If you really want to do 1,000 miles in 24 hours, its not too hard. But, you really need to want to do it. It can seem intimidating/impossible before you start; but once you do start it will be fun. There is a quote from a guy, Danny Liska (I think that is the spelling) who 40 to 50 years ago rode from Alaska to Patagonia with his wife: "It's only far if you don't go." I've found that to really be true. Anyway, besides all of the good advice from the above members, make sure your bike is very comfortable for you. That includes the seat and ergonomics. Also, while it might be boring, plan a route that primarily uses Interstate highways. It will typically allow a higher average speed (construction and accidents excluded). Good luck, have fun, and ride safe.

 

Try and plan your trip with travel on roads with high speed limits.70 is much better then 55 if you plan on putting on some fast miles at begining of ride

 

where are you going from and to?

 

sunscreen is very important, don't want to fry your skin. also, some gold bond medicated powder for your ***, and don't forget your night lenses for your goggles. try not to pack too heavy, but do take what you need.

 

Great advice a$$ wipe!

I bought a tank bag before doing my SS1000! I kept a couple bottles of Gatorade, some power bars, beef jerky, pens, an envelope for recipts, my wallet, keys, .380, and maps on the toppanel. Locked the bags before leaving and would just grab the tank bag at gas stops.
Make sure to do some build up runs in the weeks before. 400, 500, 600 milers to get ready for 1000.
Also make sure to read the Iron Butt website on what you'll need. They suggest using a map program to make sure youve gone enough miles to qualify for the run your doing. Bike odometers can be up to 10% off (short) according to the website, so plan accordingly.
My 2 most important tips would be a good set of moulded earplugs and an MP3 player with alot of music. Repeating the same CD over and over will distract you!
Ride safe and make sure to get a good nights rest before!

Its a great feeling to open the envelope when you receive your stuff from the association!

 

Leaving from Chicago... many route options. Planning on interstates (per advise above) most of the time.

 

I did the SS1000 last Oct. Had lots of fun. You might want to pick a dealership as your turn around point. Buy a T-Shirt for the receipt, get a business cardof one of the sale person thatyou can use for a witiness.IBA love dealerships.You will also be able touse the T-Shitfor the non-belivers until your package come in. It wasabout 4 months of waiting for mine.

Have fun. I did.

 

All good advice
One thing I would like to add is the prep
The week before you go
Make sure everything is set and ready
Don't stay up the last night for hours trying to get stuff ready
Make sure your "regular life" is taken care of
I mean don't plan a trip like this after you have had a killer week at work
Your week leading up to this should include;
plenty of rest
good eating habits
careful packing during the week
think about what you are about to tackle
Remember you are going to be on your bike for close to 24 HOURS!!!!!!!

Good luck and ride safe

 

Just a thought.

Take a look at www.findmespot.com.

Depending on you family situation, you may wanty to invest in the S.P.O.T.

Family and friends can track your progress, as well as being reassured that you are all right.

 

All good advice above, I agree with Moby on the comfort on the bike. It helps to have several riding positions you can switch to. I like to have highway pegs up front and actually use the front lowers to lay my legs over for a different position. You can also use the back floorboards if your boots have a heel on them. Just helps to shift around. I'd also recommend a good book on the old mp3 player if you have one. Makes a nice switch from music. I personally like sheepskin, but that's just my preference.