2008 Gillette National - attending or not?

[cruise_carter]

Lets get some feedback from the membership, who is attending, not attending, not sure yet?

[SNC1923]

I'm not sure because I have family coming to visit from Australia. If they aren't here during the rally, I will definitely be there.

[Radar41]

My wife and I have never been to a major rally, because of work/family obligations. However, we are now retired and . . . . . . . We would like to attend this year. We are NOT campers and will be looking for hotel accomidations. Count us in! Where do we sign up?

"radar"

[Rapid_Roy]

I put attending, but I have to start working on my wife now. :laugh
I hope to go though.

[Beemerdons]

We AZ Beemers will definitely be camping at Gillette next July, because it is just so damned cold here in Phoenix in July; we do want to go where it's much warmer!

Ha, just kidding! It's amazing to me how large a lightning rod placement of our International Rally in Gillette, Wyoming has become. The reality is that Gillette is where our 2008 BMW MOA Rally is placed and we Zonie desert rats will be there!

BeemerDonS

2006 Kawasaki KLR 650 - "Mi Mexico Mule II"
2005 BMW R1150RT - "Ingrid"
2003 Yamaha FJR 1300 - "Lucy Liu"
2002 H-D Dyna Super Glide - "Pamela Anderson"
1996 BMW R1100GS - "Mi Mexico Mule Numero Uno"

[tourunigo]

we are there for sure. Arriving with about 9,000 miles of travel (zig zaging all over the place) prior to the rally we look forward to 'landing' in one spot with lot's of interesting folks....and, setting up house keeping in a Sherpa (as soon as we can reserve)..... there goes the neighborhood!. See ya. -Bob and Mary

[cruisincruzan]

For the time we will have its too far and there is not enough non-motorcycle stuff for my wife when we are not at the vendors, seminars, etc. Looking forward to the NE and SE regions though.

[chasman]

ABSOLUTELY...especialy since KENK won't be there!

[rgvilla]

not going, but not because I don't like the site. I just have other plans. I'm going to be in Bend Oregon with family. The national is just a little to big for me, no matter where it is held. I will be having fun riding my dual purpose bike in Oregon. I had my big trip to Wyoming this summer and enjoyed myself immensly, including passing through Gillette. Hope everyone has a great rally and safe riding!

[SHAG]

ABSOLUTELY...especialy since KENK won't be there!

:dance

[Hodag]

I'll be there

wanna volunteer?

[Greenwald]

After visiting my daughter in Castle Rock, CO and doing some scenic riding in the Rockies, I plan to swing thru Gillette to take in the Rally on my way back to WI. Just don't know where I can stay, since the actual rally day might have to be a last minute decision.

[Paul_F]

Why of course! I plan on travelling on many interesting roads before and after Gillette. Last year I began with the RA in Asheville and then kept on riding until West Bend. I am looking for a similar ride next year. At the rally, I'll volunteer setting up and registering members as I did in West Bend, take in seminars and see what the vendors have to offer. I am hoping that the entertainment is as great as what we had in Wisconsin.

[KGT1200]

I will be coming out via North Dakota/Montana from Minnesota, and coming back home via South Dakota..

Looking forward to it...



Red

[bikerfish1100]

With limited free time, we will do TOR instead.

[Rharrod]

Since, my wife said it was ok to go! She also said, if I behave myself I will have a place to stay all week.:love:lol So I'm IN.:thumb- - - - - - - P.S. Looks like I will have to take a trip out to the PNW ,just for a road trip!:thumb

[wanderer]

In, absolutely in

[nyfty]

The Beartooth beat me last time with a whiteout. So one counter clockwise loop of WY with a slight detour to MT via the Chief Joseph and then over Beartooth to Red Lodge. Then a little playtime in the Big Horns with an arrival to Gillette. Maybe a quick trip over the Snowy Range on the way out. Oh no, I've got PMS* already.

*Parked Motorcycle Syndrome

[jgr451]

Ah yuh.

[kbasa]

Of course.

[cruise_carter]

When I posted this poll, I neglected to include my 3 riding buddies who are joining me.

Today, my friend who just bought his first m/c, the K100RT, commented again about how excited he is to be going. He told me again about all the sites to see within a reasonable riding distance. He can't get his vacation draw then so he is going to take time off work, roughly 70 hrs worth!

We are going to make this a great time for him, from taking the scenic route around Lake Superior, across the top of the US into Wyoming.

Lets give it (the Gillette rally) a chance to work.
If you're going, all the better to meet people, if not, more chances for myself and my friends to walk off with big prizes....:laugh

To Kbasa, Dave, I realize through the forums that you and the directors have taken a beating over this location, I have never met you but I appreciate the efforts that go into setting this up, I don't have the time or energy to do this. If people are unhappy, there are lots of other riding venues to attend and in 3 years, they can take a run for director or even president...

until then, I encourage everyone to attend and make the best of it, it might be bad, it might be good, but we won't know for sure until the 3rd week of July..

I thought this little 'straw poll' over the next 100 days might help by looking at the numbers..

Dale

[k75karol]

Lets get some feedback from the membership, who is attending, not attending, not sure yet?

IN :lol

(Planning to have a great time!!) Now....where's my cowboy hat???:dance

[SherpaMayberry]

....and, setting up house keeping in a Sherpa (as soon as we can reserve).....

;)


(ok, maybe too subtle. Reservations are now open!)

[GregFeeler]

Yup, going to be Co-Chairing the Cyber Cafe Committee and helping with the tire pressure check station. :thumb

[The_Veg]

My life has been totally uncertain for the last few years with no end to that in sight, but I voted IN and that's the plan I'm working with. Details of my plan include a stop in CO to visit my very best friend, a few days of regional exploration before the rally, some volunteering, Camp BEERS, meeting new folks, all the usual fun and debauchery of the Big Rally, and more!
Can't wait to give El Chupacabra a good workout up there in Flavour Country!

[bobs98]

But wish I could.

For that matter, I wish I could make every one. If it wasn't for that little thing called employment....

[PGlaves]

I've been to every national since Missoula One in '84, except Moodus, Ct. in '93 when I had just changed jobs and had zero vacation time. Voni did go to Moodus too though. Ironically, that was the year they announced our appointments as Ambassadors at the rally and I wasn't there. And I'll be in Gillette - probably arriving on the way south from Alaska which is where we intend to go the end of May following Hyderseek in Hyder.

[BeemerMike]

Yes, I'll be attending the rally in Gillette.

I used to live in Gillette (1984 to 1987), and I'm looking forward to getting back for a visit to Wyoming. From the posts I've read here and elsewhere, it seems apparent that many of the critics have never been to Gillette, or spent much time in Wyoming.

More later . . .

[podsobinski]

To familiar with that town and area. Too much good riding elsewhere. I am spoiled living in Colorado with easy access to Utah, northern Arizona and New Mexico to go there. I will stick with the Buffalo Stampede, small, great town and great riding in the Black Hills. Never been to a national event so I do not know what I am missing. :dunno

gpodzo

[PGlaves]

To familiar with that town and area. Too much good riding elsewhere. I am spoiled living in Colorado with easy access to Utah, northern Arizona and New Mexico to go there. I will stick with the Buffalo Stampede, small, great town and great riding in the Black Hills. Never been to a national event so I do not know what I am missing. :dunno

gpodzo

A mere 9 hour day trip for you. Go - and see what you have been missing!

[BeemerMike]

Never been to a national event so I do not know what I am missing.


Uh . . . no comment, I guess . . . except, maybe you should try one, especially one so close.

[Coloradoclc]

Attending the National in Gillette...then going to the Top of the Rockies rally in Paonia, CO the following weekend...where the views and riding will be much better!
BTW, I used my Hilton points to get a room in Gillette, soooo, no $250 a night for me. If you have hotel points, try using them. I did it all online...no hassle at all.

