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When I departed Nashville almost a month ago on this “Fall Foliage Frolic”, I wasn't exactly sure
how long I would spend in the New England area frolicking. I assumed the biggest
determinant – weather – would likely dictate when I would fly south. Yesterday, that was superseded by
word that the long-awaited part for my altitude-ailing motorcycle was finally available. Six months is
a long time for someone who doesn't score high on the patience scale to wait. Hey, we all have our
strengths; patience is just not one of mine, and especially if my journey is being disrupted (in this case,
areas of elevation have been prohibited on the FJR). So, with news that the part was available, along
with a weather forecast that says more rain and cold temps are bound for the Vermont and New Hampshire area,
I skipped town. Destination? At this writing, Alabama then Washington state by way of Arizona. More
on that part later.
I left Conway, NH this morning (Sat.,10/13), and did so wearing heated gear. Last week had toasty low-80s
(very warm for this time of year), while today it was a nippy 36 degrees when I rolled out. As I headed
down NH-16, I thought about how much more I enjoy riding in cold weather than in blazing heat since there are
options to neutralize the cold (clothing, gear, equipment, etc). In high heat, you simply roast. Being
comfortable is a key for me; if I'm distracted with being hot or cold or hungry or tired or anything else – then
by definition I'm not focused on the journey.
Since my plans a few days ago to visit friend's in Montreal for an oil change and lunch were canceled due to an
emergency in their family, I was in need of fresh oil before starting the trek south. Thankfully, a friend
and fellow FJR rider (Russ) who lives in Newburyport, MA was able to help out. En route to his house, I
stopped by my last covered bridge in New Hampshire, the Whittier Covered Bridge near Ossipee Township (GPS
coordinates: N43 49.350, W71 12.680):
If by chance some other Covered Bridge hunters would like a Garmin MapSource file of the Vermont & New Hampshire
bridges, then shoot your request: HERE. Also,
a particular website that I have found useful that lists Covered Bridges throughout the United States can be
found: HERE
Before arriving Russ' house, I needed to acquire the 5 quarts of oil. While at the counter paying a
young lad for my oil, he said “You gonna get all these on your bike?”. Honestly, I wasn't sure, but
said “Oh, sure.” As I walked back out to the bike, I was starting to have doubts. Mo (my moose
passenger) asked if he should give up his seat and ride on the handlebars for the remaining 20 miles, but
somehow I did manage to fit 3 quarts in my tank bag and 2 in a side case. I think I'm still in shock
I had that much space. Made it to Newburyport, where the FJR was fed fresh oil:
The bike on the left is the 2006 version of the FJR. No, no, the scooter belongs to Russ' wife.
MORE TO COME........
Webmaster Note:
The photos below are of her front Avon Storm tires after
6,981 miles. Pretty well shot! They did manage to get her back to Nashville
though, and have already been replaced with new ones so the FJR is ready to go again.
I told her they didn't look as bad as she had been complaining about. Heck, I'd
probably have run them another 10, maybe 15 miles or so!
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