Posted by Dale on June 23, 2003 at 02:42:58:
A while back I had asked what the longest distance anyone had ridden on the Savage. I was trying to decide if I should take the Savage on an extended trip. Well, I’m happy to report the Savage does well. My trip was to the Honda Hoot. We traveled from Virginia taking the Blue Ridge Parkway most of the way…to and from the rally. On Wed, going to the rally, we traveled 494 Miles. On the Saturday we traveled 510 miles. Both bike and rider fared well. Here is some information that may help others seeking to do a similar trip.
Accessories added
1. Memphis Slims Windshield 17” – At first I thought that I should have purchased the larger Fats version. This was due to some Helmet buffeting that I experienced. After riding about 150-200 miles in the rain…I’m glad I got the 17” model. Those who stated that it was important to be able to see over the windshield….right on the money. At one time I couldn’t see through the windshield, my helmet visor, or my glasses. (Yes I pulled over)
2. Suzuki luggage rack – I thought the initial price was high. The quality was better then I expected. There wasn’t a single scratch in the chrome after over 1000 miles of holding luggage.
3. Pro Tac Back rest – Get it. Enough said
4. Nelson Riggs luggage – Loved it. I used the Riggpak 600. Be careful when using this setup. When extended, the bottom tended to cover part of the brake light. I collapsed the bottom using some additional straps. Buy the lock for additional peace of mind. (The lock comes with the 600)
5. Tourmaster Elite Rains pants – Great. Mine leaked around the ankles and waist…but this was my fault for not insuring that the Velcro straps were fastened correctly.
6. Therma wrap – These are little devices made to warm sore muscles. They are activated when exposed to air. Great devices. (My brother used them to stay warm the cold morning ride back) Check for them at you local drug stores.
7. Nomad MP3 player (Creative labs) – I used the smaller hand held version. Great for passing the time. Do not expect to change selections while driving. I also have to warn bikers not to turn the music up to loud. You have to be able to hear what is going on around you at all times. (I thought that one time on the Interstate that I was going to wear a car. Luck I heard the car and was able to take action)
8. Joe Rocket Reactor Jacket – Bled like nothing I’ve ever seen before. It was so bad that at one stop you would have sworn someone was hurt by the color of the water on the floor. (red jacket…red water) The rep said this was not common and I was told how to seek replacement. I’ll let you know if interested in the outcome.
9. I did buy the airhawk seat pad for the return trip. I used it maybe a 10th of the way.
The bike itself.
1. I never had to go on reserve stopping every 80 – 90 miles for gas. The most gas I put in at any given time was 1.8 gallons for 90 miles covered. This averages at approx 50 miles per gallon. (I didn’t take precise measurement but I think it may have been more like 53 – 55 mpg. The sad part was that my brother on a 600 sport bike got better mileage)
2. On the interstate the bike would reach 80 MPH and still had power in reserve. I stayed off the interstate as much as possible. Personal choice. Plus with the bike being loaded, there were problems with the wind.
One sad note, at the Suzuki demo rides, the Savage was the only cruiser left.
I hope this helps. Thanks to all who have helped me in the past with your suggestions.
One last thing….has anyone rode an Iron Butt on the Savage?