunch of bbq places came up. That's just not fair way to start out making a choice...

Also, can you start/moveto a new thread for this event? Thanks.

New event thread. Here (http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3369)