Any Interest in a New England Meet & Greet This Year?

[Hulked Up]

Update, 3/31/07:  Routes have been added.

Date:  Saturday, April 14

Start Location in Connecticut:  Mototown USA, 1001 Dayhill Road, Windsor, CT 06095 (860-688-5110) (Interstate 91, north of Hartford, exit 38, right off ramp, take your first left onto Dayhill Rd [after passing under 91] and 2.5 miles down Dayhill Road.  Mototown USA Website for additional details on this facility.

Time:  arrive at 9am, Rider's Meeting about 10, leave about 10:30am.

Start Location in New Hampshire:  Meet at the Citco station at the junction of rt 202 and 119 in Rindge NH, Leave Time:  9:15am

Destination:  Great Barrington, Mass. for lunch.  There is no set restaurant, everyone is on their own for lunch.

After lunch, both the CT & NH groups will meet at the Price Chopper parking lot, 300 Stockbridge St., Great Barrington, starting at about 1pm.  After another Meet & Greet we'll split into small groups and ride back home around 2pm or so.  Great Barrington has easy access to Interstate 90 and eastern NY.

A big thanks to the folks at Mototown USA for being enthusiastic hosts for the CT start.  These guys are actually looking forward to having us there.  More thanks to Andy for the suggestion.

Routes from Mototown USA to Great Barrington:  

There are a lot of ways to get from the start location in Connecticut to lunch in Great Barrington.  Here are four possible routes I made up.  You can play around with them and make other options too.

Each route has a downloadable Streets & Trips File (2007 version, I’m not sure how well previous versions can view it) and a .GPX file for your GPS (unzip the file and “recalibrate” it in Mapsource).  The directions from Windsor to Great Barrington are pretty straightforward even if you can’t access these files.

Route 1:  Via Routes 8 & 57



Streets & Trips File

GPX File

Route 2:  Via Route 183



Streets & Trips File

GPX File


Route 3:  Via Route 189



Streets & Trips File

GPX File


Route 4:  Via Route 23



Streets & Trips File

GPX File

Here’s some ideas for lunch too:



The afternoon meeting spot at Price Chopper is actually in the same shopping plaza as the McDonalds.  I can vouch for Four Brothers Pizza.  There is also a pub just north of the Price Chopper on the right that is good.


I know there is also a Subway and a lot of other restaurants clustered in this area.  Manhattan Pizza is a good place.

I'll update more information in this space as it becomes available.

_______________________________________ _______________________________________ ______________________________

In 2005 we did a Meet & Greet where about 50 ST.N'ers from all over the northeast met in Waterbury, Conn. and did a short ride up to Great Barrington, Mass. for lunch.  It was a nice way to meet some new people, check out the new bikes and farkles and get a little riding in early in the season.  You can read about that ride and see some videos HERE.  (Can't believe it's already been two years.)

We tried the ride again last year but the weather never cooperated.

Is there any interest in doing it again?  The basic plan is this:  we group up in our respective areas (eastern NY, Mass., Conn/RI) and meet in a central location, like Waterbury.  We then leave and ride at our own pace(s) up to another location about an hour away, have lunch, then meet again and go our separate ways to ride home.  It worked pretty well in 2005, the roads were in pretty good shape and there were no accidents or injuries.  People came from as far away as Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New Hampshire.

I was talking to Leebo and he is organizing a group ride in New Hampshire on Saturday, April 14 and would be interested in meeting the group in Great Barrington.  For sake of simplicity and convenience I would say we could meet in Waterbury and ride up to Great Barrington again.  

This would be the weekend before the Meet & Eat and would be good for those of us who can't travel too far from home.

Post up if you're interested.

[FiremanBob]

I'm interested.  Is there a good place to stay in GB? It might be better than round-tripping from RI in one day.

[Hulked Up]

Yes there are a few places to stay in Great Barrington, also places in Lee and Stockbridge.  The ones in Great Barrington tend to be more reasonable.

We did have some daytrippers from RI in '05 though.

[Hoss]

Oh, this is possible.  

 I've yet to decide on the meet and eat. I need to do a little multi-day training for this summers big trip  

[knobby]

I'm into this one if it happens...  And of course I love the idea of the starting point in Waterbury, CT.  I live only 10 minutes away from there. I'm ready to roll on this if we can get a good group together.

[scott-sts]

I'm in.

[cjgauthier]

          Ya boy, it's always nice to put faces to names.

I'm interested.  Is there a good place to stay in GB? It might be better than round-tripping from RI in one day.

  
          The majority of the riding event is getting there. The Meet and Greet is a neccesarily brief interlude relatively speaking.

[satz]

I am 133 miles from waterbury ct  from providence... or 139 miles to great barrington

I think i can meet you guys from lunch somewhere ... for sure.

[Hulked Up]

Cool.  There are really two Meet & Greets:  the one in the morning in Waterbury for the folks close enough to get there and the one after lunch in Great Barrington for everyone else.  

Sounds like this could work.  I'll just need to figure out where to meet in Waterbury.  Any of you locals have any ideas?

[tomballos]

Kieth,

I'm in.  I remember the fun I had on the M&G a couple years ago.  50 motorcycles cruising through the countryside and small towns riding great sweepers and twisties.  It was a great ride and I can't wait to see a few familiar faces.

[Leebo]

You know I am in from the inital post.
Hoss, I am going to paste this to the 14th ride I posted on NESR.
Lee

[FiremanBob]

Good idea Satz: we could organize an Eastern group to ride the backroads of Mass and meet up in GB for lunch.

[Hoss]

You know I am in from the inital post.
Hoss, I am going to paste this to the 14th ride I posted on NESR.
Lee

Sounds good Lee

[satz]

Good idea Satz: we could organize an Eastern group to ride the backroads of Mass and meet up in GB for lunch.

