The first flakes of winter are beginning to test our patience for those of us who inhabit the frozen north, even though we still have several weeks of riding time left... It's never too early to think about May and the Lake Erie Tour, now in its third year. For the MANY newcomers to the XL site, read on and plan to join us for a terrific ride and some great company as we prepare for our third anniversary.

Let this be the first salvo in what is likely to be another 1,000-post thread that reminds us of the fun we had in May: testing out that new raingear, riding at a 45 degree angle on straightaways because of 50-knot winds, the wedding of Joe and Danny on the ferry... (oops, that was the August BBQ...:D). Are you guys still together?!:banadanc

Keep track of this thread and maybe our mods can elevate the thread to "sticky status" given our proven track record...

Who's ready to ride again!?

:sporty: :sporty: :sporty: :sporty: :sporty:

This will happen in May?

Any proposed date?

How about doing it in conjunction with Friday the 13th in Port Dover (April '07). I guess that's a little early and risky weather-wise, but it would be cool.
Otherwise, I'll try to make it next year, whenever.

We are doing both, Friday April 13 and the long weekend in May: 19, 20, 21; it is a long weekend here in Canada anyway.

It formally celebrates Queen Victoria's birthday, which is reputed to be May 24. So we call it the May Two-Four weekend. Two-Four seems to have another meaning as well. Something about 24 hours in the day, 24 bottles in a case, whatever.

And do not forget Friday July 13.

I think we decided last year that the May weekend is sacred, that it is to be an XLForum annual event, a tradition even; that nothing, i say nothing, will stand in our way!

Dear Brothers and Sisters of the Sportster, I wish to say some things about weather ...

First is that there is no such thing as bad weather or inclement weather. These expressions represent attitudes of some people and actually have nothing to do with weather. There is only weather, whatever it happens to be.

In my experience, and i have more than three score years of experience with this, EVERY time it it has started to rain it has stopped. I am certain that this trend will continue. If it does begin to rain it will stop. Trust me on this.

Weather reports should rarely be used to decide whether to go or not. These reports are properly used to determine how to prepare. Only in cases of extremes [hurricanes, tornadoes, etc] do we not go.

It is possible to have fun in any kind of weather. But you do have to be prepared. Being properly prepared is easy. If you can keep your face, body, hands and feet dry and warm you will have fun regardless of the weather.

Face: either full face helmet or a mask/bandana that you can pull up over your chin and mouth. I find that it is no good pulling it up over my nose as then my glasses fog up.

Feet: work boots are far superior to any motorcycle boots. They are always more comfortable and more waterproof. In addition they have steel toes, steek shank, and chemical proof bottoms. Plus they cost about half of what m-cycle boots cost [about $100 compared to about $200.00]. The disadvantages are [1] they are heavier and [2] they are not as kool looking. But you can get good looking ones too.

Body: rain gear. Use it not only when it rains but any time it is cold and windy. It is always windy when i ride [heh heh]. Do not get warm, lined gear as you wear it over top of the leather. Even the cheap stuff keeps you dry and keeps the wind out. If you have extra cash get the pants that have zippers in the legs. These are easier to install as you do not have to remove your boots. Sharkie has these.

Hands: when the weather is cold, wet and windy [like early spring, late fall], leather mitts are better than leather gloves; your fingers keep each other warm.

It does help to have a windscreen.

If you are genuinely afraid of riding in the rain then you should not do it. There is an additional risk. You do have to be aware that the first short while after it starts is the dangerous time. The first rain brings the oil up out of the pavement and makes it very slippery; the following rain washes it away. Then you are dealing with only the slipperiness of the water. Good tires will handle that adequately. Ride more slowly, watch the other vehicles more carefully, keep a slightly longer distance, emergency stopping is definitely compromised.

I am trying to provide some leadership here. I want everybody to come on this ride regardless of the weather, and to have fun. But also i want everybody to be well prepared, and please do not come if you will be uncomfortable. We will see you another year instead.

There is a challenge involved here. It is the challenge of meeting up with Mother Nature head on and being equal to her. There is a corresponding satisfaction at the end of the day when the challenge has been met. It is positively exhilarating, an experience to be shared with Brothers and Sisters, an experience not to be missed.

I am not even going to build up my hopes by saying I am going to make the ride this year. I will wait until April to say. I do look forward to being entertained by this thread though. :laugh

:roflblack Already with the Lake Erie Ride?! :roflblack

Cool! I've been treating my back pretty well (mostly) since last spring's surgery, and will be good to go in '07. Looking forward to it. Still have my list of preparations from last spring. And I'm gonna start putting out the mojo now for good weather that weekend!

:banapart

EVERY time it it has started to rain it has stopped. I am certain that this trend will continue. If it does begin to rain it will stop.



:laugh This is my nomination for funniest line of the day.




Body: rain gear. Use it not only when it rains but any time it is cold and windy. It is always windy when i ride [heh heh]. Do not get warm, lined gear as you wear it over top of the leather. Even the cheap stuff keeps you dry and keeps the wind out. If you have extra cash get the pants that have zippers in the legs. These are easier to install as you do not have to remove your boots. Sharkie has these.

Great piece of advice. I'm really glad i read your post in the Port-Dover thread. Now if only i would have known my boots were not waterproof all that much.

I should be up for another ride around the lake. May is a long way off though. It must be snowing in MI already ;)

I should be up for another ride around the lake. May is a long way off though. It must be snowing in MI already ;)
THAT hurts!

Actually it DID snow last week... but didn't stay. We are predicted to have 60's, but very wet for several more days.

I only recently unearthed some of my pix from last year and thought maybe we ought to start thinking ahead... WAY ahead! :p

I'm sure the thread will go dormant from time to time. We'll BUMP as necessary. Might even consider some slight alterations to the route, maybe up to London when we reach Canada as IronMick and Steve suggested last year. Guess we'll see what folks think. I actually liked having the two little Canadian motels all to ourselves!

Lotsa time to plan... and heal (right, Debster!?)

Count me in. The hand and upper limb problems that have been giving me a real rough time are being fought tooth and nail. I've had two surgerys (carpal tunnel) the right wrist just last week. Progress is being made. The clutch on my ironhead is pretty hard to operate so I'm considering a foot clutch and stick shift. Maybe I'll ride my more modern evo. Gonna start monitoring the weather predictions now.

Steve.

We are definitely in as well. Mick is so right about the satisfaction felt at the end of a challenging ride, and his advice about the proper gear is right on too.
This year, Debster, no surgeries, and Casper, no bike mods at the last minute OK???????

Chick, I'm hurt! I would never do such a silly thing as to make major bike modifications that close to a run (again). As Sportsteriffic and Mick mentioned, there's a Dover on in April, so there's no choice: the bike has to be operational before then. I promise; the bike, and its owner, will be ready for the Erie Run this year!!

Dear Brothers and Sisters of the Sportster, I wish to say some things about weather ...

First is that there is no such thing as bad weather or inclement weather. These expressions represent attitudes of some people and actually have nothing to do with weather. There is only weather, whatever it happens to be.

In my experience, and i have more than three score years of experience with this, EVERY time it it has started to rain it has stopped. I am certain that this trend will continue. If it does begin to rain it will stop. Trust me on this.

Weather reports should rarely be used to decide whether to go or not. These reports are properly used to determine how to prepare. Only in cases of extremes [hurricanes, tornadoes, etc] do we not go.

It is possible to have fun in any kind of weather. But you do have to be prepared. Being properly prepared is easy. If you can keep your face, body, hands and feet dry and warm you will have fun regardless of the weather.

Face: either full face helmet or a mask/bandana that you can pull up over your chin and mouth. I find that it is no good pulling it up over my nose as then my glasses fog up.

Feet: work boots are far superior to any motorcycle boots. They are always more comfortable and more waterproof. In addition they have steel toes, steek shank, and chemical proof bottoms. Plus they cost about half of what m-cycle boots cost [about $100 compared to about $200.00]. The disadvantages are [1] they are heavier and [2] they are not as kool looking. But you can get good looking ones too.

Body: rain gear. Use it not only when it rains but any time it is cold and windy. It is always windy when i ride [heh heh]. Do not get warm, lined gear as you wear it over top of the leather. Even the cheap stuff keeps you dry and keeps the wind out. If you have extra cash get the pants that have zippers in the legs. These are easier to install as you do not have to remove your boots. Sharkie has these.

Hands: when the weather is cold, wet and windy [like early spring, late fall], leather mitts are better than leather gloves; your fingers keep each other warm.

It does help to have a windscreen.

If you are genuinely afraid of riding in the rain then you should not do it. There is an additional risk. You do have to be aware that the first short while after it starts is the dangerous time. The first rain brings the oil up out of the pavement and makes it very slippery; the following rain washes it away. Then you are dealing with only the slipperiness of the water. Good tires will handle that adequately. Ride more slowly, watch the other vehicles more carefully, keep a slightly longer distance, emergency stopping is definitely compromised.

I am trying to provide some leadership here. I want everybody to come on this ride regardless of the weather, and to have fun. But also i want everybody to be well prepared, and please do not come if you will be uncomfortable. We will see you another year instead.

There is a challenge involved here. It is the challenge of meeting up with Mother Nature head on and being equal to her. There is a corresponding satisfaction at the end of the day when the challenge has been met. It is positively exhilarating, an experience to be shared with Brothers and Sisters, an experience not to be missed.

