Hi all,

Before I decided to get my bike a few months ago, one of the reasons I really wanted a bike was the prospect of being able to go on solo trips wherever I choose (corny but sortof the Western romantic idea type of thing).  And now that I finally got my license (MANYS mailed the MSF certificate in 2 weeks!) I'm able to do this without any restrictions, just in time for this awesome weather and pre-end-of-season.

I have two days - basically leave Saturday morning and be back in the city by Sunday evening.  The initial plan I have is to head west towards PA and see what roads I can find there and then head down towards MD/DC area and spend the night there, then come back either through back roads or straight asphalt depending on how tired I am of riding.

This vague route is very flexible as I don't know any of the roads around the NY/NJ/PA areas - Google maps has been my only source of inspiration.  Looking at all the road trip threads here I thought it could be helpful if anyone would give me any route ideas, location recommendations, gear suggestions, riding tips, etc.  Basically ANY comments from more knowledgeable folk as I'm a noob at both riding and navigating roads in the East.

If anyone has anything to say, I know it'll be helpful so thanks in advance!

FYI, my setup:  '06 S2R-Dark, bone stock other than mirrors, levers, removed mufflers.  1,200 miles, oil change/maintenance at 600 miles (maint. needed?).  No tech issues for the 1,000 miles I've had bike.

bring tools for all those just in case scenarios.  Try to give people at home your route before you split so they know where to look if.
I would suggest PA, NY, WV, KY for good roads.  I haven't seen much in northern NJ that appealed to me and I don't know about MD.  DC is a city so if your looking for nice roads stay away from populations.

While I'm with you on the whole romance of riding (see my "Unplugged thread), I'd suggest getting more riding under your belt before you tackle a solo trip. A lot of the roads in PA are very technical and the possibility of gravel is high especially this time of year...

Quote from: goldenchild on October 01, 2008, 12:04:15 PM
While I'm with you on the whole romance of riding (see my "Unplugged thread), I'd suggest getting more riding under your belt before you tackle a solo trip. A lot of the roads in PA are very technical and the possibility of gravel is high especially this time of year...

I also urge caution and mileage, but you live the life you pick.  Here's a great site for roads:
http://www.motorcycleroads.us/

Remember what they taught ya at MSF...first 2000~4000 miles are where accidents disproportionally happen.