What kind of Moto-Camper are you?

[Mellow]

Most people that don't camp don't know there are many different levels of camping. I thought it would be fun to see what kind of Motorcycle Campers we have here.

This is multiple choice so pick as many as apply.

Let me know if I left anything out.

[Doobage]

I'd vote for dual sport if I had a bike that could handle gravel or off-road, but the ST 1300 seems to have issues with gravel.

[Mellow]

I'd vote for dual sport if I had a bike that could handle gravel or off-road, but the ST 1300 seems to have issues with gravel.

Well, at least your heart is in it even if your bike isn't...

I've followed Rick down some dirt roads where I was surprised the Wing had any plastic left. Of course, he was doing wheelies and going 60 mph. But, that's a GS for you.

[Trailace]

I know some guys who camp and mix in a few hotel nights. But they tell me the best nights are spent camping with other riders.

[Diggers1300]

I checked about half of these, could have checked almost all of them. I usually travel two-up and the SO likes her amenities, hence the trailer. Sometimes I make her rough it though!! ;). What I carry and how I eat largely depends on the length (in miles and in duration) of the trip.

I've been camping down a few gravel roads in Arkansas and must say the ST handled it much better than expected. Don't think I'd try it with the trailer though. :rolleyes:

Steve

[motomac]

Even though I ride a Gold Wing and pull a Bunkhouse camper, in '99 I rode the length of the Dempster highway to Inuvik NWT and back to Dawson City. It is a dirt/gravel road over 400 miles each way. The first gas stop after leaving Dawson City is over 200 miles, so extra gas is a necessity. So, another catagory needs to be added to this poll. Paved and gravel roads for the guys that do both on highway bikes.

[Mellow]

Even though I ride a Gold Wing and pull a Bunkhouse camper, in '99 I rode the length of the Dempster highway to Inuvik NWT and back to Dawson City. It is a dirt/gravel road over 400 miles each way. The first gas stop after leaving Dawson City is over 200 miles, so extra gas is a necessity. So, another catagory needs to be added to this poll. Paved and gravel roads for the guys that do both on highway bikes.

Just added it to the end for ya.

[motomac]

Thanks

[Trekker]

Great Poll Question!
Having only gotten back into motorcycling two years ago, I have just begun to "re-learn" the joy of moto-camping. I have plans for putting miles under my wheels the next few years and will carry my camp gear where ever I go.

Dave
1983 Honda Silverwing GL650i
(soon to be upgrading to a ST1100 & small cargo trailer)

[Mellow]

Welcome to the site Dave.

Let us know if you have any questions and we'll be glad to answer... or attempt to answer them... or pretend to answer them while changing the subject... or answer a different question... or not... now... got any questions? :D

[Trekker]

Thanks Joe.
I just recently read the ride-guide in the Feb. '06 issue of American Motorcyclist mag. I am so stoked! It was the Smokey Mnt's in NC, TN, GA and it highlighted all the great riding and camping locations for that region. Highly recommended reading!

I hope to be finding some nice places in the Catskill Mnt's of NY this season. I plan to post some reviews.

[Trailace]

Great Poll Question!
Having only gotten back into motorcycling two years ago, I have just begun to "re-learn" the joy of moto-camping. I have plans for putting miles under my wheels the next few years and will carry my camp gear where ever I go.

Dave
1983 Honda Silverwing GL650i
(soon to be upgrading to a ST1100 & small cargo trailer)
Welcome Dave!
Silverwing 650 is a great bike.

[dannyk]

The most fun, and meeting people has to be camping. I started camping on a bike back in the 70s with a Honda 450 street scrambler, talk about bungie on, moved to a wing then a camper trailer for the S/O, then as circumstances changed we sold the camper and went with a cargo trailer, now its back to solo camping on occasion, but thats when I go alone all my riding buddies prefer a motel.

[Blues Traveler]

Have been motocamping for about 7 years now. Most was on my ST1100. Late last year I bought my 04' BMW GS Adventurer. Iv'e spent a lot time setting it up for touring. I try to stay on the paved stuff but if the road turns to dirt its good to know that it isnt a problem. Have already been there and done that a few times. The ST would not have faired well. The GS is a Great mule and will carry a lot and is still a fun ride getting there.