Well said, Mick....

Thanx for the piece....this, in itSELF ought to be a sticky on the board!!

:clap:clap:clap:clap:clap:clap:clap

Of course, barring unnatural circumstances (such as having a freakin JOB that weekend :censor :censor, like LAST year) I will be there again...

And yes, the date is SET IN STONE and immovable....so don't even suggest another...;)

Count me in, No way I could let Mick have the only ironhead on the trip ;)

Darn you guys (and gals)!! This riding season's not even over yet, and you've already got me itching for next spring! :headbang

Darn you guys (and gals)!! This riding season's not even over yet, and you've already got me itching for next spring! :headbang
I hear ya! I had to sit on my bike in the garage last night- watching it snow! God it's going to be a long winter...

Could be worse. I don't have a garage; my poor Shelly is going into indy storage for the winter. I won't even get to see her over Christmas! :cry1 I'll have to make sure to buy her a nice present to make up for it.

Of course, if I did have a garage, I would've had that embarrassing little engine problem all fixed up long before last year's run! Then again, it would just be more incentive to buy new parts (a Mik carb, some '04 1200 heads, etc.) and spend a whole lotta money, so maybe it's a good thing I won't be able to be near her over the winter

...oh, who am I kidding? It's gonna suck being away from her!!

Been meaning to harass you about that embarassing little engine problem- oh wait, I did!

We are definitely in as well. Mick is so right about the satisfaction felt at the end of a challenging ride, and his advice about the proper gear is right on too.
This year, Debster, no surgeries, and Casper, no bike mods at the last minute OK???????
You got it -- no surgeries. Promise! Can't wait. Damn, it's a long time 'til May....

anyone up for an actual stop in Erie, I know last year I tried to get ppl lost in downtown Erie. This was because route 5 was slick as ice from the misty rain that morning. We have the multi millon tom ridge center right off ALT Route 5. Pretty much a more scenic, less busy way to go through Erie.
www.trecpi.org is the website. Pretty cool place with lots to see. Since Erie is the city the lake is named for, I figure why not make it a stop!!!

also hope to get my dad's '57 with either my dad or brother to go too.

Just fuel for the winter fire and the discussion... What if we varied the route just a tad on day 1 and, instead of sticking to the lake shore, we met up a little more south and east, perhaps into western PA somewhere, so that the Sat ride was through a bit more hilly terrain? Still into Buffalo and across into Canada as usual... but some new sights and sounds, and maybe some new riders as well...

And then maybe on Sat, as IronMick once suggested, venture into London for night 2? Just thinking of adding some new sites to visit and a little variety without messing with the basic circum-Lake ride...

Thoughts???

Sounds like a great idea to me! Western PA is quite beautiful!

I'll most likely join in on day 2 at the border. I think venturing to London sounds like a fine idea!

Just fuel for the winter fire and the discussion... What if we varied the route just a tad on day 1 and, instead of sticking to the lake shore, we met up a little more south and east, perhaps into western PA somewhere, so that the Sat ride was through a bit more hilly terrain? Still into Buffalo and across into Canada as usual... but some new sights and sounds, and maybe some new riders as well...

And then maybe on Sat, as IronMick once suggested, venture into London for night 2? Just thinking of adding some new sites to visit and a little variety without messing with the basic circum-Lake ride...

Thoughts???

Considering the excellent time we made 2 years ago, that sounds like a GREAT idea.....

What will the route be?

What will the route be?

In October, for the May run, that's about a 10,000 dollar question...

Where would you LIKE it to be?

The tour re-routes to Erie and London sound like a great idea! Haven't been to Erie, but I'm always game for staying in London! :banana

Casper, no bike mods at the last minute OK???????
Now just to clarify, what is "last minute"? Say I'm at PD13 in April, and some guy offers me a set of XB heads that he ripped off his ex's Sporty and is selling for $1 just to piss her off. Can I put them on before the Erie run? And what about something straight-forward like a Mik42 carb? I promise, any planned mods will go on in winter, well before the Run, but just in case a steal comes up...?

What will the route be?
If the ride kicks off May 18 (Fri), we will know the final route May 17..... or 18th...

:laugh

Seriously... we chat it up all winter, look at the many options that will be proposed, ESPECIALLY in Dec-Jan when the snow flies and we wind up spending WAY too much time on-line, and then finalize in April in time to make reservations.

The basic route is around Lake Erie. Beyond that...........

Hei been reading this thread for a few days. It sounds interesting also sounds like a good time.I am from central Wisconsin and belong to a group of about fifteen riders from central Wis. Not saying no one or anyone would show up but who knows.The sooner the better for a start date and ride info because I could get it to every one and maybe will have some riders from Wis the home of Davidson

Hei been reading this thread for a few days. It sounds interesting also sounds like a good time.I am from central Wisconsin and belong to a group of about fifteen riders from central Wis. Not saying no one or anyone would show up but who knows.The sooner the better for a start date and ride info because I could get it to every one and maybe will have some riders from Wis the home of Davidson

Check message #4 of this thread for the dates. These will not change.

... ride info ...

For the past two years the Canada side went something like this:
***
Saturday 3:00 PM approximately, USA group crosses the border, proceeds to Tim Hortons, meets with Canucks; party in the parking lot

Saturday 4:30 PM approximately, we depart for prearranged motels at Simcoe/Delhi area. No one needs to make advance arrangements. We reserve two complete motels across the road from each other; dinner, party, sleep, breakfast

Sunday, breakfast party, ride to Windsor with fun stop at Port Bruce, then fuel stop at Port Stanley
***
This can change of course. But the limits are: arrival time of USA group at Ft Erie, arrival at Saturday overnight stay location in daylight [gets really cold after sunset in May in Canada], and arrival in Windsor also during daylight on Sunday.

Kinda liked our arrangement last year with the two motels in Delhi and dinner & breakfast down the road at the Courtland Roadhouse. We'd be hard pressed to find better than that. If there happens to be a big construction project at the steel company in Nanticoke, these motels could be filled with workers and we'd have to find alternatives anyway. Last year, there was a project but the workers all left the weekend before our ride. We didn't know until the last minute if we were staying there or somewhere else. In any case, let the "Sportster " club look after all the Canadian arrangements. Once you cross the border onto our turf, you are our guests and have nothing to worry about. Everyone is guaranteed a place to sleep, inside, and enough food and drink to keep anyone happy.

Steve.

Just for interest; last year the weather was as about as cold and windy as it gets on that May weekend. The year before the first Lake Run the temp was 70' with a low of 50'. It's not unheard of for the thermometer to climb into the 80's on these dates.

Steve.

If the ride kicks off May 18 (Fri), we will know the final route May 17..... or 18th...

:laugh




:D

Gotcha. I'm definitely game. I'm about 1000' from the lake in NE Ohio, so a tour around it sounds cool.

:D

Gotcha. I'm definitely game. I'm about 1000' from the lake in NE Ohio, so a tour around it sounds cool.
We ride right along the lake shore when we leave Geneva, so we'll just stop by your place, have a cuppa coffee, and pick you up!

:coffee

Hei just thought I throw this out there.I believe that after Jan1 you have to get a passport.To get into Canada. I got my passport a few years back to go to Norway I did a normal order meaning time wise.Four to six weeks ,rush order about two weeks

Hei just thought I throw this out there.I believe that after Jan1 you have to get a passport.To get into Canada. I got my passport a few years back to go to Norway I did a normal order meaning time wise.Four to six weeks ,rush order about two weeks


Actually, it is supposed to be that you will need a passport to enter the U.S., it includes EVERY body, Americans, Canadians and everybody else. Canada customs will probably copy U.S. customs and require the passport too.

Hei could be don't know the details just wanted to let people know because it takes time to get your passport. Not that at the last minute you want to go and don't have one and get to the border and can't go on.

Hei could be don't know the details just wanted to let people know because it takes time to get your passport. Not that at the last minute you want to go and don't have one and get to the border and can't go on.

You're right, better to be informed ahead of time. Having troubles at the border is NOT something you want, no matter what side of the bridge you're on.


I dont know about the US but in Canada the passport cost $87 and took me about 3 weeks to receive it, but you have to make sure you send in all the proper paperwork the way they want it.

And if you already have your passport, check the expiry date. the Canadian one is good for 5 years.

Also, if they(US Customs) implement this requirement the same way they implemented every change for truck drivers since Sept 11, there should be a grace period of about 6months to a year.

See the following site for U.S. Dept. of State upcoming changes... Looks like 2008 before "land" travel will require passports... Air travel requirements change Jan of 2007...

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

:sofa
ummm I'm gonna be quiet so as not to jinx this again

Gazza

WOW I cant believe we are actually thinking let alone discussing this yet. :doh

Count me in, it was a great ride.

I'm going to wait until after Jan 1st to get a passport, then I can write it off as a business expense (since I will *need* it to travel into Canada for biz!)

Hope we vote again on the dates. :smoke Not to be negative but the second week of May, weather sucks.

Wow, this thread is going already. 5 pages and I haven't even posted yet! I did hear that we will NOT need a passport to cross this year, as it was postponed till 2008, but this is all hearsay and I haven't been able to check that link Shark posted. Me and Triumph Joe are in. We'll be taking the following Monday off as well to have a little fun in Windsor if anyone would like to join, and we did have fun on that extra day!

Tally Ho!