Sounds like an idea.Last year i bailed out as it was raining and it was in the 50s.... hopefully we will have better luck.

[ST3Andy]

www.mototownusa.com  Check this place out for the meeting spot. In Windsor, CT. Amazing place. They have a Dunkin Donuts, Blimpies, a gym, accessories shop, service dept, chopper store, all in house. Easy access to back roads to head north. What do you think?

[mav]

I'll be keeping Tabs on this Thread...
 

would be interested an meeting up with some Boston folks and ride out to the Meet and Greet

[marc11]

I'm in.

If Scott is in then so am I!  

[happybusa]

I'll be there,at the meeting location to be determined, close to
the agreed upon time.
I'll be the one on a motorcycle.
 

SullyBusaVfrSv

[FreeTheBeast]

Lee,

Thanks for letting me know about this ride.  IN!  

~ap

[STalker]

I'm in as well.  

[Hulked Up]

www.mototownusa.com  Check this place out for the meeting spot. In Windsor, CT. Amazing place. They have a Dunkin Donuts, Blimpies, a gym, accessories shop, service dept, chopper store, all in house. Easy access to back roads to head north. What do you think?

That could work.  It's very close to I-91 and would be more convenient for the folks coming from the Boston area and points east.  It shouldn't be too difficult to access roads in Litchfield County from there and then head up to Great Barrington.  Also looks like they've got plenty of space for parking and it's less likely we'd have any police stalking us (inside joke from '05).

I'll definitely keep it in mind, just wondering if it's too far for the NY people?

[keltwolf]

April 14th works for me. I made it in 2005, and it was a great time. Well over 50 riders. Just ask the Waterbury police.

[marc11]

That could work.  It's very close to I-91 and would be more convenient for the folks coming from the Boston area and points east.  It shouldn't be too difficult to access roads in Litchfield County from there and then head up to Great Barrington.  Also looks like they've got plenty of space for parking and it's less likely we'd have any police stalking us (inside joke from '05).

I'll definitely keep it in mind, just wondering if it's too far for the NY people?

Not too far for some of us  

[Phat Twin]

You know I am in from the inital post.
Hoss, I am going to paste this to the 14th ride I posted on NESR.
Lee

Leebo,

Word on the street is that you are riding in NH before the M&G.   Where are you planning to ride in NH before the meet and greet?  I've already planted the seed for the ride with the spouse, what are your details shaping up to be?

I'm sure I could convince my father-in-law to go also.

[ST3Andy]

If it ends up on a Saturday, I'll be there in Spirit.  

[JETSET]

I'm in! if I remember correctly there was a NJ contingency   We. did something in the range of 463 miles that ride it was great.A long day trip though

[Leebo]

I'll be keeping Tabs on this Thread...
 

would be interested an meeting up with some Boston folks and ride out to the Meet and Greet

 Mav,
 You can come up RT 2 and meet up with us.
Lee

[Leebo]

Leebo,

Word on the street is that you are riding in NH before the M&G.   Where are you planning to ride in NH before the meet and greet?  I've already planted the seed for the ride with the spouse, what are your details shaping up to be?

I'm sure I could convince my father-in-law to go also.

 I posted on NESR for a ride on the 14th. Then I talked to Keith and we got the MnG talk going, so I pasted this to the NESR ride I posted and combined the two. I also asked a few guys I met last year from the ADV link. I figgure it will be a 150 mile ride to Great Barrington so it will be a good ride.
 Lee

[Dave K]

Doing my first trackday for the year (2nd one ever) on April 14th @ Poconos east. Let's all pray for mild weather...as I spent my morning snow blowing 16"!

If date gets moved, I'm interested.

[Phat Twin]

 I posted on NESR for a ride on the 14th. Then I talked to Keith and we got the MnG talk going, so I pasted this to the NESR ride I posted and combined the two. I also asked a few guys I met last year from the ADV link. I figgure it will be a 150 mile ride to Great Barrington so it will be a good ride.
 Lee

Could you please post the link so that I can find out the details?

Thanks in advance.

-Chip

[cole]

I would be up for this ride again. In years past it was always a great day and a good way to meet new people and to put a face to a name. Hopefully the weather will work out this time. If I remember right it was a bit colder on 05 maybe this dam snow will melt and leave us with a early spring.

[ChR1s]

April 14.

Great Barrington.

Calendar updated.

[Hulked Up]

Great to see the interest.  Let's do this for Saturday, April 14.  (Sorry Andy).

I'm usually do or die with the date, rain be damned.  People make plans around that date so I feel an obligation to stick with it.  We couldn't do it the next weekend anyway because of the Meet & Eat.

Let me get to work on the start location and route(s) to Great Barrington.  The meet location in Great Barrington will be the same as 05, the Price Chopper parking lot right on Rte. 7.  There are plenty of restaurants in that immediate area.  (I'll post up maps and more info. as we get closer.)

The way the ride will work is that a bunch of us will meet at the start, either in Windsor or Waterbury, Conn.  We'll have about an hour of meet & greet and then people will leave for lunch at Great Barrington.  We won't do a parade group, rather people leave when they want and ride at their own pace, with whoever they want, up to lunch.  We'll have about an hour for lunch and then regroup at Price Chopper to meet the other groups.  After that we all find small groups and ride back home.

We should have Streets & Trips and GPS files of routes available beforehand.  A few of us will have FRS radios for communication.  I'll also start a cell phone list for people who want to participate.

Bring your new farkles, bring your new bikes.  Meet some cool people and let's kick the riding season off right.

[marc11]

I would be up for this ride again. In years past it was always a great day and a good way to meet new people and to put a face to a name. Hopefully the weather will work out this time. If I remember right it was a bit colder on 05 maybe this dam snow will melt and leave us with a early spring.

