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South America Motorcycle Adventure Movie: Contest Announceme
SOUTH AMERICA MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE MOVIE:
Hello, my name is MIKE. I have enjoyed reading everyone's posts. This is a great site for adventure rider enthusiasts and I thought that it would be a great place to announce my contest. I am producing a South America Motorcycle Adventure Movie that will be filmed in a similar fashion to the “The Long Way Round”, with a contest to select my riding partner and pick the motorcycle photographer. The selected riding partner and photographer will need to provide their own motorcycle, riding gear, shots, passport, and air travel & transportation to the departure point -- everything else will be provided (maybe a free bike depending on sponsership!). The trip plan is to depart from El Paso, TX on Feb 1, 2007 and ride to the tip of South America in 30-40 days. How often do you get an opportunity to go on an all expenses paid 40 day adventure, star in a movie, and receive a professionally filmed memoir of your trip? To help with the planning of this movie adventure, a topic will be posted each week for everyone to submit their ideas and suggestions. I need everyone’s help to make this production a success. Here is a sample of the topics that will be posted: What would the perfect Website include? What qualifications should a riding partner meet? What should contestants be required to submit? Which motorcycle to use: Avantages, disadvantages, cost, comfort, reliability? Is sponsorship really necessary? What charities do we support? The evil of marketing: Were do I sign? Legal Consultant required? Best Bike Modifications (Bike Bits)? What to see & do? Will just any motorcycle photographer do? What route should we take? What to take on the trip: Spare parts, equipment, gear, supplies? Best videoing and filming strategy? Is a Satellite phone really necessary? Which shipping drop points for sending out film and getting new supplies? What to eat and what to avoid? What are the dangers: Diseases, sickness, accidents, theft? What paperwork, visa, carnet, passports are required? To Chase or not: Can the trip be successful without a chase vehicle? Should a Life Purpose consultant be consulted? Fitness trainer real needed pre-trip? Health, Digestion, & Diet Consultant: Hollywood hype? What to expect at Borders Crossings? If YOU have questions, comments, or are interested in submitting a video audition for the SOUTH AMERICA MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE CONTEST, Contact Mike at: Phone: 1-734-323-9616 Email: MotorBikeWithMike@att.net Website: www.MotorBikeWithMike.com FOR THE MORE PHILOSOPHICAL READ SEE BELOW: I have just watched The Long Way Round DVD and am totally motivated to make a trip & movie of my own. The movie showed the spiritual side of having such an adventure. The personal accomplishment of meeting challenges along the way is an enticement for me. Were else could such camaraderie and adventure be rolled in to one. A trip like this brings out the good in people and leads the participants to face challenges that build character and spiritual enlightenment. Although I have an immense amount of respect and admiration for Ewan and Charlie, the journey really doesn’t portray what it would be like for the average motorcycle enthusiast. I am planning an adventure from El Paso Texas down to the tip of South America but with out the fan fare and celebrity theme. The trip will be filmed in similar fashion to the Long Way Round DVD. However, a riding partner will be selected from Video Auditions which will require a simple driving test & Q&A segment. The winning participants will be responsible for providing their own Motorcycle, Gear, Passport, Shots, and Transportation to the departure point. Everything else for the trip will be paid for. Each of us could ride a different motorcycle from Honda, BMW, and KTM. This will provide a comparative storyline and real world evaluation of the most common overland bikes used by world travelers today. My quest for a motorcycle adventure trip was sparked by Ted Simon’s book “Jupiter’s Travels”. I came across this book while perusing Amazon.com back in winter 2003. I couldn’t put the book down ending in a two day marathon read. This book brought new adventure over each horizon, spiritual renewal of youthful scars, and meeting new people. It led to a culmination knowing that I to would journey to another land via motorcycle. The Long Way Round rekindled this yearning bringing me to a place of soulful recognition of my heartfelt promise to journey on. MIKE |
Hi Mike,
Apart from the fact that I thought "the long way round" sucked big time, I was wondering if you were going to "race" from North to south? 30 to 40 day,s?.... And still have time to film? I would sugest to do some rechearch before you start.... Luckilly, this is the right place to do your research, so you did come to the right place. I have one request: Please make your movie a "true" and "realistic" movie... and not a "see me, how good I am" exgagerated piece of "cow dunk". Normaly I would not speak up like this, but I know so many "real travelers" that were very pissed off by "the long way". They really DID it on there own.. and suddenly they are a bunch of pussy,s becouse they did not "experiance all the problems" bla bla bla... So, I know I speak for many: Make a good movie, not theatre. Good luck and most of all: HAVE FUN! Maarten ------------------ - www.maartensworld.com - |
MMaarten,
You make some very good points, this is why I have come to this forum. It's people like you that will make this project a success. My email was the just first step, as I have never been to Central & South America, don't know what route to take, etc. As stated in my initial post questions will be added each week to get direction from this site. I don't plan on making this a film about ME, but a motorcycle adventure of what is expereinced by the average overland rider. You mention a few items, but what else would make this a GOOD movie to YOU? Thanks again for your comments, keep the bashing coming, it may hurt now but will save a ton of headache later. PS I would like to spend 3 months but just don't have the time. I can be gone up to 40 days but that is all the time off I have most riders don't have unlimited time). I was figuring on about 250 miles per day total of 7500 miles, not counting weekends), and we wouldn't have to go all the way to the tip of S. America. Does 40 days make it seem a bit more reasonable. Maybe my mileage estimates are off, lol would'nt be the first time, as I usually get lost ten miles from my house!! I haven't locked in the final route yet, heck I don't even know which cities to see. Thinking it is necessary to do the Darian Gap?, Amazon River, AndeMountains, Rain Forest, etc. PSS KEEP THE GREAT COMMENTS COMING!!! [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 09 February 2006).] |
Hi,
I just returned from a trip to Copper Canyon. We were riding on BMW F650s. Ventura, CA to La Paz took the ferry to Los Mochis went through Copper Canyon back to Durango and Mazatlan. We also stopped for filming and picture takeing and it took us a full 2 weeks pushing it to the point it was not fun anymore. I believe 40 days for Central and South America might be too tight of a schedule to do some quality filming and traveling. Good luck with your venture, Harry |
I think it would be better to use the system that was used on Mondo Enduro and Terra Circa.
That is where every rider has a hand held camera. A motorcycle photographer will only get one view. If it is his camera and his equipment and the extra work of filming the others he could own the copyright. Remember that Claudio was paid and that "Long Way Round Limited" owned the film and the book. |
Right, someone has to say this. Sorry Mike, but that's the most upsetting post I've ever read on the HUBB.
'Chase vehicles' 'Video auditions' 'Fitness trainers' 'Legal consultant' 'Should a Life Purpose consultant be consulted?' I'm sorry, but you're ****ing kidding, right? You're not, are you? Jesus Christ, what have we become? How many other HUBB travellers have even heard of a 'life purpose consultant', let alone considered talking to one without laughing and pointing? 'What to see and do?' Are you really that lacking in imagination that you have to ask how to have an adventure? 'What would make this a good movie to you?' We don't need your film, we're living it. 'Perfect website?' We already have one, thanks to Grant and Susan - real travellers. Motorcycle travel is not 'The Next Big Thing'. This is not pilates. This is not kabbalah. This is about getting away from the bluffers and wankers that clog up modern capitalist society. This is about escape. This is about self-sufficiency. This is about seeing how and who we are away from the safety nets of sat phones and breakdown trucks and travel guides. This is a way of life. We're happy whores and we don't need a pimp. Live it, don't fake it for the cameras. Don't ask us to do all your research just so you can sell us the shite results for profit. And maybe, just maybe, you should re-read Ted Simon - cause you seem to have completely missed the ****ing point. Now sling it. Dan Walsh. |
...and relax. (As I believe the pilates types would say.)