Bikerchk, I know I promised no more mods. However, I just found out yesterday that the 'rents were kind enough to get me a tombstone windshield for my birthday (they didn't get it yet; they wanted to know if I actually wanted one first). Since this will be put on long before the run, and won't in any way impede the mechanical operation of the bike for the run, is it okay if I put it on beforehand? Please? Pretty please?? :o

Bikerchk, I know I promised no more mods. However, I just found out yesterday that the 'rents were kind enough to get me a tombstone windshield for my birthday (they didn't get it yet; they wanted to know if I actually wanted one first). Since this will be put on long before the run, and won't in any way impede the mechanical operation of the bike for the run, is it okay if I put it on beforehand? Please? Pretty please?? :o


I don't know- does it involve any kind of disassembly? If it is just a quick install and no down time is involved, then I will approve the mod- We simply will NOT tolerate any excuses this year. You were close to receiving a citation from the Sporty Police last year for missing this ride, I trust you have learned your lesson!

(I was absolutely delighted I had a windshield last year) Not sure I would have made it without one, to be honest.

Now I am working on getting waterproof boots- I didn't listen to Shark last year and had to learn the hard way, that water WILL get in your boots no matter how well you have treated the seams and leather!

Yep, will have my 1/4 fairing on this time too. I just hope its not 45 like it was last year. I went home and hid under a blanket the rest of the day!!! I also promise to not get you lost in the ghetto of Erie either!!!

We have proven the value of the ride and our ability to pull it off, come hell or high water... well, high water for sure!!! :doh We have yet to experience the heat of hell, though it might be a pleasant change!!!

We just have to work on those who have reluctant to join us or convince others to modify their schedules a little and plan ahead. It's not like there isn't any advance warning!!!

Gary? Cantolina? Chuck? Ted? Time to think "road trip!"

Happy Holidays. Let's keep talking.

-Jeff

I would defiantly be up for riding into Western PA to get into some hills. First time I have seen this thread in a while and its already added 5 pages.

We have proven the value of the ride and our ability to pull it off, come hell or high water... well, high water for sure!!! :doh We have yet to experience the heat of hell, though it might be a pleasant change!!!

-Jeff


You forgot to mention high winds forcing the sportys to ride for a mile straight leaned over at a 45 degree angle! Yeah, we beat that too!

In my experience, that weekend will be cold, wet and rainy, till Sunday when it will then get up to around 80 degrees and sunny, right as we near the US border in Canada! :smoke And if anyone wants to stay an extra day with us in Windsor to gamble and sample some of their finer establishments, you are more than welcome!

Oh, and this year we have got to make either shirts or patches... How bout some of you more artistically gifted people post some ideas?

Once some templates are posted, I will shop around, but if anyone has a connection in the shirt/patch department, feel free to chime in.

I will also volunteer my services as the Ohio organizer and Lake Run phone list preparer if no one else objects.

This is a ride that should not be missed, we have met some GREAT people on these runs, and we always have room to make more new friends. These have truly been experiences that I'll never forget.

This was taken from the very first lake run just to give you an idea about the cost of the trip (courtesy of Shark Doctor)

The Stats and the Costs!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Okay boys and girls... as promised, and for planning purposes for those of you who are cost-conscious and scared that this will break the bank, here are the details.

They are based on my run from south central Michigan (on a 1200R with Stage I). I weigh about 220 and carried probably 50 more pounds with sissy bar pack, full saddlebags, road tool kits, etc.

THREE DAYS & TWO NIGHTS:

TOTAL MILES: 856 mi (306 mi Day 1, 254 mi Day 2, 296 mi Day 3)
TOTAL FUEL: 17.14 GAL (includes metric conversions from Canada)
AVERAGE MILEAGE 49.94 MPG (XL1200R Stage I)

TOTAL FUEL COST $40.81 (includes conversion from Canadian currency)
FUEL COST PER MILE $0.048 (YUP, a nickel per mile)

MOTEL COSTS: $59 + $77 = $136/2 = $68/NIGHT (includes taxes)

TRIP COSTS LESS FOOD = $176.81

COSTS PER DAY (3 days) FUEL & LODGING (2 nights) = $58.94/PER DAY

I did not share a room (friend bailed out at last minute though he planned to try and meet us at some point... but couldn't get ignition repaired on '78 Low Rider), so motel costs would be cut in half for those were able to share. If folks spent similar amounts to what I spent for fuel, their costs for the three days/two nights) would be about:

FUEL ($40.81) + SHARED MOTEL ($68) = $108.81 = $36.20 PER DAY

Food and drink would obviously change the per day costs, but most restaurants we chose were quite reasonable and we could spend whatever we chose from a $5 meal to a $20 meal. Up to you.

I think this was a helluva deal! Less than $60/day is hard to believe for such an incredible ride, and $36/day if you can share a room is almost a giveaway!!!

Save your nickels and dimes. This WILL be an annual affair!!!
__________________

I'm in, but I'm not sure I'll be able to make the Canadian leg...

Oh, and this year we have got to make either shirts or patches... How bout some of you more artistically gifted people post some ideas? Once some templates are posted, I will shop around, but if anyone has a connection in the shirt/patch department, feel free to chime in.

I am DEFINITELY in for the Windsor leg (and the pool, and the hot tub, and the casino!!!). I may take the Ultra this year depending on whether I can leave early for VA as planned last year and aborted.

Gotta get Mac on-line soon!

Actually there was a GREAT design from last year that Debster did (post #76 out of >900 from last year!!!). Why not use this one... we couldn't get it done last year... Let's not delay this year. Debster: can we still use your design? And maybe you and Danny can work this up?

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Tshirt_2.jpg

I am DEFINITELY in for the Windsor leg (and the pool, and the hot tub, and the casino!!!). I may take the Ultra this year depending on whether I can leave early for VA as planned last year and aborted.

Gotta get Mac on-line soon!

Actually there was a GREAT design from last year that Debster did (post #76 out of >900 from last year!!!). Why not use this one... we couldn't get it done last year... Let's not delay this year. Debster: can we still use your design? And maybe you and Danny can work this up?
Sure, it would be great if we could use it! I still have the artwork so I can make the changes to it for the 2007 run.

I like Danny's patch idea. I have no idea how you get those made or how much they cost, but personally I'd prefer a patch to a t-shirt.

I love that shirt design Debster! Let's get going on this- I am glad to help anyway I can. What do we need to do next, get a count of how many would like to order the shirt for pricing purposes?

Sure, it would be great if we could use it! I still have the artwork so I can make the changes to it for the 2007 run.

I like Danny's patch idea. I have no idea how you get those made or how much they cost, but personally I'd prefer a patch to a t-shirt.
:iagree

One thing that might be considered (assuming this run will continue to be an annual event) is to make a top rocker-style patch, and just have mini year bars made up for the years. Not only would it save real estate on the leathers, but it'd also cut down on the memorabilia cost in future years. The top patch would be standard, so if there are extras, you just save them for the newbies at next year's run.

That's just my 2¢.

:iagree

One thing that might be considered (assuming this run will continue to be an annual event) is to make a top rocker-style patch, and just have mini year bars made up for the years. Not only would it save real estate on the leathers, but it'd also cut down on the memorabilia cost in future years. The top patch would be standard, so if there are extras, you just save them for the newbies at next year's run.

That's just my 2¢.

We have toyed with this idea before, and I for one am all for it!

:iagree

One thing that might be considered (assuming this run will continue to be an annual event) is to make a top rocker-style patch, and just have mini year bars made up for the years. Not only would it save real estate on the leathers, but it'd also cut down on the memorabilia cost in future years. The top patch would be standard, so if there are extras, you just save them for the newbies at next year's run.

That's just my 2¢.
Oh yeah! That's a great idea, Casper.

I was curious, so did a Google search on custom patches and found this place. Looks cheaper than t-shirts, too. The only drawback might be the minimum order number: 50.

American Patch (http://www.americanpatch.com/)

Oh yeah! That's a great idea, Casper.

I was curious, so did a Google search on custom patches and found this place. Looks cheaper than t-shirts, too. The only drawback might be the minimum order number: 50.

American Patch (http://www.americanpatch.com/)
Since the patch would stay the same and just the date rocker would change, 50 doesn't seem too bad! Depending on the price, we could order 50 and use the leftovers next year. Getting a good idea of the number of riders in advance and whether folks would be willing to pay for a patch (or pin, or shirt, or cap...) of some sort would be important. Let's check it our for pricing and then we'll figure something out to get them in time for the ride.

Are you thinking a patch with the same general design that you created for the t-shirt?

I love that design that Debster came up with- the colors too- I'm not a huge fan of patches but I will go with whatever the majority decides.

Since the patch would stay the same and just the date rocker would change, 50 doesn't seem too bad! Depending on the price, we could order 50 and use the leftovers next year. Getting a good idea of the number of riders in advance and whether folks would be willing to pay for a patch (or pin, or shirt, or cap...) of some sort would be important. Let's check it our for pricing and then we'll figure something out to get them in time for the ride.

Are you thinking a patch with the same general design that you created for the t-shirt?
Yeah, you're right, 50 would be okay for the main patch in that case, since they'd be good for any year.

The design would have to be a little different to fit the shape of a patch (round? oval? rectangular?) and to accommodate thread instead of ink, but it could be basically the same.

I love that design that Debster came up with- the colors too- I'm not a huge fan of patches but I will go with whatever the majority decides.

Say what????

