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Our trip went really well. The Sena SMH10 Headsets performed much better than I had thought they would. We charged them at night, and ran synced helmet to helmet for at least two days at 10 hours per day. Some days, we did not stay synced so we could listen to our onboard radio systems. The distance was reliable up to about 3/4 mile, with signal loss around cliffs as expected (line of sight). The reconnection would occur automatically when you came back into range. This communications aspect was wonderful to point out road problems or upcoming turns. It was a great safety feature, and conversation was as natural as sitting beside each other talking while the units were synced. I even had a few phone calls while riding. Most did not know I was riding the motorcycle.
I bought a new HJC IS-MAX II helmet just before the trip. I love it, but the sizes have gotten smaller, don’t assume if you have an older HJC helmet that the size will be the same. My older Symax was 2 sizes smaller and fit the same as the newer helmet. The inner shaded lens on this helmet turned out to be a great asset. I always wear eye protection, and usually switch between dark lenses and clear lenses as outside conditions warrant. With this helmet, I wore the clear lenses, and used the inner lens for the times I needed less light. I usually ride with the outside lens up unless it is raining. I like fresh air!
Not much to say about the Valkyrie. It always runs great and gas mileage is what you expect. Low 30’s if you run with traffic at 75 mph (our posted speed limit in most areas), mid 40’s in the mountains riding slow. Lots of power, even at high elevations, though you could tell the difference. My Goodyear Triple Tread had no problems corning, it just works, and quite well I might add. I did have one hiccup with the Valkyrie, in the Panhandle of Texas, I stopped for a few minutes and noticed after a mile or so that the engine powered out. I missed the warning that it usually gives as the carbs run out of fuel. I opened the gas cap as I drove down the shoulder and the engine restarted. I knew then that the vent line had pinched. That might have had something to do with the late night tank reinstall doing a last minute air filter check. The first night, after we pulled up at the hotel, I laid down beside the old girl and sure enough it was kinked, I straightened it out, and no more problems for the rest of the trip. I am not sure why it did it when it did, we were 300 miles from home and on the second or third tank of fuel.
I won’t post info about riding gear. We all have our preferences and own level of comfort.
I am ready to go again. Enjoy your ride! Return to Travel on Two...
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