[ray82609]

I live in Casper, Wyoming and it was just on the news last night that property values in Gillette were tapering off. Housing is starting to keep up with demand. There's a huge boom in the area and many are living in motels. Now that there are places to live, the Motel prices may drop some. I don't think the MOA is getting picked on, the prices are just wacko up there at the moment.
The Camplex is famous for doing things right. I went to an RV rally there with 11,000 people and they handled it with no problems whatsoever that I saw. I'm sure the Camplex will provide service as good as or better than any other rally. I also fly radio control airplanes and the Rally of the Giants was held there a few years ago and again, everyone I talked to was extremely impressed.
I haven't been to the MOA Rally before and am looking forward to it!! I understand folks disappointment in the room prices as I don't like to tent camp either. I'm not as disappointed as others as the ride there is only 115 miles and I'm going to take my RV. I love to travel on the bike, but I can stand trailering it for that distance.
-Ray

[Oznay]

Sent a money order in today,in hopes of being one of the 200 riders selected to ride the 3 Flags Classic,and if I'm one of the lucky ones,will have to pass on Gillete.

[iRene]

Gillette? DEFINITELY!
Now the only question is, what to RIDE there?!?! Decisions, decisions!

[themayer]

This will be my first national rally. Bought my first BMW 6 or 7 years ago, but I'm a little slow (when I'm not on the bike!). Looking forward to doing some volunteering and to meeting some of you good folks.

[ltljohn]

Not going but not because of the location.
Not enough time to be able to go. I am waiting for another one back in the east.
I did look at the area and it looks like there is plenty of good riding to be had there.

[Holly]

You bet! Wouldn't miss it. Great riding all around that area and another chance to visit the new grandbaby in Boulder while I'm in the area. Now maybe I should visit the other son in Vancouver on the way there....

They are forecasting snow tonight, so it is time to get out the maps and plan all the possible routes I might take.

I will be volunteering as environmental steward, as well as in the charging station and cyber café again.

Holly

[GregFeeler]

You bet! Wouldn't miss it. Great riding all around that area and another chance to visit the new grandbaby in Boulder while I'm in the area. Now maybe I should visit the other son in Vancouver on the way there....

They are forecasting snow tonight, so it is time to get out the maps and plan all the possible routes I might take.

I will be volunteering as environmental steward, as well as in the charging station and cyber café again.

Holly

Two thumbs up for the Cyber Cafe volunteers! :thumb :thumb

[smilingcouple]

If any group is going from FL, GA or SC I will tag along. This will be my first BMW event. I will bring a big hat, alot of sunscreen and a positive attitude.

Or skip the flatlands and go to the Black Hills Stampede instead.

:jose

[GregFeeler]

If any group is going from FL, GA or SC I will tag along. This will be my first BMW event. I will bring a big hat, alot of sunscreen and a positive attitude.

Or skip the flatlands and go to the Black Hills Stampede instead.

:jose


By the time you're to the Black Hills you're across the flatlands and a stone's throw from Gillette!

[rocketman]

Two thumbs up for the Cyber Cafe volunteers! :thumb :thumb


I know for some staying connected is important, both personally and professionally, but the idea of a cyber Cafe at a rally still kinda cracks me up! For me riding and rallying is to GET AWAY from all that and connect one to one In Person and where Work CAN'T touch me!:D

Its like when I see people heading out the door of thier house on the cell or heading in, for that matter. (and yes I know more and more folks are dropping the landline and going "wireless" as their only phone) but I just can't help thinking is what they are talking about really THAT important that it can't wait a few minutes more?

Guess its the airhead mentality and the fact I'm "connected" all day at work and the last thing I want is to take work with me. Ha Ha!

RM

[kbasa]

I know for some staying connected is important, both personally and professionally, but the idea of a cyber Cafe at a rally still kinda cracks me up! For me riding and rallying is to GET AWAY from all that and connect one to one In Person and where Work CAN'T touch me!:D

Its like when I see people heading out the door of thier house on the cell or heading in, for that matter. (and yes I know more and more folks are dropping the landline and going "wireless" as their only phone) but I just can't help thinking is what they are talking about really THAT important that it can't wait a few minutes more?

Guess its the airhead mentality and the fact I'm "connected" all day at work and the last thing I want is to take work with me. Ha Ha!

RM

For some of us, that connectivity allows to attend a rally, be on the road for a week or so and still make a living.

If you don't want to be bothered, all of those gizmos have an OFF switch. :D

[rocketman]

For some of us, that connectivity allows to attend a rally, be on the road for a week or so and still make a living.

If you don't want to be bothered, all of those gizmos have an OFF switch. :D

As I said, I know for some it is critical, I just find a certain humorous side to it all, getting away without really getting away, just seems to hold a certain irony, that 's all, no offence or criticism meant, nor did I intend to hit a nerve but seems I may.

RM

[Hodag]

You bet! Wouldn't miss it. Great riding all around that area and another chance to visit the new grandbaby in Boulder while I'm in the area. Now maybe I should visit the other son in Vancouver on the way there....

They are forecasting snow tonight, so it is time to get out the maps and plan all the possible routes I might take.

I will be volunteering as environmental steward, as well as in the charging station and cyber café again.

Holly


:clap :clap :clap 3 claps and a snap for the charging station volunteers.

(let me know if you have any suggestions for improvement)

[osceola]

:nono It should be a rule to attend any MOA National that is within a days ride. It's only 6 hours or so for me. Wouldn't miss it for the world. I'm still kicking myself for not going to the National when it was held in Durango, CO in 1994?:banghead

[SheRidesABeemer]

I'll be there

wanna volunteer?

You plugging stuff in again?
I got some ideas how to make that process more smoooth.

[Bob_M]

I will have to cross the cascade range and a few passes in the Rocky Mts but I suppose it will be worth it once I get to Gillette. :stick

( :clap )

[Rapid_Roy]

Good point. I will suffer my way through all the nice backroads until the really bad riding in Custer, the Pigtails, the Black Hills, Devil's Tower, and then the Rally. Oh the unfairness of it all. :laugh

[Hodag]

You plugging stuff in again?
I got some ideas how to make that process more smoooth.

volunteers that show up and work a full shift would be a good start :deal


what ideas...pm me some details

I'm bringing bike battery chargers and extension cords this year

[GregFeeler]

:clap :clap :clap 3 claps and a snap for the charging station volunteers.

(let me know if you have any suggestions for improvement)

One thing we should get for you Hodag, is some USB chargers. More and more devices charge with a USB cable that is supposed to be attached to your PC. Hard to do on the road. I'm seeing some really inexpensive USB chargers that pull into an AC outlet. Perfect for the Charging Station.

[bullit7801]

I'll be doing my usual thing in the Beer Garden, working so that all you beer drinkers will have a great time.:buds :D :D

Note the signature.

tb

[magoo]

I'll be doing my usual thing in the Beer Garden, working so that all you beer drinkers will have a great time.:buds :D :D

Note the signature.

tb

So the Beer Team isn't retiring? :clap

[pal9779]

I am absolutely making my way to Gillette next year. There are many reasons why I need to attend the rally.

1.) More states to add to the growing list visited by motorcycle.
2.) Interesting seminars and vendors.
3.) Comradarie. If for only this reason, it makes it worth my time to travel to an area deemed by some to be almost uninhabitable. My first rally in WI made such an impression that I can't see not making the trip. Besides, coming from Illinois, how flat can it be??
4.) Did I mention the beer tent? :bow

[tourunigo]

...check list: Out of Nova Scotia.... Portland, Maine; NYC; Nashville; New Orleans; Austin (me and the two step Queen...really); Santa Barbara (maybe); Las Vegas; Reno; Vancouver Island (Son's wedding); Calgary; Independence Pass; Yellowstone; kiss the ground of Our Saint of Crazy Woman Creek (the fuel savior); Gillette; Wisc; and, home. Lots of ground to cover but we'll be there grinnin'. Maybe this time we'll finally be able to work with the beer serving crew! -Bob

[smilingcouple]

By the time you're to the Black Hills you're across the flatlands and a stone's throw from Gillette!