  Spring officially starts this Wednesday, I have over a foot of snow on the ground, soooooooo unless it is 80 out tomorrow, I wouldn't put too much money on an "early spring"  

[Leebo]

Could you please post the link so that I can find out the details?

Thanks in advance.

-Chip

http://www.nestreetriders.com/forum/ride-event-info/26909-ride-april-14th-vt-nh.html

[mav]

Bah! Family Stuff happening April 14th down in NJ!

if the date gets changed due to uncooperative weather..then I and my GF are in.

 

will be keeping tabs on this thread though.

[Mini4x]

April 14.

Great Barrington.

Calendar updated.

is this on deck for sure?

I'll add it to my Outlook if so.

;-)

[airborneXX]

I might be in for this. My brother just moved to Danbury so it will give me a chance to check out his new pad.

[DosEquis00]

I might be in for this. My brother just moved to Danbury so it will give me a chance to check out his new pad.

We will have to do a ride up there as my brother is in Ridgefield and there are some nice roads in the area.

[scott-sts]

www.mototownusa.com  Check this place out for the meeting spot. In Windsor, CT. Amazing place. They have a Dunkin Donuts, Blimpies, a gym, accessories shop, service dept, chopper store, all in house. Easy access to back roads to head north. What do you think?

Nice Avatar photo there bud.  My friend Neil called me a "Wanker".  However, the jokes on him: Apparently I have a better chance of landing an AMA Superbike ride than HE DOES.

[scott-sts]

  Spring officially starts this Wednesday, I have over a foot of snow on the ground, soooooooo unless it is 80 out tomorrow, I wouldn't put too much money on an "early spring"  

It hasn't been nearly as bad down here on LI (We pay extra taxes to have "Better weather")  A lot of shit had better melt quick for this meet & greet to work!

[tshelver]

Not to be p!ssy, but why label this a New England Meet and Greet?  It's more of a Southern New England Meet and Greet.

It barely gets into Massachusetts, which last I looked was still in the south.....  

[Mini4x]

Not to be p!ssy, but why label this a New England Meet and Greet?  It's more of a Southern New England Meet and Greet.

It barely gets into Massachusetts, which last I looked was still in the south.....  

You afraid of riding more then 2 miles?

 

[negruber]

We will have to do a ride up there as my brother is in Ridgefield and there are some nice roads in the area.

Hey Dos, Grew up in Ridgefield.  25 years ago.  Nothing like it is today.  Yikes.  

I am in for the ride.  Cannot wait for the 15 inches of snow to melt here.  I guess I will see what the Mass folks are doing.  Will be real nice to meet some of you folks.  

Cannot wait

Cheers

[scott-sts]

I'm in! if I remember correctly there was a NJ contingency   We. did something in the range of 463 miles that ride it was great.A long day trip though

Bunch of guys rode up from Philly if memory serves.

[Hulked Up]

I've got the details set for the ride.  I talked to the manager of Mototown USA and they are very enthusiastic about having us there.  They encourage this kind of thing.

I put all the details in the first post of this thread.  To save you the trouble, here is that information:

Date:  Saturday, April 14

Start Location in Connecticut:  Mototown USA, 1001 Dayhill Road, Windsor, CT 06095 (860-688-5110) (Interstate 91, north of Hartford, exit 38, right off ramp, take your first left onto Dayhill Rd [after passing under 91] and 2.5 miles down Dayhill Road.  Mototown USA Website for additional details on this facility.

Time:  arrive at 9am, Rider's Meeting about 10, leave about 10:30am.

Start Location in New Hampshire:  TBA

Destination:  Great Barrington, Mass. for lunch.  There is no set restaurant, watch this space for links/options, but everyone is on their own for lunch.

After lunch, both the CT & NH groups will meet at the Price Chopper parking lot, 300 Stockbridge St., Great Barrington, starting at about 1pm.  After another Meet & Greet we'll split into small groups and ride back home around 2pm or so.  Great Barrington has easy access to Interstate 90 and eastern NY.

I will put any updates, such as routes, maps, files and names of restaurants into that first post as well.

Looking forward to seeing/meeting everyone again.  Thanks for your interest.  Post any questions here.  It's also helpful to gauge turnout, so if you haven't committed and you think you can make it, please post up.  

[Hoss]

Looks great Keith,

I should be set for this  

[ZX10FLYER]

Sounds like it going to be a great ride... I'm in

[PWGUNNY]

I'd like to meet up at the Windsor, CT spot.  I haven't posted up here since the site was redesigned.  I had to re-register.  I'll keep this on my "favorites" again.

[tomballos]

Spring must be here if we are planning for the Meet and Greet.  Happy spring everybody.  Looking forward to seeing some old and new faces.

[tshelver]

Well, if the snow is melted (quite a bit to go) and the salt is gone (ditto), probably meet in GB for lunch.

I'll be riding down from central NH / VT (Lyme / Hanover / Whiter River area), if anybody is interested in meeting up.

[Leebo]

here is the route I am looking at taking to this.
Meet at the Citco at the junction of rt 202 and 119 in Rindge NH (time to be decided later) and head south on 202 and maybe meet other riders on the way. If anyone has anyother suggestions, feel free to voice them. I am by no means the most knowledgeable of the area so speak up.
 Also I will probably be slogging this ride on my KLR since I am trying to sell my Sprint. Dont worry, I dont plan on holding you up
 Lee

[Moo_Vin]

Wow, this sounds like a great ride and meet and greet.

I'll be riding little circles around a little parking lot on a little state-owned 250...going for my MSF instructor cert, classes are every Friday-Saturday-Sunday in April.

I'll be wishing I was meeting and riding with you fine gentlemen and ladies that day.