BTW-- Were in for the little lake, but got other Ideas rolling about the cranium.

nope those are just loose marbles :laugh


Doc I'm sorry but I must unfortunatly take the ultra, if Dar wants to ride the sporty she can but my azz is more geared for larger seat

[QUOTE=olderthandirt]Say what????

/QUOTE]

Ok OTD, how bout we get a Lake Run tatoo instead? Do you have any bare skin left????:p

:iagree

One thing that might be considered (assuming this run will continue to be an annual event) is to make a top rocker-style patch, and just have mini year bars made up for the years. Not only would it save real estate on the leathers, but it'd also cut down on the memorabilia cost in future years. The top patch would be standard, so if there are extras, you just save them for the newbies at next year's run.

That's just my 2¢.

Me too. I have a closet full of t-shirts. I would rather have a patch, especially one that stays the same year after year. I would want just one year bar - that would be for the first year.

Me too. I have a closet full of t-shirts. I would rather have a patch, especially one that stays the same year after year. I would want just one year bar - that would be for the first year.

:iagree

I like the patch idea...and I would ALSO only want the first year....

:bump

If we left now, I think we'd have WARMER temps than we had last May!!! STILL no snow in Michigan! This was May in my backyard...

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Winter_05_Sized.jpg






;)

:bump

If we left now, I think we'd have WARMER temps than we had last May!!! STILL no snow in Michigan! This was May in my backyard...

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Winter_05_Sized.jpg


Wish I could say that -- when I look out my window all I see is white, and I have a car covered in salt! :(

Yeah, you're right, 50 would be okay for the main patch in that case, since they'd be good for any year.

The design would have to be a little different to fit the shape of a patch (round? oval? rectangular?) and to accommodate thread instead of ink, but it could be basically the same.

The patch I have on my right shoulder says "Fallen Riders Memorial Run" It is an annual event the weekend after our lake run. The main patch is half round, 4'' X 2'' tall. The year bars go under this and are 4'' X 3/4''. It doesn't have to go on your jacket shoulder but the size & shape lends itself to this.
The cost of these are only $5 for the main patch and $2 for the year bars. I would want all the years, including the previous two.

Steve.

Dec 8th we got 3 feet of snow. The most snow in 30 years. We went out and spent $1000 on a really nice snowblower. The next day the temperature rose above freezing and has been ever since. Everything melted in a few days and the ground has been bare. If I hadn't bought a snowblower, it would have kept snowing and we would all be up to our asses.

Steve.

So THAT'S where all our snow got to! Barring the Fort Erie Freeze back on Friday the 13th, we haven't seen an inch of snow around here! Two days ago there was a little bit of snow blowing around (key word here is "little"), but not enough to even leave a hint of dusting on the ground.

we haven't seen an inch of snow around here! Two days ago there was a little bit of snow blowing around (key word here is "little"), but not enough to even leave a hint of dusting on the ground.


I can't tell if y'all are bragging or complaining!!!!! Steve, how 'bout you fire up that snowblower about May 15th just to scare off any potential bad weather- you seen to have found the key!

Casper, is your new windshield install complete? Gotta keep tabs on you from now until May

Debster, no heavy lifting...

who else can I hound?
Mick! Check those mirror bolts

Shark, with as much stuff as you had on that bike, you better start packing now!

Shark, with as much stuff as you had on that bike, you better start packing now!
I'm already packed! Let's leave tomorrow!!!

And, because of your disrespectful remark, I'm going to take the Ultra because it holds more stuff that you can't see!!!

:shhhh :shhhh :shhhh

I'm already packed! Let's leave tomorrow!!!
Yep, I believe I will be getting a ride in tomorrow- nearly 50 degrees!!!!!! We were out about a week ago too- should have been Christmas shopping but, well, what could we do? You gotta ride!

Note the date on the picture. Couldn't resist going for a new year's day ride.

Steve.
http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/medium/100_0262.jpg

New year's day / 07, in Canada! http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/medium/100_0263.jpg

New year's day / 07, in Canada! http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/medium/100_0263.jpg


gotta love it riding on January 1st. I was out there myself. Lookign foward to the ride again this year.

Ok, I found a connection for the shirts or patches. One of my clients is opening his own embroidery/t shirt shop, and he said he would give us a deal.

Ok, I found a connection for the shirts or patches. One of my clients is opening his own embroidery/t shirt shop, and he said he would give us a deal.

Cool! Next time you talk to him, ask what kind of file he needs to do the work. I can update last year's t-shirt artwork for this year, and throw together a couple of patches of some sort for everyone to look at.

Well Bikerchk, here's something you'll find funny. Yep, it's that time again boys and girls! The hardware Curse of Casper strikes again! Remember that windshield I got as a present? And how (because I paid for it back in October when I still thought we would get snow) when I put it away for the winter at the indy's, he said he'd put it on then? Well, he let me hand-mock the windshield to see how it would sit visually, but didn't have the clamps. I advised him that I've got chubby bars, not the regular 1 inchers. "No problem, they'll fit." WRONG! Surprise of surprises, the clamps are only 1"! So now I get to call on one of my buddies in a machine shop to see if he can fab me up a set of 1 1/4" clamps. One's already jumping at the chance to fab me up a nice big old-school sissy bar, so I'll talk to him about a two-for deal.

But yeah, I thought you'd see the humour in that, Bikerchk! :doh

I'm up for a ride around the lake. Post more ride details as it evolves. I'm sobbing now as I was out riding last Friday here in Michigan and we have snow. But I hear it might get up to 40 tomorrow. If so, I'm riding.

But yeah, I thought you'd see the humour in that, Bikerchk! :doh

:frownthre You are killin me dude!

I'm up for a ride around the lake. Post more ride details as it evolves. I'm sobbing now as I was out riding last Friday here in Michigan and we have snow. But I hear it might get up to 40 tomorrow. If so, I'm riding.
Thre thread will live on for months, and the final details will be fleshed out in late April/early May. You should "subscribe" to this thread to keep abreast of the planning process as it evolves.

This is the third year of this ride. It is not some theoretical get-together, so it WILL happen. Stay tuned!


:horseride

This year will be warm and sunny 'cause I got a new rain suit & a cold weather coat. That's the way it goes. Just like it hasn't snowed since I got the new snowblower.

Steve.

This year will be warm and sunny 'cause I got a new rain suit & a cold weather coat. That's the way it goes. Just like it hasn't snowed since I got the new snowblower.

Steve.


Steve I know the feeling. I put the snow blade on the tractor the last two years and havent used it yet.

This year will be warm and sunny 'cause I got a new rain suit & a cold weather coat. That's the way it goes. Just like it hasn't snowed since I got the new snowblower.

Steve.


Should have said that last yr and we would have all chipped in and dressed you like a fat walrus :laugh

I just wanted my first post after a year of lurking to read "I'M IN" I love to ride my name is joe I ride an 2005 1200XL custom with 30,000 New England miles on it. I'd be coming from Bristol Conn. Where do we meet up? Buffalo NY, or Erie PA. would be great but I'm flexable. Hope to meet you all soon.

I'd be coming from Bristol Conn. Where do we meet up? Buffalo NY, or Erie PA. would be great but I'm flexable. Hope to meet you all soon.
Meet us either place! We spend night one (Friday) in Geneva, OH, just a little west of Erie, PA, then ride through Erie to Buffalo on Sat, and cross there into Canada for Sat and Sun... Join us wherever you want!

And... WELCOME!!!

:welcome

The evening news last night had an announcement that a Passport will be required for reentry to the States starting on 01/23/07. This gives all of us plenty of advance notice, though. Anybody else hear about this? I thought it was supposed to be postponed till 2008.

That's only for flying, Danny. See this link:

http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html

And note that that date "might" not even be real!!!

FROM THE DEPT. OF STATE:

"The proposed implementation timeline has two phases:

* Beginning January 23, 2007, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling by air between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda will be required to present a valid passport, Air NEXUS card, or U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Document, or an Alien Registration Card, Form I-551, if applicable.

* As early as January 1, 2008, ALL persons, including U.S. citizens, traveling between the U.S. and Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Bermuda by land or sea (including ferries), may be required to present a valid passport or other documents as determined by the Department of Homeland Security. While recent legislative changes permit a later deadline, the Departments of State and Homeland Security are working to meet all requirements as soon as possible. Ample advance notice will be provided to enable the public to obtain passports or passport cards for land/sea entries."

SD, good post both in this thread and in your other one on passport requirements!

One thing that people may want to consider is getting one anyway for land travel (before the deadline). It's a helluva lot easier to get through the border with a uniformly recognizable passport, rather than making the border bulls try to recall the peculiarities of your given state/province/district/territory. Remember, the US has 51 different licenses (including the federal district), Canada has 13, and Mexico has 32 (incluso un distrito federal). That makes for 96 different forms of identification that are considered acceptable, and that's just for drivers licenses. Given the perpetual undercurrent between LEO's and bikers, anything we can do to get through the border quickly and quietly is a good thing!

I have already applied for mine since I plan to fly this spring. But if you don’t have one, even though you won’t need it for this years ride. Might as well get it done.

That's the way it goes. Just like it hasn't snowed since I got the new snowblower.

Steve.


ROFL, oh man, ain't that the truth??? Same deal, I bought one last year and it didn't snow again enough to need it until yesterday!

SD, good post both in this thread and in your other one on passport requirements!