If time permits, I will do both. Just like the nice riding and good company along the way.

[sachiwilson]

I'll definitely be attending. Wyoming is a gorgeous state, with fabulous riding. What's not to like?

[PGlaves]

Based on this poll this will be the most attended MOA rally ever.

53% of the 38,000 membership will be over 20,000 attendees. Wow!

Or maybe on-line polls don't tell the real story??

Just wondering!

[Holly]

Based on this poll this will be the most attended MOA rally ever.

53% of the 38,000 membership will be over 20,000 attendees. Wow!

Or maybe on-line polls don't tell the real story??

Just wondering!

Sure they tell the real story. 180 people have voted so far so there will be 95 attendees. :brad

Holly

[tourunigo]

... random sample from a select group within a greatly diversified population. Skewed data likely. Good discussion though. I wonder if those who do go (and ride there) may be of a more adventurous sort :scratch ...

Question: we will be travelling through Texas and Nevada about June 10. What sort of weather might we expect? Been there in July and August but not June. -Bob

[SherpaMayberry]

One thing we should get for you Hodag, is some USB chargers. More and more devices charge with a USB cable that is supposed to be attached to your PC. Hard to do on the road. I'm seeing some really inexpensive USB chargers that pull into an AC outlet. Perfect for the Charging Station.

Good idea. I think I'll buy a few for '08.

I have had the occasional requirement from a customer or two. Think I'll make sure I have one for next year.

[SherpaMayberry]

Question: we will be travelling through Texas and Nevada about June 10. What sort of weather might we expect? Been there in July and August but not June. -Bob

For Dallas, June 10 averages:

Sunrise: 6:18 AM
Sunset: 8:35 PM
Ave High: 91°F
Ave Low: 72°F
Mean: 81°F
Record High: 104°F (1911)
Record Low: 58°F (1955)

Average rain fall for the month of June: 3.92"

For Las Vegas;

Sunrise: 5:23 AM
Sunset: 7:57 PM
Ave High: 97°F
Ave Low: 71°F
Mean: 84°F
Record High: 109°F (1921)
Record Low: 51°F (1954)

Average rain fall for the month of June: 0.08"

All pulled from weather.com, they provide averages for given cities.

:)

[jwhite518]

Not. I have a limited amount of time available for a solo vacation. I'm spending 2008's budget on the Spank Rally combined with the IBA National. I suppose one day I'll have had enough of LD rallies, and then I'll go to an MOA National.

[Mike M]

It'll be my first National in 8 years. Yes, I will be there!

[VEGASBEEMERGUY]

Several of us from the EMOs of Las Vegas will be making the treak to the Rally this year. In fact we plan to make a two week trip to meet up with an old friend and ride, Yellowstone, the black hills, hit the rally then loop through the colorado rockies with a stop at Panoia before heading home to Vegas. Accept for leaving Vegas the heat shouldn't be too bad. Early morning rides in and out of vegas are the norm for us during the summer months. Nice to have a rally relatively close to home (999miles) for the first time in many years. See you all in Wyoming.:dance

[Pat Carol]

You bet your sweet bippy I'm going. I am going taking all of July and part of August off. I am going to rally for almost two months.
The best thing about Gillette is being there with all of you and drinking beer. I won't get much time during the rally because my responsability will be all of you.
Now the other thing about the Gillette rally will be the razor factory tour. All us guys will be clean shaven and the ladies will have silky smooth legs.
They get the steel for making the razors from HD's left over from the Sturgis rally from the prior year. There is a huge grinder at the beginning of the razor factory where all the left over HD's are dropped into. From there the metal is melted down and at the end out comes several different brands of Gillette razors.
I guess it is quite amazing. I heard about this from my friend' cousin' friend whose uncle has a sister whose cousin' step-father' grand father who has a sister that had a brother-in-law whose beer drinking buddy worked at the razor factory in Gillette. WOW! simply amazing.
I'll see you there.

PC:ha

[Hotspice]

I'll definately be there.

Now I just have to decide if I'm going to extend the trip the week before or the week after..

Decisions, Decisions

:scratch

[PAULBACH]

One thing we should get for you Hodag, is some USB chargers. More and more devices charge with a USB cable that is supposed to be attached to your PC. Hard to do on the road. I'm seeing some really inexpensive USB chargers that pull into an AC outlet. Perfect for the Charging Station.

Have bought a couple on eBay for less than $4.00. The work fine

Do a search for USB Power Supply. I have seen them as low as $1.00. But then the shipping is a killer of course.

[GregFeeler]

Have bought a couple on eBay for less than $4.00. The work fine

Do a search for USB Power Supply. I have seen them as low as $1.00. But then the shipping is a killer of course.

Yes, on small items the shipping seems high. Some places will charge the same amount per piece so you don't get a better deal by buying several, however some (like Buy.com and TigerDirect.com) seem to charge by weight (plus a minimum) so you can get several small/light items for only slightly more freight than one. Hodag - PM me and we can discuss getting you some of these, if you'd like.

[wmubrown]

Definitely going... I don't care what the nay-sayers have to say about Wyoming, it's not always where you are that makes for an interesting time! If I'm not working as a vendor, I'll volunteer for something. If I'm working... well... I'll be working... ;)

[apopj]

Let's see:

3000 miles round trip at 45 miles per gallon means $200 round trip for gas...
$220 for cheap motel for 4 nights means $880 for rally motel
$100 for normal motel to and from
$450 for food for the duration for wife and I
$200 for rally fees and misc junk

So, about $1850 for a 4 day rally not including tires, oil, wear and tear.....

yeah, right...... I can attend 20 local rallys for that kind of money and not feel like I am being ripped off

NO, WE WILL NOT BE ATTENDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:scratch

[judjones]

Let's see:
.
.
.

$220 for cheap motel for 4 nights means $880 for rally motel
$100 for normal motel to and from
.
.
.


Moto-camper?

[theLuz]

Anyone riding from the Southern California area? I'm thinking about this or Top 'o Rockies and would like some company. The little lady informed me she's not going to any more of these. She wonders why I like to walk around and look at other people's bikes. How rude!:)

[Rapid_Roy]

Let's see:

3000 miles round trip at 45 miles per gallon means $200 round trip for gas...
$220 for cheap motel for 4 nights means $880 for rally motel
$100 for normal motel to and from
$450 for food for the duration for wife and I
$200 for rally fees and misc junk

So, about $1850 for a 4 day rally not including tires, oil, wear and tear.....

yeah, right...... I can attend 20 local rallys for that kind of money and not feel like I am being ripped off

NO, WE WILL NOT BE ATTENDING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:scratch
That makes sense.
My list is:
200 for gas (It's only 2000 miles round trip but I like to ride)
35 dollars for the rally fee, camping, and chance to win bikes
100 dollars for food
100 dollars for Tequila
It works out for me, because I do spend a little more money on vacation.

[Hodag]

That makes sense.
My list is:
200 for gas (It's only 2000 miles round trip but I like to ride)
35 dollars for the rally fee, camping, and chance to win bikes
100 dollars for food
100 dollars for Tequila
It works out for me, because I do spend a little more money on vacation.

trying to wipe the smile off your face the week after....
priceless

[Rapid_Roy]

I had fun at WB even though I missed Camp Beers. That matter will be rectified if I am able to make Gillette.

[From MARS]

Has anyone ever gone on a vacation trip to save money? Not that I've met. In fact, I would say, based on my limited experience, if someone comes home from a vacation trip with money left, they won't go back there again.

Coming home with money burning a hole in your pocket from a BMW MOA national rally, I believe, is just not possible. I don't care where it is. If you've got it to spend, there will be something you *need* available for purchase. And probably at a discount!

