Everyone knows that getting lost while riding your motorcycle is never really a bad thing unless you have somewhere to be and/or limited fuel. However, planning the perfect route can mean rides so epic they make your face hurt. I remember the feeling I had when I stumbled upon US 14 through Bighorn National Forest in Wyoming and couldn’t wipe the grin off my mug to save my life. Having some good guidance when planning a route can lead to you saying “WOW!” out-loud inside your helmet to yourself around every corner, and that’s exactly what I plan to do on the #SurvivorRide. Just as I have learned to appreciate my disfigured body for all it’s bumps and craters, I plan on showing the same appreciation for the Rocky Mountain region of our beautiful and breath-taking country. The best news yet is that I have the right tools to get me where I both want and need to go.
Day 18: Butler Maps
Probably the single greatest idea of all time, Butler maps are a touring enthusiast’s best friend/tour guide/route planner/concierge. They really can do it all! The Butler Maps crew has spent years researching and riding the best roads in the Western United States. The product is simple: a map that shows the best motorcycle roads based on a rating system – from real riders who really love motorcycling. Each of the highest rated routes have their own description, elevation chart and even a QR code to scan with your smartphone for a guided tour and to find local recommended hotspots like food and accommodations. And that’s not all! There are so many features to mention, I can’t even fit them all here!
I had the pleasure of meeting two of the team members (even after Court’s massive joke failure)
at this year’s BMW RA Rally and a few conversations and emails later, I can tell that they truly love what they do. I can’t ask for a better product or a group of people to support. Here’s the best part: I’ll be doing at least two of their top-rated roads on every leg of my trip. That’s 18 epic rides that I might never have found without their help. Booyah! I’m a Butler girl for life.
As great as having a tear-resistant waterproof map in your tank bag is, a GPS is never a bad idea in a pinch. Although this product has been discontinued, I’m still going to tell you all about it. Actually, I’m going to let Garmin tell you all about it. I know this isn’t the fancy schmantsy motorcycle version, but it’s what has been graciously loaned to me for the trip of a lifetime. Plus, POWERLET has the mounts and cases to boot for the nüvi 225W, so no complaints here!
“Go wide and get peace of mind with nüvi 255W. This affordable, widescreen navigator leads the way with voice-prompted turn-by-turn directions that speak street names and optional MSN Direct® services to get you there on time and keep you informed. It’s packed with millions of destinations and maps for North America or Europe. Like the rest of the sleek nüvi 2×5-series, this portable navigator is priced right and ultra-easy to use.”
On July 7th, 2012, I will be departing on a 4500 mile, 9 day motorcycle ride to bring attention to the often forgotten SURVIVORS of breast cancer. These women and men face a lifelong battle and are in desperate need of ongoing medical attention, psychological care, hope and encouragement, and most of all: the help and support of others. I aim to bring attention to this specific issue created by breast cancer to show everyone how they have an opportunity to make a difference. My journey was inspired by the Women Who Ride CONGA and is meant to further contribute to the efforts of this amazing group. Become a “spirit rider” from anywhere in the world by donating here: DONATE TO CONGA FOR THE CAUSE. My journey will be benefiting The Scar Project and Reach to Recovery International. You can follow me on my ride at #SurvivorRide via Twitter this summer. CLICK HERE to learn more about my epic journey on the #SurvivorRide.
Looking forward to reading you account of this adventure on twitter and then eventually on here. Good luck with it all, wishing you easy riding and a soft saddle.