One thing that people may want to consider is getting one anyway for land travel (before the deadline). It's a helluva lot easier to get through the border with a uniformly recognizable passport, rather than making the border bulls try to recall the peculiarities of your given state/province/district/territory. Remember, the US has 51 different licenses (including the federal district), Canada has 13, and Mexico has 32 (incluso un distrito federal). That makes for 96 different forms of identification that are considered acceptable, and that's just for drivers licenses. Given the perpetual undercurrent between LEO's and bikers, anything we can do to get through the border quickly and quietly is a good thing!

Actually, a drivers license alone, at Customs (on both sides) is not an acceptable form of ID. It is an acceptable proof of residence. You are supposed to also provide proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate or passport.

Im a newbe for this, just getting an idea of the mileage. If I meet up at Genva,Oh. do you do the entire ride around lake erie and end back up in Geneva on Sunday night. The ride from Geneva to philadelphia is a day in its self.

Me and a buddy did this ride back in sept of 2004, except we were suppose to take the ferry from leamington to Pelee island and into sandusky Ohio. Ferry out of order we found out when arrived to board.

I know its 510 miles from my house to Niagra falls, and that was a full day of riding in its self.

Im a newbe for this, just getting an idea of the mileage. If I meet up at Genva,Oh. do you do the entire ride around lake erie and end back up in Geneva on Sunday night. The ride from Geneva to philadelphia is a day in its self.

Me and a buddy did this ride back in sept of 2004, except we were suppose to take the ferry from leamington to Pelee island and into sandusky Ohio. Ferry out of order we found out when arrived to board.

I know its 510 miles from my house to Niagra falls, and that was a full day of riding in its self.

There is no starting or finish line for everyone. Bikers jump in at any of the several stops around the lake. My gf and I live near Geneva and have been riding from there to Buffalo area and then back.

I ride from south central MI and meet the group at Geneva, ride around the Lake, and then return home, usually after a little solitary riding, and I manage just under 1,000 miles. We don't try to push it too much, and I think 275 mi is about a day's maximum. Lotsa stops (I've been on the ride every time and I cannot remember EVER missing a Tim Horton's! :banana )

I'll be riding through PA this time, returning from a trip to NC and VA, then through western MD. We could arrange to meet somewhere and you can follow me in.

This is a trip and a group you don't want to miss!

... do you do the entire ride around lake Erie and end back up in Geneva on Sunday night ...

I [and some other Canucks] meet the group at the Timmys in Fort Erie, ON Canada mid afternoon Saturday. We ride to Simcoe area arriving there 5 or 6 PM; stay overnight. Then we ride to Windsor, ON Canada with a few stops arriving there late afternoon.

One of these years, we are getting ferry service between Erie and London Ontario. Should be a cool deal if the city every gets their poo together! Count me in too. This time I will wear better stuff, man it was cold last year! I had two pairs of gloves on and still froze. But for now I will shovel snow and stay warm. Oh yeah as far as a easy route through Erie, I figure take Route 5 to Alt 5 then the Bayfront so we can actually see the lake, stop by or cruise the dock (Dobbins Landing now), Etc. then back to Route 5 out to New York State. Hope to see what happens in May.

Hope to see what happens in May.

Cold with temps hoverering around freezing with gale force winds and a 100% chance of drenching rain.

But its still fun.

Cold with temps hoverering around freezing with gale force winds and a 100% chance of drenching rain.

But its still fun.

Mac! You stop that! Don't make me come over there....

This is a trip and a group you don't want to miss!

The shenanigans are endless. Anyone talk to Dwardy yet?

Actually, a drivers license alone, at Customs (on both sides) is not an acceptable form of ID. It is an acceptable proof of residence. You are supposed to also provide proof of citizenship, like a birth certificate or passport.

Last year, they didn't ask me for one single piece of documentation. And I had EVERYTHING with me- Drivers License, Birth Certificate, Ohio and Canada Insurance Cards. Must be my Angelic face, huh?????

Is this open to non-sporty riders if escorted by an XLF member???? :wonderlan:wonderlan:wonderlan

Yes.

Danny3Nose brought a friend last year who rides a Triumph and they were actually married on a ferry ride back to the U.S. :clap

I can post pictures... :smoke

Congrats to D3N!!! Although I doubt I'd want to marry my neighbor,
he rides a Fatboy............:roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack :roflblack

Is this open to non-sporty riders if escorted by an XLF member?

It is important to keep in mind that this is an XLForum ride. It is a Sportster ride. It is not an open ride. We are not inviting the public in general. This ride should not be advertised outside of this forum.

However, good friends, family, etc of XLForum members who happen to ride other bikes are most welcome!

It is important to keep in mind that this is an XLForum ride. It is a Sportster ride. It is not an open ride. We are not inviting the public in general. This ride should not be advertised outside of this forum.

However, good friends, family, etc of XLForum members who happen to ride other bikes are most welcome!

What about a die-hard Forum member that doesnt have the Sporty anymore:confused:

maybee I'm missing it but are there any dates set for this yet?

May 19-21...

I'm gonna try and get in on it this year. I'll also try to convince my buddy who rides a 1200. I'd be joining from Windsor. Is the ride clockwise around the lake? Do you guys hit the highways or the byways?

I'm gonna try and get in on it this year. I'll also try to convince my buddy who rides a 1200. I'd be joining from Windsor. Is the ride clockwise around the lake? Do you guys hit the highways or the byways?

anti-clockwise.. so you'd be the first to leave... or last to join in.. I guess it depends on what days you have free.

...mostly byways on the Canadian side.. unless you call highway 3 a real highway.. mostly highways for me on the U.S. side from Rochester.. I think the other riders on this side have a mix of highway and byway.

I'm gonna try and get in on it this year. I'll also try to convince my buddy who rides a 1200. I'd be joining from Windsor. Is the ride clockwise around the lake? Do you guys hit the highways or the byways?
Some of us meet in southern MI and then ride to Geneva, OH for Night 1. You could join that group. Then Day 2 into Canada, crossing at Buffalo and riding about halfway to Windsor. Then Day 3 back through Windsor (some stay there for another day) and to MI and back to OH.

The itinerary gets finalized in early May, but you'll have to 1) read this entire thread to really understand what we do, and 2) keep up with the thread! It will grow huge. Just subscribe to the thread and you'll be notified when someone posts. Much of what we do is by feedback and consensus, so chime in whenever.

I've been thinking about going thru the threads for the past two runs and extracting the important info [dates, how to dress, etc etc] and posting it in a sticky. Of course if someone else did it first ...

What about a die-hard Forum member that doesn't have the Sporty anymore:confused:

You will have to keep up, so perhaps you should install that big bore kit they offer. Welcome!

Man, I am really looking forward to this run. In my minds eye I see 100's of Sporties cruising down I-90, birds taking flight from the thunder of the Harley induced roar, mothers draggin children off their tricycles and into the house with frightened looks on thier faces... Probably have it all wrong though.

Anyway, I think I mentioned it before, you all will be passing right by my place a bit before you get to Geneva, so I'll join along the way.

more like 20-30 unless the weather is really good.

I've been thinking about going thru the threads for the past two runs and extracting the important info [dates, how to dress, etc etc] and posting it in a sticky. Of course if someone else did it first ...
There are some helpful posts about past routes, timing, and costing that YOU might consider adding to this post YOU are constructing. We're all too busy riding down here south of the border now that spring has arrived, and I know y'all are still confined by poor weather. What better use of your time?!

But I would be willing to help.

:D

OK, OK. I'll start!

NOTE: Print this damn post so you can find it later!!!

What follows in Part I represents MY costs for the trip so you can get some idea of what expenditures to plan for. Part II is LAST year's itinerary for comparative purposes. We have also found it useful to:

1. get a card from your insurance company WELL IN ADVANCE indicating you have coverage in Canada

2. get Canadian currency for expenditures in Canada. We usually stop at an ATM first thing (right after Mick gets his first cup of Tim Horton's coffee).

3. cell phone calls from Canada have a VERY expensive surcharge... Plan ahead.

4. passport, though not required this year, simplifies crossings.

5. we all carry GOOD tool kits. NASCAR often consults with us when they need assistance. Don't spend huge amounts unless a significant portion of your travel will be alone.

------------------------------------------------------
I. THE COSTS:

They are based on my run from south central Michigan (on a 1200R with Stage I). I weigh about 220 and carried probably 50 more pounds with sissy bar pack, full saddlebags, road tool kits, etc.

THREE DAYS & TWO NIGHTS:

TOTAL MILES: 856 mi (306 mi Day 1, 254 mi Day 2, 296 mi Day 3)
TOTAL FUEL: 17.14 GAL (includes metric conversions from Canada)
AVERAGE MILEAGE 49.94 MPG (XL1200R Stage I)

TOTAL FUEL COST $40.81 (includes conversion from Canadian currency)
FUEL COST PER MILE $0.048 (YUP, a nickel per mile)

MOTEL COSTS: $59 + $77 = $136/2 = $68/NIGHT (includes taxes)

TRIP COSTS LESS FOOD = $176.81

COSTS PER DAY (3 days) FUEL & LODGING (2 nights) = $58.94/PER DAY

I did not share a room (friend bailed out at last minute though he planned to try and meet us at some point... but couldn't get ignition repaired on '78 Low Rider), so motel costs would be cut in half for those were able to share. If folks spent similar amounts to what I spent for fuel, their costs for the three days/two nights) would be about:

FUEL ($40.81) + SHARED MOTEL ($68) = $108.81 = $36.20 PER DAY

Food and drink would obviously change the per day costs, but most restaurants we chose were quite reasonable and we could spend whatever we chose from a $5 meal to a $20 meal. Up to you.