My first national rally was WB. I camped, ate and drank, and bought a new seat for my K. It cost me a little over $1000.00 for a week of fun. Everytime I sit on that seat or run into a "friend" that I met there, I get a return on that money.

I think Gillette will be even more fun than WB. I know more people who will be there (and more about them thanks to this forum), I like riding in open country, and we, who do attend, will have the "bonding" moment of having attended a well-bashed rally that we WILL have fun at because we choose to. And, I'll probably come home broke, just like the last time.

[Braddog]

I had fun at WB even though I missed Camp Beers. That matter will be rectified if I am able to make Gillette.

Yep, that's what I'm thinking, too.
:bar

[tonymarshall]

Am from Polson (NW Montana). Any other NW Montanan's headed to Gillette?

Tony Marshall
Polson, MT

[TOTOLee]

We will be there. I like Rapid_Roy's list. Being from TOTOLand we are always close to the MOA Rally. We can never get long distance, we are just down the road so I don't see to long of a ride. Look for us in a Go-fer cart.

[ghostridery2k]

im attending,this will be my first bmw rally.im a new member an proud owner of my little K (still working on it).I own other bikes then bmw and attend other motorcycle rallys and i did not like it.I hope the i will meet nice people and make new friends.my friend coming from austria for few weeks so i hope the non members are welcome.see you all there,martin:thumb

[atoms]

:nono It should be a rule to attend any MOA National that is within a days ride. It's only 6 hours or so for me. Wouldn't miss it for the world. I'm still kicking myself for not going to the National when it was held in Durango, CO in 1994?:banghead

Thanks Osc! now I feel far less bad for clicking on the Not Attending.

West Bend was completely awesome, and Lima in 2005 was pretty great. I only missed Vermont in 2006 due to mechanical failure enroute (spent the weekend in Toronto so it was not a Total Loss).

So I've been thinking I would just go to all of them from here on out. But Gillette is a two day ride from Chicago. It is just too far.

I love Wyoming and would go in a heartbeat if I could get more vacation days off, but alas, I can't blow that much of my time-off wad for one event.

(Although as a flat-lander it would be much more attractive to me if the rally was actually IN the mountains.)

I also love the camping at the rallies, so the inflated motel rate issue is not a problem for me.

[Bob_M]

Am from Polson (NW Montana). Any other NW Montanan's headed to Gillette?

Tony Marshall
Polson, MT

I'm not from the Big Sky state, but it is a good bet there will be another Marshall attending.

Bob Marshall

[Billy_B57]

I was in;) and now I'm not ,my vacation was cancelled for the time needed to attend. Still hoping and crying to get it reinstated:blah

[PGlaves]

I had fun at WB even though I missed Camp Beers. That matter will be rectified if I am able to make Gillette.

Camp Gears and the Fairgrounds respectfully request the return of our sheep from Camp Beers.

[Firebird]

I hope to attend. I'm still in debate over hoteling it or camping. The cost of hotel rooms are steering me towards camping because it will be cheaper. Also, I hope to ride out with a couple other riders from the Maryland area. This will be my first long distance trip of this caliber and I'm excited about it. It will also be a birthday present to myself.:newtoy

[Burnszilla]

I'm finally going.

[drswift]

I did the Sherpa camping at West Bend and hope to do it again in Gillette. Still up in the air about my schedule.:boldpurpl

[Rapid_Roy]

Camp Gears and the Fairgrounds respectfully request the return of our sheep from Camp Beers.
Sheep, you say? *said Roy, wondering what exactly he had missed, and if maybe he should be grateful he did*

[riderR1150GSAdv]

I am riding the CDT and hope to make a side trip to the National...:dance

[Hodag]

Camp Gears and the Fairgrounds respectfully request the return of our sheep from Camp Beers.


how about we give you bradford?

[BernieEcht]

I am attending - six in a row.

[PGlaves]

Sheep, you say? *said Roy, wondering what exactly he had missed, and if maybe he should be grateful he did*

Mostly kidnapping and extortion were all you missed! But she ought to be right at home in Gillette. Not too far from Gillette, south of Buffalo, riding through Crazy Woman Canyon Voni and I came up behind a herd of a few hundred sheep, being herded by several guys on horseback. One of them said, "Just ride slowly through them, and whatever you do don't honk your horn or we'll be chasing them in the hills all night." So I proceeded straight through the herd at slow speed. In the middle I thought about honking the horn, but then remembered the rifles in the riders' scabbards and thought better of the idea.

[k75karol]

I was in;) and now I'm not ,my vacation was cancelled for the time needed to attend. Still hoping and crying to get it reinstated:blah

Keep crying, and maybe you'll be so sick.....you can take sick leave:laugh

Seriously, hope it works out, and we see you in Gillette!

[Rapid_Roy]

Mostly kidnapping and extortion were all you missed! But she ought to be right at home in Gillette. Not too far from Gillette, south of Buffalo, riding through Crazy Woman Canyon Voni and I came up behind a herd of a few hundred sheep, being herded by several guys on horseback. One of them said, "Just ride slowly through them, and whatever you do don't honk your horn or we'll be chasing them in the hills all night." So I proceeded straight through the herd at slow speed. In the middle I thought about honking the horn, but then remembered the rifles in the riders' scabbards and thought better of the idea.
:laugh I had cows near Ten Sleep. We had to stop though.

Kidnapping and extortion? I thought I was bad to the bone for gettin' yelled at for making noise at 12:45 a.m.. I have got nothing on those guys. ( Is that the sheep? She is rather pretty.:laugh)

[flymymbz]

I had planed on going, but the WA State Guzzi campout at Randle is the same weekend. Weekend in the forest near Mt St Helens vs weekend in Gillette. Where is the 09 BMW Rally going to be????? Maybe I go to that one.

[beemerdon]

I'll be there. I'm going out early in the week to follow a bicycle ride, the Tour de Wyoming, and then I'll jump back across the state for the rally. Should be a good one!

Don Sprinkle
Charlotte NC
R1150GS

[bubbagazoo]

My wife and I will be attending our first rally of any sort in Gillette. I'm looking forward to it and the ride to and from Gillette.

[cbmwgs]

Because I would have to ride through West Texas to get there.

:dunno

[k75karol]

I'll be there. I'm going out early in the week to follow a bicycle ride, the Tour de Wyoming, and then I'll jump back across the state for the rally. Should be a good one! Don Sprinkle
Charlotte NC R1150GS

Sounds like a fun trip. Both events include 2 wheels! How many riders participate in the Tour de Wyoming?? Maybe we should include a notice in our rally coverage to alert our motorized 2 wheelers about the more vulnerable 2 wheelers

See you in Gillette

[jdmetzger]

I think I'm going to have to change my vote from a maybe to a "yes"; I was threatened at the board meeting when I didn't raise my hand fully when they asked who was attending. :uhoh

I was lucky enough to make it out alive...

[msfladue]

Lets get some feedback from the membership, who is attending, not attending, not sure yet?

I plan on being there to see what WY has to offer. I'll be comming from VT
so will put on quite a few miles getting there. Anyone want to ride together?

Msfladue

[GOTGS]

This will be the first MOA rally for the wife and I. We can't wait. :dance

[dmaust01]

I wouldn't want to miss this one...or any of them for that matter. For those of you attending your first MOA International Rally, be warned that it may easily become an annual event for you. I suggest volunteering for a shift at any of the many volunteer positions to increase the fun and meet a lot of nice folks. Most importantly, ride safe and plan on having a good time.

[k100wy]

My wife and I have tried to make it to the last three or four rallies, they are always too far for our time to trek to. When we missed again on the 07 rally and heard it was in Gillette we were very happy.

I would like to re-butt all those that think Wy is flat - it isn't. There are many many hills in the area called flat by WY standards. For those that say it's a long way away - well so are you from us. To those that complain about the scenery - you need your eyes checked. To Those with GS's more roads here then you can ride in a summer (when the snow flies they don't plow many of them).