[PhatPat33]

here is the route I am looking at taking to this.
Meet at the Citco at the junction of rt 202 and 119 in Rindge NH (time to be decided later) and head south on 202 and maybe meet other riders on the way. If anyone has anyother suggestions, feel free to voice them. I am by no means the most knowledgeable of the area so speak up.
 Also I will probably be slogging this ride on my KLR since I am trying to sell my Sprint. Dont worry, I dont plan on holding you up
 Lee

There is a Dunkin' Donuts / Shell Station at RT 2 and 202 that has plenty of parking and caters to motorcycle groups that meet there.  I'm hoping to catch you all from that point.  

[Mini4x]

here is the route I am looking at taking to this.
Meet at the Citco at the junction of rt 202 and 119 in Rindge NH (time to be decided later) and head south on 202 and maybe meet other riders on the way. If anyone has anyother suggestions, feel free to voice them. I am by no means the most knowledgeable of the area so speak up.
 Also I will probably be slogging this ride on my KLR since I am trying to sell my Sprint. Dont worry, I dont plan on holding you up
 Lee

Keep me posted, I could meeyt ya in Rindge.

Any other Bostonians wanna collect up for the roll to Rindge?

[gforce]

Nice to see all the old and new names, Keith.

Now, lessee, last year's advance planning brought a monsoon; can we get a blizzard this year?  

We'll be there if we don't have to swim.  

[Hulked Up]

I know, the weather is always dicey in April, isn't it?  

I got this nice email from the owner of Mototown USA:

Hi Keith,
It's great to see your enthusiasm. As the owner of
Mototown Cycles and Service I would like to host your
event by providing Dunkin Donuts coffee to get you guys
going. I'll also post the event on our website along with
your link.

Best Regards,

Robert

P.S. Dunkin will be open for those fat pills and muffins.

Don't know what else we could ask for.  

[scott-sts]

I know, the weather is always dicey in April, isn't it?  

I got this nice email from the owner of Mototown USA:



Don't know what else we could ask for.  

Broads.  Nice thick ankled New England broads.

[marc11]

Broads.  Nice thick ankled New England broads.

Its still early in the season, we should be able to round up a few with the "winter fat" still on them....

[Leebo]

There is a Dunkin' Donuts / Shell Station at RT 2 and 202 that has plenty of parking and caters to motorcycle groups that meet there.  I'm hoping to catch you all from that point.  

No problem.
Lee

[02VFR]

I'm in! if I remember correctly there was a NJ contingency   We. did something in the range of 463 miles that ride it was great.A long day trip though

I rember that.  It was a long day but I had a great time.  I will miss attending this as I am little furter away now...
I look forward to seeing everyone at the ESTN in Sparta...

[JETSET]

I rember that.  It was a long day but I had a great time.  I will miss attending this as I am little furter away now...
I look forward to seeing everyone at the ESTN in Sparta...

Unfortunatly,I won't be there It would be great to do a ride with you Phil.How's the round outside and hi in the middle?

[02VFR]

Unfortunately,I won't be there It would be great to do a ride with you Phil.How's the round outside and hi in the middle?

Doing good out here.  It is taking a little while to get used to not living near anything (20-25 minutes to get to a supermarket) but the calm and quiet is well worth it.   It is starting to warm up here.  I am going to get out for a little ride on Monday it is suppose to be 76....

Congrats on the new bike......

[Fav]

I may be in again. 05' was chilly, 06' was wet ...could 07 be nice ?


Hope to see you guys there

[01YZF6]

wow.... look at all the names !  some know me, some dont...........
 
 
 
Keith, i wont be in for the CT meet, but I may be in for the NH  meet part.......
 
Working in Vernon/Brattleboro last 8 months and have not had a chance to know the roads yet... so this may be a great opportunity.....
 
Lee, can you put together a rough time line and mileage estimate for the entire route?
 
TSHELVER...if i happen to be home for that weekend, i would meet up with ya in Hanover or WRJ,  once the times get worked out....

Hope I can make this one...
Rob

[Leebo]

Lee, can you put together a rough time line and mileage estimate for the entire route?
 
Rob

Rob,
Yeah I will be doing that with in the next week.
Lee

[Hoss]

wow.... look at all the names !  some know me, some dont...........
 
 
 
Keith, i wont be in for the CT meet, but I may be in for the NH  meet part.......
 
Working in Vernon/Brattleboro last 8 months and have not had a chance to know the roads yet... so this may be a great opportunity.....
 
Lee, can you put together a rough time line and mileage estimate for the entire route?
 
TSHELVER...if i happen to be home for that weekend, i would meet up with ya in Hanover or WRJ,  once the times get worked out....

Hope I can make this one...
Rob

Hey Rob, good to hear!  

[Fasted15]

       Hi, I made the 05 M&G. I can't made this years ride. son's getting married on the Friday after and wife has a honey do list a mile long that has to get done before the wedding.    .

[ST3Andy]

Begged and pleaded,( a few beers after work helped) and my GM gave me the day off. I'm in doods

[02VFR]

I'm in! if I remember correctly there was a NJ contingency   We. did something in the range of 463 miles that ride it was great.A long day trip though

Lets not forget the famous Randy picture during our stop on the GSP on the way up..

[STalker]

Begged and pleaded,( a few beers after work helped) and my GM gave me the day off. I'm in doods

 

[FreeTheBeast]

here is the route I am looking at taking to this.
Meet at the Citco at the junction of rt 202 and 119 in Rindge NH (time to be decided later) and head south on 202 and maybe meet other riders on the way. If anyone has anyother suggestions, feel free to voice them. I am by no means the most knowledgeable of the area so speak up.
 Also I will probably be slogging this ride on my KLR since I am trying to sell my Sprint. Dont worry, I dont plan on holding you up
 Lee

I'll meet you in Rindge, Lee.       We can decide on the time a couple days before...

And about that Sprint of yours........

