i have a trip planned to ride from wash dc to panama city fla the first week of march. i think it works out to be about 1800 mi round trip. i expect it to take 2 days to get there. i never riden more than 150-200 in a day before so this will be my first real road trip.

i'm not too concernd about the distance but the weather. i will normally ride my bike on weekends and if it's not too cold like in the 30's. i have leather jacket and chaps. i have the insulated jeans and i know to wear layers to keep warm. i don't have any heated gear and really can't afford them for this trip.

i'm looking for some tips on i want some tips on what i can do to keep warm along the way. i'm sorta hoping the worst of the weather will be at the begining of the trip and get warmer as we travel towards fla, and of course the reverse on the return trip.

i'd be grateful for any suggestions and tips you may have.

thanks
bill

 

Are you sure it's only 1,800 mile RoundTrip??? I don't think so.

 

when i ran it by google maps it said about 900 mi one way. i just ran again by google 979 mi one way.

bill

 

Ok, I just thought it was alot farther. My bad!!!!!

 

i guess it could be if you go a different route but i'm going down 95 to 10 and making a right.

bill

 

Yea, That makes sense, Bundle up!
Are ya using a windshield? Do you have any desert dawgs? I think I would also invest in some :Elephant Ears" for the handle bars.
I do a little cold weather riding and I found these items to be a necessity.

 

Take some single use hand an feet warmers. Costco sells packs of 40. They are good for about 3-4 hours each. Dressed for cold weather they should sufficient. If you are going to ride much in the cold save up for the electric clothes. They not only work well, you dont have to pack as many clothes that are not needed when you get to where it is warm.
Lane

 

i do have a shield.

i like the desert dogs idea. they should help keep my feet warm.

i can't find much info on the elephant ears. are they covers for the clutch and brake levers? if so thats a good idea too.

thanks
bill

 

The only thing I worry about on that trip would be ice or cold rain (given the time of year). It is most important to keep your core body cavity warm and stay hydrated (even in the cold). Some good long underwear that wicks moisture away is imperative as well as a water-proof exterior. Your extremities need to stay dry and out of the wind if at all possible.

 

Yea, I got my "Elephant Ears" at the local snowmobile shop for $20.00 and they save a hell of a beating on your hands.
Definetly worth the money.
I assume that you are wearing a full face helmet.
God man, I got all the gear maybe I'll come along!!!!!!lol[sm=confused06.gif]

Or let you borrow all my gear! lol