The Elephant in the Room, My Accident or How I Wrecked My Motorcycle and Scratched My Mini Mate
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- Опубліковано 5 вер 2024
- I’ve been meaning to talk about this a number of times but here it is - fatigue. Last year I was overworked and over tired when I hit the road. Through bad planning and the logistics of getting parts I was putting in 10-12 hour days with theatre work and then bike work in the evenings. I pressured myself by having an event in Montana two weeks after getting off the ferry. In the past, I’ve done 7-800 km/450-500 miles day after day on a few long trips when I was much younger, say 50 and not hauling a trailer. I’m retired. I don’t have to be doing that any more. My goal is to get down to 350-450 km/220-280 miles per day. Leaving me time to explore areas, find campsites and cook decent meals in camp. Those are my goals but I digress. The accident - simplest way to put it, I fell asleep for the nano second for me to get onto the shoulder and then down into the ditch just outside Bangor, Maine. Guardian Angels must have been watching. I got a bruise on my chest and a scratch on my leg that barely bled. I was very lucky. The ST1300 was not as lucky. The road sign did a lot of damage to fender and fairing. Was it repairable? Did it make economic sense for me to try to put it back on the road? The immediate logistics of towing, hotel, truck rental and getting back to my sister’s in Halifax totaled just under $2,700 Cdn,/$2,050 USD?. The ferry to Newfoundland was totally booked til the next week. Continued trunk rental and ferry crossing were going to add another $2,000 Cdn/$1,500 USD. Once I got the bike to Newfoundland I was still homeless til October and I had no where to put the bike and work on it. My assessment was there was at least $2,000 worth of repairs. On top of that was the other majopr maintenance coming up on a bike with 230,000 km/143,000 miles on her. The only bike salvage in the Atlantic Provinces is in Halifax. So that’s where I decided to leave her and start looking for a new-to-me bike to continue my adventures. The ST will be missed.
I do have a 52 litre GIVI back box available!
The Mini Mate and I came out of the accident with just scratches. I have made sure I have more travel time this year and I’m sticking to shorter days. ATGATT - All The Gear, All The Time.
@Codraven channel / @codraven57
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Glad you weren't seriously injured and continue to ride. I've ridden HD all my adult life (69 y o) and recently purchased an '03 Honda VTX 1800 with a Motor Trike conversion. Thoroughly enjoying the VTX. I enjoy your videos and best wishes and blessings to you.
Thank you. I wondered how I would feel getting back on a bike and that will be answered in the next video.
Oh you are a lucky man. I’m so glad you are ok. Also to find another set of wheels.
It is amazing how quick the brain can’t shut down for an instant while riding fatigued. On two wheels! Glad you are ok.
I was lucky. Have greatly modified my riding days now.
@@OldGuyonaBike , you have made me rethink how far I may try to ride this coming Saturday. Riding an extra 4-5 hours and chancing fatigue isn’t worth saving $75 on a hotel room.
@@kevinmatthews365 There is not enough coffee to keep the body alert when it wants to shut down. I am keeping my ride days down to about 6-7 hrs including stops these day. Off to do the Lolo Pass.
Thanks for sharing your story Jim. We have all rode our bikes to long at times and were exhausted. Things can happen quickly with not enough rest. Happy to see you never got seriously hurt.
I have been lucky and I also have not been scared off riding. Too many roads yet to do; I have been shortening my days a bit. Watching out for getting too tired.
Your message about the gear is great. I'm glad you came through it as well as you did. Thank God for that. Stay strong and keep us posted on the journeys ahead.
I am a big believer in gear. I'll keep the journeys coming.
This happened in front of my house Jim, the rain was horrible that day, I’m glad to see you still at it buddy good luck with the rest of your trip!!
@@Meatball1120 glad you found the channel. This was last year's accident with the ST1300. It was this year with the Goldwing in the rain. I did get some good video this year. Just won't be able to edit until I get home. Thank you for your help that day. In Montana right now having a great time traveling.