Mike, You strike me as a guy who loves filming. Like I love taking stills. When I leave next week on my big trip I'll have a pannier FULL of camera gear (and some over spill into my 'personal kit' pannier!). So I think I know where you may be coming from. It seems the most natural thing in the world to record your big trip, yes? You'll upset quite a few people hereabouts who reckon Ewan and Charlie have taken what they love most and turned it into a shallow media circus, and I sympathise with them. However, you'll also find folk who will enthuse with you all the way, as long as you are genuine. The first good thing is you want to make a film about the experience of the average guy, not the superstar. That's where I agree with those above who reccomended Mondo and Terra. Superlative films both. Dan, maybe you should cut this guy a break until you know what type of person he is, maybe even until you've seen his film? Matt |
Wow!
In addition to the sense of being "put on" or sadly "not put on" I just check out the mike.com site. Hmmmmmmm. "The Long Way Round rekindled this yearning bringing me to a place of soulful recognition of my heartfelt promise to journey on." With deep stuff like this don't you want to know more about Mike and his film making/directing. Check out his "complete profile" for this information. Bob |
To borrow from the Economist's warning in its Classified Section, "Readers are recommended to make appropriate enquiries and take appropriate advice before sending money, incurring any expense or entering into a binding commitment" in relation to a HUBB post.
Mike may be completely genuine and a really terrific guy, but Bob is right that his website doesn't really provide any background whatsoever. Remembering the days when I still went on blind dates (before I met the love of my life), based on what is known about Mike, I would want our first meeting to be in a very public place where I could leave quickly if it didn't turn out well http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/rolleyes.gif Anyway, that's my two pence worth. Susan ------------------ Susan Johnson 'One world, two wheels' www.HorizonsUnlimited.com |
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40 days is all the time I have and will have to come up with a strategy to make it work. Mike |
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1. I am hoping to use on board cameras with monitors to make it simpler to film from the bikes, unless it is too expensive. 2. My plan is to pay the photagrapher and retain the copyrights. Otherwise I would'nt be paying for the trip costs. I might however be willng to offer a share to my riding partner depending on their contribution. I may even contact Claudio and see if he is available. Mike [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 09 February 2006).] |
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1. I couldn't find it but want to see it. Is there a direct link? 2. So it is possible and feasible to make the trip in 30-40 days and film it to. That gives me a bit of hope! Maybe my map reading skills are OK? 3. I havn't been able to find the US version (NTSC) of the Mondo/Terra dvds. Were can I buy them??? Mike |
I got Mondo Enduro and Terra Circa from the UK
but now Aerostitch has them at --- http://www.aerostich.com/catalog/US/...p-2-c-295.html John |
I'm with Dan.
It sounds like you are just doing this to make money from selling the film. Have you ever traveled overland. If that is all the time you have an love to travel there are better ways to do it. I think many of us do not desire publicity. If you want to travel and film it that's your business, but this grand annoucement from someone who just join this group is foul. Now if you guys want to start a thread about motorcyle movies that is something else (it would complement the book thread http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/ubb/smile.gif ) ------------------ Brooklyn Dakar http://motorcycleramblings.blogspot.com/ Photos http://www.jacobsherman.com/ "This is the story of America. Everybody's doing what they think they're supposed to do." J Kerouac "Who's more foolish: the fool, or the fool who follows him" OW Kenobi |
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I feel privileged that you responded to my post (although the other posts have much more depth). Believe it or not I have heard of you. In fact I read your article in Bike magazine last week. I don't understand half of what you say but enjoyed reading it just the same. I'm not sure whether you’re a literary genius or just spend most of the day thumbing through your pocket dictionary. Your comments almost come across as what I would characterize as a "Dream Krusher", MikeBike Dictionary Def: "One who taunts and superimposes outlandish unsubstantiated societal expectations on another’s dreams for self actuating purposes" It could be said that quitting one's job, hopping on a bike, and skirting all responsibilities in the absence of planning, and common sense is adventurous. Or it may be characterized as selfish and shallow. Is my approach better; Plan, gather information, search for the right riding partners, solicit other more experienced riders for help? I can't really say, but I have my approach, you have yours. Would it be righteous to criticize you just because you take a different path? I would argue not. I applaud your adventure, and would step up to help your cause in a moments notice if needed. Dan, your a ball crusher and that's why many of us are enamored with your writing. One thing that I like about you Dan, is that you speak before you think. Come to think about it that is how I am. Man do we have a lot in common. I am extremely stoked to see your response to my post....and believe we might very well travel together some day, and we could even exchange witty idioms! 1. You know what they say: "Better to be known for something, than never known." I guess my work is done here. LOL. 2. I take it that your comment is a form of writers’ comic relief. NO, I'm not kidding, this is me, my style, what you see is what you get, my humor might be dry, and make you cry, but it’s not arid extra dry, see the service desk for your refund, guy! 3. This is strait up. I did meet to talk with a "Life Purpose Consultant". Her name is Nancy. She says you may have a lot of problems to work through too. Bottled up anger, repressed child hood, you know all that physiological mumble jumble crap. 4. Keep in mind that I'm not just looking for an Adventure but a "soulful recognition of my heartfelt promise to journey on"; basically a Purpose in Life, a reason to get out of the house, to explore the world....as long as it doesn't take more than 40 days. Really now do I have to explain it to you. I don't want to miss the important stuff. I don't have time to read all the guide books cover to cover. I want to engage with other travelers, hear their tales, and become a WORLD TRAVELER. Besides, I only have one chance to see Central & South America, as my next trip will be to Africa!!!!! 5. So let me get this strait. You never go to the movies? You haven't seen ANY of the Motorcycle Adventure flicks? Have you been voted in as official HUBB spokesperson? How can you say "We don't need your film, we're living it?" Do you dare judge our adventure before you even see it? Shallow. SHAllow. SHALLOW. Maybe I can get You (DAN WALSH), Ted Simon, and Charlie Borman to make the run with me? Now that would be a movie worth seeing. 6. No disrespect to Grant & Susan. But they were the newbie once to. I'm sure they would agree that this website is far from perfect. All of us can improve, even if just a little. Of all the websites this one may score high in content but it needs a hearty dose of upgrade to be perfect. My site will likely not be any better, probably not even close...heck, I don't even have a functional website yet. 7. I don't get it! What are you talking about? How does Pilates apply here? I'm sorry to be the one to break the news to you: a. Motorcycle travel IS the "The Next Big Thing"-The numbers of cross continent travel is growing each year and at a surprising rate. Well that's how I feel anyway. No facts, data or references to stand on; besides having official documentation would be veering too close to that capitalist thingy. b. I think that motorcycle adventures could actually be the kabbalah, at least expressed by your words oh holy one. LOL. Never could picture myself as a monk either. c. Come on, you write for Bike. What else clogs up the works and contributes to the Addictive System more than this sub culture? We buy bikes we don't need, travel where we don't have to go, waste precious natural resources bleaching, printing, and dumping a bunch of egotistical, corporate profit making, propaganda, pictures and words that do nobody any good. d. If this is your concept of self-sufficiency then we are all doomed. Maybe you meant sustainability? But that hope burned up with the industrial revolution. Our cause today is Individualism not community. Which is what I hope our adventure movie will show. We are all in this together; let’s arrive with smiles on everyone’s face. e. If you really want to see “how and who you are away from the safety nets of sat phones and breakdown trucks and travel guides”, then go and work five years for the Peace Corp, or perform some other dignified act. Driving around the world embellishing everything in your path isn't exactly a holistic and healing mantra. 