Tips and Tricks

[Black and Blue]

Thought I'd start this thread to cull the wealth of knowledge out there on all the tips and tricks that members use to make motocamping easier.

Like on this last bibical rain trip to Tennessee, Ernies camera got soaked in his jacket pocket. Mr. Guy's wife suggested putting it in a bag of rice to absorb the moisture. I bought some bags of the boil in bag Minute rice, sealed the camera up in them in a zip lock bag and the camera was dry in two days! Though I think Mr. Guy's camera was soaked beyond repair...

I also noticed that Mr. Guy uses those blue shop towels rather than paper towels. They are much sturdier. He folds them up in a bag. I hang mine from a bungee cord off the bike when in camp.

Come on folks...share your knowledge!

[Ironheadziggy76]

I put my camera and case in a zip lock bag as the rain cover on my old tank bag balloons up and blows off at any speed over 45. :mad:

Don't use the Zip Lock freezer bags with the "One Zip" seal, they are only good for about one zip and they're done. I use the double zipper bags now.

[Black and Blue]

Okay...just so you all don't think this has to be a boring thread.

Here is a tip.

Keep the rubber side down.

(That is my drop with the hubby standing there wondering how the heck I did it)

I still blame Mr. Guy. But, that is another story.


Colleen

[Ironheadziggy76]

GET OUT OF THE RED ZONE!!!! :lol2

[G wizz]

When riding with a full face helmet on .... Don't sneeze with the visor down ...:eek:

G wizz

[Trailace]

Here is one. When getting up in the morning stuff your sleeping bag while it is still warm from your body heat it will be easier to do.

Stay out of the red zone. :eek:

[SidecarMike]

When riding with a full face helmet on .... Don't sneeze with the visor down ...:eek:

G wizz
Reminds me of my younger brother. He says you will only scuba dive with a hangover once. You'll remember why for the rest of your life. http://forum.thescubasite.com/sick/sick0022.gif

[Ironheadziggy76]

When riding with a full face helmet on .... Don't sneeze with the visor down ...:eek:

G wizz

Especially if you have a mouth full of tobacco juice that you needed to spit out miles ago! :lol

[Maryland Roger]

Stomp a soda or beer can and use it under a kickstand(if you dont already have one) to keep it from sinking into the ground. Especially if camping in wet weather.

[Maryland Roger]

Extra clothes stuffed into a tent's carry bag can make a good pillow.

[Maryland Roger]

Strategically placed pee can deter visits from some animals.

[Black and Blue]

Strategically placed pee can deter visits from some animals.

Hey, I think I saw that in a movie.:D

[ImRubicon]

Hey, I think I saw that in a movie.:D

Or at least around Ricks or Joes tent LOL

[Dusty Boots]

A large mouth bottle of Gatorade not only refreshes, it replenishes low electrolytes/re hydrates you, allowing for a better night's sleep. It also does double duty as a pee bottle in the middle of the night.

[DILLIGAF61]

microfiber towels from harbor freight and pledge furniture polish
to clean windshield / visors after washing bike spray pledge on windshield wipe off then when you stop and there's bug juice everywhere just spray wait about 30 seconds (get the bug goo creamy soft) and wipe clean


when the towel is full of bug goo and the lemony goodness of pledge steep in hot water for 5 min. for a delicious lemony flavored protein rich beverage (lmao)




(I really do use pledge to clean my windshield that part wasn't a joke)

[Dusty Boots]

(I really do use pledge to clean my windshield that part wasn't a joke)

Not only do I use that as you desribed above, but I use it to shine my whole bike. Been using it to do that for the past 32 years. Great stuff!

Dusty

[George]

Lots of good tips here.

I find the Gatorade bottle doesn't have enuff capacity, go with the 48 oz V8 bottle, same size cap.

I'm currently using a hose 'n bite valve from a Platypus hydration pack, the cap on the hose screws directly to the water bottle, no need for the bladder, no worries about moss growing in the bladder. Used it extensively on my Mexico trip.

Penny Stove.

Tortillas instead of bread for just about all sammich making. Packs tighter and don't "smash."

Food from anywhere other than camping department is usually cheaper.

Radar detectors won't save ya.

[Black and Blue]

Okay, Bob
We think you are having waaay too much fun with this thread.:D

[aysrav]

I’ll share two of my favorites. Both are related to the fire. The first is the cotton balls dipped in Vaseline trick. Nice and light, wonderful for starting a fire (lots of vids on this on YouTube). I keep a little Ziploc with about ten of them in one of my bags.
The other one I like is the FIRE BLOW TUBE. Here is the link (http://www.woodenhawk.com/Catalog/tabid/52/CategoryID/37/List/1/Level/a/ProductID/280/Default.aspx?SortField=ProductName,ProductName) for where I got mine (other cool stuff here too). It packs down to 14” and opens up to 30”. Great for keeping the fire going.

[bigTom]

Heyyyy, wait a second. Has anybody ever seen VABob and Keith (blues traveler) at the same time? I'm just saying, they both look like they can fab out just about anything and the work is just super.

Bueller? Anybody???