I think this was a helluva deal! Less than $60/day is hard to believe for such an incredible ride, and $36/day if you can share a room is almost a giveaway!!!

-------------------------------------------------------
II. THE ITINERARY: 2006

FRIDAY May 19th ITINERARY

These are given so that other OHIO riders will know where we'll be and approximately when to expect us. PM me and let me know if and when you'd like to join the group, and we'll stage the ride accordingly to pick you up...

MICHIGAN TO GENEVA (Shark Doctor & Dwardy; Olderthandirt; Bikerchk)

1000 - Meet and greet at Cabela's in Dundee; fuel

1030 - Depart en route Toledo via 223, I-475W, to I-75N (both real short) to US 20 at I-75N Exit 193. Meet in K-Mart parking lot, 1/2mi to east off exit ramp on south side of road. Total distance 58 miles.

1130 - Depart heading east on US20 toward Clyde, then Bellevue, then Norwalk (US20 By-Pass) where OLDERTHANDIRT (Mac and wife) will meet up. Then Wakeman where we pick up route 303. Total distance to Wakeman 85 miles.

1330 - Route 303 east to Lagrange, then Brunswick. Fuel and lunch in Brunswick BEFORE intersection of 303 and I-71. Total distance 14 miles. Lunch and fuel in Brunswick BEFORE 303 crosses under I-71 (major construction).

1500 - Depart en route Richfield (out of Brunswick by taking S. Carpenter Rd to Sleepy Hollow Rd., turn right to Plum Creek Parkway and run that to State Rt. 3 East to 130th, then north back to 303, then on to Peninsula, then Hwy 44 (BIKERCHK joins), probably between 1545 and 1600), then route 534 north. Total distance 59 miles.

1630 - Head north on route 534 into Geneva. Total distance 39 miles.

1730-1800 - Arrive Geneva. HOWARD JOHNSON'S


SATURDAY May 20 ITINERARY

(Chuck/Shark Doctor to Canada; Iron Mick from Ft. Erie to Delhi). This is Cantolina's post from last year that proved pretty accurate and we'll follow it again this year to Canada.

"On the way from Geneva to Niagara Falls, the assumption is that we're gonna "hug" the lake....

0900 exit from Geneva, we should run thru Conneaut about 9:30-9:45. We will be trying to stay along Rt 5 as much as possible....trying to stay along the lake itself...

1000-1030 Erie, PA

1100-1130 Refueling at the reservation in Silver Creek, NY (perhaps as late as noon)

There is a Y where the Cattaraugus Creek is crossed....one way goes Rt.5, the other goes Rt 20.....we will refuel at the very first (Seneca Hawk?) station....its actually ON the Y...from there, we will proceed down Rt. 5 and cut down to Old Lake Shore Rd. ASAP....

1300 It will be a late lunch day. We will be stopping before Buffalo at Tony's Drive-In....in front of the Bayview Hotel in Hamburg, NY..... Lunch there for 1 1/2 hrs....(I like to be conservative), then on to the Peace Bridge....

1400-1500 Should reach the Peace Bridge in about 45 minutes or less from there....

1530 or earlier, crossing and to Tim Hortons' in Ft. Erie

Then, we hand off to our gracious Canadian hosts... IronMick, et al.

1530-1630 depart for Delhi; ~100 miles

1800 Arrive Delhi. DELL and MAPLE LEAF Motels; dinner at COURTLAND ROAD HOUSE


SUNDAY May 21 ITINERARY

Make it up as we go. Some will travel for awhile and depart as necessary. Some will stay in Windsor. Some will return to Ohio, Michigan, etc.

----------------------------------------------------

FINAL ARRANGEMENTS

On Thursday night, May 18, we will meet in the "chat room" where I'll have a room for the "Lake Ride" and we can discuss details and get psyched even more. We found that to be very helpful last year! Probably around 8-9 EDT. Will advise. (NOTE: Try out the chat sometime before then if you haven't already so you can work out the kinks...)

==========================================

Hope this helps everyone plan. Please add to this (veterans of travel) so we can help out of new riders.

-Jeff

Where did they cross the border into Canada? From New York, Michigan, which port and where did the USA group meet up at. For the past two years the Canada side went something like this:
***
Saturday 3:00 PM approximately, USA group crosses the border, proceeds to Tim Hortons, meets with Canucks; party in the parking lot

Saturday 4:30 PM approximately, we depart for prearranged motels at Simcoe/Delhi area. No one needs to make advance arrangements. We reserve two complete motels across the road from each other; dinner, party, sleep, breakfast

Sunday, breakfast party, ride to Windsor with fun stop at Port Bruce, then fuel stop at Port Stanley
***
This can change of course. But the limits are: arrival time of USA group at Ft Erie, arrival at Saturday overnight stay location in daylight [gets really cold after sunset in May in Canada], and arrival in Windsor also during daylight on Sunday.

Going INTO Canada, we cross at Buffalo. Coming back into US, some cross at Buffalo, some at Windsor, and some at Marine City (by ferry...).

USA groups meets at Geneva, OH and all points east to Buffalo. We meet the Canadian group at Ft. Erie.

Just went into Windsor this past weekend, no hassles at all entering or leaving the country. We even asked the border guy if he'd like our birth certificates when we were leaving and he's like : Nah, don't worry about it. Drivers License is fine. (But you still need to have the b.c. if you don't have a passport, they can ask for it at any time.)

We started all the bikes in the garage tonight.....OMG I am dying to get to riding again. It was 44 degrees when I went out at 6AM this morning and felt downright balmy- course there was still 3 feet of snow but whatever...

Danny: how was the birthday party? Did everyone have fun? Remembering that this is NOT the Super Off-Topic section, is there anything about it you can tell us? :D

Bikerchk: I hear that. I'm just glad that we had a bike show in December, another in January, one coming up in March, and another one in April. I'm hoping to have the bike back on the road by the March show, but at least the other two helped to tide me over until then!


...and I promise, I haven't done anything to the bike!

Hey Debster/Danny-

What's the status on the patch? I'd like to see this happen this year. Did you re-design? Did y'all find a vendor? I have one locally and can arrange for it if y'all prefer. But we should get this going now while there is time.

-Jeff

Hey, Jeff! I was waiting for some kind of consensus on the patch: rectangular, round, rocker style, or ??.

Are we going to do both patch and t-shirt? (The t-shirt won't take but a few minutes to update for this year.)

I got time this weekend to work on it, whatever we decide. I just need to know what direction to go!

... I'm just glad that we had a bike show in December, another in January, one coming up in March, and another one in April ...

So you missed the most important one. The London Bike Show was earlier this month - February. The Sportster club had a display of 28! bikes. Two of our members won awards.

They had a big indoor dirt track set up. Kids about 8 years old were roaring around there, digging into the corners, flying thru the air, being cool. It was great. And the Buell team had a straight track set up right in the middle of the show space. Doing front wheelies and all that fancy stuff.

This was a bike show,eh! I've been to all those TO shows; they are boring compared to this.

Hey, Jeff! I was waiting for some kind of consensus on the patch: rectangular, round, rocker style, or ??.

Are we going to do both patch and t-shirt? (The t-shirt won't take but a few minutes to update for this year.)

I got time this weekend to work on it, whatever we decide. I just need to know what direction to go!
If you'll get me a design for BOTH, I'll price them out. You are the graphic designer: go with a patch that meets your design tastes and we'll live with it. I think Mick summed it up when he suggested one patch that we could add year rockers to...

It we wait for consensus, we'll never get it done! I'll get the prices and folks can order whatever they choose. I don't mind handling it from here unless Danny has a vendor and the desire to manage it... it WAS his and your idea!

-Jeff

It we wait for consensus, we'll never get it done!

:roflblack
Alrighty then, I'll get something up here before the weekend is out. Stay tuned!

:roflblack
Alrighty then, I'll get something up here before the weekend is out. Stay tuned!
If you develop large files, PM me and I'll give you an e-mail address to send them to.

I liked the design you did last year and I suggest we use that (updated) for t-shirts of an appropriate color for those who might want one in addition to or instead of a patch. The design you did, as I recall, was not a "traditional" shape and that might make for a great patch... Might wanna dig that up and re-post it here in this thread for folks to drool over for a bit.

:clap

Blacks the only appropriate color for a T-shirt. HAHAHA

Blacks the only appropriate color for a T-shirt. HAHAHA

Wouldn't have it any other way! LOL
This is last year's shirt, to be updated for 2007.

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Tshirt_21.jpg

Blacks the only appropriate color for a T-shirt. HAHAHA
I don't know, Mac. I kinda figured you for tangerine or, maybe, a sky blue or a nice mauve...

:sofa

Here's the 2007 version of the t-shirt, and some sample patches. What do ya think?

T-shirt (http://xlforum.net/photopost/watermark.php?file=18846&size=1)

Patches (http://xlforum.net/photopost/watermark.php?file=18845&size=1)

Lake Patch-angle (http://xlforum.net/photopost/watermark.php?file=18848)

I like the t-shirt a lot!