8. If riding to self destruction is the adventure's way of life, I definitely don't want it. If you don't care about the cameras why do you write for Bike? Posing for pictures. The flight of uselessness. Purpose without reason. You can't get any closer to faking it than that. What do you mean “faking it for the cameras,” you give me too much credit. I'm not an actor, maybe a good extra, but nothing more. I couldn’t fake it if I tried. 9. If you don't want to contribute that's ok. I'll still buy Bike Magazine. Just wish they would list the bike specs in English System units, as I don't read Metric well. But let me pose a question: How does one make a Motorcycle Adventure Movie without riders; what movie doesn't have "Participants"? We don’t need another shite movie! Exactly my point, we don't want a shite movie that is why we won’t buy a camcorder, hop on our bike and expect it to be movie quality. It takes an idea, a theme, a story line, planning, patience, not bulldog tenacity. And as far a making a PROFIT, I don't even expect to even break even. I'm spending the money so that I have a video record of the adventure, of the life changing impact it will have, a record of the comrade and unraveling lust for life that will most definitely transpire. 10. It would be nice to get Ted Simon or other HUBB members to comment on my post. Is it really that whacked up and on par with dog dodo that it deserves this kind of lambasting? Not even ONE word of encouragement. Didn’t I say even ONE inspiring word? Irregardless, it doesn't matter as I have had more fun, laughs, and the more stimulating dialogue than I can ever remember. However, I may very well forget the whole thing and just throw in the towel now! Any reccomendations on how to throw a towel? Mike PS How do you like your BMW Dakar? Doesn't seem to have the load carrying capacity that we will need but looks to be a very stout motorbike! Would you recommend it for our trip? [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 10 February 2006).] |
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Mike[/B]</font><HR></BLOCKQUOTE> [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 10 February 2006).] |
Holy Shite guys.
I'm with Dan... Motorcycle travel is not 'The Next Big Thing'. This is not pilates. This is not kabbalah. This is about getting away from the bluffers and wankers that clog up modern capitalist society. This is about escape. This is about self-sufficiency. This is about seeing how and who we are away from the safety nets of sat phones and breakdown trucks and travel guides. I´ve been on the road from Alaska nearly 9 months now and it's not been enough, and the best days are probably the ones when i don't even think about the camera. When I feel the road, smell the land. I think if you organise a trip south in 40 days you will loose completely the essence of the journey that you are seeking. Perhaps an option is to allow more time, take the cameras without any preconceived ideas and just see what drops out at the end, or perhaps that's just wishful thinking. If you film a trip, you film a film trip, if you ride your bike south.... you ride your bike south.... if you know what I mean, they are two different experiences..... I threw my video camera away in the first 4 weeks because I felt it was ´ruining´ my experience.... That's my cents worth.... www.oneworld-twowheels.com |
One more thought.
I am not so sure a competition is the way to go however, because anyone who has all the REAL info you need is either on the road or has done the trip. They may want to do the trip with you, but they are not the ones you want to do the trip with you. They will know the way, know the tricks, know the language and know what to expect, a boring combination for a good film. Perhaps the cameraman should have done it before, and keep his mouth shut, so he can ride 5 miles ahead of you and get the really good shot of you in the air when you hit that almighty pothole in Costa Rica......etc....... Ewan and co messed up because they were too prepared... and even when they weren´t they had Mummy at the end of the sat phone. Keep it green if you know what I mean. After all, it's just a day out on the bikes, except at the end of each day you stay somewhere different. [This message has been edited by Revolucion (edited 10 February 2006).] |
hello all,
I am with Dan, he spoke out of my heart after reading the b.. s... from Mike. Mike, go and make a movie about life consultants. You want to create a 40 days adventure hero in your movie, this is the wrong place to search for an actor, go to Hollywood. You could give me all the money you own and I would not ride with you. Mika Kuhn around the world 1999 - 2005 on a yamaha tenere www.weltreise-motorrad.de ------------------ |
I thought motorcycle travellers and posters on the HUBB were supposed to be a tolerant bunch?
Ever since the Long Way Round came out bikers who have done the solo trip without cameras / back-up teams /life consultants etc have started looking down on anyone who does it differently. I personally prefer to travel solo and have spent the last two years of my life having the most fantastic experience riding by myself. But I also know other people prefer to do it differently, either with other riders / 4WDS or maybe even camera crews. I went through a period of several months in southern Africa where at every camp ground I would meet commercial overland trucks, carrying groups of passengers. They did bugger all towards appreciating the local culture and at the time I looked down on them and thought of myself as a superior traveller. It was only afterwards that I realised what a dickhead I was becoming, because the whole point about travel is to make you happy, not to impress others. So who really cares if someone elses form of travel is different to yours - it doesn't make it any more or less valid than your own trip. Sure, doing a solo trip is significantly more demanding and in my view ultimately more rewarding. But that doesn't make Ewen & Charlie's trip or Mike's plans any less valid. And if Mike wants to make a buck out of it, good luck to him. How many people on the road have you seen with some minor forms of sponsorship, whether it be free kit or consultancy fees from publishing articles etc. If I could afford to fund a lifestyle of permenant travel on a motorbike, I would be tempted to do it too..... Lets just all remember why we travel in the first place and keep things tolerant. |
I can sense with my wonder wand that Dan lives. He has moved on from international correspondent for emap, but is yet move onto the greener pastures of life running a bar by a beach in belize, or taken to writing ads for 60's repo fords in Buenos Aries.
Obe One feels for Dan and thinks people are trying to imitate the blessed one, but deep down in wookie world Obe knows they dont have his famous pull, nor his witty comentary. Obe feels a bit dumb especially when his first border guard tells him stick his photocopied documents somewhere dark, but bleeting mate just puts it down to a cultural phopa and has him name drop to the embassy. These special qualities are what makes our movie so cool. Mike the death star is full. |
Mike,
You did a very good job of "shooting down" Dan's comment. Congratulations. What did you gain by it? Nothing! You just lost the little bit of "faith" (I should call it hope) I had that you actually would make a real movie (and not a piece of theatrical shit). I know you can also brake down my comment for the simpel reason that english is not my "home language" so it is easy to win a discusion.... But that does not make you right or good. Lets put it this way, if you kill some one... and get released on a technicality, you won..... but you are still a murderer. Please let me know when you go through Colombia en what route you will take. I have some friends that would enjoy meeting you. Maarten ------------------ - www.maartensworld.com - |
All of this is so amusing. . . what do all of OUR negative responses hope to do. Stop a dangerous threat to bike travel? Prevent some unknowing "actor/travelor"from wasting 40 days? I don't think it really matters.
As someone with film making experience, I'm just puzzled by the whole thing. I believe one could expect to film this adventure with little expectation by oneself. Add a director who theoretically has ideas and the time it takes to create the piece will increase greatly. Good luck Mike, enjoy your trip. Bob (p.s why don't you at least put your "complete profile" on your web site) |
The Navaho people of southwest USA have a way with dealing with people. If someone says something offensive or completely off base for whatever reason...... they just look down and go do something else.