[Whosoever]

I am glad that Coleen and Ernie started this little thread, it is sure spawning a butch of ideas. I really don't have any tricks up my sleeve however I must admit I learned a great deal on my trip to the Chill Out. In the past I'd never prepared anything more than a cup of morning coffee. This time was going to be different. My wife bought me a set of pots of pans for my birthday in February. I put them to work immediately preparing meals I enjoy eating and that I would plan to eat on my next camping venture. However, after sitting at Coleen and Ernie camp site and watching them cook, I learned that it was good to be present when they said...."all right everybody...come and eat! Later it was repeated again for supper! The short of all of this when asked by my wife how my new pots and pans worked...I told her...I don't know...I've never had to cook! With that said...my best tip is........."be close and be ready when your neighbor sez' come and eat"! :DP^

[Black and Blue]

But since you haven't seen us in the same room together, maybe this is more apt:
VABob is to Keith as Clark Kent is to Superman

LOL :D[/QUOTE]

No, I think your new nickname will be SUPER PADRE.

When Ernie and I first saw you at Tellico, all we saw was a guy walking around all in black, with black Crocks and a white cloth (later discovered to be his shower towel) wrapped around his neck and hanging down his chest.
We both said about the same time, "is he a priest?"

So, sorry about being a little standoffish at first, Bob. But I believe I was fairly stunned at seeing what I thought was a motocamping priest next to me hanging from a hammock.

But, now that I know you, I'm quite convinced you are just slightly less than holy.

Colleen

[Black and Blue]

Whosoever;

Don't forget Deb and George (The Geewizze's). Most of those vittles were cooked by them over in their campsite and just brought to my table so I could reap all the compliments!
I handed poor George about four dozen eggs and asked him to scramble them.
He looked at me like I was nuts, but the next thing I knew, he was hauling over a wheel barrow full of delicious scrambled eggs!

Colleen

[Whosoever]

Whosoever;

Don't forget Deb and George (The Geewizze's). Most of those vittles were cooked by them over in their campsite and just brought to my table so I could reap all the compliments!
I handed poor George about four dozen eggs and asked him to scramble them.
He looked at me like I was nuts, but the next thing I knew, he was hauling over a wheel barrow full of delicious scrambled eggs!

Colleen

Colleen you are so right! Also, I believe it was Ripshod and Macjohno that provided bratwurst on Friday night....and perhaps some burgers on Saturday night. Not only was this all wonderful but I recall VABob waking me up from an afternoon nap to tell me that the "grubb" was on the table.....I love I this idea of camping....I should have brought pots and pans on all of my other camping outings....they work like magic!

[Black and Blue]

That's a good TIP AND TRICK; always bring the MAGIC pots and pans...food magically appears!

Colleen

[Mr. Guy]

I've been camping with Ernie and Colleen twice this year and my "magic" pans have worked great both times. P^

Thanks guys, the food was GREAT! ! :D

Guy

[VStarCowboy]

1st tip,,,,Recently (like last week) I went camping by myself and found a trick (at least to me), that maybe will be of some use. Because I drink Rye (that's Whiskey to you Americans :), I made the mistake of ordering a "rye and Coke" in an American bar :( ) and Coke, I "really" didn't want to buy ice to just cool the coke. I found that the water in the taps was very cold, so I then filled up my dish-pan with cold water to cool the coke, (I am sure it works with beer as well).
My 2nd tip is to use a 4 or 5 Gal. water jug, cut in half, as a dish-pan. It collapses and it holds water.
3rd tip,,,,,,here in Canada we have to pay :( for firewood, so I just scrounge around in the bush to find whatever deadwood I can. A small buck-saw works better than an axe, in this case.
4th tip,,(if you can call it that), is that when sleeping, I hate to get up in the middle of the night, and go outside to take a leak. I bought a "pee bottle" that I can use inside the tent in the middle of the night. They have them for both M and F.

JM2C :tent7:

[sawguard]

Here are some of my ideas, from years of MC camping.

1. Make a list of not only what to bring, but where it's packed. By packing in similar or
identical ways each time, you improve your speed breaking camp and sometimes when you really, really, really need something, you can remember where it is(like your partial roll of toilet paper).
I work at packing identically, for every trip. There are times..in the rain, getting dark, hurrying to leave before it rains, etc. that speed in packing does count.

2. I'm most often a solo camper, and over the years, I've reasoned that the most important part of any camping trip is comfortable, restful sleep. With that in mind, I traded in my Thermarest and bought a single size, inflatable mattress...kind of like an air mattress for swimming, but heavier duty...with a battery operated pump.(runs on "D" batteries.) It' also much cheaper than a thermarest...$20 as opposed to $60.

Now, I Have a full 6" of insulation, a soft, comfortable bed in any ground conditions, it packs flatter and smaller than my Therma rest, and really takes no more than about 4 minutes to unpack, and inflate. THe pump will also deflate the mattress, sucking most all of the air out, without lots of squeezing, rolling etc. so I get a really flat, packable
unit. I can inflate only partially for a softer bed and in the case of heavy rain, even if water seeps in the tent, I still have about 4-5 inches of height to be dry.

3. Keep a short checklist in your tankbag... check your essential items every morning before taking off....oil, air pressure, chain lube, wallet, cell phone charged?, keys, etc. Again by NOT having to remember
items or procedures, you can speed up your arrival or departure with less chance of a major screwup.

4. I don't eat meals in camp, but for anyone who does, remember that animals can smell through ice chests and duffle bags. Always keep any food outside the tent and away from your campsite. Very BIG, mean animals also show up where you least expect them.