As Far as HD riders - most are seen in town at the bar, few on roads unless in side trailer or pickup. For a bike that built a rep as a rebel ride sure is allot of conformity in that crowd...

As far as Gillette goes- boom town no housing and motels are always full - all year around. During the summer it gets worse too many tourists on the way to Yellowstone. I am camping at Camplex, if at all possible, other wise I will commute- the local campgrounds are quite expensive and mostly occupied by monthly renters working the energy boom in the area that includes Buffalo WY. SD is 90 minutes away, near Belle are many cheap places to stay, and you can take the two lane roads all the way to Gillette. I live in Douglas but it is 120+ miles to Camplex through some of the most amazing mule dear and antelope you can see - some are real up close and personal. So I won't be riding from here.

Those that do come bring your cold and hot weather gear - some days at 6000+ feet of elevation the weather can be real unpredictable - since that is an average low altitude for WY it is a state wide deal.

Remember, The 4 legged critters out number all the locals and the tourists combined, I have killed with my k100 two rabbits the size of dogs and one thankfully small antelope- so keep your eyes open and your speed down at least at night and close to sunset/sunrise.

[GSAnderson]

I hope to attend.

[k75karol]

My wife and I have tried to make it to the last three or four rallies, they are always too far for our time to trek to. When we missed again on the 07 rally and heard it was in Gillette we were very happy.

I would like to re-butt all those that think Wy is flat - it isn't. There are many many hills in the area called flat by WY standards. For those that say it's a long way away - well so are you from us. To those that complain about the scenery - you need your eyes checked. To Those with GS's more roads here then you can ride in a summer (when the snow flies they don't plow many of them).

As far as Gillette goes- boom town no housing and motels are always full - all year around. During the summer it gets worse too many tourists on the way to Yellowstone. I am camping at Camplex, if at all possible, SD is 90 minutes away, near Belle are many cheap places to stay, and you can take the two lane roads all the way to Gillette. I live in Douglas but it is 120+ miles to Camplex through some of the most amazing mule dear and antelope you can see - some are real up close and personal. So I won't be riding from here.

Remember, The 4 legged critters out number all the locals and the tourists combined, I have killed with my k100 two rabbits the size of dogs and one thankfully small antelope- so keep your eyes open and your speed down at least at night and close to sunset/sunrise.

We're glad you can make it. If this is your 1st rally....be prepared for the welcoming committee.:whistle

Thanks for all the info about the area, and the heads up about the wildlife. Are you sure those 2 rabbits weren't the elusive "jackalopes"??

We're looking forward to partying in your neighborhood... The visits I've made during the last couple of months have been great. The enthusiasm of the local members and the staff at the Cam-Plex will certainly help us during the planning part of the rally. During one of my visits (in a rental car:( ) locals stopped twice to offer assistance while I was parked on the side of the road, making notes or taking pics. Hospitality's been great and LuLus caramel rolls are to die for!!:thumb

[k75karol]

I think I'm going to have to change my vote from a maybe to a "yes"; I was threatened at the board meeting when I didn't raise my hand fully when they asked who was attending. :uhoh

I was lucky enough to make it out alive...

Now....if we could just get higher member attendance at the April BoD meeting.......we'll have a record rally attendance:dance

Good to finally meet you Josh!!:wave and thanks for the input. (hope we weren't toooooo threatening :rolleyes

[k100wy]

We're glad you can make it. If this is your 1st rally....be prepared for the welcoming committee.:whistle

Thanks for all the info about the area, and the heads up about the wildlife. Are you sure those 2 rabbits weren't the elusive "jackalopes"??

We're looking forward to partying in your neighborhood... The visits I've made during the last couple of months have been great. The enthusiasm of the local members and the staff at the Cam-Plex will certainly help us during the planning part of the rally. During one of my visits (in a rental car:( ) locals stopped twice to offer assistance while I was parked on the side of the road, making notes or taking pics. Hospitality's been great and LuLus caramel rolls are to die for!!:thumb

Douglas IS the Jackalope capital of the world - the ACTUAL place the legend comes from. These were females - no horns.

You should also know that most Jack rabbits of the kind In WY have horn patches on there heads just like dear and such it's just that they seem to be "turned off", so there may be truth to the legend after all.

[judjones]

I hope to attend.

On the KLR?

[SIBUD]

Prior comittment to my wife to take her sailing in Canada prevents me from attending. But, I sure as heck wish I could find a way to do both just to show some (one) constant bitch'r on this forum that he is just wrong.

BTW Saw the rally logo at the Board meeting last weekend. Fantastic.

[k75karol]

Prior comittment to my wife to take her sailing in Canada prevents me from attending. But, I sure as heck wish I could find a way to do both just to show some (one) constant bitch'r on this forum that he is just wrong.

BTW Saw the rally logo at the Board meeting last weekend. Fantastic.

Soon to be released......another Tessler original!!

Hey, Gillette's on the way to Canada

BTW-who's in charge of smilies???? I saw a cowboy smilie....can we get that added??

[KGT1200]

Karol, you tease us with your hints..

When prey tell will we know more about said Rally?

Don't knoiw if I should bring my fishing pole and my dancing shoes or just my fishing pole?

Axiously waiting,

-a rider of the purple sage

[tourunigo]

Prior comittment to my wife to take her sailing in Canada prevents me from attending. But, I sure as heck wish I could find a way to do both just to show some (one) constant bitch'r on this forum that he is just wrong.

BTW Saw the rally logo at the Board meeting last weekend. Fantastic.

Sailing lakeside or meandering to coastal waters? If you ever sail on the coast then anchor in to Larry's River. Scallops await! We are not sailers but we have the facilities. -Bob

[SIBUD]

Sailing lakeside or meandering to coastal waters? If you ever sail on the coast then anchor in to Larry's River. Scallops await! We are not sailers but we have the facilities. -Bob

Thanks for the invite Bob.

Sailing the North Channel of Lake Huron. Spent two weeks there last summer after the Rally. Wife loved it so much I promised to take her back.

Love Canada, love Canadians. Friendly, helpful folks.

[GSAnderson]

On the KLR?

Well, it is a K-Bike... :hide

[k75karol]

Well, it is a K-Bike... :hide

Not quite enough cylinders to be a "K" bike:nyah
(Morning, Greg)

[GSAnderson]

Not quite enough cylinders to be a "K" bike:nyah
(Morning, Greg)

:wave

[Rapid_Roy]

I should change mine to: I plan on being there. I have the vacation time slotted, and the venerable RT will make it. If I take the /7, I will have to work really hard on it this winter, and I am not sure I am up to that. Not to mention, it has no fairing, and I am getting old. The R50 would be ideal, but I hear there are some hills in between. Not to mention, nobody even gave it a second glance when I entered it at West Bend.
What can I say, I ride my old motorcycles. Hard.

[AKBeemer]

This will be our first rally. Riding from AK will be an adventure. What does it cost?

[corbtown]

I'm a new member to BMWOA and would love to go to the rally. I'm still a new rider ( less than 4,000 miles in 2 years). I'm not sure the F650GS would be that comfortable doing 2 1/2 days trip of 500 miles per day from Ohio. If I go it would be nice to have a company during the trip. I will be camping if I go. And I'd like to avoid I-80.

[Rapid_Roy]

This will be our first rally. Riding from AK will be an adventure. What does it cost?
:wave Last years was 35 dollars per person, I believe.
For 3 days camping, chances to win bikes, music and more!

[From MARS]

Thanks for the invite Bob.

Sailing the North Channel of Lake Huron. Spent two weeks there last summer after the Rally. Wife loved it so much I promised to take her back.

Love Canada, love Canadians. Friendly, helpful folks.

Bud, if you have the time, take a look at launching somewhere on Lake Ontario and traversing the Trent-Severn Waterway across Canada. And then, you can daysail back down the lakes to the trailer.