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Mike,
Sometimes people get so caught up in their dream that they fail to remeber what their dream is. It seems to me that this is one of those situations. People go on about freedom to be and do what they want, freedom to have and be blissful with their wonderful travelling life. And then a few of them get a little defensive when others start 'infringing' on the territory that was once only theirs'. My advise is not to pay attention to that negativity that most of the people on this website do not promote or appreciate. If you want to travel, then travel. Do it on a bike! Film it! And have a great time doing it! Buen Viaje. -K |
Hi Mike
Sounds great but you really can't be surprised there's a touch of mirth greeting your post. All expenses paid trip minus "motorcycle, riding gear, shots, passport, and air travel & transportation to the departure point -- everything else will be provided (maybe a free bike depending on sponsership!)". So you're supplying 35 free plates of beans?? Plus the prize of possibly getting your head on tv?? I expect most people reading your message for the first time were thinking "great, I'd eat dirt for a free ride thru South America", but then it's not really free, is it? I couldn't really give a rats if its a sell-out or whatever, I haven't had a whole lot of existential angst since puberty, but if it's all a load of rubbish then Bogart's line "when you're slapped...you'll take it and you'll like it" probably applies. If you are serious about this whole thing, I would suggest you spend a bit of time looking around this board and get to know the types. Then, change your name and re-post, asking for companions for the journey you propose. The main reason the LWR was a good watch was that the main players were *professional actors* (this is an important point - no, I mean really). If you want a couple of wankers with nice hair to do the trip with you this is probably the way to go about it. If you want a couple of unique personalities with those quirks of character that make them want to get dirty in the rain on motorcycles for weeks at a time in strange places, it might be better to promise payment in beer. By the way, don't let this diatribe disqualify me from the contest - a few minutes before dusk, in a heavy fog, I can look pretty good on my left side. (I'll still need the beer incentive though...) cheers Brett |
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1. I have Zero, zip, nada experience with film. But yes, I thought it to be a natural step to film the adventure. I am gaining a lot of information from the posts and emails that I have received. Email Example: "Get one nice prosumer camera, like the top line Panasonic PV-GS for the stuff that you film off the bikes or that is shot from a stationary position. You want to look like an enthusiast, not a film crew, so you don’t get bothered (read-have to pay a bribe) by the police for working without permission." These types of comments are real helping shape the way I would like to make this movie. I’m now leaning toward scaling down and making the adventure less like a Hollywood production. I also originally thought I had to have one of the new BMW GSA 1200's or couldn't do the trip. But know that there are a lot of options. This is a major redirect from were I started only four weeks ago. But the credit goes to all of you. 2. It does seem to be a suspicious kind of crowd. But that will change as things progress. I am real, and not just here to bash others. My response to Dan Walsh was only a bit of verbal sparring, but it ended up being to philosophical. Oh well, live and learn. 3. I've ordered both of these DVD's and wait with anticipation to view them. Actually preparing my response to Dan Walsh gave me a lot of new insights. I still have a ways to go, but am starting to understand what everyone is talking about when referring to not wanting another shite movie. So I've cancelled my Hair Transplant and liposuction appointments. But believe me; I really need the personal trainer, as my cardiovascular and physical fitness still needs major help!! 4. Maybe Dan would consider agreeing to a truce if I offering to send a free t-shirt? Mike [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 10 February 2006).] |
Bob[/B][/QUOTE]
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Your right. It was rude of me not to introduce myself first. I got so caught up in planning the trip and ecstasy of making a movie that I missed the point. It’s like someone just opened up the door to the odd house with me sitting there with a stupid grin on my face. I am working on a bio and will post it very soon. Here is a little background on me which highlights my lack of experience: I don't have any riding partner yet, no photographer, no bike, no sponsors, my website and blog are not functional, don't even have a riding suit. I have never made a movie or directed one, and don’t real care to. I'm NOT a director, just an average motorcycle enthusiast. I can’t claim to have much discipline, and like creature comforts (that will have to change!!) I don't have any route chosen, and don't even know what bike to take. I don't have all the answers but I do have the initiative and bulldog tenacity to go with it. When I decide to do something, I always follow it through. I'm 41 years old. My dad was first generation from Lithuania. I live in the Detroit MI area. I have a Mechanical Engineering degree and have worked in the Automotive Industry in Quality Management for 13 years. I am a very loyal person and look out for my friends. As a boy I worked on anything with a motor and a seat. I have been driving and working on motorcycles for 32 years. The last bike ride I took over 100 miles was on a 1983 Honda V45 Sabre from Ithaca, New York to Goshen, Indiana in March 1985. It was a cold wet trip, my hands got so cold that I couldn’t work the throttle and had to stop to warm them up. Otherwise, I haven’t gone over 100 miles on a bike in one setting. I have no overland experience. I’m a Newbie, a Green Horn. My riding abilities are very good. I have experience in most types of terrain. I am not affiliated with any groups or clubs. I have no sponsorships or financial backing, just my own monies. If you send me your address and I will send you a free t-shirt, that is one thing that I have finished! It's nothing special, but gesture of kindness non-the-less! Mike |
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1. Didn't think I would make money, but willing to invest anyway! 2. No. I have never traveled overland. That's why I thought it would be a great movie. Can you think of anyone else you'd rather be lauging at? 3. It was definately a grand announcement, and over the top. I don't want to sound like a recording, but I would appreciate your patience. I am a work in progress and learning a lot. I put my post out there to get feedback and it has been effective in that regard. Mike [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 10 February 2006).] |
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1. I am also thinking that "Contest" is NOT the way to go. Besides I'm not some movie star or something, so why would anybody enter a contest to ride with me. But I don't think that a couple of green horns would make the best movie, as we would be lucky to even complete the trip! 2. Taking too much time to prepare is starting to make more sense. It's starting to sink in. My list of potential posts is shrinking daily....like I now know: "Taking a Satellite phone" equals Shite Movie! I think I'm getting it. Keep the faith. Maybe I will look back on all this and laugh some day. Mike |
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I am having a little problem understanding why there is so much animosity. Why are people so tense? If they are really doing what they love, it would seem they would go out of their way to build community. I have taken the occasional Sunday drives so I can relate to smelling the land and the appreciating nature thing. I only hope to experience why overland travel is so rewarding. Mike |
I am a pretty new biker and have only recently joined HU but have enjoyed reading the travellers tales and posts. Especially ‘meeting a wanderlust partner of the opposite sex?’ <totally cracked me up>
Mike - I hope whatever you do you manage to pull it off. Today a friend sent me a quote that was quite encouraging for doing the unusal. ‘To express who you really want to be is one of the most challenging and exhilarating things to do, it can also inspire others - nothing leads like example.’ Ciao, Annette [This message has been edited by sunflowers (edited 10 February 2006).] |
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Dan didn't make a comment. He made a personal attack. Go and reread his post. It didn't have a friendly tone. Besides, he's a big boy I'm sure he can handle it. You are right, my response may have been a little on the harsh side, but it was a disappointment for me to see a response like this from him. No hard feelings here. I appreciate you sharing your view! But don't give up hope....there is still a chance that I will get my act together. Mike |
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Oh well, I wouldn't know what to wear in the death star anyhow. Mike |
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1. So does this mean you are interested in doing the filming? 2. Don't expect anything special. My earlier response pretty much sums it up. Mike |
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I concur! Well said. Mike |
Dan, as eloquent as ever, has summed it up quite nicely from my point of view.