[SidecarMike]

A lot of folks don't like using bungee cords on motorcycles, but straps like Helen-TwoWheel's are really expensive.
The local Kayak shop has NRS 1 inch webbing (1500 pound strength) in 100 foot rolls for $22 and a bag of plastic buckles, enough to do 12 straps for $15. If you don't want the whole 100 foot roll, they also sell it for 25 cents a foot.
They also have 1 1/2 inch straps that I plan to use to make my Bob Vail straps for my Bunkhouse.
Here's the NRS website, but a lot of places, like REI, carry their stuff for less than the website.

[SidecarMike]

A trick for Kermit Chair owners.

http://wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=37374.0 P^

[Tumbleweeds]

I've found that water is still the best drink, Especially when added to a nice 12 year old Scotch. Plus REI is a great place to find Light stuff for your camping gear. Check out their micro-fiber camptowels, work great, waycool :cool:

[gdawg]

can anyone tell the difference between a micro fiber camp towel, and a micro fiber towel used on cars?

on my last trip i took a micro fiber car towel, thinking it would be great....it sticks to my skin, it doesn't glide across it drying me off.... i hated it...

[SidecarMike]

can anyone tell the difference between a micro fiber camp towel, and a micro fiber towel used on cars?

on my last trip i took a micro fiber car towel, thinking it would be great....it sticks to my skin, it doesn't glide across it drying me off.... i hated it...
Throw it in the washing machine before you use it. Mine was the same way, but turned in to a nice towel.

[Tumbleweeds]

Gdawg, our camp towels are a finer mat. You are right, they don't glide , but they sure do dry you off, hang them up or drape over something overnight and they are dry and ready to pack the next day.They pack small, x-large towel folds down to about the size of my hand.and weighs about 5oz. Anybody got any ideas how to get a melted, food store bag off my pipes. while in CO. we went into the store, when we came out, BOOM. So far I've used gas,oven cleaner,paint thinner, and swearing a blue streak.:mad:

[GoldWingGL]

Anybody got any ideas how to get a melted, food store bag off my pipes. while in CO. we went into the store, when we came out, BOOM. So far I've used gas,oven cleaner,paint thinner, and swearing a blue streak.:mad:

Not sure if it will work for this, but worth a try....http://www.nevrdull.com/

[aysrav]

Anybody got any ideas how to get a melted, food store bag off my pipes. while in CO. we went into the store, when we came out, BOOM. So far I've used gas,oven cleaner,paint thinner, and swearing a blue streak.

Welcome aboard Tumbleweeds! As a separate thread this would probably result in a pile of responses, but I'll just say that I have had decent luck with Goo Off and Goo Gone. Both work well are available online. Some super fine steel wool (like 0000) can be very helpful too. Above all, be patient and good luck!

[greybeard]

the steelwool (0000) is the best

[fredric]

Not sure if it will work for this, but worth a try....http://www.nevrdull.com/

That brings back memories. While assigned to a VIP outfit in the Air Force, we used Nevrdull to shine the C54 aircraft. The whole unit turned out for a weekend shine party.

[Ironheadziggy76]

I've had good luck with WD40, let it soak for a while. If it's thick on there try a single edge razor blade to get the most of it off, then go to the steel wool. Be sure and clean it good with alcohol before you start it up, as the WD40 and Goo Gone's oil might stain the pipe as it gets hot. This worked for a buddy of mine who melted his rain suit pants on his pipes.

[SSMILLER67]

I was gonna ad that your missing the key ingredient that got it there...HEAT. My wife melted the sole of her boot on one of mine. I used a razor blade to get the excess off then lets the pipes get hot and used a wet wash cloth to get the rest off.

[DanceswMtns]

Here's my 2 cents, I use a military surplus A.L.I.C.E pack and frame. Clamp the frame to my detachable sissy bar facing forwards. When I get to camp release the sissy bar and sit the pack where ever I like. It,s a freestanding system with 6 pockets on the outside for all my gadgets. Stands nicely in the corner of the tent. When breaking camp I attach the sissy bar to the bike, then start stuffing. Sleeping bag,air mattress,fly, tent, footprint,poles on top. Last in first out. I'm outa here. A small pocket in the pack has garbage bags in case something is excessively dirty of wet. On an extended trip you can use 2 packs same frame and they come in 3 sizes. My profile pic shows the bike packed for my last trip in July.

[aysrav]

Here's my 2 cents, I use a military surplus A.L.I.C.E pack and frame. Clamp the frame to my detachable sissy bar facing forwards. When I get to camp release the sissy bar and sit the pack where ever I like. It,s a freestanding system with 6 pockets on the outside for all my gadgets. Stands nicely in the corner of the tent. When breaking camp I attach the sissy bar to the bike, then start stuffing. Sleeping bag,air mattress,fly, tent, footprint,poles on top. Last in first out. I'm outa here. A small pocket in the pack has garbage bags in case something is excessively dirty of wet. On an extended trip you can use 2 packs same frame and they come in 3 sizes. My profile pic shows the bike packed for my last trip in July.

Any pics? http://motocampers.com/forums/images/icons/icon11.gif

[Ironheadziggy76]

Any pics? http://motocampers.com/forums/images/icons/icon11.gif

Click on DanceswMtns username and then click "View public profile" and you can see a pic of it on the bike.