[Leebo]

 
 
 
Lee, can you put together a rough time line and mileage estimate for the entire route?
 
  Hope I can make this one...
Rob

Rob,
 From the map point directions it looks like very close to 300 miles round trip as it is drawn. 132 from Gas station to great barrington.
 I am looking to leave from the Citgo station around 0915. No later than 0930.
 I think there are 8 or 9 riders so far for this group and I think we should run in groups of 4 or 5.
Just my take on it. I will lead a medium speed group. If someone wants to tear it up, fine you know where we
will be for lunch.
 I think it will take between 3 and 3.5 hours to get to Great Barrington so that should put us there about 1230 to 1300. Af far as I know that will work with Keith for the all of us to get together. If we have to change it we will. There are also people talking about meeting us from NESR too for the ride. Once we all get to the Citgo we can divide up.
 Lee

[Hulked Up]

This is Lee's route from Ringe to Great Barrington and back.  Sorry for not posting it sooner.  I'm right in the middle of the buying/selling house thing.

[Asphalt Pilot]

Looks like I'm in -- great timing.

When this was first discussed, I was sure I'd miss it due to work & travel commitments and other plans. But the 14th is perfect timing for me, and the start is so close to home I have no excuses! Looking forward to my first ride w/ ST-net group and meeting some more area riders.

[JETSET]

Lets not forget the famous Randy picture during our stop on the GSP on the way up..

I remember that it was right b4 we did a get there by 9:30 ride,(Waterbury CT) when we were in NJ at 9:00.I belive we made it.

[Hulked Up]

Update:  I added some possible routes between the Conn. meet spot and Great Barrington and also put in some maps of restaurants in the area.  See the first post in this thread.

Only two weeks away.  

[01YZF6]

I hope all of you have a fun and safe ride, due to a family tragedy i will not be attending........
 

[Long:Haul]

I would really enjoy to meet with you all again and meet more riders.  But this year I'm preparing for a ride to South Dakota.  Gotta break down the bike and do the maintenence thing.  No I'm not going during the Harley asshole madness.  We are planning to go in June to see the moutains, black hills like a sport rider should ride them.   Can I ask those that own a FJR if you installed Dale Walker's header your opinion of the performance and benefit.  I'm thinking for the trip to install the header to get rid of the cat's.  Pls let me know.   Thanks

[Fav]

Can I ask those that own a FJR if you installed Dale Walker's header your opinion of the performance and benefit.  I'm thinking for the trip to install the header to get rid of the cat's.  Pls let me know.   Thanks

Just read up on that exhaust as I never knew they made it.  IMO if it cools the bike down, increases efficiency in both fuel mileage and performance I say get it. Question is ...how loud and do you want louder ?

[Craigc]

Count me in  

Keith, maybe we can hook-up for the cruz down in the A.M.

Craig

[ST3Andy]

Hey look who's back! Good to hear from you Craig. Haven't heard nor seen ya in quite a while.Hope to see ya on the 14th.

[Malber]

I'm in. Will be meeting in NH.

[ST3Andy]

I'm out. Boss changed his mind. Enjoy all.

[Hulked Up]

You're just a few days late on the April Fool's joke, right?  

[gforce]

You're just a few days late on the April Fool's joke, right?  

Naw, he just heard it'll be snowing.  

Next year: pestilence.  

[ST3Andy]

No, one of our salesman gave his notice, and April-May are huge months for bike sales and Sat. is our buisiest day of the week naturally. Bummed, but the riding season is just starting, I'll run into you all at some point this season.

[Leebo]

Weather report looks good as of this morning. Lets hope it holds.
Lee

[kenga]

Leebo - any idea what time you'll be at Rt 2X202?
Sounds like 10:30-11:45?
Love that stretch of 202 since they re-surfaced it last year.
It's unlikely I'll have my bike back(Dec low-side), but if I do, I am there.

PhatPat33 - where will you be coming from?
i'm still looking for folks local to ride with after work, even if I can't make the 14th

[Leebo]

Leebo - any idea what time you'll be at Rt 2X202?
Sounds like 10:30-11:45?
Love that stretch of 202 since they re-surfaced it last year.
It's unlikely I'll have my bike back(Dec low-side), but if I do, I am there.

PhatPat33 - where will you be coming from?
i'm still looking for folks local to ride with after work, even if I can't make the 14th

 I believe that Shell Gas station/Duncan Donuts is about 25 miles from 119/202 intersection. If we leave there no later than 930 we should be to that place by no later than 1015.
 If you are meeting us there then be ready to go. I am planning on getting to the Citgo around 850 so after sitting for 40 min I will be ready to get going.
 Hope to see you there.
Lee

[kenga]

Leebo,
Esh. I just did a reality check and it's just not feasible, so don't expect me.

Hopefully another time, soon, now that I know how to find fellow travelers.
Cheers!

[NHFZ1]

I've been on the fence about going because of scheduling and commitments.  But It looks good.  So I am IN 

I'll plan to meet Leebo in Rindge at the Citgo station.

[Lon]

I'm planning to meet up with the group in Rindge, NH.  See y'all then.  Might be carrying the wife.

[Hulked Up]

Less than a week away, is anyone else excited?  I haven't been able to get much riding in this season due to the weather; this will be my first real trip out.

Weather is looking decent, but it will be cold in the morning.

[snowcommuter]

If I can swing it I'm there...leaving from the NH location.

[CPB]

Less than a week away, is anyone else excited?  I haven't been able to get much riding in this season due to the weather; this will be my first real trip out.

Weather is looking decent, but it will be cold in the morning.

Hey Keith.  Interested to see who/how many show up.  Nice April so far eh?  

Rode the GS into work today.  About 28* on the ride in.  Supposed to see 50* by the ride home.  

Hope the weather holds out for Sat.