Patches: the lake-shaped patch, especially the blue one, is also a winner. My only question on that one and the orange one: would the black border be overwhelmed if it was on a vest or black jacket? I don't think so.

Let's see what responses we get and then I can take them to my local guy. (Danny: do you want to do this, or do you want me to look fort pricing?)

I like them all, but I especially like the orientation of the lake in its proper perspective, regardless of design....

I did one of the lake at an angle, too, I just forgot to include it. :doh Here it is:

Lake Run patch-angle (http://xlforum.net/photopost/watermark.php?file=18848)

I'll edit my previous post to include it.

I like em all, and I'm also partial to the yellow and black ones on the right of the page, but I think I might be in the minority. I will call my patch guy tomorrow and see what the pricing will be.

But did we ever decide on whether we are doing patches or tshirts? Or both?
Doesn't matter to me.

But did we ever decide on whether we are doing patches or tshirts? Or both?
Doesn't matter to me.
Let's see what the feedback and interest is and then decide?

Count me in for the ride and a t-shirt(black only) and a patch. Also when we ride though Erie, the best route that hugs the lake would be ALT Route 5(west lake Road) to The Bayfront Parkway(runs right along the lake for 5-6 miles!) back to Route 5 ( East lake Road then past General Electric and out to North East and the rest of the ride. I can post you a map too if needed.

I love the lake on an angle on a black tshirt- great job Debster!!!!!!

Talked to my guy today, just gotta settle on a design and whether it'll be a shirt or a patch, and I'll send the design for a quote.

Talked to my guy today, just gotta settle on a design and whether it'll be a shirt or a patch, and I'll send the design for a quote.
I would suggest getting quotes - just ballpark figures - on any of the patches and on t-shirts. We'll never get much of a response yet to actually generate a number for an order; still too early for many to keep up with the posts (very few folks posting, but maybe they're lurking) and we should know $$$ numbers soonish so we don't miss out this year. I realize the final cost will be based on order size, but we should have some sort of an approximation of cost.

I still have an e-mail list I used the last two years as a way to contact folks. I can send out a note asking folks to "check in" with the thread (or even another thread that has a poll?) so we can get numbers. I would price out patches (maybe just 50-100; remember we can use them every year if there are leftovers), year rockers (not much more than 30 or 40 given our attendance for each of the past years) and maybe 20 t-shirts. Some may also want 2005 and 2006 rockers as well to catch up... We have good lists for who participated.

Just suggestions... But I wouldn't wait too long. I'd be happy to front the cash if that's an issue.

I would suggest getting quotes - just ballpark figures - on any of the patches and on t-shirts. We'll never get much of a response yet; still too early for many to keep up with the posts (very few folks posting, but maybe they're lurking) and we should know numbers soonish so we don't miss out this year.

I still have an e-mail list I used the last two years as a way to contact folks. I can send out a note asking folks to "check in" with the thread (or even another thread that has a poll?) so we can get numbers. I would price out patches (maybe just 50-100; remember we can use them every year if there are leftovers), year rockers (not much more than 30 or 40 given our attendance for each of the past years) and maybe 20 t-shirts. Some may also want 2005 and 2006 rockers as well to catch up... We have good lists for who participated.

Just suggestions... But I wouldn't wait too long. I'd be happy to front the cash if that's an issue.


Sounds good, I'll send the designs now to get a quote on all of it, just so we have an idea what each will cost. Will have a quote by next week.

I wouldn't be worthy of a shirt or patch unless I make it all the way around the lake. :D

I wouldn't be worthy of a shirt or patch unless I make it all the way around the lake. :D
And that's why I want to hook up with the Michigan riders to start it off from the beginning (what do they call you, anyway? Michiganers? Michiganites?). If I'm gonna say I've been around the lake, I wanna go around the lake!

I wouldn't be worthy of a shirt or patch unless I make it all the way around the lake. :D
But... but... but...

YOU found the hotel in Geneva. And the restaurant. And you've led us through OH, PA, and NY to Canada... And you brought your lovely wife Kelly. And you brought Miss Piggy! YOU HAVE RIGHTS!

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Miss_Piggy-2.jpg

And that's why I want to hook up with the Michigan riders to start it off from the beginning (what do they call you, anyway? Michiganers? Michiganites?). If I'm gonna say I've been around the lake, I wanna go around the lake!
RIGHT NOW THEY CALL US COLD!

You can meet us in Fort Erie and ride all the way back through MI and OH, PA, NY... Means you'd have to build in a long ride Mon (maybe even Tues since we don't get to Canada 'til mid-afternoon Sat).

Not everyone rides all the way around... The Canadians don't, but they are certainly worthy of "the patch." It's not the distance, it's the experience and the participation. If we just gave a patch for the whole distance, there would be only about 4 or 5 of us who would have one!!!





(Sounds like my excuse: "It's not the age, it's the mileage!")

But... but... but...

YOU found the hotel in Geneva. And the restaurant. And you've led us through OH, PA, and NY to Canada... And you brought your lovely wife Kelly. And you brought Miss Piggy! YOU HAVE RIGHTS!

http://xlforum.net/photopost/data/500/Miss_Piggy-2.jpg

GOOD ONE! :clap :banadanc :doh :banana :laugh

RIGHT NOW THEY CALL US COLD!

You can meet us in Fort Erie and ride all the way back through MI and OH, PA, NY... Means you'd have to build in a long ride Mon (maybe even Tues since we don't get to Canada 'til mid-afternoon Sat).

Not everyone rides all the way around... The Canadians don't, but they are certainly worthy of "the patch." It's not the distance, it's the experience and the participation. If we just gave a patch for the whole distance, there would be only about 4 or 5 of us who would have one!!!





(Sounds like my excuse: "It's not the age, it's the mileage!")


Better yet, I'll run the 403 out to Windsor, hop the border, and start with the rest of you in Ohio! On subsequent runs, I'll probably just do the Ft. Erie-Windsor corridor, but for my inaugural Erie ride, I want to do it start to finish; I'll start at Windsor and end at Windsor. It's not about "earning" the patch, but about saying to myself that I did the whole run at least once.

Are the Michiganites (?) riding out to Ohio together? If so, could I roll with you to the meet in Ohio? Smokey's seem to be drawn to a lone Canuck on US freeways like sharks to a wounded seal. Like other seals, being in a herd drastically improves my chances.

Not that I won't make the run solo, but it's just easier not to.

Can anybody draw a map of the routes? I'd be coming from eastern NY (near Albany) and I can't figure out what way everyone seems to go here.

Smokey's seem to be drawn to a lone Canuck on US freeways like sharks to a wounded seal. Like other seals, being in a herd drastically improves my chances.
Perhaps I should re-introduce myself... My handle is EARNED, not given. You would ALREADY be riding with a shark if you joined up with me! You think that really improves your chances?!:laugh

We'll figure something out as time gets closer. I may be joining up from the south instead of from Michigan this year as I expect to be in North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New York before going directly to Ohio. Maybe we can find a way to meet up and ride in together, perhaps with others from PA and NY as well...

Dwardy (Dave) hasn't replied to the thread yet, and it has just been Dave and I that ride in from Michigan to meet everyone else in Ohio. I assume he's going, but it will be a month or two before this thread gets really busy. We'll hit a thousand posts before it's time to ride, and then we'll know better just who is "in." That ALWAYS changes!

Can anybody draw a map of the routes? I'd be coming from eastern NY (near Albany) and I can't figure out what way everyone seems to go here.
If you come to Geneva, OH on Friday, you'll be fine. Perhaps Gary, Canroc, Cantolina, and Debster will travel together, and you could join them. Otherwise we could meet you in Canada, across the Peace Bridge from Buffalo. That has been where Canroc meets up and where Debster planned to meet us last year before a back injury. We then turn ourselves over to our Canadian hosts who take us through Canada for the next two days.

We'll work a route out with you as it gets closer, and we post an exhaustive itinerary and plans later in April and May as well. Go back a few pages in this thread (to post #122) and you'll see a long review I put up a few weeks ago that summarized everything.

I'm still gonna try my damndest to get in on this ride. I'll know closer to the date, if I can make it for sure.

I'd be starting from Windsor, so at least Casper could join up with me (and possibly 2 other Sporty owners from Windsor). Then we could ride around to Ohio and meet up with some others along the way.

OMG! I almost sprayed iced tea all over my keyboard when I saw that little piggy. I got one just like it as a gift, and hadn't figured out WTH I'm gonna do with it. Now I know! :roflblack

All this talk of meeting up is already making me crazy! I can't wait to meet all you people in person, and see all the bikes, and hang out and drink beer! :clap

COME ON SPRING!

All this talk of meeting up is already making me crazy! I can't wait to meet all you people in person, and see all the bikes, and hang out and drink beer! :clap

COME ON SPRING!

She said drink Beer...:banana

Looking to make the ride this year! Looks like Shark Doctor may not be starting in Michigan. When the date gets closer, we can get a count of riders from the mitten and get organized.

:banana :banana :banana

Doc if you end up in Ohio you can stay with us for a few days if you need to. We might be able to get the happily married couple to go on a tour through amish country a day before departure.
BTW--- I need 2 patches and rockers

Aye, you're very kind, me Bucko, and I might just take ye up on this offer!