[DanceswMtns]

I just posted an album with random photos, it is in there.

[kayakinbiker]

Reminds me of my younger brother. He says you will only scuba dive with a hangover once. You'll remember why for the rest of your life. http://forum.thescubasite.com/sick/sick0022.gif

And if ya DON'T feel good that day, DON'T go out! I got sick under water and continued to get sick while back on the dive boat..we were told that in class when I was training..I had limited time down in Florida and went out anyway 1 day...

[kayakinbiker]

1st tip,,,,Recently (like last week) I went camping by myself and found a trick (at least to me), that maybe will be of some use. Because I drink Rye (that's Whiskey to you Americans :), I made the mistake of ordering a "rye and Coke" in an American bar :( ) and Coke, I "really" didn't want to buy ice to just cool the coke. I found that the water in the taps was very cold, so I then filled up my dish-pan with cold water to cool the coke, (I am sure it works with beer as well).
My 2nd tip is to use a 4 or 5 Gal. water jug, cut in half, as a dish-pan. It collapses and it holds water.
3rd tip,,,,,,here in Canada we have to pay :( for firewood, so I just scrounge around in the bush to find whatever deadwood I can. A small buck-saw works better than an axe, in this case.
4th tip,,(if you can call it that), is that when sleeping, I hate to get up in the middle of the night, and go outside to take a leak. I bought a "pee bottle" that I can use inside the tent in the middle of the night. They have them for both M and F.

JM2C :tent7:
]
It is not legal to scrounge wood in many places in Ontario and it is usually mentioned somewhere about that...they tend to have a desire to make money via selling u wood...

I have used a pee jar for many years..and yup it is a hassle to go out in the middle of the night, let alone maybe run into animals.........

I bring a honkin huge tarp as I don't trust any tent especially in torrential downpours..

I use a microfiber towel that fits in its own mesh bag and tie it to the outside of my bags to airdry...

I pack my helen2wheels bags as per her suggestion and only had probs once because i didn't strap them down properly//they are a pain to strap down as i use 3 of them..I will only be using 2 of them now that Georgia will be taking up extra room on my bike....I need to hook up with someone who uses a trailer..hhmmm..that's a useful tip! HAHA!!..........

I may be changing up again to a higher cc bike so I can pull my kayak along............tips on that 1 down the road!...I'll be able to store stuff in the kayak and just put Georgia on the back...........

[DanceswMtns]

Gdawg, our camp towels are a finer mat. You are right, they don't glide , but they sure do dry you off, hang them up or drape over something overnight and they are dry and ready to pack the next day.They pack small, x-large towel folds down to about the size of my hand.and weighs about 5oz. Anybody got any ideas how to get a melted, food store bag off my pipes. while in CO. we went into the store, when we came out, BOOM. So far I've used gas,oven cleaner,paint thinner, and swearing a blue streak.:mad:

The last time that happened to me, a bag blew up on my pipes. I was at the Harley shop and I was told to use a penny it is softer than chrome,,it worked for me.

[kayakinbiker]

I’ll share two of my favorites. Both are related to the fire. The first is the cotton balls dipped in Vaseline trick. Nice and light, wonderful for starting a fire (lots of vids on this on YouTube). I keep a little Ziploc with about ten of them in one of my bags.
The other one I like is the FIRE BLOW TUBE. Here is the link (http://www.woodenhawk.com/Catalog/tabid/52/CategoryID/37/List/1/Level/a/ProductID/280/Default.aspx?SortField=ProductName,ProductName) for where I got mine (other cool stuff here too). It packs down to 14” and opens up to 30”. Great for keeping the fire going.

i'm gonna try that cotton ball/vaseline trick..cheap fire starters?..

[kayakinbiker]

A lot of folks don't like using bungee cords on motorcycles, but straps like Helen-TwoWheel's are really expensive.
The local Kayak shop has NRS 1 inch webbing (1500 pound strength) in 100 foot rolls for $22 and a bag of plastic buckles, enough to do 12 straps for $15. If you don't want the whole 100 foot roll, they also sell it for 25 cents a foot.
They also have 1 1/2 inch straps that I plan to use to make my Bob Vail straps for my Bunkhouse.
Here's the NRS website, but a lot of places, like REI, carry their stuff for less than the website.

I use all 3 straps..helen2wheels,kayak straps and yep, they are great! and heavy duty bungees...

[DanceswMtns]

Grease pencil for Rte. directions inside windsheild.

[denny]

Anybody got any ideas how to get a melted, food store bag off my pipes. while in CO. we went into the store, when we came out, BOOM. So far I've used gas,oven cleaner,paint thinner, and swearing a blue streak.

I've had some luck with Zip Strip paint remover. I used it on some melted on riding pants. It did not make it bubble up like paint, but it did soften it enough that using a penny was much easier. Worth a try if you have some sitting on the garage shelf.

[Silas]

When wearing some nice bicycle shorts or LD Comfort shorts, to get by a day or so, place 2 maxi pads (or generic equivalent in long) to the inside of the shorts: one in front and one on the bottom(for men)

Change pads instead of shorts.

Also keeps you smelling pretty good if no showers available.