I'd rather camp than motel/hotel it. Call me cheap but i'd rather campout under the stars. My friends and I have been doing it together for sometime and together we have a GREAT! camp and come up with some gourmet meals. Breakfast in camp is a must. Whats camping without the smell of bacon in the morning?

On rides of a week or more we do stop and eat a few meals out. Usually coffee in the morning as we packup and then look for a great cafe/dinner within an hour of moving on.

We try to do at least a weekend a month and then a week or more in the summer. This year will be an 11 day ride up to Buena Vista, Colorado for the ADV West 2006 Rally 6/29-7/2.

Just wondering.........anyone else going?

[Trailace]

We try to do at least a weekend a month and then a week or more in the summer. This year will be an 11 day ride up to Buena Vista, Colorado for the ADV West 2006 Rally 6/29-7/2.

Just wondering.........anyone else going?
Hey Blues Traveler sure like your bike. Welcome to the site!

I won't be going to ADV west rally but will be going to California the end of August. :D

[JCS]

If you saw what I was touring on you wouldn't even ask about pavement. I really don't mind riding on dirt but the bike doesn't like it at all.

[Mellow]

If you saw what I was touring on you wouldn't even ask about pavement. I really don't mind riding on dirt but the bike doesn't like it at all.

I'm on a Wing... the anti-dirt Bike.. LOL:D

[Mark]

I'd vote for dual sport if I had a bike that could handle gravel or off-road, but the ST 1300 seems to have issues with gravel.

Chris feels the ST1300 is *way* better than the ST1100, she has taken the ST1300 on cinder roads without problems.

I suggest you twist the wrist more gently and stay off the front brake...

Mark

[Trueblu]

I go on 2 trips a year with a friend and my Brother-in law. We go from Vancouver Island Canada to various destinations down South. This year we are leaving for the bottom of the BAHA Mexico on April 27th. We usually Camp whenever possible, mostly National Parks or such like. we have done this for the last 4 years and have gotten the gear down to as compact as possible while still enjoying the comforts of a blow-up mattress.

[Mellow]

I go on 2 trips a year with a friend and my Brother-in law. We go from Vancouver Island Canada to various destinations down South. This year we are leaving for the bottom of the BAHA Mexico on April 27th. We usually Camp whenever possible, mostly National Parks or such like. we have done this for the last 4 years and have gotten the gear down to as compact as possible while still enjoying the comforts of a blow-up mattress.

Sounds like a great trip... ride safe and take some pics for the rest of us stuck at work.

[STeveGray]

I had a Givi trunk on my ST1100. For the ST1300 I thought I'd try just using a seat bag and foregoing the trunk. Although I didn't put heavy stuff in there I like the idea of keeping the weight lower and closer to the center of the bike. Nice bag with lots of "D" rings on the outside for tying stuff on and a couple of dedicated secure straps for a sleeping bag pad.

http://www.aerostich.com/catalog/US/MotoFizz-Camping-Seat-Bags-Small-Medium--Large-p-16405.html

As far as riding in the dirt goes, I picked the last option that Joe added. I won't do deep gravel or significantly rough roads but the run-of-the-mill cinder or dirt road with only minor or maybe a few moderate ruts, the ST handles just fine.

[STeveGray]

I have that bag also....best bag I've ever used! I didn't secure the rain cover on my trip earlier in the week and lost it due to my butt hitting it while standing up to stretch my legs near the end of the first 3 hour leg of the trip.
While I have yet to take a camping trip on this bike (ST1300), I can tell that with this bag, my Dri-Bag, and the panniers I will be able to carry more than I ever have before on previous bikes. May even take the SlumberJack "Big-Man" cot this time! :D

Thanks for the heads up! I've wondered about that rain cover since it doesn't attach. I've used it but it's always stayed put (so far.) I think I'll start running a bungee over it, just for insurance.

[nomad dan]

I ride mostly paved, but if there is a dirt/gravel road that goes someplace I want to see, I go.

I've been 40 miles on dirt more than once.