I assume the "newlyweds" refer to Danny and Joe: how's their first year been? Carol never heard anything about where they were registered; she so much wanted to pick up a few pieces in whatever dishware pattern they settled on... :smoke

Am REALLY looking forward to spring. I can imagine that you've (finally) pushed your share of snow and are ready for some riding as well. How's the injury? Are you well healed and ready to jump back on the Ultra?

Danny is looking in to the pricing of rockers and patches and we'll set up an order procedure once he gets some idea of costs. I'll certainly make a note and remind whoever takes the order if it isn't Danny or me...

Hi to Dar, and post more often here! It's always good to hear from you.

Best-

J

I'll be heading out from Alma, Michigan and would like to meet up with the other Michigan riders.

I assume the "newlyweds" refer to Danny and Joe: how's their first year been? Carol never heard anything about where they were registered; she so much wanted to pick up a few pieces in whatever dishware pattern they settled on...

Yes - we just sent flower and a card wishing them all the best in the future and suggest NJ would make a great state to set up residence. :D

Yes I'm healed and ready to ride, and I'm sick of pushing snow. Were defiantly planning on a long winter vacation next yr.
Its been a hectic fall and winter for me, more than anytime in the last 10 yrs. But things are starting to settle down a bit and I hope to spend more time here and on the bike in the future.
I have come to the conclusion that work defiantly sucks and I really don't wish to participate any longer in the activity. How ever finances may play a large part in my decision. :doh

Tell C we said Hi and will be talking soon.

Mac

Hey OTD What are you healing up from? Hope you are ok- say hi to Dar from me and Dave!

For shirts, patches, etc:

first year we had a single digit number of riders [like 6 or 8 or 9 or something] go thru Canada. There were about another 1/2 dozen who did not cross the border. Second year we had a 2-digit number like 13 or 18 or something.

As a rough guess i would say that 2 dozen will do it this year. Try using that as a best guess for the number of shirts, patches or whatever.

BARELY TWO MONTHS TO GO!!! LET'S GET PUMPED UP!!!

Danny: any cost estimates for patches yet? When's your guy gonna let you know? Want me to check it out here?

DEB: have you got original artwork as a .bmp file or something I can print a nice photo from?

BARELY TWO MONTHS TO GO!!! LET'S GET PUMPED UP!!!

Danny: any cost estimates for patches yet? When's your guy gonna let you know? Want me to check it out here?

DEB: have you got original artwork as a .bmp file or something I can print a nice photo from?

Yep, it'll be here before we know it! woohoo!!

I've got a PDF at home I can send you, that I also sent Danny. I'll send it to you soon as I get home from work.

Great. Do you have my e-mail address?

I'll PM you just in case you don't...

Have you heard from the Man with 3 Noses about any bid prices?

-Jeff

I just sent you 2 PDFs.
And no, I haven't heard anything from Danny.

Great. Do you have my e-mail address?

I'll PM you just in case you don't...

Have you heard from the Man with 3 Noses about any bid prices?

-Jeff

Last I heard Joe was buying there first home so there probably busy decorating. We could all stop there on the way for a house warming party for the lovely couple. I'll make arrangements if you want. I wonder if they planning on surprising the group with an announcement of a little package of joy :D :banana

Yes, Joe and I are enjoying our first year. :)
As far as the patches, we need to set up a poll as to which one we want. Also, if someone with design skills could design the rocker and post it, that would be great. Prices will be determined by the quantity, so I also need an idea as to how many. Do we also want year rockers made for 05 and 06 for the pioneers who started this event?

ps, triumph joe and I are registered at Macy's, Victoria's Secret, Home Depot, and of course HD.com. :)

As far as the patches, we need to set up a poll as to which one we want. Also, if someone with design skills could design the rocker and post it, that would be great. Prices will be determined by the quantity, so I also need an idea as to how many. Do we also want year rockers made for 05 and 06 for the pioneers who started this event?
I don't know if I would print any more than 50 patches (maybe 75). They'll be good for awhile. The number of rockers will change from year-to-year. Deb has the rocker design already for each of the patch designs. Didn't she send you the .pdf?

I would take 2005 and 2006 rockers.

I also like the blue, angled patch the best.

I guess we need a couple of polls, though I'd prefer folks to just note their choices here so we can track them. I can always send out an e-mail to the list of past participants and this year's prospectives.

Not too many folks have checked in yet. I guess April will be the teller.

whoops, didn't notice the rockers under the patches! got it.

The shirt design looks great... I vote for the angle patch. I kinda like the red on the designs over the blue, but they still look sharp regardless of the color!

Nice work! :banarock :banarock :banarock

http://xlforum.net/photopost/watermark.php?file=18848



:usa3

I hope to meet up with you all in Erie and take it up to the peace bridge. Is there going to be a more detailed itenary? Just need to know where and about when.

I hope to meet up with you all in Erie and take it up to the peace bridge. Is there going to be a more detailed itenary? Just need to know where and about when.
Go back six pages in this thread to post number 122. That will essentially be the itinerary we'll follow this year. Stay current with this thread (I'd recommend that you subscribe to the thread) so you can follow the changes as they occur.

-Jeff

Well I'm planning on going this year. With any luck, I can work out the logistics of bringing the little woman along.

Well I'm planning on going this year. With any luck, I can work out the logistics of bringing the little woman along.

Yes! It will be cool to see you again, and the lw as well.

Canadians (Mike & Steve):

Do you anticipate staying in the same places we stayed last year, or are you contemplating a different route, different places?

Have y'all had enough of a break in the weather for any rides? We managed a 200-miler last week in 65 degree weather, followed by 5" of snow the next day! Been cool and drizzly since.

Canadians (Mike & Steve):

Do you anticipate staying in the same places we stayed last year, or are you contemplating a different route, different places?

Have y'all had enough of a break in the weather for any rides? We managed a 200-miler last week in 65 degree weather, followed by 5" of snow the next day! Been cool and drizzly since.


Can't see finding any better situation than we had last year. Not with keeping the border crossings at similar times.

The weather hasn't been that great. Not on the weekend anyway. Been hearing Mike's bike starting up, when I'm working in my shop. Got a few years to go before I can retire.

Steve.

Can't see finding any better situation than we had last year. Not with keeping the border crossings at similar times. Steve.
I agree. I liked having the places to ourselves. I sure hope y'all can arrange the same deal again this year!

It won't be long before we'll start hassling folks to see how commited they really are. It's hard to believe April comes next week!!! And y'all have a Fri the 13th festival in April this year. Maybe, with good weather, you'll have a chance to scope out the motels on some part of your trip!

Best to you and Joan.

-J

Ok, can we start to get a vote on the patch design so I can get the estimate? A few people have already mentioned they like the angled patch, anyone else wanna chime in?

Ok, can we start to get a vote on the patch design so I can get the estimate? A few people have already mentioned they like the angled patch, anyone else wanna chime in?
Angled patch.

Let's put a time frame on this...

What if we say vote by Monday a.m. (March 26) for purposes of getting a sense of interest so you can get the quote??? Otherwise we'll spin our wheels until it's too late...

Thoughts?

So, has the Tshirt idea been completely nixed?

I hope not; I really like the design. Just that patches take so much longer to get done (and they are generally a sight more expensive to set up).

I guess we'll eventually do a poll (Yippee! yet another poll...).

-Jeff

A poll would probably be the best way to capture the information. At least it would all be in one place!

A poll would probably be the best way to capture the information. At least it would all be in one place!
OK.

How about this:

I'll create a poll regarding shirts and patches, etc., and then I'll PM the folks I have on my e-mail lists from 2005 and 2006 and direct them to the poll so we (hopefully) get a sufficient response to make some informed choices.

That sound suitable? I'll wait a day or two for thoughts and advice before I launch the poll...

-J

Sounds like a great idea. I think the things that need to be confirmed are:

1. Should we (meaning the group) order a run of t-shirts, patches, or both? If only five people are getting one and everyone else wants the other, it's not worth the cost.

2. What design is preferred?

Also, are we going to start having people confirm if they're coming? After all, we are at the 2 months mark. Not only will this aid in the logistics of the run itself, but also give an estimation as to how many shirts and/or patches to have run off.

And Bikerchk, I still haven't touched a thing on my bike! It's coming out of indy storage this Saturday, so it'll be mechanically ready to roll, and other than a possible oil change (depending how much riding I get in between now and then), it'll remain un-Caspered until after the run. :D

Thinking about it.
Perhaps a day trip on the US side of the lake.
Not 100% sure yet, but I know I was sorry I missed it last year.

OK.

How about this:

I'll create a poll regarding shirts and patches, etc., and then I'll PM the folks I have on my e-mail lists from 2005 and 2006 and direct them to the poll so we (hopefully) get a sufficient response to make some informed choices.

That sound suitable? I'll wait a day or two for thoughts and advice before I launch the poll...

-J
Sounds like a plan to me.

The POLL has been posted (0920 March 24) and will be open for two weeks. Please examine the files that accompany the poll (in the first post) to see the patches and t-shirt design (THANKS to Debster!), and then choose ONE option.

I will be sending PM's to everyone whose name I have in my files who participated in 2005 and 2006, as well as some who have expressed an interest for 2007 in this thread. If you DON'T receive one by the end of the weekend, send me a PM so I can add your name to my list.

Time to get psyched!!!

-Jeff

I'd like to start compiling the phone list as well for this years run. Please include cell phone and an ICE (in case of emergency) contact # as well. You can PM me the #'s and when the list is done I will PM it to all who are attending the ride.