[kdf9511]

If your out traveling and get caught by a cold snap a pair of pantyhose under your jeans does a dandy job of keeping you warm, and they are a lot easier to find than thermals. Almost all grocery stores and chain pharmacys like walgreeens have them pretty cheep. I got that trick from a scuba instructor years ago who said wearing them under your wetsuit will keep you warm and it did.

[Indianscout]

Grease pencil for Rte. directions inside windsheild.


Works good on the gas tank too.


If it looks like it's going to be cool night, stuff your clothes in the bottom of your sleeping bag so they are warm for you in the morning. Getting out of a warm sleeping bag and putting on cold clothes in the morning is a real eye opener! :eek:

[510ebl]

Tips or tricks?

"Buy the best and cry once"

Nothing like buying low-end gear over and over and suffering failure after failure when it would have been sooo much less expensive (financially and emotionally) to just buy better gear in the first place.

Second tip:

"Be Patient"

That same gear you don't want to afford today might just be available on sale, on the clearance rack, or for sale gently used tomorrow.

Example: I was blessed with the ability to buy secondhand E21 cases from Black and Blue (Ernie and Colleen) here (via another site). Actually, that is how I found out about this site!

Corollary to tip#2:

"Never pay retail" ;)

[SidecarMike]

Tip #3
Yard Sale season is just around the corner. I have scored a number of expensive items like North Face Tents and MSR Stoves for pennies on the dollar. Today I found a nearly new Thermarest mattress for $7 at Goodwill Industries.

Tip #4
The bulletin boards at your local college are full of great deals, especially right after spring break when everyone is broke, and right before summer vacation when they are looking for money to get home. I once bought a running BMW R60 for $300 off of one of those boards.

[quadancer]

My favorite is the ShamWow copycat - the orange ones you get at the dollar store will actually outlast the blue original and are water magnets just like the blue.
Pepper spray...some large animals get P.O.'d if you shoot them.
If you're a nondrinker and coffee lover like me, MARK the DECALF!!! You don't wanna brew the wrong one at 10pm.
Earplugs.

[510ebl]

@Pepper spray: It is less than legal to carry in some parts of the U.S., and I have heard it can be difficult to cross into Canada with it. Bring wasp spray instead. P^ Legal everywhere, and still effective.

[Indianscout]

You beat me to that one 510. Wasp spray is also more accurate at a farther distance than pepper spray (something like 20').

[quadancer]

My pepper spray fits in my pocket or hangs onto a belt loop. You got a can of WASP SPRAY in your pocket? Scroo da law. We talkin' BEAR here!

[lytle1gw]

I use the cans of spray that mail carriers use.

[510ebl]

I use the cans of spray that mail carriers use.

Halt?? (http://www.halt.com/halt.html)

[ImRubicon]

Tips or tricks?

"Buy the best and cry once"

Nothing like buying low-end gear over and over and suffering failure after failure when it would have been sooo much less expensive (financially and emotionally) to just buy better gear in the first place.



I tend to disagree buy the best that will work for what you need. is the best bang for the buck. just cause it costs twice as much doesnt mean its twice as good . Too many things are selling names and not quailty.
I have a $50 dollar tent I have been using 11 years as in no way I could buy a $200 tent as they are not that much better. research whatever you are buying and see what people are using and likeing.

Like a ten dollar helmet for a ten dollar head , That kind of thikning only makes the name brands richer.

Wasp spray is the bomb and you can get it anywhere and no one notices it

[510ebl]

I tend to disagree buy the best that will work for what you need. is the best bang for the buck. just cause it costs twice as much doesnt mean its twice as good . Too many things are selling names and not quailty.
I have a $50 dollar tent I have been using 11 years as in no way I could buy a $200 tent as they are not that much better. research whatever you are buying and see what people are using and likeing.

Like a ten dollar helmet for a ten dollar head , That kind of thikning only makes the name brands richer.

Wasp spray is the bomb and you can get it anywhere and no one notices it

Yes, that is the problem with absolutes. They are almost never 100% absolutely accurate.

I think my point still stands though...your $50 tent is the best for what YOU do. The $20 tent you might have passed up didn't meet you criteria, and the $200 tent was too much. We generally don't need alpine mountaineering tents at $400 each, but those are the best for a different criteria.

We are likely in the same boat here...my tent is a $99 model I bought on sale for $49, then used a $30 gift card and a discount coupon. Total out-of-pocket with tax? $17. I did the same research as I believe you did...find out what is working for others on motorcycles. I hope to use it up as soon as possible! :D


PS: Nice stable...three of the bikes I covet.

[badger]

Like a ten dollar helmet for a ten dollar head , That kind of thikning only makes the name brands richer.

On the other hand ... while the manufacturers of 'knock-offs' are pretty good at copying stuff, they rarely advance and innovate designs / ideas. Some of that extra 'cost' goes toward R & D. Otherwise we might still be using mil surplus canvas pup tents.

[Indianscout]

My pepper spray fits in my pocket or hangs onto a belt loop. You got a can of WASP SPRAY in your pocket? Scroo da law. We talkin' BEAR here!


No, wasp spray is too big for the average pocket but it does have it's advantage over pepper spray. If you find yourself in an area that you feel the need for a little extra protection and can't find the pepper spray then this is a great substitute. Yes, a little cumbersome to carry but you get a bigger can and that means alot more spray.