These picture show, if you make them big, some gravel switchbacks that I went on. Look close and you can see them switching back multiple times on the right and left side, then goes off into the distance. It was about 50 miles. The deep sand in parts was worse than the gravel.

I find it a nice challenge to ride in dirt, ruts, rocks, and gravel. But you kind of need to be in the mood for it.

[nomad dan]

Missed one of the pics, needed to make it smaller

[Motocentaur]

I voted medium-packed, BYO food, non-dual sport but paved or dirt (up to a point). I have never stayed in a motel while travelling overnight on a bike (although I probably only do about three or four multi-day trips a year). My Concours will manage dirt roads okay if I ride prudently, but I'm not crazy enough to take it up a fire trail!

[zixxerpilot]

I voted medium pack, paved roads only. I usually bring my own food to cook on a campfire, a tent, water, and enough to keep me self sufficient for about 2 days. However, riding a sport-bike('95 Ninja ZX-6R), is not conducive to riding down dirt/gravel roads.

[Mellow]

I voted medium pack, paved roads only. I usually bring my own food to cook on a campfire, a tent, water, and enough to keep me self sufficient for about 2 days. However, riding a sport-bike('95 Ninja ZX-6R), is not conducive to riding down dirt/gravel roads.

Welcome to the site!... Can't be easy getting everything you need for camping on a sportbike, I'll bet you have some good lightweight camping techniques.

I had a friend that used to use a cool pack system for his blackbird, I think it was called a veturi? Anyway, basically added a vertical rack over the rear seat that added a custom soft pack on both sides and even allowed for some zippered, or some other connection, type saddlebags. Gave hime some great options.

[flailer]

Here is the kind of Moto-Camper i am:
Note blue tarp has tent, S-bag, and self-inflating pad
Tail pack on top of tarp
Tank bag
and OF COURSE, MY MTN BIKE comes with me on all trips of any significance, whatsoever

<<should be a pic attached to this posting>>

[Trekker]

Wow!! That's Awesome!
You need a trailer...... flailer..........sorry, couldn't resist...

[flailer]

Errrr. that would give my rig more than two wheels - and that would be EVIL

Hahaaa. Just joking, see my sig.

Wow!! That's Awesome!
You need a trailer...... flailer..........sorry, couldn't resist...

[STeveGray]

Errrr. that would give my rig more than two wheels - and that would be EVIL

Hahaaa. Just joking, see my sig.

Hmmm. I count 4 wheels. It's just that 2 of them are in the air. :D

That's amazing Flailer. Of course you could always try a Uni-Go.

http://www.uni-go-trailers.com/

That way you'd only have 3 wheels (or 5... depending on how you count!) :rolleyes:

[HogCamper]

Howdy Y'all. Newbie member to the site but been Motocampin' for 'bout 20+ years now and as I get Older it seems it has been harder to find ridin' buddies who like to camp. They have all turned into Hotel Queens and I dont see alot of fun in that. Heck half the reason for ridin for me is the campin, wheter just out on the road or at some of the rallies I attend. Hope to meet some of you out on the road soon.

[STeveGray]

Hey HogCamper. Welcome to the site! Wander around, respond to posts and make yourself at home.

[Trekker]

Another Texan! Oh well..... Welcome! :D

[Trailace]

Welcome HogCamper! Don't pay attention to them, they?re just mad because we can ride year round. If you have any question let us know.

[flailer]

Howdy Y'all. Newbie member to the site but been Motocampin' for 'bout 20+ years now and as I get Older it seems it has been harder to find ridin' buddies who like to camp. They have all turned into Hotel Queens and I dont see alot of fun in that. Heck half the reason for ridin for me is the campin, wheter just out on the road or at some of the rallies I attend. Hope to meet some of you out on the road soon.


+1 You said it all!

[Jetfixer]

I just started motocamping and haven't been outside Texas yet but I've done several of the tx parks. I'll venture out further when it warms up a little more. I load the bike and saddlebags up and only make coffee and a continental breakfast, ie donuts pop tarts or other junk food. :D I just started riding again after a 20+ year layoff. We trailer the bike behind a 5th wheel when my wife goes. We love the hill country.

[motomac]

Welcome HogCamper! Don't pay attention to them, they?re just mad because we can ride year round.