[PhatPat33]

Leebo - any idea what time you'll be at Rt 2X202?
Sounds like 10:30-11:45?
Love that stretch of 202 since they re-surfaced it last year.
It's unlikely I'll have my bike back(Dec low-side), but if I do, I am there.

PhatPat33 - where will you be coming from?
i'm still looking for folks local to ride with after work, even if I can't make the 14th

Sorry Guys, but I'm out for the Shell gas station meet at Rt 2/202.  A friend needs help moving out of her apartment.  I'm hoping to finish early and ride straight out to lunch if possible.

Kenga, I'm in Holden

[negruber]

Well,

If no more &^%$# snow falls I will meet up with Lee and Company at 119 and 202 for the ride down.  Cannot wait.

Cheers

[Leebo]

Sorry Guys, but I'm out for the Shell gas station meet at Rt 2/202.  A friend needs help moving out of her apartment.  I'm hoping to finish early and ride straight out to lunch if possible.

Kenga, I'm in Holden

 She had better be a good friend...helping people move sucks, missing a good ride to help people move really sucks. (or not )

[ZZRStew]

I'm in. Just have to find time to take the bike apart and get it back together.

[Hulked Up]

Looking forward to meeting everyone.  Big thanks to Lee for organizing the NH and Vermont folks; you guys are well represented.

Now's a good time to start a cell phone list.  If you want your name and number on the list PM me or send me an email at:  westernmassriding@yahoo.com  Include your name and cell phone number.  By Thursday night/Friday morning I'll PM the entire list to the people who have contributed their names/numbers.  It's good to have in case you get lost or are running late.

While I'm thinking about it...it's always a good idea to have a card with your contact information on your person or bike.  I didn't have any luck finding one online you could print out.

[Leebo]

Lets hope the space between storms stays as predicted. If so we should be able to get the ride in.
Lee

[Asphalt Pilot]

While I'm thinking about it...it's always a good idea to have a card with your contact information on your person or bike.  I didn't have any luck finding one online you could print out.

I recently ordered one of these: http://www.roadid.com. Got a wristband for motorcycling and a shoe tag for bicycling/running.

I also keep a contact card in the map window of my tankbag. But friends who have had ambulance/helicopter rides have pointed out that in a crash your gear often lands far from your person . . . and your riding suit usually gets cut off of you. With a road id they don't have to search for, or guess at, your emergency contact info!

PM coming your way, H.U.

Marc

[Hulked Up]

But friends who have had ambulance/helicopter rides have pointed out that in a crash your gear often lands far from your person . . . and your riding suit usually gets cut off of you. With a road id they don't have to search for, or guess at, your emergency contact info!

This exact thing happened to an ST.N'er a couple of years ago and the results were very traumatic for the family.

[BHazz]

Hi Everyone,
New guy here, from Rocky Hill, CT.  Someone from Stromtroopers.com pointed me to this site and this ride.  You all sound like a fun down-to-earth group of riders.

If y'all don't mind a good looking V-Strom 650 tagging along with all your beautiful sport tourers, I'd like to make this ride, starting in Windsor, weather permitting.

On the way home, I was thinking of taking Rte 7 South to Rte 44 East. Any other thoughts?

I'm not what you would call an aggressive rider and usually like to ride in back, recording the fun, with my mounted video camera and a still-shot camera. So, say cheese.

Thanks,  Bruce

[Hulked Up]

Thanks Bruce and welcome.  

The M&G is set up primarily to meet other riders in the area.  It's too early in the season and the group is too big for any aggressive riding.  The ride up to lunch will be leisurely so I think all skills levels will be comfortable.  The usual drill is to put the more experienced riders in the front and people self-assess where in the pack they belong.  If people are backed up behind you we ask that you kindly wave people around you to pass.

When we meet all the riders from New Hampshire we'll try to organize smaller groups who are headed home together.  Check out some license plates and try to link up with your local riders.  You might learn some nice roads you didn't know about.

It looks like we are getting extremely lucky with the weather.  The only window of good weather we have over the next 5 days happens to be on Saturday.

[gforce]

The only window of good weather we have over the next 5 days happens to be on Saturday.

We can but hope it stays that way...

[BHazz]

Hi Leebo,
I noticed that you own a KLR650.  I had contact with a Leebo on a web site (KLR650.net) when I was organizing a Berkshires ride, well over a year ago.
For some reason, I don't think that you made the trip.

Was that you on the KLR site?

Thanks, Bruce

[Lon]

We can but hope it stays that way...

No kidding.  I'll ride in the cold.  I'll ride in the rain.  I will not ride in the cold rain.

[Leebo]

Hi Leebo,
I noticed that you own a KLR650.  I had contact with a Leebo on a web site (KLR650.net) when I was organizing a Berkshires ride, well over a year ago.
For some reason, I don't think that you made the trip.

Was that you on the KLR site?

Thanks, Bruce

Bruce,
 I thought I recognized the name. Yep that was me, I did not make the ride cause it was to far to slog on a KLX. I sold it and picked up a KLR650 in November. I will be riding that Saturday. I found collant on the floor under  my Sprint and I need to flush and clean out the radiator, check hoses and see what is up with it.
 Look for a OD green KLR and you will find me.
 See you Saturday. It should make for some interesting scenery....We got 2 inches of ice and snow so far today.
Lee

[Asphalt Pilot]

Dang, I'm out.   Did not get the bike prepped in time (thanks in part to Uncle Sam's demand for revenue and a particularly complex tax situation this year).

Looks like the weather will be decent, if not great. Stay warm, and hope to hook up with other riders sometime this season.