[510ebl]

Has anyone tried pepper spray on wasps? :p

[lytle1gw]

Yes have tried it on wasp, knocked them to the ground but did'nt killem, but let me get away. Guess its humane way to go, but was all I had at the time. Otherwise I'm for killin the little buggers.

[quadancer]

Now that I've built a TRAILER, I can see taking along a can of the waspkiller, but before there wouldn't have been room for another handkerchief.

[kitesurfer]

after tent camping for 50 years, i've given up on tents. i now hang a hammock and a tarp and sleep much better and use weigh less room and weight on the bike. set up time is much less too. cost me less than $20..made my own from info found on www.hammockforums.net. still use a tent with my wife, a 12x10, and a huge air mattress and a foam mattress, and 3 coolers, and 2 two burners stoves, and a box of pots and pans...and huge list of other stuff. just me, it's the bike, hammoock/tarp, a menny stove made from heinneken cans, and a little pot. and no more bottle gas. i by alcohol from home depot for the penny stove. much cheaper too.

[quadancer]

I know another guy who swears by those hammocks like you do, and goes with some other guys who also hammock it.
~Papa bear to Mama bear~ "Look, a burrito!" :p

[bulldogparts]

A great way to wash hands while camping without facilities is to fill a 1/2 to 1 gallon (actually, any size will do) plastic jug or bottle with water. Hang this from a suitable "hangin spot" with cord or rope. Sharpen a small stick to a point and pierce the water jug on the side, near the bottom (the hole should be no larger than a #2 pencil lead--not the pencil, leaving the stick in the hole as a stopper. Tie the stick to the jug with string so it won't fall to the ground when you use it. It doesn't take a lot of water to wet your hands before soaping them down, nor a lot to rinse them off. This conserves a lot of water on just handwashing alone.

[quadancer]

I carry a 5 gal. collapsible plastic container with a hanging hoop on one side and a controllable spigot/fill cap on the other. Man, that thing is sweet - one fill per day max. including cooking. Can be used for a "shower" too.

[lytle1gw]

Yep had one of those and it was great but cracked after 20 yrs and haven/t got around to finding another yet, think I got my last one from campmor. Dang now I'll have to order another.:D

[Aldawg]

Baby wipes, to 'freshen up' in the morning, when stealth camping.

[Indianscout]

Baby wipes, to 'freshen up' in the morning, when stealth camping.


I used them even when I'm not stealth camping. P^

[kdf9511]

Baby wipes, to 'freshen up' in the morning, when stealth camping.

I always keep some of those in my saddlebags. Great for a quick cleanup anytime.

[hogasm]

A large mouth bottle of Gatorade not only refreshes, it replenishes low electrolytes/re hydrates you, allowing for a better night's sleep. It also does double duty as a pee bottle in the middle of the night.

Don't mix up your Gaterade bottles up:eek:

[George]

A great way to wash hands while camping without facilities is to fill a 1/2 to 1 gallon (actually, any size will do) plastic jug or bottle with water. Hang this from a suitable "hangin spot" with cord or rope. Sharpen a small stick to a point and pierce the water jug on the side, near the bottom (the hole should be no larger than a #2 pencil lead--not the pencil, leaving the stick in the hole as a stopper. Tie the stick to the jug with string so it won't fall to the ground when you use it. It doesn't take a lot of water to wet your hands before soaping them down, nor a lot to rinse them off. This conserves a lot of water on just handwashing alone.

I suck a mouthful from my camelbak and dribble it over my hands. Add a little soap and yur good to go. Figure it's no problem as I'm gonna swallow the food thru the same mouth. :D

[George]

Don't mix up your Gaterade bottles up:eek:

I've been carrying the same Gatorade bottle as a "pee bottle" for over a year. I've also used it to siphon some gas for a stranded Harley rider. Don't tell him. :D

[quadancer]

The older you get, the higher your chances are...

[ImRubicon]

I've been carrying the same Gatorade bottle as a "pee bottle" for over a year. I've also used it to siphon some gas for a stranded Harley rider. Don't tell him. :D

Dude maybe time for a fresh one ,
Why would you save it that long ?
Just dont really like Gatorade that much

[birddogvet]

I carry the Peak 1 Apex stove and universal fuel bottle. Using unleaded gasoline, that makes for a multi-purpose extra reserve (2/3 liter) tank.

Has anyone come up with a way to raise a bike without a center-stand in order to change a tire (short of putting her on its side)? I had heard of using a U lock but coming up with a lever would seeem to be a problem. 5 1/2in. clearance.

Dave
I intend of living forever, so far to good.

[quadancer]

We tied off some broken spokes after setting the bike up on some stacked firewood. Could have taken it off if we needed to, but it took 2 of us to lift it up there.

[G wizz]

We tied off some broken spokes after setting the bike up on some stacked firewood. Could have taken it off if we needed to, but it took 2 of us to lift it up there.

It took TWO of you to put your bike up on blocks ... :confused: What happened? ... :eek:
I'd a thought you could'a done all by yourself ... What with all those mussels, and all ...

[quadancer]

Heheh...no powder, no bar, and old age catchin' up. Gotta get me one a' them excuse shirts pretty soon!
Wrinkles get in the way too...
http://inlinethumb08.webshots.com/46471/2721356550106878013S600x600Q85.jpg (http://rides.webshots.com/photo/2721356550106878013lCxdil)

[ImRubicon]

I carry the Peak 1 Apex stove and universal fuel bottle. Using unleaded gasoline, that makes for a multi-purpose extra reserve (2/3 liter) tank.

