Dan Diego

Welcome, Ray! Nice meeting you last weekend. I'm still recovering from the Kernan...and I didn't even attempt it. Let me tell you a little about the infamous SDAR background check...that's why it took so long for your membership in this exclusive club to be approved. OK, from "good" info (initials BS), I understand that once you submit your application, the mod writes back and asks you to "list all the bad stuff" you've ever done. And don't be shy. Then,the mods get together for brews at a local pub (Blue Oyster) where they chat about drinkin' and ridin' and knobbies and noobs. Once they've reached a certain blood-alcohol level, they break out the membership applications and have a good laugh. Then they drunk dial you and quiz you about the stuff you did as a youngster. Here's an example of one of their membership/background check calls: "Hey, Ray, this is Bob calling from SDAR. Yeah, me and the boys had some questions about that thing you did in Tijuana in the 80's. Uh, what were you thinking?!" Then, he will ask for photos, videos or audio. It gets rough. There's a lot of background noise, mostly laughing. Then, if you're lucky (like we were), the calling mod will pass out and about a week later we will magically be approved. That's kind of how the process works. So, what did you tell 'em? Got photos? See ya out there, Ray! Dan

Uh, yeah, but that wasn't a motorcycle shirt...

Has anyone had any experience with RawHyde Adventures out of Castaic, CA? Just doing some reading on their outfit and wanted to know if any of our folks have attended their offroad/dualsport training courses. I "may" have seen a need for some serious offroad experience after last Sunday's "novice" ride. I mean, how am I ever going to tackle the Kernan on my big ol' R1150GS otherwise?

I went to four corners looking for my buddy Kepple. Saw his truck, but I wan't gonna wander around looking for him. I should have just followed you guys. I talked to him for a while. He told me he was waiting for you. Just before he left with his wife and son he said, "It's a good thing you didn't attempt the Kernan with that bike!" He was the first of several folks to say that.

Well, Bikeslut, I want to jump on the bandwagon of those thanking you for a great ride. Your experience and patience were much appreciated. Actually, there were some really great riders (everyone but me, really) and everyone was nice and welcoming. The route you picked was top notch and I know I'll be getting out there again soon. The Kernan? Maybe not quite yet. BTW: The way you chose to ride the day with street tires for a couple of noobs was classy. Well done, sir. Just super, man. Dan

That was me, Eddie! Sorry about that. I thought I saw some dust on my uber clean bike and was wiping it down when we passed each other at about 50 MPH. (C'mon, you had about 2 inches to spare!) All apologies... Dan

Should we be worried? I feel I've been reading posts from SDLGBT Riders. FWIW, I'm straight. Don't draw conclusions from my yellow bike. See you at 7. Did I mention I'm straight?

I'll take part of the blame for that. The noobs are turning to the more experienced riders and I asked BS for some easy rides. We want to get out and see some trails, but make it back in one piece. C'mon, we'll be out on the single track with you soon enough!

I plan on being there with my big yeller pig.

Although the Harrison Park Road to Engineers Road is fun. That's what I call a "get to know your bike" ride.

Yo, BS, I plan on taking you up on that. From the Tourist Mecca of La Mesa, I'm right down the road from you and would like to check out some basic to intermediate trails. I work a M-F, 9-5 job -- weekends are all I have -- but might be able to get an occasional Wednesday free. Go easy on the noobs...

I was thinking the same thing. From an online dictionary: gouge (Definition) verb American to intimidate, damage, do down. A business term of the 1980s. A business term of the '80's! Yikes. What's up with that? I agree with your term: We're just providing information, assistance to our fellow riders, as it were. That and bustin' yer chops.

Heated debate? Guns? Well, that's unusual. Maybe we can add peforming abortions and providing liquor to minors. You know, to keep the conversation light. To make things easy, I'd suggest becoming a LEO--preferably a Fed--prior to embarking on your ride. Hey, do your research and carry what you feel comfortable with--be it a knife, bear spray (highly recommended for all types of pesky varmits, like OMGs) or a big ol' beautiful .357. Did not mean for this to become a heated debate, just vision myself hanging out in my tent and hearing some unruly noises or on some predators menu.. Obviously done correctly there should be no issues As for being informed, I feel I am as informed as the average safety conscious firearm owner should be, - just thought I would seek some advice from people that have been doing a lot longer then me... Thanks for your input

This issue has been covered fairly extensively on ADV; you might want to check out those threads. A fanny pack will do well. Comfortable, and you can have your wallet and other important documents up front with you. That's how I travel, so it's really no biggie. Crossing borders can cause some grief, though, so have plans in case you decide to run into canada while you're up there. Good luck.

You've come to the right place, Tyler. Welcome. Now, about those 80 MPH wheelies...

OK, I'm out, too. Let me know if anyone plans something later today or next weekend. BTW: It's official--we're all made of sugar!

OK, you BMW riders, I'm looking to replace a slowly dying battery on my GS with an Odyssey --possibly the PC680MJ-A or PC680-C. Anyone using this battery, or a better alternative? I've found it for about $160 locally or $115 on-line. Anyone care to recommend a local shop they're happy with? Lastly, what's the deal with the terminal adapters/extenders? Necessary? Thanks in advance! Dan

I just bought the Odyssey PC680 for $115 from Portable Power Sports (PPS). $130 included a set of terminal extenders and shipping.

In. See you there.

I'd be up for something. East County back roads is do-able. I still sport the Anakees, so don't expect too much aggressive hill climbing from me and the Yeller Pig. Lemme know.

Can't wait! I read these books as a kid. Great stuff.

I finished 11th and had the distinction of riding the most miles (400+). First time rally and really enjoyed it. I look forward to the next one!

Good stuff. My riding card was full this weekend or this would've been a perfect ride. Thanks for posting the great pix.

Ouch, that looks painful. I like your attitude, though. That will get you back on the bike and feeling better faster than anything else. Go get 'em!

I hope this is the proper forum for posting this. Valvoline is offering a full rebate if you buy a case of VR1: Can't beat free... http://www.valvolinevr1racingoil.com/ I hope someone can take advantage of this offer. There's a quick form to complete, then the system generates a rebate coupon good for up to $50 on a case (or 6 quarts) of the synthetic oil. Enjoy.