14-NOV-2009
Talimena Scenic Drive
Looking north from the drive.
Talimena Scenic Drive
Me at the beginning (west end) of Talimena Scenic Drive. It was a little hazy and overcast but still a nice view. The picture doesn't do it justice.
14-NOV-2009
Back side of Sardis Dam
This probably was more colorful about two weeks ago. I wish I had taken the trip a little sooner, but it's still a pretty sight.
14-NOV-2009
Sardis Lake dam
The road atop Sardis Lake dam. The lake doesn't show up on Google maps so I was surprised to see it.
14-NOV-2009
Packed and ready to go!
Packed late last night, now ready to head out on my first trip. I'm going to the closest place to me that's got some trees and hills...Oklahoma/Arkansas area. It's only about 4 hours away so it won't be too difficult for my maiden voyage.
07-NOV-2009
The first changes to make this a "sport touring" bike.
I began with some changes that will get me on some short weekend trips. Here, I added a larger windshield, extender for mirrors, tank bag, and a Givi tailrack that worked with a Coocase topcase in the back. This should be enough for trips close to home and not more than a few days. I took it out for a short 40 mile ride and it handled just fine. I popped a few wheelies just to make sure my VFR hadn't lost its soul (hee hee).
One thing I realized was that the windshield blocked enough airflow to reduce its cooling effect, which means a small adjustment in planning my riding apparel.
07-NOV-2009
Last look before I begin my work
Maybe some day after my trip(s), I might put my VFR back to this sporty look. But onto the task of making this a touring bike and take some scenic adventures into the (semi) wild.
07-NOV-2009
What a clean bike!
Like I said, this bike is extremely clean. If it wasn't for the grease on the chains, you'd think it was brand new.
07-NOV-2009
VFR
Another view of the bike before any "Touring" mods.
07-NOV-2009
Before going "Touring"
On November 7, 2009, I washed my 2000 Honda VFR Interceptor and began to make some changes that would turn this bike into a "Sport Touring" motorcycle. This was what my VFR had looked like over the past 9 years. Before that day, the modifications were for sport performance, which included a full Two Brothers exhaust system, Corbin "smuggler's hatch" seat, Power Commander control module, K&N air filter with the snorkel removed, NGK sparkplugs, and some stickier tires.
The bike is in immaculate condition, never laid down, and only about 6400 miles on it (yeah I didn't really ride it that much since I had two other bikes during that time). I thought about getting another bike for a long adventure ride, maybe a BMW 1200GS. But after 3 weeks of looking at the options, I thought "Why not use my VFR!"