Glad to see you get a bigger bike. I still have a two wheel motorcycle, but I recently picked up a trike to tow my mini mate. I like the extra wheel and brake that a trike provides when I'm towing, and now I no longer tow with my two wheeler at all. I didn't think I would like it, but towing with a trike brought a whole new level of safety and comfort to my traveling.
The old Goldwing I picked up is being a great tow vehicle. Not quite ready to go to 3 wheels but the trike is a very good way to go.
Hi Jim
Met you at the gas pumps in Dryden today.
Thanks for all the advice on Newfoundlad, we will rework our plans for next year. Skimmed through your videos and looks like lots of good info on touring Newfoundland.
Safe travels, we will be in Nanaimo in about a month,will keep a eye out for that big camper!
Dave
@@davegoodman6264 I may be still in that area at the end of August. Hope you will find so helpful info in my videos. Feel free to contact me after November for anything regarding touring NL.
Old Guy on a bike, keep well and lecture us to respect life on the bike. Victor from South Africa. I won't allow my ST to go away of my hands. God protect you all the time.
I certainly don't want to lecture anyone, Victor, but I do want them to think. Sometimes I have to remind myself to think. Keep your ST on the road... it will give you many miles of joy.
Glad you posted the video and even more glad you’re okay. I’ve ridden very long distances on my bike. Being tired isn’t something you can over state. Sorry your bike was toast but I’m sure you’ll enjoy the Goldwing.
The ST served me well over 17 years and 230,000 km and I was sad to see her go but I'm looking forward to the next 3 months on the Goldwing. That starts today!
Hi Jim, the accident sucked but at least you never had any serious injuries. That's the best news of all. Your video spreads awareness of being fully rested before heading out on the road. Years past, I could easily ride ten hour days. Now I ride shorter, slower but better quality days. Yes Sir, my body tells me to take it easy. Your video hammered that home and we should all listen. You also touched on the importance of riding gear. Great point for sure. On another note, I was happy to see you visit with Codraven. Last year I spent an afternoon with Bryan and Holly while sailing on their boat, FRILL. It was a fun day for sure and I hope to visit with them again this summer. Looking forward to your videos on your latest Goldwing. Have fun out there.
Going to stick to comfortable travel days this summer. I got to spend a couple of days later in the summer out where Bryan and Holly are setting up the homestead.
We hope we can cross paths this summer Larry.
@@OldGuyonaBikeIt was a treat having you Jim and you’re welcome back anytime.
Thanks for the video to remind me to ATGATT. Heading out 21st July, Yellowstone bound on 2008 Goldwing with passenger my wife pulling my Escapade trailer. Take care....looking forward to your next ventures
I'll be in the Yellowstone area July 28-30. Booked into Beaver Creek Campground, West Yellowstone on the 29th and 30th. Gear does make a difference. It can be uncomfortable at times but sweat dries faster than blood. I am looking forward to this year's adventure.
@@OldGuyonaBikewe are staying East Yellowstone. Wapiti area at Trail Shop Inn starting 26th leaving out the 29th close but probably no cigar. Heading up to Miles City. Bear Tooth pass a maybe, weather dependent?
Main thing is that you are ok and still can enjoy riding and thing get fixed with time ..... yep we all would want it to be fixed now ... but that do not really happen, nice to see your spirit is good Alain & Yellow
I've put oveer 2,000 km. on the Goldwing in the last month and didn't feel any hesitation about getting back on a bike. That was good. Getting some slow speed practice in as well. We're not throwing in the towel yet.
Well Jim, it's done! Now, on to bigger and better things. We never get too old to learn lessons do we, brother.(?)
I sure am glad you were able to fix your trailer and that it wasn't damaged any worse.
I guess it's your experience with theatre that makes you such a great narrator. I've followed you for a couple of years ever since you inspired me as a creator myself (I wish I had your filmography skills) to start my own channel.