Hey I don't live in Texas and I can ride all year long!!!! Even if I do have to shovel a path to an intersecton that is plowed and salted to get out of Dodge!!!! :eek:

[Jetfixer]

Hi Hogcamper. I'm new to the forum and motocamping. I've really gotten hooked on camping. Are you going to the WOB this weekend? It's a bit too far for me since I didn't take Friday off.

[BAGR]

Started out 20+ years ago using bare nessesities on a stripped down 75 Gold Wing. Bought a new Sportster in 85, which lightened my load even more, Bought an 84 FLTC in 93 which increased the amount of stuff and comfort level. Built a homemade cargo trailer in 95 after watching a buddy pull his at 80 + mph. Also to quit scratching my bike bungeeing stuff on the saddle bags and tour pack. After a 3 week adventure 3 years ago, which included 50 miles of the worst dirt road I've ever ridden on, I was ready to burn my tent. I purchased a Trailmaster Aspen Sentry. Now I have most of the comforts of home. I still blame the camper purchase on an old greybeard I was camped next to on a trip to Sturgis many years ago. He had his camper spooled up and was saying see ya later before I even had my tent all the way down. Talk about leaving an impression. There's nothing like camping and the good people you meet while doing it. By the way I'm still riding that 84 FLTC and wouldn't trade it off for anything.

[davop]

Cool Question! I have a relativly small bike (600) or I would consider a camp trailer. I use soft saddle bags and a tail bag(duffel) and pack a 2 man tent, and backpack stove.

[SidecarMike]

Most people that don't camp don't know there are many different levels of camping. I thought it would be fun to see what kind of Motorcycle Campers we have here.

This is multiple choice so pick as many as apply.

Let me know if I left anything out.
I chose Heavily Packed - Bike w/camp-trailer because there wasn't a Heavily Packed - Bike w/camp-trailer and sidecar. :0):D

[Hemibee]

I chose/said/voted/answered/responded "I bring my food" because none of the answers really fit. I do pack heavy with tent, cooler(s), gear, tools, fuel, kitchen equipment, trailer and truck. Oh did I forget to mention my boys race and we camp at the race sites? So I guess I'm a bit of an odd ball for this site, 5 bikes and none street legal.

[Mellow]

I chose/said/voted/answered/responded "I bring my food" because none of the answers really fit. I do pack heavy with tent, cooler(s), gear, tools, fuel, kitchen equipment, trailer and truck. Oh did I forget to mention my boys race and we camp at the race sites? So I guess I'm a bit of an odd ball for this site, 5 bikes and none street legal.

Tony, if you're an odd ball, you should fit right it. The poll was originally created for those that are riding their bikes to / from the camping locations but you bring up a good point. Welcome to the site, how about a picture of all those bikes, I'll be you all have a lot of fun.

[Trailace]

I chose/said/voted/answered/responded "I bring my food" because none of the answers really fit. I do pack heavy with tent, cooler(s), gear, tools, fuel, kitchen equipment, trailer and truck. Oh did I forget to mention my boys race and we camp at the race sites? So I guess I'm a bit of an odd ball for this site, 5 bikes and none street legal.

Tony,
Welcome to the site hope you fine it useful. There was a time when I only had dirt bikes and now I only have street bikes. Do you race or just the boys?

[Hemibee]

Tony, if you're an odd ball, you should fit right it. The poll was originally created for those that are riding their bikes to / from the camping locations but you bring up a good point. Welcome to the site, how about a picture of all those bikes, I'll be you all have a lot of fun.

Here's a couple of the bikes. D-13 is still racing, U-13 retired to pit/trail bike duties
http://65.57.254.60/ktmtalk/photogallery/galleries/stuckinmuck/DSC01434.JPG

D-13 now racing as B-13 (oldest son)
http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/6092/outlawcreekexitsf3.jpg

Oldest sons first bike, started out as trail bike then raced a couple times before retiring to pit bike duties
http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/9599/dsc001690ro.jpg

The bike that is replacing U-13, should be numbered N-13 next year along with Monster Energy graphics (graphics in place but no pictures yet)
http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l8/lscp/BadToTheBone.jpg

I know I've got pictures of my bike somewhere, just can't locate them right now.


