48-10 Attempt Advice Wanted

[jfremder]

Carol and I are planning our first 48-10 Starting May 27th. We'll be riding 2-up from Milwaukee, with a sideways figure-eight route comprising ~8600 mi. Here's a rough idea of the route if you're interested http://tinyurl.com/34rnxe

While I realize a 48-10 can be done in ~7000 miles, we want to start and finish in Milwaukee, and cover some previously uncharted territory, hence the 8600 mi route.

We have multiple 900-1000 mile days under our belts, and 14-18 hours in the saddle is expected, and doable. The bike (R1150RT) is comfortable, equipped for LD Riding, (with the exception of Aux-Fuel in 2-up mode) and up to the task. I believe the rider/pillion team are up for the task too. We ride year round, rain, cold, everything but snow/ice.

I'm looking for comments on what to expect, what to watch out for, etc. My concern at this point is, our longest trips have usually covered ~5000 miles, with three 1000+ mile slab days in that trip, the rest of the time spent on the more technical riding, fun twistys. This trip will be all slab.

Our typical 7 day average has been about 750 miles a day, but those trips included many stop and smell the roses riding opportunities like Talimena, Cherohala, BRP, SW Utah, Tunnel of Trees, Deal Gap, etc., with high mile days alternating with technical riding days. 1000 slab miles Monday, followed by 500 miles of scenic stuff Tuesday, rest and repeat type of thing.

Any tips from those of you that have 'been there done that' on the 48-10? Anyone care to share the details on a failed attempt? I've read through the ride reports, but am looking for more...

BTW, we're really hoping for a chance at getting selected to run the 2009 IBR, and this ride could be a great pre-run...

[Rocket_Cowboy]

Have you read Ron's book on his 48/10 record run? You might also check out the Motorcycle Tourer's Forum, as they did a group 48/10 a year or two back, so they should have some trips reports from that ride posted.

[helodoc]

I saw your post on the IBA forum but couldn't find it when I went back to post.

Going along with what Tom Sperry posted, I found this resource of every service at every exit on the interstate highway system. It will surely save you time while planning your route and calling ahead to ensure 24hr services and collecting each state.

http://www.thenextexit.com/

[Rocket_Cowboy]

I'll second the recommendation for The Next Exit. I used it for planning my BBG in 2005, and me and a friend used it to plan our 100CCC in 2006. If you're sticking to Interstates, it will come in real handy for planning where to get gas and receipts.

[Trapper]

You can pick up a hard copy of The Next Exit at any of the bigger truck stops. Long Haul truckers find it real handy.