You made mention about pulling a trailer is not for everyone. I totally agree but it sure does add a level of entertainment value. I like having the conveniences of home with me also. My personal limit of miles per day is about 150-200 and I don't like to do that. I like stopping on the side of the rad and cooking my own meals etc,..
Hey man, great job. Can't wait to see your 2024 trip. My best you, sir and I hope you enjoy yourself on that trip.
Thank you for the comments. I'm 4 days out on this year's run. It feels very good to be back on the road.
Great reality check for all of us Jim. Too bad it was at the expense of the ST:) Looking forward to more content and seeing you in New England mid July.
Looking forward to it too. Finish prepping this week and then it's the ferry.
Great video; New ride looks good from distance. You said couple weeks til you come west. God Bless safe ridin rubber down
I am back on the mainland in 10 days!
Obviously happy you are doing well. Can’t wait to see the new bike! I ride a 2013 Wing and love it! Bought it in 2019 with 4300 miles on it and I just turned 73000 miles! I’m in Denver and hope to meet you one of these days! Have a great summer!
The Million Dollar Highway is on my list of rides. Not sure if it will be this summer/fall. I will be in your area at some point.
Thanks for your frankness and honesty about your experience. I can only hope that I - and other viewers - an absorb the lessons you share and apply them in our own approach to safe riding.
Wishing you all the best and look forward to seeing more of your future adventures!
I think we all push ourselves a litttle too hard. Still getting used to retirement and the fact I don't have to push myself at all.
Glad you came out of that situation in good health!...that was a steep looking embankment...things could have been a lot worse!!...can't wait to get an introduction to the new ride!!...thanks for sharing...stay safe out there!!😎🤙👍🤙👍🇨🇦
Somehow I got grass stain on both shoulders lol. Better than blood stains. The photos were after we got the bike standing up. If it hadn't been for that sign, I might have ridden it out.
Glad you were not hurt. I have nodded off a few times over the years myself but managed to stay on the road. After your video I will be more careful. Out on the road it is easy to focus too much on other things and forget about yourself. Thanks for the video and as always I look forward to the next one.
I'm slowly learning to not push myself. Only takes 7 decades or so to learn. Now to stay disciplined about that.
Very well put on how this all took place and the outcome. Looking forward to the car camping adventures. Thanks for the shoutout Jim and the meetup was one of our highlights last season for sure. You are welcomed back to the homestead at any time my friend.
You probably won't see me this year Bryan but I am going to take next summer to explore the island more and look for my own little spot to plant potatoes and raise baby goats. Definatgely visit then.
@@OldGuyonaBike Oh the adventures to come..........awesome.
Thanks for sharing, you were a most fortunate fellow. Looking forward to new travels.
I know I was... now to have the discipline to not pressure myself.
Falling to sleep can happen very easily, even on a motorcycle, know that from experience. Good to see you with your new ride and it looks like you will be on your road trip soon, hopefully better results this time. Stay safe and have a super summer.
Thanks... yes, we can only push our bodies so far. Gotta remember that I am not a youing whipper snapper of 50 anymore.
Many of us have “nodded off” while riding. I know I have. Fortunately, it did not result in a crash. Glad to know that you did not have any serious injuries, and looking forward to following your adventures on your new ride. Cheers.
Getting on the road in less than two weeks. Marine Atlantic just changed my crossing by a couple of hours. I guess they are still having teething pains with the new ship.
Fatigue is more than just taking a nap. I am a horrible rider as the sun is going down, and as a result, I tend to cut my days shorter and find camp sooner to prevent mishaps. Glad you only lost a bike, and you can tell the story!
I felt it was about time to tell the story before I got on the road again. Shorter days coming up for me and slow days planned in the mix. I stll should be in your neck of the woods near the end of September. Keep healing.
Unfortunately age is never kind . Heat never used to bother me, it was never too hot to ride. But many pounds and years later the heat is what bothers me the most . Here in middle TN (USA) I’ve had to quit riding from the middle of June though first of August . The trade off is less cold weather gear ,at least I’m still riding and so are you . Have you shot new opening yet can’t wait to see it, keep em coming
Heat is a major factor I am looking at this year. Staying north, mountains and coast for July and August and not hitting the mid-west til the middle of September and hoping for it not to be too bad. Hydrration bladder and cooling breaks planned. Will only get the new opening shot this week and will be editing it on the road it lookd like.