Has anyone come up with a way to raise a bike without a center-stand in order to change a tire (short of putting her on its side)? I had heard of using a U lock but coming up with a lever would seeem to be a problem. 5 1/2in. clearance.

Dave
I intend of living forever, so far to good.

Not safe but works in a pinch is a 2x4 under rear axle on right side just a couoplle inches longer than when sitting as it give you a three way stand. They sell a thingy for doing just that on ebay.

[birddogvet]

Now let's see.... do I look up 'thingy" on e bay? Is it related to the 'doohickey' on the KLR650? :)

"2x4 under rear axle on right side just a couple inches longer than when sitting as it give you a three way stand. They sell a thingy"............

Can you go into a little more detail on that 3 point lift? I don't picture it. Kick-stand, unraised tire, how to lever the two by four &/or thingy, solo? How big is it? Practical to bring along? Possible for the front?

Dave.
Keep those tips a coming, Bar-B-Q sauce optional.

[G wizz]

Now let's see.... do I look up 'thingy" on e bay? Is it related to the 'doohickey' on the KLR650? :)

"2x4 under rear axle on right side just a couple inches longer than when sitting as it give you a three way stand. They sell a thingy"............

Can you go into a little more detail on that 3 point lift? I don't picture it. Kick-stand, unraised tire, how to lever the two by four &/or thingy, solo? How big is it? Practical to bring along? Possible for the front?

Dave.
Keep those tips a coming, Bar-B-Q sauce optional.

Shoulda asked 'em for a picture ... Remember ... a picture is worth what these days? A buch of emails? ...

[kayakinbiker]

When riding with a full face helmet on .... Don't sneeze with the visor down ...:eek:

G wizz

EEOOWW! That's akin to sneezing in a dive mask....

[ImRubicon]

Now let's see.... do I look up 'thingy" on e bay? Is it related to the 'doohickey' on the KLR650? :)

"2x4 under rear axle on right side just a couple inches longer than when sitting as it give you a three way stand. They sell a thingy"............

Can you go into a little more detail on that 3 point lift? I don't picture it. Kick-stand, unraised tire, how to lever the two by four &/or thingy, solo? How big is it? Practical to bring along? Possible for the front?

Dave.
Keep those tips a coming, Bar-B-Q sauce optional.

Set it up to the other side from your sidestand on the rear axle and back bike up as it will lift the rear tire while the front is still on ground. when you lean it back on to kickstand then you will have the rear just off the ground .
This will provide a picture of one you can buy or if close stop by and Ill show you one a friend built out of crtuches that adjusts . three are a couple of different portable motorcycle jacks or lifts out there . Worked on my ZX4 but the wing is a tad heavy and has a center stand

http://cgi.ebay.com/Portable-Motorcycle-Jack-Honda-VTR-RVT-1000-RC51-929RR-/260709495141?pt=UK_Motorcycle_Parts&hash=item3cb37f3165

[birddogvet]

That is a neat idea. Thanks Rubicon for the site.

[quadancer]

That's really cool, but I can see a lot of cruisers with long fenders like mine you still couldn't get the wheel out. I think it would be a help washing/polishing the rear though, for those without a bike jack.

[Cousin Jack]

Don't mix up your Gaterade bottles up:eek:

Here's a good tip...... Buy a fresh, large bottle of Gatorade just before making camp; drink it to rehydrate while putting up your tent; use it in the night for "pee" purposes......

In the morning, if you were surrounded the night before by quiet, considerate campers and their kids, empty your "pee" bottle, toss it, and be on your way. On the other hand, if you were surrounded by obnoxious people and kids, don't empty your "pee" bottle....save it and set it carefully on your picnic table...and be on your way. If you're lucky, even though you won't be there to see it, some obnoxious kid might think it's forgotten lemonade-flavored Gatorade, and down a healthy slug!

:D:D:D:p:p:p:p:D:D:D:D

(you could only be so lucky!)

P^P^P^

[G wizz]

Here's a good tip...... Buy a fresh, large bottle of Gatorade just before making camp; drink it to rehydrate while putting up your tent; use it in the night for "pee" purposes......
If you're lucky, even though you won't be there to see it, some obnoxious kid might think it's forgotten lemonade-flavored Gatorade, and down a healthy slug!

:D:D:D:p:p:p:p:D:D:D:D

(you could only be so lucky!)

P^P^P^

That's discusting ... :eek:

[Sheila]

That's discusting ... :eek:

I agree!!! EWWWWWWWW:eek:

[Cousin Jack]

Tongue in cheek, folks! Tongue in cheek........

;);););)

[kayakinbiker]

Here's a good tip...... Buy a fresh, large bottle of Gatorade just before making camp; drink it to rehydrate while putting up your tent; use it in the night for "pee" purposes......

In the morning, if you were surrounded the night before by quiet, considerate campers and their kids, empty your "pee" bottle, toss it, and be on your way. On the other hand, if you were surrounded by obnoxious people and kids, don't empty your "pee" bottle....save it and set it carefully on your picnic table...and be on your way. If you're lucky, even though you won't be there to see it, some obnoxious kid might think it's forgotten lemonade-flavored Gatorade, and down a healthy slug!

