October, 2008.
We have been back for 5 months. As anyone would feel, we were excited to return home. We enjoyed the shake down trip, and it was a needed learning experience. I have been around the world but not on a motorcycle. It makes a big difference. Cultural differences weren't the biggest challenge. My biggest concern was mechanical and electronic independence confidence.
Because of our personal factors, age (63 and 58), riding two up, interests, and riding alone, I am more conservative regarding risk issues. Therefore, I don't ride at night and limit my exposure to off road riding. Our plan is based on our interests-people and history and not the challenge of the off road environment.
During the winter, I strip my bike down and do the necessary mechanical maintenance. Since my wife enjoys being a passenger, I sent her to a motorcycle safety course. She could drive in an emergency and is a more understanding passenger.
Before heading out, I did detailed country study and road map planning with the Mexican Red Road Atlas. I used a Lonely Planet to plot my site visits. I studied geographical terrain maps. I collected and maintained several current and historical weather web sites and medical web sites. I read several round the world motorcycle adventure books and religiously read Horizons Unlimited. Since it is available, I did register with the State Department. Then WE decided what we wanted to see and how.
The information was then reduced to a written, jointly agreed to, Trip Plan. The plan included an overview of expected stops, mileage, general departure times, routes, date time frames, emergency numbers, Horizons Unlimited blog site, code words, and communication methods. Additonally, the Trip Plan included an alternate plan and an emergency plan. The emergency plan included certain individuals with their contact numbers. Those individuals posessed certain skills, knowledge, or language capabilities.
The complete plan and map was left with family members. They enjoyed following us and it made them feel more confortable. Friends were given the basic plan and a map. We found little problem in changing the plan and communicating the changes to the family.
I know everyone doesn't do this and that is fine. Some people believe it is too confining. What influences me is 15 years of planning and executing small unit military insertions in foreign countries. I just enjoy it and like any plan, it can be modified. The reading and planning makes me feel like I have already been there, and have some knowledge of what to expect. It raises one's confidence level. It reduces stress and disagreements.
Once we returned to the USA, we both felt like we hit the wall. We relaxed and got back into the grove. We did not discuss the next phase. This is not a competion. It can start and end at any time. After several months, I again started the preliminary planning for Central and South America. Certain changes will be made regarding Central America and South America.
First, we went to far each day. Mileage wasn't our main objective-time was. However, the length of time on the road will be reduced. That means, shorter distances. In fact, if I were to go thru Mexico again, my expected time on the road would, in some instances, reduce distances to 150 to 200 miles, and no more. Additionally, I will stay longer at most locations.
Second, besides the tools and spare parts I took, I will add a couple of oil filters. I couldn't find them when I need them.
Third, I will make certain changes to the bike. I am more than satisfied with the 1000 V Strom. However, I will add an ATV fuel container and a metal bash plate. The previous owner lowered the suspension. I will return it to it earlier height-I don't like topes. I never intended to go to CA or SA with the Givi bags I have on. They were more than satisfactory for Mexico. I will be using soft bags. Everyone has good reasons for their chocies. I like the flexibility of the soft bag. I will use a more aggressive tire, such as a Tourance.
Fourth, we will have heated jackets and gloves for me. I will add some outlets to the bike and a helmet to helmet communication system. I like talking to my wife. We will purchase a better riding suit designed for all seasons.
Fifth, we will be taking some emergency camping gear.
Things may change, however, we are again talking about going South.