Just load the bike, pick a direction and see what happens...its the unplanned disasters, hassles, joys & delights that make the trip. I saw LWR for the first time last week & liked it. It was entertaining, but exactly what you'd expect from highly sponsored actors on bikes. The real world is a lot different. ------------------ Last seen in S.America, missing presumed fed. http://www.smellybiker.com [This message has been edited by Happy Hacker (edited 11 February 2006).] |
Happy Hacker,
You guys are starting to make me feel regretful. Why didn't you make your posts sooner. I'm starting to think that I should change my name, quit my job, and move to Beliz. The layout of your website is good. Did you do it yourself? Mike |
Mike, I think the reason there is so much animosity to your post is that you come off as a newcomer who thinks he is going to immediately grasp the essence off motorcycle travel and present it to the world. At least that is how I read your first post. Those of us who choose to explore the world by motorcycle are cringing at the thought of another distorted view of this hobby out in public view.
I don't doubt that bikers made the same comments about The Wild One and Easy Rider when they were proposed, and they both were wildly exagerated views of motorcycle life, but I am glad they were made. So I hope I am wrong and that you succeed, but I'm not counting on it. |
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2. That is not the intention. I may need to delay my trip another year so that I have more time to grasp the essence of what you say. Thanks for your honest assessment! Mike [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 11 February 2006).] |
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A little pious right? I do see what you are saying. Have spent some time reading some other threads and agree that I have been much too grandiose. About 3/4 of what I have posted is crap. I tend to go a little overboard sometimes. The comments on this site have really helped align my focus. At first I thought the ride was the adventure. But now, it seems that the adventure started with the first post. Ok, time to regroup and focus on substance. Mike [This message has been edited by motorbikewithmike.com (edited 11 February 2006).] |
Is this were we find out that Mike recently bought KTM & we've all screwed our chances of shiny free bikes ?
------------------ Last seen in S.America, missing presumed fed. http://www.smellybiker.com |
motorbikewithmike Some friends and I are planning to go to Alaska in July. If you would like to gain some trippin' time and practice flim making you might come too? We all have our own bikes,kit,etc.KLRs and soft luggage for us.WE will be hauling a. through Canada to have more Ak. time. Do you have off road experience? Gravel? Understand this is an offer from me,I can't speak for the rest yet till I've confided in our loose group. We're 50+ long time street and dirt riders with limited time and patience,so if you can't hang we'll likely leave you for the bears unless we really like you.
------------------ ride,smile,repeat as nessasary |
kbikey,
Sounds like a great time. How much time you figuring on? I may be able to get a week off but not much more. If not we still may be able to do a local 2-3 day trip this summer. Mike |
Wow!! what a controversial post this has been. As a newcomer to the site this is the first time I have seen negative (even antagonistics) comments in response to a post.
If Mike wants to try capture his experiences on film and try do a professional job of it then why castrate him for it? If it works then he has achieved his aim and if it doesn't then at least he will have tried to live his dream his way. I have read Ted Simon's book and it was a thrilling read, which would have been brought even more to life if he had been able to make a film of it. In many ways it is sad that the only way way you can make a professional film of such a journey is to organize it in the way of TLWR. However TLWR is the inspiration to many that such a trip is possible and because of that it should be applauded not condemned. Good luck Mike, and if you do make money out of your film then even better for you. Let us all try live our dreams in our own way (and finance them in any way we can) and if we don't agree with someone elses way, well we don't have to be involved (or try shoot them down in flames), do we? [This message has been edited by harleyrider (edited 11 February 2006).] |
When the movie comes out remind me to send you a free copy!
Mike |
and a t-shirt and a coffee mug and a poster and a signed movie sound track ...
hey mister hollywood, maybe making movies about life consultants you can send out even more free copies and stuff .. this could be the next big thing. anyway enjoy your adventure, live your dream and do what you like. sorry for me being that negative, but you have no clue what it means *to travel overland* and the only way you can find out is, yes !, you quit your secure job and just start to ride. welcome to the HUBB mika |
Dear Mike,
Sucks to have people rain on your parade. It seems to me that the general feeling was that your plans were a bit ambitious and unrealistic. Could it have been expressed better? Probably, but then again, this isn't your "black-tie-diplomat-dinner-party" crowd! Lot of people have heard things couldnt be done, and have suceeded at them anyway, while others havent and wished they's listened. I guess your adventure will be found in which one of the two you become. Either way, the best movies are about catastrophic failure and grand success!! Best of luck. |
I'm really glad, Mike, that I took the time to read all the posts, by yourself and others, before responding. I was tempted after reading your first post to follow up with something as per Dan et. al. It was only by the last few posts that I had any confidence at all that you were really on this planet with regards to long distance motorcycle travel. At this point I still think you are in high orbit (somewhere out about the moon but at least you have arrived into the Solar System) so I think there is hope for you. I will be watching for your re-entry, which I still suspect will happen not long after you start your trip.
After years of some pretty hard core bike touring, for much shorting periods than real long distance travellers, but still in some difficult places (e.g. India, Indonesia, Mexico, Cuba, Samoa) as well as many softer countries, I feel I have learnt much much more from the several hundreds of travellers I have hosted at my house over the last 5-6 years. My advice: listen and learn. Do a lot of listening. And for gods sake, do some real riding! What did you say? The last time you rode 100 miles was in '84? I find it hard to believe it when you say you are an experienced rider. Your target of 250 miles in a day is realisitic only in a minority of countries in the world. Regards Nigel in NZ P.S. You don't know how hard it was for me not to make some kind of "cultural" comment about your attitude. Opps! Almost did there.... ------------------ "The world is a book and those who do not travel read but a page"- St Augustine |
I would suggest that your intentions are a little too ambitious. I would try a "practice" ride from where you live (Michigan, I think)south to the US/Mexican border, and cross over and ride around northern Mexico for a while. An interesting concept might be to go solo with your camera for this part of the trip, and document what you think is worthy the entire way down and in Mexico. Ride back up and play with your footage to see what worked and did not work. When you feel confident, then go for the "big trip." I have gotten the sense that many writers on the bulletin board were a little miffed by Long Way Round as it took their lifestyle and turned it into something that could become the latest thing out of Hollywood, and this thread showed that some of that anger is still there. I have not seen that movie, and probably never will because of my dislike with the hypocrisy of the movie star "elite" Seeing a major star attempt to document something as grass roots as an around the world motorcycle trip is not something that interests me, especially knowing that there is such a large crew following him. Your movie might be more interesting, but it would depend on what footage is used, and how you edit. Don't try something MTVish with those major edit jobs and crappy, blaring, music. Edit out the tedious stuff if it drags on, and leave in plenty of geography as that is what draws me to watching a film or documentary of an exotic location. Perhaps, if you take my advice and document a ride in the US for practice, you could send the edited footage to people on this site for critique to see what worked and did not work for them. Then, you can be more confident for your big plunge across the border and south and back. Good luck!
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Trip of a life time.