If you did it latter in the year, the Fall colors would be spectacular, and you could make the rally. Besides, I was there in July, and the water was still cold. Tell your wife August is much warmer. After your week in Gillette, you'll probably welcome some cool water to soak in.:wave

Tom

[rlswim]

Punching through the center of the Rockies on the way up from Texas, I'll be there. It will be my first national. I do like wide open spaces, and I am looking forward to it!

[Voni]

Cool!

Looking forward to meeting a fellow Texan! We'll be at Camp G.E.A.R.S.

See you there!

Voni
sMiling

[SIBUD]

Bud, if you have the time, take a look at launching somewhere on Lake Ontario and traversing the Trent-Severn Waterway across Canada. And then, you can daysail back down the lakes to the trailer.

If you did it latter in the year, the Fall colors would be spectacular, and you could make the rally. Besides, I was there in July, and the water was still cold. Tell your wife August is much warmer. After your week in Gillette, you'll probably welcome some cool water to soak in.:wave

Tom

Sorry I missed your reply.

We belong to the Trailer Sailor Association which holds an annual trip the last two weeks in July. Always the last two weeks in July. Doesn't change, won't change.

So while your suggestion is a good one, it's not possible.

But we have looked at the Trent-Severn as a possible separate trip. Looks wonderful.

[mark1305]

I plan to be there, but as a single Dad, sometimes glitches pop up that CX trips.

In 2005 I rode the F 650 fro GA to OH for a Chain Gang Pre-MOA gathering but couldn't stay for Mid Ohio Vintage Days or the MOA Rally.

In 2008 I am organizing everything on my calendar towards riding up for the Rally and seeing lots of stuff on the way home.

[SheRidesABeemer]

I plan to be there, but as a single Dad, sometimes glitches pop up that CX trips.

In 2005 I rode the F 650 fro GA to OH for a Chain Gang Pre-MOA gathering but couldn't stay for Mid Ohio Vintage Days or the MOA Rally.

In 2008 I am organizing everything on my calendar towards riding up for the Rally and seeing lots of stuff on the way home.


How old is the kid? Are you bringing the kid? Can you ship him/her ahead? :brad

[k75karol]

How old is the kid? Are you bringing the kid? Can you ship him/her ahead? :brad


Careful....he may not want to bring the "kid".....next thing you know "the kid" will want a bike:laugh

[BeemoKat]

Probably not in the time/money picture this year. But I'll hate to miss it.:violin

[Shell4747]

I'm a maybe - headed up from my new home in the Austin area (routing advice welcome). I'm also thinking about the Paonia rally the following weekend. But it all depends on how much vacation time I can acumulate...

[nytrashman]

I'm a new member to BMWOA and would love to go to the rally. I'm still a new rider ( less than 4,000 miles in 2 years). I'm not sure the F650GS would be that comfortable doing 2 1/2 days trip of 500 miles per day from Ohio. If I go it would be nice to have a company during the trip. I will be camping if I go. And I'd like to avoid I-80.

i'll be riding my F650GS from NY to Wyoming. not sure of my exact route yet but if your going and want to hook up along the way let me know.

[DarthWader]

I've attended the last three national rallies and would really like to go. However, I'm concerned about the travel time riding to and from my home in Virginia. Since my part-time job allows me to be off the month of July, I'm seriously considering renting a bike and returning to Austria to ride in the Alps. This time, my plan would be to do it on my own for I'm comfortable with the language. Honestly, this is a hard decision for I've never seen the West up close and personal.

I just would like to say here that I'm proud to be an MOA member and feel that I derive more from membership than I could ever possibly give. I know also that those who are in leadership positions put in countless hours for us and I appreciate their efforts.

Jim

[SilverRT]

I'm leaving the prior week (9th) and will make the rally by way of several national parks (Glacier, Banff, Yellowstone, Tetons plus a few lesser known ones). I'm still maping out my complete trip but would be glade to ride with anyone planning to return east after the rally. The complete ride is shapping up to be in the 5,000 to 6,000 miles range. :thumb

[nytrashman]

not sure if this is the right place for this but here goes: i just googled the past years temps in Gillette and found it is in the upper 80's in the day, upper 50's at night with very little/no rain. should i bring my mesh riding gear w/ the thermal liners as well as my rain gear or should i bring my non mesh gear, leave the thermal liners home but bring my rain gear? my non mesh jacket (olympia voyager) does have some venting but the pants (olympia ranger II) have no venting. i do not have the room to bring both sets of riding gear as well as one set of liners. i will be spending 3 days (give or take a little) on the slab (want to try to do 50% slab/50% secondary roads but not sure i will have the time) to get to Gillette. i think riding the slab in hot weather in mesh gear would dehydrate me more then the same ride in non mesh gear, correct? i have never made a trip like this before (1800 + miles each way) so i want to make sure i make the right choice in what riding gear i bring.

[PGlaves]

not sure if this is the right place for this but here goes: i just googled the past years temps in Gillette and found it is in the upper 80's in the day, upper 50's at night with very little/no rain. should i bring my mesh riding gear w/ the thermal liners as well as my rain gear or should i bring my non mesh gear, leave the thermal liners home but bring my rain gear? my non mesh jacket (olympia voyager) does have some venting but the pants (olympia ranger II) have no venting. i do not have the room to bring both sets of riding gear as well as one set of liners. i will be spending 3 days (give or take a little) on the slab (want to try to do 50% slab/50% secondary roads but not sure i will have the time) to get to Gillette. i think riding the slab in hot weather in mesh gear would dehydrate me more then the same ride in non mesh gear, correct? i have never made a trip like this before (1800 + miles each way) so i want to make sure i make the right choice in what riding gear i bring.

The main issue is the temperature range you will encounter between NY and WY. July is notorious for possible hot weather across the midwest and the plains. It is a complete guess but I would be prepared to ride in daytime highs of 100 and evening lows of 50. If you plan to ride in the Black Hills, or further west in the Bighorn Mountains the low temps might be lower than that.

That said - I would bring the non-mesh gear. Rain stuff of course. The best of all worlds would be the non-mesh gear plus the mesh pants. When we travel I bring my Roadcrafter 2 piece suit and my First Gear mesh pants. So other than what I am wearing I just have the extra pants to pack.

[nytrashman]

bringing the mesh pants is a very good idea. they will not take up much room and in the event i will be riding in 100 degree temps will make a big difference in my comfort. with taking my non mesh gear i guess i would be ok leaving the liners home, but the rain gear will be coming along for sure.

[bikerfish1100]

not sure if this is the right place for this but here goes: i just googled the past years temps in Gillette and found it is in the upper 80's in the day, upper 50's at night with very little/no rain. should i bring my mesh riding gear w/ the thermal liners as well as my rain gear or should i bring my non mesh gear, leave the thermal liners home but bring my rain gear? my non mesh jacket (olympia voyager) does have some venting but the pants (olympia ranger II) have no venting. i do not have the room to bring both sets of riding gear as well as one set of liners. i will be spending 3 days (give or take a little) on the slab (want to try to do 50% slab/50% secondary roads but not sure i will have the time) to get to Gillette. i think riding the slab in hot weather in mesh gear would dehydrate me more then the same ride in non mesh gear, correct? i have never made a trip like this before (1800 + miles each way) so i want to make sure i make the right choice in what riding gear i bring.

you'll have to decide for yourself- but anytime i go touring in the summer, i bring a 3 season Cordura vented jacket (Belstaff or Teknics for me, but what ya got is what will do), a Ballistic mesh jacket and removable liner (happens to be Teknic this year, Joe Rocket in year's past), armored vented pants (lately a pr of JR Alter Ego pants). The jacket liner can double as a lightweight camp jacket. in the hot stretches, I use a JR hydration liner under the mesh- lasts for about an hour in the dry heat of Utah/AZ/CO, maybe 2 or 3 hrs in the swamps of the midwest.
YCMV- your comfort may vary
enjoy the big ride. any mistakes in planning that you discover along the way can generally be readily corrected- they have stores that sell stuff in most towns you'll come across.