Well, I start at 10 and I start looking for a place to stop at 3. As for luck I don't believe in it. As for grace, I do God bless you, my friend.
Providence of God
Thanks for sharing the video buddy and glad you was all right bike can be replaced but not the old guy on the bike I can call you old because I am pretty sure I am a little older than you but it’s just numbers Jim take care and have a great Canada day weekend see on the next video
Old is a state of mind... I haven't actually visited that state yet. Already was out for an hour ride along the coast. Great day here today. Lobster dinner later.
Well, Jim... the New Adventures of Old Guy on a Bike has been almost a year in the making... and thankfully, all's well that ends well 👍
I still had a great time camping the rest of the summer of'23 around the island with the car. Video yet to be edited. I am looking forward to this new adventure. Roads I haven't been on are beckenning.
The story is fascinating but the message is critical. Thanks for slaying the elephant in the ether. I've been tired on the motorcycle but never close to falling asleep. Weary from too many miles so, taking your lesson to heart, this 73 year old will listen to the body even more. Grass stains are a small price to pay for such an important life lesson. And I think the fact the cards were full and no footage of the accident exists is a good thing. It is easier to forget about it when you don't have the visual evidence.
Have to listen to our bodies more and I really have to take my time. This year I have 3 weeks to get to RMR instead of the 2 last year. Not rushing. The accident made me rethink some things and if it makes others pause and plan, all the better.
@@OldGuyonaBike you will enjoy RMR. A very laid back, low key thing essentially with riders spending time with riders. Amanda is quiet, a bit shy but delightful. Enjoy, enjoy.
@@richardmourdock2719 I think it will be a great weekend. Sticking around Montana for a couple of days before heading up to Glacier and then the interior of BC. Down the PCH after that.
Riding through Saint John in the rain is always a bad start to the day. It’s always 10 degrees colder there at least. I’ve ridden that highway 9 many times and it is a bit of a boring road that draws the eyes weary for sure. Sounds like you were by 9 meets the 46. I’m in Fredericton and if you ever need a place to rest up or have a coffee give me a shout. Enjoy the new to you wing.
I was planning on a good break at the Dunkin Donuts at the junction of 46 and 9. 5 minutes short. I lived in F'ton in the mid '70s to 1990. Rode a white BMW R75/5 those days. I might be in F'ton July 11 or 12 on my way west. Might be a chance for a coffee.
@@OldGuyonaBike sounds good. Ride safe and I look forward to the Java
Rode the airline road many a time on my goldwing
This year. it looks like my route into the states will not, repeat, will not be on this road. Not that I have anythinng against the road but I am routed differently on my way down. Coming back, I will be passing thru there again.
Yeah, we’ve all been there. You were lucky but you’re a big boy and you will use wisdom going forward and you will be fine.
@@assessor1276 it was easy to get back on 2 wheels even if it took 10 months. Riding a beautiful old Goldwing now.
Even with all the notice I thought it was last week.
lol, almost a full year ago. I do remember ot well though. At least the part once I snapped awake to an "oh Sh----te" moment.
That did not look like fun at all....glad your safe. What year is the GL? I m looking at a 2003....
Not fun but I came out of it surprisingly well. I've got an old 1994 GL1500. She's in good shape with 140,000 km/87,000 miles on her. She was well maintained. I've put 1,500 km on her and I know she will make a good trailer hauler.
@@OldGuyonaBike Nice....I have always heard the 1500's are the best of the GLs. Looking forward to your trips on the GL. Those bikes like the ST Honda made to last 300,000 miles+.
@@robertmacdonald2735 I expect to get at least 5 big trip years out of this bike. She's old but like me, still fit enough for a few more adventures.