:D:D:D:p:p:p:p:D:D:D:D

(you could only be so lucky
P^P^P^


OMG! I love it! Can I use it on my bus when I have obnoxious kids on board?......

[G wizz]

OMG! I love it! Can I use it on my bus when I have obnoxious kids on board?......

What ya gonna do Linda? Put it in a spray bottle and give 'em a squirt if they're naughty? ... :eek:

[dray]

Here's a good tip...... Buy a fresh, large bottle of Gatorade just before making camp; drink it to rehydrate while putting up your tent; use it in the night for "pee" purposes......

In the morning, if you were surrounded the night before by quiet, considerate campers and their kids, empty your "pee" bottle, toss it, and be on your way. On the other hand, if you were surrounded by obnoxious people and kids, don't empty your "pee" bottle....save it and set it carefully on your picnic table...and be on your way. If you're lucky, even though you won't be there to see it, some obnoxious kid might think it's forgotten lemonade-flavored Gatorade, and down a healthy slug!

:D:D:D:p:p:p:p:D:D:D:D

(you could only be so lucky!)

P^P^P^

heres hoping its your Grandkids

[Sheila]

Just thought this might be a good idea so Ill share!
Most tent campers come with a foam mattress but recently a fellow Roll A Home owner wanted a little more support for his bad back. He went to a local carpet store and had some carpet padding cut to size and put this under the foam mattress and is a happy camper! The extra padding made the sleeping area a whole lot more confortable and it was cheap! He actually had three 1/2" thick pieces cut to size so he was able to add an additional 1 1/2 padding. This still folds up in the Roll A home just fine and sure it would work with other camper trailers too!:)

[quadancer]

I think that stuff not glued together is what my pillow is made of; crushes down to a large softball.
I have a wooden guitar case I made and lined it with the carpet padding.

[Sheila]

I think that stuff not glued together is what my pillow is made of; crushes down to a large softball.
I have a wooden guitar case I made and lined it with the carpet padding.

Apparently its good stuff!;)

[kdf9511]

I have a wooden guitar case I made and lined it with the carpet padding.


I did the same thing with the cheep pasteboard case my bass came with back in high school.

[quadancer]

I was getting tired of my foam handlebar grips due to the crack in the foam on one, where my fingertips would sit.
I priced out grips and they start at $57 and go up.
Got an idea looking at some leather grips...I had some soft thin leather I got on Fleabay, cut it into squares the circumference and width of the foam. Made holes down two sides with a hole punch and hammer, cut strips of lacing from the piece and laced them on myself for nothing. I may wet them down and let them shrink a bit too.
Plush as can be.

http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb223/quadancer/BIKE/BikeOddStuff/Handgrips004.jpg

[G wizz]

Plush as can be.

I'm guessing they'll be as soggy as can be, if you get caught in the rain with 'em ... :eek: ... :p

[quadancer]

You're right, but I had nothing to lose in a sense. We'll see what they do soon enuff! I WAS leaning toward the air-padded Kuryakins or some knurled ergonomics. Now the refrigerator seems to have quit, I'm glad I saved a few bucks.
-'sides, it was fun to make. :p

[lytle1gw]

Our new rollahome, we cut a piece of memory foam that we took out of our big camper before we let it go and put it under the regular mattress and it feels great. Still can fold up good even with pillows still on bed. Now if I can just get away to try it out. Have had new camper since july 8 and still haven't been able to go.:(

[kitesurfer]

put hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. spray on windshield/fairing for the bugs. they foam up and rinse off with no scrubbing. saves on the expensive honda cleaner.

[G wizz]

You're right, but I had nothing to lose in a sense. I'm glad I saved a few bucks.
-'sides, it was fun to make. :p

Ya ... That's the fun of it ... being able to take something ya have laying around, and make somthing neat and usefull out of it.
One of lifes little pleasures, I'd say ... P^

[badger]

put hydrogen peroxide in a spray bottle. spray on windshield/fairing for the bugs. they foam up and rinse off with no scrubbing. saves on the expensive honda cleaner.

Really? Is hydrogen peroxide safe for paints and windshields? Seems like it would be pretty harsh

[Aldawg]

Really? Is hydrogen peroxide safe for paints and windshields? Seems like it would be pretty harsh

I've heard this as well, using a 50/50 mix. You may need to re-wax after, I think it's worse for the paint to leave the bugs on, as the bug juice will eat the finish.

[BeemMeUp]

Really? Is hydrogen peroxide safe for paints and windshields? Seems like it would be pretty harsh

Just think of it as almost water, if I remember right it is H2O2 and changes to water with exposure to air. I think I will give it a try myself, never thought of trying it.

[quadancer]

I tried 50/50 and it didn't work. It's only 3% as is. My trick with the Kiwi Neutral boot polish not only acts like RainX, but the bugs don't stick to the Carnuba/beeswax in it either.

[birddogvet]

Want a 'heads up' as to the next bump in the road? Check out the intensity of the oil spot in the middle of your lane. Bigger the bump - the darker the spot.

[quadancer]

Don't pull over on or after a bridge or rough spots. Pickups lose nails when they hit bumps and lowlifes throw bottles on bridges. Good place to get a flat.