I’d like to wish all of you a Happy New Year, but this year I’d like to ask you for something. Put together, or describe your TripTik for 2024. It’s probably simple, but I would really like to know the W5 and How of your plans for 2024’s big trip.
I have one, that I’m working on, and know in a general sense, where I’m going, the route and so on, but haven’t made those somewhat crucial decisions as to where to stay or camp, what are my ‘must see’ places enroute and how long I’ll stay in any given location.
I’m more of a wilderness type myself, and I find both comfort and solace in massive vistas at altitude, in the desert or in a canyon. Let me know by showing a map or set of photographs, where you originate, the route you want to take and your prospective destinations.
Make it as simple or complex as you like. I know many, myself included like to use a specific Motorcycle App, like Revere for example, simply because the act of formulating your plans makes them more permanent and plausible in your mind. It works for me when I can visualize my trip and plan accordingly.
At the same time, I leave room for the serendipitous. Often, I’m overcome by the sheer beauty or wonder of a place, and end up staying in one spot longer than anticipated just to absorb the moment and sense of wonder. Leave room for that as well.
One thing I do know is that by formalizing your trip in your mind, you will become more and more committed to it occuring. A trip begins, for me, with a single vision of a place that I have always wanted to see, feel and breathe in. Usually, when I do go to these places, I’ll find a remote rock, bench or peak where I can sit and ‘soak it in’. I’m an avid photographer and taking a picture of that moment, brings back the essence of the place, years later.
Then I usually go to Rever and plan the route. What do I want to see? How long will it take? Where will I stay along the way? How much fuel will I burn? Can I stay connected during the route, or is it so remote that that won’t be possible? What will I eat, drink, where and when. Okay, this is sounding a bit anal (lol), but in reality, you really do want to know or have some knowledge of this stuff in general. That’s the point I want to make. If you plan a long or difficult journey, based on your destination, ensure that you gather and consider all the facts.
About three years ago, I was forced to stop along my route and backtrack because unknown to me at the onset, the single gas station where I intended on stopping, no longer existed. I had to go back and buy two one gallon containers that bolted on to the side of my bike, as the distances were beyond my bike’s reach on one tank.
So, do it. Imagine, your next trip, visualize and plan each segment. Live it in your mind and revel in the love you have for riding and life.
One last thing, since I’m on Rever, if you would like to ‘friend’ me, I would appreciate it. I use the Friend notification on the app when I’m on the road. It’s always cool to meet other Reverians and blog friends. Having a coffee or (1) beer, since I’m riding, and I’m all in. And, if I’m in your neck of the woods, I’ll drop you a line.
I wish you pure joy on your motorcycle in 2024. Explore that love. It’s infectious and we all want it.
Ciao.
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