Advenutre Bikes

Here are three Adventure bikes I would love to own...



The Ural Sidecar



The Kawasaki 650 KLR



The Honda Translap

Favorite Motorcycle Sayings

I'd rather be on my motorcycle thinking about God than sitting in church thinking about my motorcycle.

Run whatcha brung.

Flat black that Rat.

When life throws you a curve, lean into it.

Ride it like you stole it.

Go fast turn left.

Shut up and ride.

Ride. Rench. Repeat.

Can you pop a wheelie??

Go West Young Man...

In August 2004, my buddy Robert and I set off on an adventure from St. Louis, MO to Spokane, WA. The trip was simple, make no plans other than to hit anything and everything that looked interesting along the way. 5,200 miles in 10 days across 9 states... it was the trip of a life time. National Parks, friendly locals, and twisty mountainous roads... riding out West was truly an adventure!!

Project Bobber (CB750)

I love wrenching on bikes as much as I love riding them. Having an itch to try my hand at chopping a bike, Project “Bobber” started with a 1981 CB750 I picked up pretty cheap. Like the old British café race era, I started removing anything not needed. 75 pounds lighter, I then cut the rear end of the frame, chopped the exhaust, and put on some clubman bars. Next, a $4.00 flat black paint job to give the bike some attitude and a low profile seat. It’s loud, uncomfortable, and different. Mission accomplished!

"Must Have" items on your motorcycle trip

• Quality tent - Don’t skimp when buying a tent. It’s your dryness you are skimping on. I have great luck with Eureka.
• Waterproof motorcycle jacket with liner - Sun, rain, or snow, you can keep on cruising. The First Gear Kilimanjaro jacket has kept me warm with no problems.
• Nalgene bottle - You never know when you will be stranded. Can hold gas too in emergency.
• Quick disconnect helmet - Makes quick sight seeing stops more enjoyable.
• Tank bag - Magnetic works best for easy access to gas.
• Gortex hiking boots - Good on and off bike.
• Crocs - Simple, light, easy, and comfy.
• Leatherman - Used in multiple ways and situations.
• Handkerchief - Good for blowing nose, cleaning shields, washing face, etc. (not in that order).
• Large zip ties - Held a pannier on that had a broken bracket across 5 states.
• Few large zip lock bags - Extra waterproof container, trash holder, or extra water reserve.

Vladimir Yarets

One day at the BMW dealership in St. Louis, I had the honor of meeting Vladimir Yarets. I was greeted with a hardy handshake, a swift slap on the back, and a thumbs up. No words were exchange yet I had entered into a conversation using sign language. Vladimir, a Russian def-mute from Minsk Belarus, proceeded to tell me (or show me) about his travels as he is on his way into the record book as the first def-mute to travel around the world. In the brief 30 minutes or so that I spent with him learning of his travels, I was left amazed, puzzled, humbled, and intrigued by his persona.


It would take a couple pints of Guinness to explain Vladimir’s epic story that includes a near fatal accident, a miracle recovery, and a free donated bike from BMW North America. His story is legendary and he is a true adventurer. You can Google him to learn more about his adventurous spirit. Last I heard he was in Hong Kong. Safe travels my friend! It was a pleasure meeting you.

Adventure Riding Tips

Some things I have learned over the years...

• Never get into what you can't physically drag your bike out of.
• Never confine yourself to schedules, hotel reservations, or planed routes. Let the journey take you there.
• Small town locals welcome big smiles and friendly waves.
• Ask politely before taking a strangers photo.
• Town historical districts can tell the story of its existence.
• Small town diners serve the best food by the warmest people.
• Beef jerky is the universal treat for dogs. One smell turns an angry growl into a tail wag.
• Ask... "Who has the best burger in town?"
• Ask... "What can you tell me about this place?"
• Ask... "What's there to do in this town?"
• Always carry vice grips, large zip ties, and a few large zip lock bags.
• Always have an extra key hidden on your bike.
• Always offer to let curious kids sit on your bike as it will leave a lifelong lasting impression.
• The US mail system is a great way to off load unnecessary gear, purchased souvenirs, or post cards to friends.
• Cemeteries make great places to take a nap. They are in available in every town, open 24/7, and no one will bother you.
• Respect Mother Nature as she is ultimately in control of your trip.
• Be careful riding in strong winds… they can blow a bike up off its kickstand (that's a $550 tip).
• When riding out West carry both your swim suit and your snow suit.
• Listen to Mother Nature, she is always right.
• Never eat at franchise restaurants.
• Be sure to stop at festivals, church breakfast, and fish fries (be sure to tip large).
• A sign saying “World Famous Beef Jerky” is worth checking out.
• Teach someone to ride as it is a great gift
• Never let anyone ride your bike.
• Never drink and ride, damn things are hard enough to stay upright as it is.

Same great look, same great bikes

MO - Elephant Rock State Park

Very interesting park. Remains of lava rocks, from millions of years ago, have surfaced over time creating a natural playground. A great place to stop for a picnic.

MO - Great River Road

Lost Creek Road... a GS playground. You will have to have a local show you this road.. and don't forget your water proof boots!

MO - St. Louis Sights

The state of Missouri has some of the finest motorcycle roads I have ridden.

CA - Southern California Tour

My friend Robert and I flew into San Diego for a week of riding SoCal's finest. The rented BMW R1200s were great. Great roads, great bikes, great time. Thanks Robert for another great epic adventure. Do I hear Alaska calling our name?