New to STN

[Rubba]

I've posted here before but my last trip report shows up as my #1 post.

I'm living and riding in CA but recently did a cross country trip.  I discovered that anyone who can do a 50 CC is a more determined rider than me.

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,17080.0.html

Check it out, I think the trip back qualifies as an Iron Butt.



Me

[Cal24Master]

I'm not sure more determined is the correct description.  Maybe less distracted.  To do a 50cc is really not that difficult if you don't include stops with family, beer stops and sight seeing.  It also helps to have a motorcycle more up to the task than a unfaired one.

Of course for most that is not the type of touring they want to do.  If you don't get a lot of chances to ride across the country, doing it without time to stop and take pictures, visit with people and sit down and have a good meal isn't really the way you want to do it.

I guess there is a reason they call the Iron Butt guys the real 1%'rs

[Rubba]

My 50CC mention was intended as a compliment to those who have completed them.  Similar to racers and other individuals with acquired skills; I harbor admiration and am in awe of those who have the ability and desire to successfully compete in, even complete, IBA challenges.

I was rushed into my quick return otherwise sight seeing; picture taking and relatively frequent breaks are my preference.  After stopping for a few hours to dry my kit and spending some time in a hotel (unexpected expenditures) I still averaged about 40 mph on the 2900-mile trip home.  Overall, I'm left with a sense of pride and accomplishment from my perceived successes on this trip.  Without critical appointments to keep I doubt I'll ever ride endless miles in late night pea-soup conditions again.

Sorry if I offended you with my sophomoric comment Tom; it was unintentional and I'm embarrassed after re-reading the post.  With the experience behind me I felt compelled to congratulate those who have done a better job of connecting lengthy dots on a map in this forum.  In hindsight my trip back would not qualify as an Iron Butt experience as I eluded.

I am humbled by your attention and taking the time to construct a sincere response.  Thank you for your advice.

[st2sam]

Welcome, enjoyed your report.
IMO - after reading your ride report a 50cc would be a piece of cake, faired or unfaired, beer or no beer...

[doug5551]

Thanks for the great write up.  Your report did not mention if you have done a Saddle Sore 1000.  It is the entry level ride for the IBA.  If you have not, the Motorcycle Touring Forum has organized rides.  I read about them on ST.net and successfully completed one last June 9.  A fantastic experience and they will have the rides out of Nor Cal next spring, too.  You should check it out.

http://www.mctourer.com/

The regional rides for next year are still being planned out.