Harsh reality of big ride dreams

[Cycledude]

Yup like a few others have said you would probably be much happier riding a Goldwing ! Yes Goldwing is quite a bit heavier but no where near as top heavy as a Tenere. My opinion Goldwing is about as close as you could get to the perfect bike for riding around the Great Lakes , plenty of nice used ones available for reasonable prices. In case you haven’t noticed I’m a Goldwing lover !

 

[Checkswrecks]

I rode my 2012 all over the continent BUT the first weeks of Spring were usually uncomfortable. Riding focuses a lot of effort out of spot muscle groups and it just takes time to build them up again if they have not been exercised recently. That is in addition to flattening the seat, possibly change of the bars out windshield, frequently changing position, how you hold the throttle, standing on the pegs, etc .

 

[lund]

I cannot over emphasis the use of ear plugs. It is just amazing how road noise and wind will burn out your energy, even tense you up during the ride. A good pair of ear plugs will increase your ride time and enjoyment significantly.
I cannot ride without ear plugs, with in an hour I feel exhausted.

 

[Big Bill 51]

These are all great tips for bike setup. If you have been off a bike for a long period of time it will take you awhile to get used to traveling by bike. I sold my 2016 Tenere and was bikeless for almost three years and it was maybe 3 or 4 months before I could rack up some miles before having to stop. i like stopping and checking things out when I see something interesting....Iam good for close to 100 miles before i have to get off the bike for a short break. The wind management on my 2023 Tenere seems to be better than the earlier bike.

 

[Mallardmission]

Thanks to everyone for the great advice! I’m going to make a few adjustments based on your recommendations and keep building up the miles.

 

[Mallardmission]

do the Rox 2” adjustable risers fit a 2012? Revzilla shows a non adjustable inch and half.

 

[Madhatter]

go to tall on risers and your cables might get a bit short ....should be info in the forum suggesting what will work without to much fuss.

 

[Fennellg]

My brute force solution. Used the kit that came with the risers or order it. It gave some slack but not enough. I moved my clutch and brake handles in a bit that got me there. One solution often creates a new problem. My mirrors were now useless, to far in. I installed mirror extenders everything is good now,

 

[Fennellg]

 

[AusTexS10]

Another option and supposedly doesn't have a cable conflict. Raised the bar 2" and shifts it back 1.5". I bought one but haven't had the time to install it yet.

 

[AlanSmith7]

I admit with your statement its really harsh.

 

[Longdog Cymru]

I cannot over emphasis the use of ear plugs. It is just amazing how road noise and wind will burn out your energy, even tense you up during the ride. A good pair of ear plugs will increase your ride time and enjoyment significantly.
I cannot ride without ear plugs, with in an hour I feel exhausted.

I couldn’t agree more! For many years, I have used over the counter ear plugs but after a time wearing them, they start to make my ears sore. Last year, I had a set custom made for me by a company called Ultimate Ear. These are specifically made for motorcyclists and while they appear expensive, they are superb and very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, I know these may or may not be available in USA, they are very accessible in UK and they are probably the best money I have spent on motorcycle gear in a while! I have no association other than as a very satisfied customer.

Custom Motorcycle Ear Plugs | Motorbike Ear Plugs

Custom motorcycle ear plugs designed by motorcyclists. Motorcycle ear plugs that are soft and squidgy, fitting comfortably under a crash helmet.

ultimateear.com

 

[yoyo]

Another advocate of custom ear plugs, can wear them all day long. I had a meeting with an audiologist regarding some work stuff and show pointed out there's a connection between loud noise and increased blood pressure that I'd not heard of before, I can't think of a reason not to wear them.

Sent from my ELE-L29 using Tapatalk

 

[nd4spdbh]

light sleeping ear plugs for sure

Amazon.com

Get your ergos nice (bar risers, and a better or adjusted seat). a 52 dollar madstad windshield bracket with the stock shield and ~20$ ali express winglets made a HUGE difference on my bike.

 

[jeckyll]

i just purchased a 2012 Super Tenere with the dream of doing some bigger rides. I hoped to tour around each Great Lake in 250-300 mile segments, prob hoteling it. I’m 60 and have put about 1000 miles on it mostly day trips. To be honest, after an hour in the saddle, I need a break, water, and just a short reset. my throttle hand goes numb and without cruise well it just sucks. I’m doubting my mental toughness as well. Riding an hour or two just exhausts me and I’m starting to wonder if the bigger trips will happen. Anyone with the same issues. Should I just build up the distances? Tips appreciated.

You don't break the bike in, the bike breaks you in.

Keep riding, work up to longer distances. As you keep doing that, see what parts still bother you after a while, then work on those.

My $0.02.

 

[fac191]

You don't break the bike in, the bike breaks you in.

Keep riding, work up to longer distances. As you keep doing that, see what parts still bother you after a while, then work on those.

My $0.02.

Great observation.

 

[Fennellg]

it comes down to this

 

[Wenisgoodenuf]

The hardest part of any trip is the first mile, after that you're on your way. Look forward to the adventure whether on dirt or tar. Miles = Smiles. No regrets, enjoy yourself

 

[Tenman]

We are spoiled nowadays. In 1972 me and a friend rode stock RD 350’s on a 1200 mile trip. The first day. It rained all day. Of course we didn’t need no rain suit. We slept on the side of the road. No aches or pains for me. My buddy locked his front brake and went down face first n Arkansas. Had a goose egg on his forehead for awhile and some nice road rash. His open face helmet shield was solid scratches. Age is the enemy.

 

[Strummer]

it comes down to this

My favourite band.....