Tony,
Welcome to the site hope you fine it useful. There was a time when I only had dirt bikes and now I only have street bikes. Do you race or just the boys?

I started on dirt bikes, went the street route, now back where it all began. I sign up every year, pay my fee for the series number and have yet to race. The boys keep me busy enough with their racing and setting up camp so for now, it's just them racing.

[Mellow]

Those are great pics!

[mcrider1959]

I voted medium packed.
Motorcycles and camping just seems like a natural combination to me. I have been doing it since I started riding back in 1978 or so. Back then all I had was an ol' sleeping bag, a big piece of plastic for making a shelter, a cheap backpack for stowing the gear in and then bungie the whole mess to the back of my 550 Suzuki. And did I mention that I didn't have any money back then. Well I still don't have any money, but I have managed to to get alittle better camping equipment and a better bike.
Now the real question is---am I haveing more fun now than back when I started?:confused:
After some deep thought I came up with this. I have always had fun moto-camping. I just didn't know any better back then!:D

Staying in a motel just doesn't have the same effect as camping. Besides the motel managers kinda frown on the camp fires in the parking lot.:fire4:

[Mellow]

LOL.. just tell them it's better than a campfire in the room..

We were actually going to ask if we could set our tents up in the grassy area behind a Hotel in Missouri once and didn't even try as we knew they'd say no.. .ended up splitting a room and even though there were a few others on that trip and we had a good time talking with them. Just wasn't the same with TVs, heated pools and donuts everywhere.

[Ripshod]

Hi guys, I'm a brand new poster here. Great forum!

Actually, here's the formal intro: "Hi. My name is Jerry and I'm a motocampaholic."

I've been motocamping for about 6 years now. Previously on an ST1100 but upgraded to a 1300 last year. My constant riding buddy "upgraded" from a '82 GL1100 to a Pacific Coast last year. I usually follow him - keeps me down to a sane speed.

We do a 2 or 3 week long trip every year, and as many shorter long weekend trips as we can get away with. On the poll I checked Medium but I think I pack pretty heavy for going trailer free.We both like to camp but we're grownups with credit cards and there are times when it just doesn't make sense to camp. There's no shame in grabbing a room and the more experience we get, the better we are at predicting that. One night I was ticked off that he wanted to forego a campsite and begrudgingly checked into a motel. I knew a storm was coming, but so what? Well, a tornado passed pretty close, knocking his bike off the side stand. I listen to him now.

We cook over a campfire every chance we get. The first night out is always the best meal because I go to my butcher and get some really good steaks and we prepare a big mixed veggie foil pouch the night before takeoff. Other nights we just keep an eye out for the last grocery store before we hit the campground and one of us dumps gear and goes back for food. He's a great cook. I'm very good at supplying him with a nice hot bed of coals to cook over. We make a pretty good team.

I use the MotoFizz camping bag, large size. Expanded, it can hold a whole lot of gear and I do pack it tight. I'm an old fart and I like my comfort. If I can't bring enough gear to ensure that I'll be dry, comfortable and well-fed, I just won't bother. On our big trip this year we're doing the Michigan upper peninsula (maybe Canada, around Lake Superior if he'll get off his ass and get a passport), and it'll correspond with the Riders Wearhouse Very Boring Rally. We don't generally do rallies, or group rides for that matter, but we'll try to make that one. Sounds like our speed.

So is there a thread here where guys can brag about how much camping gear they pack? I'm going for a record. I don't have it all written down, but it's quite a list.

[Mellow]

Welcome to the site Steve.

We don't have a 'how much can you pack on the bike section' but we have something that is probably considered the same thing.. a Packed gallery here:
http://www.motocampers.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=89

[Ironheadziggy76]

Welcome Ripshod, I'm kinda new here too. I was lusting after the large MotoFizz bag in the Aerostich catalog the other day. Does it stay dry with the raincover? I think it would hold most of what I need for a trip with my other bags.

