Another month has passed since my last update. Several happenings have occured since then.

First off, for the past few months, I've been purchasing in-depth atlases of each state, that I didn't already own, the trail passes through. We've never traveled much east of Texas. So, my geographic library was severely lacking in that area. I purchased Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas. Later on I purchased Oklahoma and Nevada. I already owned the remaining states. I've said before(on earlier trips) that only one map manufacturer(Delorme) produces maps for each of the 50 states. Unfortunately, these maps are, by far, the least favorable of any of the state atalses that can be purchased.

If I had my druthers, I'd make it a federal law that Shearer Publishing(the makers of "The Roads of" series) produce a map for each state. This series of maps, beginning with their first atlas,The Roads of Texas, is the most accurate, easy to read, and in-depth set of maps that can be purchased for a state. Of course they only produce maps for a few states in the southwest: Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Colorado.

Another company, Benchmark Publishing, produces maps for most western states. These maps are not as in-depth as the "The Roads of" series but are easier to read than the Delorme maps. In the western states, where "The Roads of" series ended, I purchased Benchmark maps.

At this point, I've acquired a hodge-podge of different companies state atlases, allowing me to trace our route across the U. S.

Now, I'm sure you're wondering, "Why does he need to trace his route? He's already purchased $300 worth of maps from an individual who's already mapped the route!!"

I agree. I have already purchased directions from point A to point B. Unfortunately, those directions don't give a very good idea of what I'm suppose to see or not miss along the way.

 

An example I've already used is the fact that our route willtake us within 20 miles of Shiloh NationalHistoric Battlefield. Our directions did not indicate anything was in the area, and I would've never known about it if not for my investigations with other maps.

And besides, I'm addicted to maps!!

We've had several large purchases this month, namely our first set of saddle bags and a larger gas tank for my bike. To see a list of all purchases up to this point, click on the link to the left, or here.

The larger gas tank for my bike has turned out to be exactly what was needed. Like the larger tank for Meredith's bike, installation for this tank was a matter of removing the stock tank and putting the larger tank where the stock tank sat, and bolting it down. I also installed a fuel filter into the lines of both bikes in case something besides gas tries to makes its way to the carburetor.

Clarke Mfg. has done an amazing job on both tanks. But this tank is really a marvel. Clarke managed to design a tank almost twice the volume, but with minimally interference for the rider. In fact, it's only slightly wider than the original. It also is shorter than the original.

With the orginal tank, my range was approximately 120 miles. This tank is twice the size. So, my range should be fine for the longest distance we need to travel between gas stops.

Our next large purchase was the first of two sets of saddlebags to carry our equipment. Notice I didn't say to carry our luggage. Necessity has made up our minds that large amounts of clothes aren't feasible.

After reading several accounts of individuals who had already made the trek, it was obvious that

saddlebags made by a company called Ortlieb would be the correct choice. Minimalistic and, more importantly, waterproof, these bags walk the fine line between more space than a backpack and less space than a Samsonite.

The bags are made of the same waterproof material as dry bags used by whitewater rafting companies. And, like other dry bags, these bags roll at the top and clip on the sides to create a watertight seal.

Inside, there is a plastic frame that helps the material hold its shape.

I would estimate each bag is the size of an overnight bag. We've never taken a trip where it was not possible to bring absolutely everything we might want. Our packing strategy will be tested.

The clothes we bring will be severely limited. We're looking at only bringing clothes for sleeping and the one set of clothes we wear each day. We're hoping we can go four to five days between washings.

Therefore, without many clothes, much room is freed for tools and the like.

We will purchase another set of bags in the month of February. With two sets, we should have plenty of room for all our essentials.

 

We are right where we need to be in terms of the planning stages. With the purchase of another set of saddlebags next month, our major purchases should be behind us. We'll move our concerns to minor issues such as handguards and small protection for each motorcycle.

At some point, we must purchase another laptop computer to make the trek with us. Our trusty Apple TiBook has a broken cover, and I'm afraid it wouldn't last the duration.

Ebay has many good deals on used laptops, and, when the time comes, we can purchase one there for not a large sum.

Well, that's a decent synopsis of January. We'll be talking at the end of February. Adios.

February