Mike,
I believe this trip would have been right up my ally had I known of it before Dec, 2006. I made a life change and re-enlisted in the army for three years. I have what it takes to complete the trip to include plenty of survival training. My only advise is to try and keep as much of the info pertaining to trip dates, times and places a little less conspicuous. The world that we live in today provides the wicked with too many rights and no need give any one the type of info to do you harm. Not to mention becoming an unwilling hostage or even being pick pocketed is a lesson no one should learn while on such an endeavor. Either way enjoy the ride and 40 days of being close to God and all he has given us to enjoy. |
Mike good luck with your plans. Pls make sure you do some long distance travelling before taking off - others that have tried doing the Alaska-Ushuia trip with little experience have ended in wheel chairs or at the hospital. i enjoyed reading this thread from a small internet place in north of Brasil. i think a lot of the negativity is just jealousy and of course you need to a hell lot of research. research that you should have done before posting. there are a lot of good books out there on long distance travelling like the one from Gregory Freizer.
Cheers, S. |
Now did Mike really leave? Looking at period of inactivity on the HUBB and his website being rather static, I take it he ditched his plans...
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Mike, where are you? We are curious in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Mike,
I hope the inactivity on your website is because you're too busy getting ready. After reading all the replies to your original post, viewing the various profiles of the posters, and their recent posts; I noticed a couple things... There are a lot more similarities than differences... 1. You are taking on something you haven't really done before and are brave enough to put yourself out there. 2. Knowing you didn't have the experience/knwoledge, you made a good decision to come to the HUBB and seek out advice and information. 3. Most people take on a trip like this because they are in search of something that is currently missing, and you are know different. The main difference is approach and attitude; and to each their own. Go out and ride the ride....even if you make it a quarter of the way, or half way, I still would be pretty impressed. One of the most important things I've learned on my current trip is that UNLESS you put yourself out there in harshness of reality, opportunity will never present itself. edde |
Firstly, I can't resist but taking offence to you comment "It could be said that quitting one's job, hopping on a bike, and skirting all responsibilities in the absence of planning, and common sense is adventurous. Or it may be characterized as selfish and shallow.". What responsibilities?
I realise that with this you're not saying that you agree with this notion, but there is certainly a sub tone that you do as it seems to be the basis of you approach to your project. With this I'm pointing at the over-commercialised, over-competitive surrounds that you must have grown up in. You're already talking merchandise. And it has to be a contest. It's like trying to find a band member. Reality TV gone wrong. People here take offence because for most doing trips like this (and I'm also saying this without doing market research but with the experience of meeting a lot of these people for the last 10 years on the road) is their break from the rate race. You know, where everybody rather spend time (unpaid overtime mostly) with people who all wanna be boss of something that'll get taken away from them at retirement, instead of spending time with their family. Holidays don't exist, and when they do we'll send the kids of to some camp while the Mrs and I spend time on a beach or something. And at the end of it all they wander what memories they have, and most of them are at some business score. Come on people, flame me..... ;D You wanna take this break and turn it into some commercial viewing of a 40 day quick representation of hardship of riding a bike. What's spiritual about that? But maybe that's just how it seems. When something comes out with broad exposure there's always heaps of people jumping on the band wagon. What ever happened to originality. I reckon Austin Vince made the best ever RTW movies. Makes E&C look like a winging poms. Hang on, Simon Pavey already addressed that. But check out this dude. Tim Cope Journeys: Tim Cope Journeys Secondly, you're post started with the intention of getting all your questions spoon fed without doing the bit of work that all overlanders face. All your questions are answered in Scott's book and on this webpage. It's similar to the "what oil should I use" question on the bike forums. I can't remember who made this TLWR comment, but I don't see how TLWR represents a "I can do this too" for normal people when they open up an office to do "research" when they might as well played darts all day if you look at the outcome and availability of information that got ignored. And the money that got thrown at it. I reckon most people thought, shit, that seems like an impossible thing for me to undertake. |
Happens all the time
I like Mike.:thumbup1:
Don·t worry Mike. This happens all the time :welcome: and just for being an impulsive dreamer/do·er with a, for others, too open a personality, plus, for others,having too much intelectual confidense that You can·t help sticking up people·s nose when their lack of belief in your sincerety, disapoints you .... once more:( . Don·t let it bring You down.... it·s only castles burning....:w00t: :clap: cheers .... Dan(quart)!:tongue_smilie: |
Mike's attitude
I was going chip in my opinion of (most of) Mike's posts in this thread, when I decided to make like a Navaho and go do something else.
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I was not going to respond then I was then I was not.. but I guess I am responding..
Mike.. I think you do what I do all the time ( I hope), I get an idea and run my mouth off without thinking any of it though, only difference is ONLY my wife hears about it.. she "yeah yeahs" me and we move on (it took her years to learn just to let me rant or ramble and forget it). I love the visual arts (wanker term for photography and Video.. mainly wildlife stuff.) I also have this mental disorder where I can not understand why everyone on the planet does not love bikes and travel as much as I do and I have often felt that if a real movie came out that showed a regular guy or a pair or whatever, riding the world it would show everyone my passion, and they may finally understand... I don’t know why, but to have my mum complain every time I go on some trip or an other really upsets me, bikes and animals are what I live for, and if I was not to have them I would give it up (I am luck that my wife agrees or at least humors me and we travel on the bike a lot to film critters). I spend most of my free days exploring new places (some wild, some not .. new to living in the UK and spend a lot of time just exploring the last few months) or filming animals and taking photos of my bike trips, and then I never show them to anyone but my close friends and family, because in the end it is too personal. The LWR boys it was not personal it was a job and a way to make money for a failing actor and the LWDown will be even worse. I think (and i maybe wrong) that a lot of the people on here ride cus it is in there blood, and they are soul riders (to quote from the “northshore” surfer movie). They ride for them, they travel for themselves, bikes and over landing are their (our) religion (or something close to it) or what they see themselves as (which in many cases in no different then a religion). Many saw the LWR boys as paramount to mocking them or their religion and have taken offense (I know I did). I guarantee if you came at it in an other way.. e.g. “I know nothing (or little), I have ridden all my life, but never over landed and I think this is my big chance, so I want to take a 40 day trip, down though south America and film it to for my own enjoyment (and so when I am 90 and cripple I can relive it) and maybe (if it is any good) share the film with you guys or even the world??:confused1:. I would like some company too? What do you suggest?” or something like this. Your response would have been very different. I hope you go... I hope you film it and it is the best motorcycle film ever made.. but mostly I hope you go, and find that piece of your soul that you are looking for and that you have fun and enjoy the ride and the people and places you see. good luck to you mate |
Flogging a dead horse.
I'm guessing, since Mike came up with this idea over a year ago and the thread died shortly thereafter, that Mike found something else to do.
So should we. |
Mmmm, interesting post!
Hello Mike,
You have really stired up a hornets nest with this one mate! All I will say is if you enjoy riding and travelling do it! Don't worry what people say but don't try and get people to see your side either. And the next thing I believe that you MUST do, is learn to ride a bike!! That will help you greatly upon this adventure. Good luck on both Dingo |
Epitaph for Morotcyclemike
You know, I try and learn something new everyday. Today's new found knowledge was how to spell EPITAPH, which means an inscription on a tomb; or by extention, a statement commemorating the dead.