[motomac]

Welcome Ripshod, I'm kinda new here too. I was lusting after the large MotoFizz bag in the Aerostich catalog the other day. Does it stay dry with the raincover? I think it would hold most of what I need for a trip with my other bags.
I've got a medium Moto Fizz and yes it does stay dry with the condom. But if you want a big bag tht stays dry without the cover, check out Helen 2 Wheels.

[Tx White Knight]

Welcome Ripshod

There is a lot of great information floating around on here, makes for some very good and informative reading. I am going to try to pack my bike for the first time this weekend so I can be ready to go the following weekend to be show how to do it right :p

I will take some picture of the before and after .:eek:

When you get a chance post up your packing so we can get some more idea :D

[Ironheadziggy76]

I've got a medium Moto Fizz and yes it does stay dry with the condom. But if you want a big bag tht stays dry without the cover, check out Helen 2 Wheels.

Thanks motomac, I keep forgetting about Helen 2 Wheels.:o

[Ripshod]

Yes, the MotoFizz's rain cover keeps it dry. Like I said, I have the large version. The rain cover is plenty big enough to cover it and then some, while it is fully extended. If I where to compress the ends, it'd be pretty floppy.

This reminds me - On my old bike I used a Nelson Rigg Jumbo Weekender (http://www.nelsonrigg.com/pages/Cruiser-Products/Survivor-Series/SVT1000-Big.htm). It was a really good bag, absolutely waterproof and very rugged. Here's a picture of it on the ST1100:

http://img2.putfile.com/main/6/16007573625.jpg
As you can see, it's made to attach to a sissy bar and stand upright. On the ST11 I had the Ventura rack system and it worked great. On the 1300 I don't have an upright bar on back so I switched to the MotoFizz. If anyone is interested I might let it go for a pretty good price.

As you can see in the pic, I had to supplement that pack with another one on the rear. All that gear, from both bags, now fits into the large MotoFizz.

[Ironheadziggy76]

Yes, the MotoFizz's rain cover keeps it dry. Like I said, I have the large version. The rain cover is plenty big enough to cover it and then some, while it is fully extended. If I where to compress the ends, it'd be pretty floppy.

This reminds me - On my old bike I used a Nelson Rigg Jumbo Weekender (http://www.nelsonrigg.com/pages/Cruiser-Products/Survivor-Series/SVT1000-Big.htm). It was a really good bag, absolutely waterproof and very rugged. Here's a picture of it on the ST1100:

http://img2.putfile.com/main/6/16007573625.jpg
As you can see, it's made to attach to a sissy bar and stand upright. On the ST11 I had the Ventura rack system and it worked great. On the 1300 I don't have an upright bar on back so I switched to the MotoFizz. If anyone is interested I might let it go for a pretty good price.

As you can see in the pic, I had to supplement that pack with another one on the rear. All that gear, from both bags, now fits into the large MotoFizz.


Thanks Ripshod, and I agree the Nelson Rigg bag is an excellent bag. Mine has been through torrential rains and everything stayed bone dry. I have the same bag that I use on my current bike. I'm shopping for a bike I don't own yet if that makes any sense. :confused: I guess I'm just a gear junkie.

http://i179.photobucket.com/albums/w294/Ironheadziggy76/Dsc00012.jpg

[kayakinbiker]

I just started motocamping last year, but then I've only been riding for my 4th season..I have been a campaholic for many years and have many stories to tell about those trips along with my new thing...I brought about 70 pounds of gear with me last year in 3 Helen2wheels bags. I swear by them to pack the most stuff in the smallest space! I carry a kermit chair, 3 man tent,small pillow,air mattress, small barbeque(need my grilled meat!), utensils, down sleeping bag, clothes, rainsuit,goggles for rainy/windy riding,extra gloves, comfortable shoes for camp, camp towel and of course, my bikini! My saddlebags carry my camera which is smaller now and will be stationed on my bar now and then for pics..food occasionally goes there and beer!... Important to sleep well...beer does that when you're riding long days..I LOVE campfires so I would rather camp than motel it but will motel it occasionally when weather is consecutively sucking and ya need to warm up...I stayed at a state forrest campground in Michigan last year which had a dirt road only and needed to bite it and challenge myself to to ride in and out of there to get food and beer and had to pack up wet the next morning. It was not the most pleasant packing job but I survived and rode the Tunnel of Trees the next morning. It was well worth it!
My biggest worry is some animal knocking my bike over..I can't even try to lift my bike anymore since I broke my back..too dangerous..