[Hodag]

what does "cowboy up" mean?

[KGT1200]

Tough it up, buck up, shut up and get back at it.

Quit yer damn whining, and do the right thing!

All the above is the jist of the saying

"Cowboy Up"

[Hodag]

well then...
charging station will be "cowboy kinda hanging around"
kinda

[KGT1200]

Sounds like you got it all under control then...

Cowboys hanging around to help me charge my phone will be just what I expected with the GREAT western hospitality out there, um...out there west...

[crispy]

yes yes me chaci and hopefully our frien ''the gipsy''we gointo ride from new england area land of nfl CHAMPIONS...:bikes

[mrbreeze]

The main issue is the temperature range you will encounter between NY and WY. July is notorious for possible hot weather across the midwest and the plains. It is a complete guess but I would be prepared to ride in daytime highs of 100 and evening lows of 50. If you plan to ride in the Black Hills, or further west in the Bighorn Mountains the low temps might be lower than that.

That said - I would bring the non-mesh gear. Rain stuff of course. The best of all worlds would be the non-mesh gear plus the mesh pants. When we travel I bring my Roadcrafter 2 piece suit and my First Gear mesh pants. So other than what I am wearing I just have the extra pants to pack.

It kinda makes ya miss the days of riding in army field jackets and blue jeans, don't it?

[KGT1200]

It kinda makes ya miss the days of riding in army field jackets and blue jeans, don't it?

yes, but I just got my boxers in a bunch worried about what t shirts to bring, several pastels or should I stay more brown and grey-black ?subtle:bikes

[judjones]

If forced to choose, I would leave the mesh jacket at home. They are great for tooling around on a hot day, but on a long trip, you are right, you get dehydrated very easily. Don't leave the liners at home. In the Black Hills and the Big Horns you can get hail in July that looks just like snow once it's a few inches deep on the road, and it is just as cold.

[edvoneuw]

My 12 year old son Dan will be riding pillion. I took my 13 year old daughter to the (inter)National in Wisconsin last year and we both really loved the ride and the rally.
This year I'm trying door-to-door shun-piking. Should be a nice day trip: north-cascades, rocky mountains, and then roll on into Gillette. If anyone knows of a good tour route from Glacier National Park to the rally, let me know.
See you there!

[WVBrit]

I plan to attend the rally along with my lady friend who lives in Denmark. Not sure what route I will take, but I would prefer two lanes as much as possible. Any suggestions as to the route? I think I plan to approach Wyoming from the south and get some mileage in the Rockies of Colorado Also, not sure whether to camp, which means carrying a lot of equipment, thus fewer clothes, or to motel it. Advice appreciated.

[Rapid_Roy]

I plan to attend the rally along with my lady friend who lives in Denmark. Not sure what route I will take, but I would prefer two lanes as much as possible. Any suggestions as to the route? I think I plan to approach Wyoming from the south and get some mileage in the Rockies of Colorado Also, not sure whether to camp, which means carrying a lot of equipment, thus fewer clothes, or to motel it. Advice appreciated.
Motels rooms are rare and expensive for this one. You can reserve a tent from the Sherpa service, so you don't have to pack a tent and sleeping bags.

[bikerfish1100]

I plan to attend the rally along with my lady friend who lives in Denmark. Not sure what route I will take, but I would prefer two lanes as much as possible. Any suggestions as to the route? I think I plan to approach Wyoming from the south and get some mileage in the Rockies of Colorado Also, not sure whether to camp, which means carrying a lot of equipment, thus fewer clothes, or to motel it. Advice appreciated.

here's a recent thread on an all-brands forum. pretty good group- and i know i've talked to other MOAers over there.
http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,19397.0.html

[dbOnIce]

If my wife dies before the rally, I'll be there!
That's not a joke.

[osceola]

I plan to attend the rally along with my lady friend who lives in Denmark. Not sure what route I will take, but I would prefer two lanes as much as possible. Any suggestions as to the route? I think I plan to approach Wyoming from the south and get some mileage in the Rockies of Colorado Also, not sure whether to camp, which means carrying a lot of equipment, thus fewer clothes, or to motel it. Advice appreciated.

Lots of good Colorado routes HERE (http://www.coloradobeemers.org/content/view/22/29/);)

[corbtown]

i'll be riding my F650GS from NY to Wyoming. not sure of my exact route yet but if your going and want to hook up along the way let me know.

Thanks for the reply. Haven't finalized plans yet--maybe going with my aging Dad to Scotland. How many riding days out there do you plan? I like to explore and do spur of the moment sidetracks. And if weather is good will camp.

[AZ-J]

I certainly am planning on it. Not 100% sure yet, but I'd have to say at least 70%.

This would be my first National after 28 years of membership (I have no excuse other than I didn't had a BMW M/C after 1990, until 2007). The good news is I have hotel room all reserved already. :clap

[jaherbst]

My wife and I would like to attend but after spending all day on the phone trying to get a room I'm not sure. There are no rooms available. The Best Western said their block rooms are sold out but they had rooms available starting at $239.00 per night. Why would the BMW MOA have a rally in a town with less than 1000 rooms for up to 7500 people? Yea I know we can camp but at our age it is not doable. Driving 125-200 miles a day are not my idea of a good time if we stayed in Deadwood or Sturgis. I have been doing sturgis since 1967 and they start filling up that time of year before the rally. Don't mean to sound like sour apples but this would be my first BMW MOA rally with my new R1200RT and was looking forward to attending. I am sure many others are in the same predicament. Lets hear from you.

[Greenwald]

My wife and I would like to attend but after spending all day on the phone trying to get a room I'm not sure. There are no rooms available. The Best Western said their block rooms are sold out but they had rooms available starting at $239.00 per night. Why would the BMW MOA have a rally in a town with less than 1000 rooms for up to 7500 people? Yea I know we can camp but at our age it is not doable. Driving 125-200 miles a day are not my idea of a good time if we stayed in Deadwood or Sturgis. I have been doing sturgis since 1967 and they start filling up that time of year before the rally. Don't mean to sound like sour apples but this would be my first BMW MOA rally with my new R1200RT and was looking forward to attending. I am sure many others are in the same predicament. Lets hear from you.

You're right about one thing - "...many others are in the same predicament."

While I've done some camping in my younger days, I prefer to settle into a nice, warm, dry motel room at the end of a long day riding. 'Roughing it' translates into having to cross the street to access the restaurant.

However, the reality of Gillette is that, while there may be rooms still on the menu, they are highly over-priced (not always the MOA's fault) and camping seems to be the only avenue left. I am presently on the fence about attending (I will be in CO, about 6 hours south of the Rally when it commences), but if I show up, it will be with tent and sleeping sack strapped to the back of my R1200RT.

I also feel your pain when one considers the distances involved with roundtrip communting from 'nearby' alternate lodging locations. Most of the 'scenic' riding being promoted with Gillette suffers the same math.

I hope you and your wife give 'tenting' a second thought, as despite my misgivings about our rally site selection process, I owe my patronage to the MOA, if I want it to survive and grow.

If there, I'll watch for your arrival on the glidepath to Gillette, full flaps and a greased landing with your new BMW!

[Warthog]

:thumb I attended last years rally in West Bend (my first - aka big red one pin) and had a blast. I took the slab from CO to West Bend. I can atest from first hand experience - Neb and Iowa were really hot. The rest stops in Iowa were great - even had free wireless internet. I had a mesh jacket and non-mesh armored pants (shorts underneath) and roasted the entire trip. On the way home I stopped at the last rest stop in NE before the state line for water and they were completely out. (Note to self: pack camelback).