[Malber]

For those coming from Manchester, NH or somewhere off 93, here are the directions from Manch:

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&hl=en&saddr=Manchester,+New+Hampshire+03104&daddr=West+Rindge,+nh&layer=&sll=42.880245,-71.744975&sspn=0.347178,0.63858&ie=UTF8&z=11&ll=42.885021,-71.743469&spn=0.347152,0.63858&om=1

[Hulked Up]

Craig & Mark, I'll be at the Friendly's in Greenfield a little before 8am if you want to meet to ride down together.  If anyone else is coming from Western Mass. or northern Conn. and wants to meet on 91 just let me know.

[Hoss]

Looks like around 40 deg in Ringe around the meeting time. I'm lacking in decent cold weather gear...I can tough it out..right?

 

[Malber]

Looks like around 40 deg in Ringe around the meeting time. I'm lacking in decent cold weather gear...I can tough it out..right?

 

I've ridden most of this winter, such as it was. The key was layers.

[Malber]

Anyone in the Manchester area want to meet up there and figure out a route to Rindge?

[NHFZ1]

Anyone in the Manchester area want to meet up there and figure out a route to Rindge?

Just go 101 west to 202 south till you get to the junction with 119.

[Lon]

Leebo - do you have turn-by-turn that you could post?

Google Maps approximation of Leebo's route from NH119 & US202 in Rindge
Google Maps approximation of Leebo's route back (basically, US7N -> VT9)

I have passenger comfort to worry about - so I might take slightly more breaks and a slightly different route down:

Lon's slightly shorter, alternate route down

Lon's  slightly shorter,alternate route down (updated 10:26PM EDT)

Lon's slightly shorter, alternate route back

[Darkrider]

Have fun guys.

I wish I could come but I have a birthday party to go to.  Family comes first.

See you soon,

Tom.

[Lon]

Anyone in the Manchester area want to meet up there and figure out a route to Rindge?

I can meet people in Milford at the circle (101A / 13) @ 8:20 or so if anyone wants?

[BHazz]

Is anyone starting in Windsor, Day Hill Road?

Bruce

[Hulked Up]

Yup, will be a number of us there.  Just not posting as much.  

[tomballos]

Is anyone starting in Windsor, Day Hill Road?

Bruce

I plan to meet up there.  I'm coming from Hyde Park, NY.

[STalker]

Is anyone starting in Windsor, Day Hill Road?

Bruce

 Check your PM's

[STalker]

Helloooo... anybody out there?

[knobby]

Yup.....We're here, but won't be attending the ride this time.  Sure hope to meet a bunch of you guys another time. Hope you all have a safe ride, and don't run into to many dumb cagers.

[gforce]

I'm planning on seeing y'all in GB for lunch.  What time?

[BHazz]

I'm up.  Just checked tire pressure and greased the chain.
Ready to go.

Looks like a beautiful day

See You All Soon.

[ChR1s]

Cool to see so many bikes make it out today. That was some cold-ass riding, with the sun hiding most of the time. The Gerbing jacket liner was toasty enough but my fingers grew painfully cold. Not much sand/salt at all though, considering the recent spate of inclimate wx. Rt.20/23 in MA were surprisingly clean.

Paige was nice enough to let me borrow one of her street bikes today, her new 650R. Nifty bike. Revs eagerly w/o any annoying vibration. Kawi put some work into making it produce a bit of a growl, too. Dammit. I need a street bike.

re: MotoTown
I forgot to ask, how'd that meeting spot work out?

[theothersean]

Definately a chilly windy day for sure. I had a good time on my route from ringe NH to G Barrington. A few sandy spots , frost heaves and tar snakes to deal with , but this is april in New England after all. Rt 116 was clear , only a couple wet spots, and the majority of 112 was nice, except for the section from rt 9 up over the hill and by the farms, but thats even sandy in the summer time.
Apparantly some of the 10 people that followed me didn't like the route I picked out at the very last minute. Being that I was not planning to be a leader today and I was asked to lead a group 5 minutes before we left for the ride, and I had absolutely no idea how long the route would take , I thought I did pretty good. We made it to G barrington for 1:30 ish and there were still bikes in the parking lot when we pulled in.
So for anyone that followed me  and enjoyed them selves, I'm glad you had fun today. For those of you that would like there money back from todays ride, just post up your address, and I will even refund you double your money back, which comes out to be $00.00 I can send check or money order.


Hope everyone made it home safely

[NHFZ1]

Sean, You did a great job a tour guide today.  I had a super time following along.  No problems here.

Like you said "this is April in New England after all".  I know I heard some comments about the sand.  IMHO the only "sand problems" were on a couple of the more secondary roads. 

Were people actually complaining?  If you can fix the sand then maybe next time you can try to make it a few degrees warmer.

Chuck

[negruber]

Definately a chilly windy day for sure. I had a good time on my route from ringe NH to G Barrington. A few sandy spots , frost heaves and tar snakes to deal with , but this is april in New England after all. Rt 116 was clear , only a couple wet spots, and the majority of 112 was nice, except for the section from rt 9 up over the hill and by the farms, but thats even sandy in the summer time.
Apparantly some of the 10 people that followed me didn't like the route I picked out at the very last minute. Being that I was not planning to be a leader today and I was asked to lead a group 5 minutes before we left for the ride, and I had absolutely no idea how long the route would take , I thought I did pretty good. We made it to G barrington for 1:30 ish and there were still bikes in the parking lot when we pulled in.
So for anyone that followed me  and enjoyed them selves, I'm glad you had fun today. For those of you that would like there money back from todays ride, just post up your address, and I will even refund you double your money back, which comes out to be $00.00 I can send check or money order.