[Iamyeehaw]

I, myself, have only been back on a motorcycle for less than a year. I have been to 2 rallies, but only at one was camping involved. :tent1: I hope to do much more, as I now intend to be mostly on 2 wheels until I am no longer able to. As for gear, I am limited right now to what I have: tent, fold-out chair, small duffel... I wish I could afford a trailer, or, better yet, a tent trailer! But, alas, I must bide my time and make do with what's available....:(

[Tx White Knight]

I, myself, have only been back on a motorcycle for less than a year. I have been to 2 rallies, but only at one was camping involved. :tent1: I hope to do much more, as I now intend to be mostly on 2 wheels until I am no longer able to. As for gear, I am limited right now to what I have: tent, fold-out chair, small duffel... I wish I could afford a trailer, or, better yet, a tent trailer! But, alas, I must bide my time and make do with what's available....:(

Welcome IamYeehaw

that at least is a starting point :D

[Jetfixer]

I, myself, have only been back on a motorcycle for less than a year. I have been to 2 rallies, but only at one was camping involved. :tent1: I hope to do much more, as I now intend to be mostly on 2 wheels until I am no longer able to. As for gear, I am limited right now to what I have: tent, fold-out chair, small duffel... I wish I could afford a trailer, or, better yet, a tent trailer! But, alas, I must bide my time and make do with what's available....:(


Hi Yeehaw! Great to see you here! Lots of great camping info. W'd love to see you at the Hawgs-n-Hills rally, it's only two weeks away!

[Yamifj1200]

I try to find motorcycle campgrounds if they are in the area or state park campgrounds. I prefer a quiet place to rest after a days riding. I ride a 91 Yamaha fj1200 with Hepco Becker side cases and an inexpensive top case for longer rides. I do enjoy some comfort gear when Im camping such as a Pico chair and a GCI table. I have also added a 10 x 10 foot tarp and a set of 3/4 inch aluminum poles to keep off the sun or rain when traveling. It all packs quite easily and weighs in around 60 lbs for a week long adventure.
Eric

[Tx White Knight]

Do you have any pics of your packing? Mine is still a bit funny :eek:

BTW Welcome

[Yamifj1200]

"Do you have any pics of your packing? Mine is still a bit funny :eek:"

Steve, Thanks for the welcome, its nice to find a place online for folks who love to ride and camp.

I'm sorry I really dont have any photo's of my packing skills or the lack of them. I am using Hepco Becker 40 liter side cases. I can pack a weekends worth of gear into just the side cases and a dry bag strapped across the bike. I also use a magnetic tank bag for items I would like quick access to. Almost all my camping gear is backpacking gear. I usually pack clothing and my tire kit in the right hand side case. Cooking gear, tools, stove and my GCI table in the left hand side case. My tent, sleeping bag, air mattress tarp and poles go into the dry bag. I only use straps, to secure my dry bag to the handles on top of my side cases and to the rear rack. There is plenty of room for me as I like to pack light. Notice I didnt mention the top case, thats for longer trips for additional clothing and food.

I think the best way to have plenty of room is to use gear that packs as small as possible, and dont take more than you will need. It takes time to work it all out, or at least it has for me.

Thanks again for the welcome,

Eric

[moodygne]

I am new here. I found this forum from another forum I am on. The reason I joined is that I do camp a lot, BUT now I have to keep salt to a minimum. I thought I would Carrie my own food. I see they have self heating food that is low sodium. Has anyone tried them? I think Alpine Air makes them. Any other suggestions are welcome

http://i416.photobucket.com/albums/pp250/moodygne/blueride002.jpg

http://i416.photobucket.com/albums/pp250/moodygne/camp005.jpg

[Trailace]

Welcome to the site there is always room for one more tent.:D

[seamus]

I voted for the mid packed setting. I have a backpacking tent, stove and usually will bring a bedroll and possibly one other blanket to keep number of items down.

[George]

I checked half of'em. I pretty much do it all except the trailer.