True... Motoryclemike posted his ideas about filming an overland journey through Central and South America, over one year ago, but the journey was not to begin until February 1, 2007. About 60 clicks out of Cusco, Peru, on a desolate wind sweap broken road, Elisa and I breaked our Hondas hard as a lone woman, Cynthia Milton on her BMW, sped past in the opposite direction. A description of this encounter can be found in Cynthia's web site journals. That day the lesson I learned was, if someone is out there on the road, doing it, against all odds and most people's common sense, then they have created or made real, a reality that they alone envisioned was possible. In her quiet, sparce, repectful British manner, Cynthia Milton gave me one of the greatest lessons of my life. I just kept staring at her over my cup of hot tea which she so gracefully provided. I was thinking of how tough the Central Andes had been and how fortunate I was not be alone, and as I listened to Cynthia's around the world adventures, I wondered where she found the belief and the courage that an attractive older woman could create such a reality. Cynthia Milton taught me, without and beyond words to expand the horizon of what I thought possible. On another day, I learned the reason why some people become stoppers and try to suppress everyone around them. The reason is that while most peope not only survive, they also help others to survive, unfortunately, there are some that believe the only way they can survive is to make sure that no one around them does as well as they do, for they have the mistaken belief that if any one else is doing well in life, or has positive creative ideas, it is a threat to their own survival. This is my humble epitaph for motorcyclemike, who, one day might be heading in the opposite direction and cause you to break hard. |
In a hurry
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to 40 days. :scooter: Although I do believe your words hold a lot of truth, I must disagree. I have personally met several of the people that commented on Mike's "plans" and they are just the opposite of what you suggest. They would tell anyone to "do it", "go for it" :thumbup1: and even help push-starting the bike if needed.:clap: If you check out this board you will probably come to the same conclusion. I do like the word 'epitaph' though. To bad you never get to see your own. Maarten:mchappy: |
It's not over till it's over or is it?
Yep, maarten, I agree, Mike might not stop ...and I would not blame him one bit.
I also agree that "most people help others to survive" as stated in the epitaph. I wasn't speaking to those people. Hey, I got an idea for you. You want to take the mystery out of your epitaph, just get yourself a computerized tombstone and download your web site www.maartensworld.com It's really, really good and I am looking forward to reading your book "A 100.000 Miles of Solitude" thanks |
Fore-warned is fore-armed!!!
Please heed Susans warning. From all the posts it seems that you all have Hollywood fever. Mike is a flake!! He pulled this same stunt on another MC site a year and a half ago. Do not fall prey to this bull-crap artist. He is not funded nor credentialed. My $0.02!!
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Better late than never
Lizanne, I did read Susan's warning, she was obviously not aware of the data you just posted, it would have been more effective if you had been so forthcoming at an earlier date.
Perhaps we should all, Mike included, try not to create effects in others that they cannot have easily. Being accused of Hollywooding and being forearmed by you is a little hard to take, even for a tough ol biker like me. I think posting with respect, manners, and in a positive way, Maarten's "Colombian friends" excluded, will help forward the Johnson's goal for Horizons Unlimited. If I am wrong, I am sure I will hear promply from Susan. |
a new market
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Maarten |
My Ex-Wife would Hack it!
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Dear Eternally hacked
http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...unmeteryes.gif
RickMcD, I apologize sincerely, but I have been laughing out loud for an hour and more and can't stop because of your last post. You're killing me...please don't stop |
Is he gone?
I guess mike is gone now? It was funny seeing everyone's responses to Mikes idea.
Posting his contest idea on the HUBB was a little like someone buying their first Harley, riding to Sturgis and saying "Hey guys, I just bought my first Harley and I'm having a contest to see which of you are qualified to help with my nifty Harley documentary. Send me your glossy photos and resume's and life consultant reports and I'll choose the lucky few of the best here!" I've never been to Sturgis but I imagine their response would be much worse than what Mike got here - at least there were some positive and encouraging thoughts from the HUBB. I think Mike would be better off recruiting photo-rider-partners from his local University, and changing the plans a bit. 30-40 days from Texas to Ushuaia is physically possible but would be dangerous, unpleasant and he would miss out on too much. Choose either Central or South America, one or the other, to make it more feasible and hope to gain a noteworthy experience; then put the materials together at the end of the trip and figure out if it's noteworthy enough to make a movie. One way or the other I hope he gives it a go and learns enough to try again later. DougsMotorcycleDiary.com |
Bureaucratic Shuffle
Don Quiote, What a great post....Miguel de Cervantes' understanding of Spanish government procedures had nothing on Sturgis, but some of the Harley girls and boys must have majored in Spanish literature, because according to Lizanne's post Mike did try... and Sturgis politely referred Mike to us.
Perhaps your idea of referring him to his university should have been our first response, anyway we'll be much more prepared when and if he ever tries to tilt our windmills again. Don Quiote, hope you are enjoying Buenos Aires. Who couldn't? It was great to meet you in person, and the true story, (it really happened folks) found on your web site, DougsMotorcycleDiary.com explaining why you are an overlander is unique and most inspiational. Excellent fotos and travel logue too. You have an exceptional ability to discover and photograph the human/cultural/geographical core of each country you ride. |
Gracias xfiltrate Tango Stud!
And thanks for your help here in BA. Introducing me to Mariano saved me tons of time and his team got things working again well. I hope we can hang out more before I leave on Thur. We still need to figure out the details on side-cars, cheerleaders and other pressing issues...
Doug. DougsMotorcycleDiary.com |
An offer you cannot refuse
Don Quiote, please check out web site:
http://www.saexplorers.org/club/home They have established four clubs in South American, with left luggage, parking, emergency assistance, local and international discounts, trip planning, maps etc....much. much more. The Buenos Aires Club, located in exciting San Thelmo, Buenos Aires, is looking for a marketing person to assit with name recognition type promo, and to increase the number of new members joining the BA Club. Right up your alley.... I thought up *"Put a little SAE in your trip". for them and advised they immediately buy an ad from Susan and Grant at Horizonsunlimited.... *Of course, SAE stands for South American Explorers, but SAE as in SAE 10W30 is also a motor oil classification which North American motorists are familiar with. Name recognition maybe... Quiote, with your education and background you would be perfect. It is a paid position and they handle the work permit for Argentina. I have a meet with them Tuesday with my friend, notable Argentine film Director Alcides Chiasa, who is, like me volunteering some expertise. Why don't you join us? Talk about cheerleaders, you should see the woman who manage SAE Buenos Aires. Wow, wow. One is Austrailian, another North American and it just goes on and on and on with interns from US universities doing the leg work. Anyone, if you want to join SAE please do so directly through the Buenos Aires Club as opposed to the headquarters in New York. Contact Lucy and tell her your a friend of xfiltrate. The Buenos Aires Club can be contacted directly through the web site above and single membership is only $50. US/year and $80./US per couple traveling together. These dues give you services from all four clubs and SAE is a 501(c)(3) non profit NGO. It is nice to have friends waiting for you when you roll into South American cities, just like your friends in horizonsunlimited communities are waiting to serve you worldwide.... |
Looks good
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More of the same form me... lol
Maaaaate!