Hope everyone made it home safely

Hey TOS,

I thought you did a great job of leading.     Thanks.  And thanks for showing some nice roads off 202.  Always fun to see new things

My $.02

-Cheers

[Leebo]

Definately a chilly windy day for sure. I had a good time on my route from ringe NH to G Barrington. A few sandy spots , frost heaves and tar snakes to deal with , but this is april in New England after all. Rt 116 was clear , only a couple wet spots, and the majority of 112 was nice, except for the section from rt 9 up over the hill and by the farms, but thats even sandy in the summer time.
Apparantly some of the 10 people that followed me didn't like the route I picked out at the very last minute. Being that I was not planning to be a leader today and I was asked to lead a group 5 minutes before we left for the ride, and I had absolutely no idea how long the route would take , I thought I did pretty good. We made it to G barrington for 1:30 ish and there were still bikes in the parking lot when we pulled in.
So for anyone that followed me  and enjoyed them selves, I'm glad you had fun today. For those of you that would like there money back from todays ride, just post up your address, and I will even refund you double your money back, which comes out to be $00.00 I can send check or money order.


Hope everyone made it home safely

 .....Sean,
 Thanks for leading the group, I didn't think it would be all but two bikes but it worked out.
 When I turned on to rt 2 and you went straight I though "I didn’t know that went straight through" Then talking to Pat he said it doesn’t..
 See you next time.
Lee

 

[Hulked Up]

Sean, hey you got your group there without getting split up, lost or crashed.  That's a success.  I led all day yesterday and it's work to keep a large group together.  That's why no one wants to lead.  

[Malber]

Sean: As a new rider I enjoyed the challenge of the roads you picked! The only downside was the cold; damn weather.com forecasting 50 degree weather and it turns out to be in the 30s.  

[theothersean]

As for the rt 2 mishap we were on rt 2a  and it woul dhave connected a bit further down with 202, so I should have stayed on it but I was day dreaming . So instead of a quick look at a map,   I turned the group around to head back on rt 2 to pick 202 back up.   If the weather was nicer and the roads a bit more clear there was a back road I could have taken off 2a and avoided a large stretch of 202. But this time of year it is definately much sandier than the other roads.

As for leading groups,  I know its a lot of work which is why no one wants to to do it.  I have found over the years that if I want to ride in a group, it usually means that I am going to be leading it.
But its nice sometmes to just sit back and follow, not having to worry about finding the happy balance between too much or too little seat time between breaks,  finding gas , food and bathroom breaks, all coordinated with the groups needs.  


As long as people with in the group follow a simple rule , there should NEVER be a split up group.

I know its hard to do this when you are ripping along twisties and are having so much fun you don't want to look back, but.

As long as you always look for the guy behind you at a change in road direction, fork in the road, intersection, etc.  There should always be someone waiting for you at the next one.
If the group goes through an intersection and the guy behind you isn't there, you stop and wait for him. Then when the couple of you get to the next road change there should be 1 person there for you , and so on up the line until the group is finally back together somewhere on down the road.

Hopefully this weather won't produce tooo much white crap , and we can be out on the road again soon.

[Hoss]

No complaints here from me Sean. Sure the occasional comment on how 112 was a bit of a beach, but if your on a bike in New England and it's April...it's sand or nothing  

I enjoyed the route, pace, and the company. As I said I've never been out that way and now have some great roads to check out later in the year. Thanks for leading!

And thanks to Lee and Hulked Up getting this setup!

[BHazz]

Hi Everyone,
I have placed all the photos on the following url:
http://haslam.smugmug.com/gallery/2712565#143759466

From this site you can download and/or order any pictures the you would like. This site offers online editing tools like cropping, special effects, etc.

Keep in mind that these are huge (10.3 megapixel) pictures.  You can crop quite a bit and still have a very nice picture.

I will be working on the video and hope to have it ready in a week or so.  It's tuff making all of you riders look good.  

Thanks to all the friendly faces.  For a first-timer with this group, I really enjoyed the ride.


Ride Safe Everyone!

Bruce

[Hulked Up]

Great pictures Bruce, you pretty much documented everything that happened.  I'm really looking forward to seeing the video.  Hope we can all do it again soon.

[gforce]

Nice, Bruce.  Thanks for posting 'em up.  

Good to meet you at lunch.  And welcome.

[Leebo]

Bruce , good to meet you too. We will have to ride this summer.

 Lee

[Lon]

Hi guys,

Just checking in.  It was a great ride.  It was good to meet you all.

Sean:  Thanks for keeping the pace reasonable on the way down.
Leebo:  Thanks for planning the NH meetup.
HulkedUp:  Thanks for organizing, you nut.

I think this was Malber's first ST.N ride, and - indeed - probably the longest (and coldest) ride he's done to date.

Malber:  You did totally awesome.  You rode your own ride, let your fears keep you sane, and maintained high spirits despite being ... well, less than perfectly equipped for the weather     Plus, I imagine you may have just doubled your street experience ... in one day!    I hope your first ST.N ride experience was positive.

I look forward to riding with you all in the future.

[Malber]

I think this was Malber's first ST.N ride, and - indeed - probably the longest (and coldest) ride he's done to date.

Malber:  You did totally awesome.  You rode your own ride, let your fears keep you sane, and maintained high spirits despite being ... well, less than perfectly equipped for the weather     Plus, I imagine you may have just doubled your street experience ... in one day!    I hope your first ST.N ride experience was positive.

Thanks Lon. It was a lot of fun. I appreciated all the advice too. I managed to pick up the Hough book and with all the great weather we've been having I've been puting it to good practice. Looking forward to the next group ride.

[BHazz]

Hello Again Everyone,

I finally finished the video. You can view it on YouTube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZcKyOcPdcY

I hope you enjoy it.

Ride Safe!
Bruce

[gforce]

Outstanding, Bruce!  Thanks.

Enjoyed our lunch; look forward to riding with you again.  --  Jon

[Hulked Up]

First class job of editing there Bruce.  I know how hard it is to do those videos, that's why I never finish mine.  Great job.  Enjoyed seeing it from your perspective.