Long Way Round????? They should have called that "I'll take the high road". :scooter:Jejeje Two weeks ago I came home to find my Mum (yeah, right my MUM I'm living with my Mum while I plan my Jnauary trip; gotta love her): watching TLWR to try and experience what her "little boy" (I'm 30+) had been through. I saw two motorbikes being loaded onto AllWheelDrive trucks, while the boys drank hot coffee from the third of their 7 support vehicles and chatted with... GET THIS!!!... their traveling medico! That is funny. Yes I mean, really funny, then sad, than aggravating, then funny again. This was 20 minute sof television.. I don't get it. :helpsmilie: Perspective, man. I had the same river crossing in Honduras. the rains had commenced :stormy:, so the locals had warned me (this is what it's all about dude) that I had a small window to ride 40 kilometres of rocky donkey trails to beat the the rising river crossing or I would be stranded. I ignored their sperior knowledge of the local conditions (I was already low on petrol). The ride their through a tunnelled canopy of jungle with birds racing the bike ahead of me cos they were going too fast to re-enter the jungle canopy is possibly the most out of this world thing I have ever seen. ( Bit melodramatic cos I say that about many memories). Rambling... anywaaaaay. I arrive at the river, waters are rising and I have to get across now or I'm stuffed. (40km of hard enduro is about an hour and a half give or take). I've got my whole life strapped on the back of a pissy little Suzuki DR 200 :scooter: that I bought in Guatemala (Laptop, 2x cameras, tools, spare tube, clutch, tent hammock and not many clothes or anything else cos this bike was a baaaaby... I give it the best she's got :funmeteryes: ; to try and aqua plane half teh river crossing (about 25meters to halfway). Aqua planing a DR200 is huge mistake:funmeterno:, lol. I've made about 25metres of my crossing when the chain hits a rock so hard it flys off and jams in the rear wheel. Hmmm...No trucks, no NAV SAT, no support crew... The water is rising, I'm shitting myself. fight or flight???? :oops2: First instinct:look for help... there is no-one: Second, drop the bike, **** it I am over this shit. I'm gonna walk the next 25,000 kms! Third instinct: after crying a little, kicking the water a bit more, cursing a LOT:censored: (God, Honduras, Latinos, gringos, myself, Suzuki...)... I drag the bike, through rapid waters about 45cm deep to a boulder rising from the midst of the water. Prop the back up, pull out my tools, try and pry the chain loose, (waters rushing along, bike is balancing on a rock, I'm edging toward panic) ... no go! Drop the rear wheel off the bike, free the chain, put the wheel back on. :D I tell you i will never again achieve a 35 second solo wheel removal and replacement again. I have hit my PB. Ferrai F1 feel free to contact me via my email... Waters have risen about 10 cms more (This is alot!!! I am at about maximum depth before I'm screwed and I'm losing everything. Revving the **** out of it, i make the opposite shore semi-hysterical; laughing, crying, screaming, punching the air. Sit down o the bank and reward myself with a big Havana cigar and a few swigs from a $5 bottle of rum. Aaaaaaah. Now, the true hilarity. A few Hondurans had sat and watched this from high up on the bank, kept quiet and pissed them selves laughing. I am POSITIVE they were barracking for the river. They come down and want to join my celebration cause they hadn't realised I had rum and cigars. (I assure you if they had , I'd have had a dozen guys carrying the bike out of the river). I shared my rum and cigar, (road rage doesn't exist in the jungle), and to my great pleasure was offered a joint! What a magnificent end to an adventure, smoking a BIGGGG Scoob in the jungle, at the side of a raging river that nearly ended my journey. Heaven... that truly is the garden of Eden. It is your constant rewrad on the road, that you will visit Eden after the greatest tests. Nearly every time. So... dude... standing around whining while your 10 wheel, All Wheel Drive trucks cross your bike for you? Hardly good TV. That wasn't riding mate, that was The Ewan McGregor Show. No more, no less. POST NOTE: JUST REALISED THIS WAS SUCH AN OOOOOOLD PSOT> Uplate...lol. But will leave it here cos I went to teh trouble to write one of my stories down.... (aren't I feeling dumb!) :) |
Answers to ALL the questions... And the winner is... (Please don't pick me)
What would the perfect Website include?
Girls, girls, girls....pornography is the highest grossing EBusiness in the world. What would the perfect Website include? Please see above What qualifications should a riding partner meet? Please see above Which motorcycle to use: Avantages, disadvantages, cost, comfort, reliability? Any thing that goes, that you can walk away from... cause you might have to. there is another post about chinese ZzhongShen bikes... try one of them I reckon. Is sponsorship really necessary? Necessary? Nothing is necessary, except for a bit of food, a bit of alcohol, and a lotta patience. Georgey W might think about throwing in a few dollars if you ride through some Coca Plantations... What charities do we support? Ummm Step 1: Make the monay... step 2: Decide how to spend the monay. Cart:Horse... no the other way around....lol The evil of marketing: Were do I sign? Hire Ewan McgGegor Legal Consultant required? Pedro-Ishmael the Third. If you get caught crossing borders with Charles... shouldn't be a prob tho' I accidentally found some Honduran magic when I cleaned pack in Colombia...lol Best Bike Modifications (Bike Bits)? One piece of tie-wire, one set pliers attached to bike for later use. What to see & do? Duhh! R U kidding? Latin soap operas are to die for. Literally. Will just any motorcycle photographer do? Theybahve a moto that will take photos??? Has Japan invented that already? What WILL they think of next? What route should we take? Head south... (Be careful of the End Of the World tho, so you don't drop off) What to take on the trip: Spare parts, equipment, gear, supplies? A good strong Southern Accent, a bad haircut, spare underwear (Mum said always wear fresh undies in case you end up in hospital), a copy of your voting card PROVING you didn't vote for George W Battleprone, some Pesos. Best videoing and filming strategy? If its getting dull zoom into the winning applicant (see answers 1, 2, 3) Is a Satellite phone really necessary? Who you gonna call...(ain't 'fraid a no ghosts)... Ghost Busters! Which shipping drop points for sending out film and getting new supplies? Shipping Drop Points (or SDPs as they are referred to by my corpoarte denizens) have been proven to be myth made up by Gerge W to perpetuate the other myth that anyone CAN access the media to enforce their right to free speech. CIA Disinformation section invented this myth about a myth strategy in the 1960s. What to eat and what to avoid? Eat: Beans, Pan, fried meat and potatoes... there is nothing else. Avoid: The beans, the pan, the meat and the potatoes.....Oh, and the police, and the robbers, and the right extremist paras, and the left extremist guerrillas, and the middle extremist conservative socialists. What are the dangers: Diseases, sickness, accidents, theft? The dangers... avoid these, all these and keep shooting your assistant, constantly, for the whole trip. Keep shooting her, and avoiding all the fun, danger and disease. E Business=porn, remember. Danger = adventure. To Chase or not: Can the trip be successful without a chase vehicle? If the vehicle tags you is it ur turn to chase? Is there a ball involved? How will you fill those long days along the Peruvian coastline without a bit of bumper tag? Should a Life Purpose consultant be consulted? What the fukkkkk is a Life Purpose Consusltant? That sounds so cool. (not) Will he have a life-profit based approach or a fairness and equity principle that should be adhered to for longer term life sustainability. I know a GREAT Life Purpose Consultant that will find you anywhere you are in Central/Sth Am... his name is CHARLIE...... Fitness trainer real needed pre-trip? Assuming LPC (above) will keep our mental fitness up to scratch, I am thinking RICHARD SIMMONS would be cool celebrity alternative to Ewan MGregor. (That would honestly be really, really cool. I'm actually selling myself on this, Richie, in tights, on a bike, in the Heart Of Drakness Darien Gap) Health, Digestion, & Diet Consultant: Hollywood hype? Definitely, someone to tell you "eat more beans"? Perhaps Jamie Oliver? Richie Simmons and Jamie Oliver.. yeah, I'm feeling it man, I'm feeling it. What to expect at Borders Crossings? Expect to enter a new country, eat more beans, fart a little and move on to the next border crossing... Cheers mate, Good luck, Thirty days.... ummm, perhaps a cooking show. |
Jeeze, you have way too much time on your hands Cpt Barb!
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Brilliant!
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More brilliance!
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You sure you weren't suckin' down on a scoob while you posted that, Cpt.?! :D |
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