With regards to lodging, I used the Sherpa service last time and found it to be a great service. Not having to carry all the camping equipment to and from was really nice. I got there the night before the rally started and everything was ready. Fortunately, we had great weather and I slept great on the air matteress every night and if I needed it toped off Ted took care of it. Plus the coffee in the morning was nice and no lines.

I used the Super 8s on the road. First time for me staying at the Super 8 and found them clean and a pretty good value.

I'm planning on going to this year's rally but plan on brining my own gear as it is closer to home (good time to upgrade a couple of items - new sleeping pad and a jet boil for coffee are on the list) and I plan on several side trips and camping / fly fishing. Thinking seriously about trying the Black Hills Stampede the week before the Rally. After seeing a couple of threads about the roads I'm probably going to bring my KLR 650 vice My K100.

See you there....

[RTNewbie]

Sorry, Don't have the time to invest this year. Doesn't seem like an ideal place to visit to me anyway.

[Rapid_Roy]

Sorry, Don't have the time to invest this year. Doesn't seem like an ideal place to visit to me anyway.

:nod We have all been there. I am going to Gillette though. See you next year.(maybe, it depends where it is.)
:wave

[Mudbug]

I going to the Black Hill Stampede prior to the rally. I won't be going to the rally. I surprised at the lack of rooms available. I thought one of the selection criteria is the number of hotel/motel rooms available?

[GRANT63RT]

Rode to 5 rallies in a row but was forced to miss Wisconsin. Hope to start a new streak this year. I hit Gillette on the way home from Spokane and really can't wait to get back to that area. Don't remember much about the town itself but I know there are some great roads nearby. I can't believe some people are actually complaining about the location. :dunno

[SHANDELAND]

Enjoyed reading all the replies to this thread. Diane and I plan to attend. Plan to ride through SD, angle into ND, head to Billings via Ekalaka, then through Beartooth pass, to Gillette. just over 1500 miles from Minneapolis over three days. We will be the couple riding two up on a 1975 R60/6. Should be a great ride to a Great Rally.http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/images/smilies/usa.gif
:usa

[KGT1200]

Enjoyed reading all the replies to this thread. Diane and I plan to attend. Plan to ride through SD, angle into ND, head to Billings via Ekalaka, then through Beartooth pass, to Gillette. just over 1500 miles from Minneapolis over three days. We will be the couple riding two up on a 1975 R60/6. Should be a great ride to a Great Rally.http://www.bmwmoa.org/forum/images/smilies/usa.gif
:usa

I am going out the same way; I have always wanted to go though North Dakota and Montana versus heading out over country I have ridden now many times! I am looking forward to the ride as much as I do the rally! Bring on Gillette!

[tourunigo]

After many months looking forward to attending we are not able due to a family event - my son is getting married on Vancouver Island on June 21. I do not have enough vacation to do everything. However, our trip returning from the wedding takes us right into the rally neighborhood. So, at least we get to ride in the area again. Up side is: we'll probably be able to get a motel room :laugh Anyway, we look forward to hearing the stories after the event. Will probably get the t-shirt. Oh well. -Bob (BTW.... after this year I will likely be retired and thus not chained to employer expectations. :deal )

[hcmiller52]

4,000 miles of slab for 3 days of comraderie is difficult to justify with limited vacation time. Local rallies offer much more bang for the buck...and a lot more fun quotient, all things considered. In the end, all you lose is access to vendors. After three days of slab to get to Gillette, I'd need two to rest up in order to enjoy the venue. I would only hope that leadership would be mindful of this type of suituation and plan the annuals regionally on a rotating - say three or four year - basis so none of us has to forgo a national rally more than three years in a row.

Yeah, it's all about making choices, priorities and all that, I know. Interstate riding is just not that exciting and six days of slab on secondary highways (one way) isn't either.

[GregFeeler]

4,000 miles of slab for 3 days of comraderie is difficult to justify with limited vacation time. Local rallies offer much more bang for the buck...and a lot more fun quotient, all things considered. In the end, all you lose is access to vendors. After three days of slab to get to Gillette, I'd need two to rest up in order to enjoy the venue. I would only hope that leadership would be mindful of this type of suituation and plan the annuals regionally on a rotating - say three or four year - basis so none of us has to forgo a national rally more than three years in a row.

The International Rally sites have been on a regional rotation basis for many years. That's why there was one in Wisconsin last year and Vermont the year before. More information here: http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally/rally06/rallyprocess.htm


Yeah, it's all about making choices, priorities and all that, I know. Interstate riding is just not that exciting and six days of slab on secondary highways (one way) isn't either.

Every rally site is going to be too far for some, but on the other hand, close enough for others that they can finally go. Very few folks go to every one regardless of location. I know a number of people going to Gillette from my region who couldn't possibly have made the trip to Vermont. Next year will be in different region which might work better for you. :thumb

[kbasa]

Local rallies offer much more bang for the buck...and a lot more fun quotient, all things considered. In the end, all you lose is access to vendors.

It all changes when you start making friends with people that live elsewhere in the country. The local rallies are good, but the national brings together friends that might not see each other without it.

[UPNMTNS]

I'm going and will be riding thru Jackson(Tetons) then Yellowstone, Cody onto Gillette. After the rally is over I will be heading up into Montana and towards Glacier National Park:dance

Any one want to buddy up just let me know....


I cant belive some people are complaining about the Rally being held in Gillette, the country up here is a site to see. I could spend all summer riding around Wy,Mt,Id......

[AnMar]

I'll see y'all there....coming up from Florida. I plan on volunteering as well. Anthony M. 124934

[Kiltmeister]

Paul: you might want to change the 38,000 to 40,000 plus which I am sure someone has already stated.
The Kiltmeister will be in attendance with a new hat especially for the rally - how do I put them fancy frilly things on a kilt???
:dance

Based on this poll this will be the most attended MOA rally ever.

53% of the 38,000 membership will be over 20,000 attendees. Wow!

Or maybe on-line polls don't tell the real story??

Just wondering!

[themayer]

...or maybe it'll just be the 195 members who replied?!?

[baasrob]

:bikes :bikes attending,leaving Myrtle Beach on the 12th

[JoeDakar]

Vacation days already set, planning & prep under way, looking for F650 Chain Gang Inmates or other riders from So Cal area to join in the trek starting on July 12th.
JoeDakar, 01 F650GSD, '09 800GS on order

[baasrob]

will be leaving SC on the 11th

[jimfastcar]

Flying solo from Oakville, Ontario July 13, hope I will start running into people Day 2-3 Minnesota > South Dakota
First Rally, First BMW - all good

[Mudbug]

The International Rally sites have been on a regional rotation basis for many years. That's why there was one in Wisconsin last year and Vermont the year before.

Clueless

[108896]

i'll be attending! i got time off from work so i'm trailering with a friend of mine out to Wyoming (from New jersey!), only bad news is i dont 'have a bmw anymore (now an FJR1300) so i hope they let me in!

Rich

[NDK12RS]

I'll be there...short trip from Fargo, ND to Gillette! Can't wait to ride the Bighorns and the Beartooth Pass again, been too long since I've been out there.

[Joecubana]

As of now I am planning on making the trip from PA!

[SheRidesABeemer]

As of now I am planning on making the trip from PA!

I'll give you $10 if you take the Piaggio. :p

[Montauk]

Did you figure out your route, which way you going Chicago, Ferry or Ste.Saint Marie?

[jimfastcar]

Going SSMarie > Duluth > Mitchell > Gillette
2 days at Rally including a ride through Rushmore, Sturgis
Back via slab to Milwaukee > Ferry > Lansing > Home ! - figure 9 days

[Kiltmeister]

I am going to go the Sault Ste. Marie route since there is a KOA there and I will stay overnight and camp there. With the price of gas up here you have to save any way that you can. Right now gas is $1.11 a litre (3.78 litres to the gallon) and you guys complain at $3.25. For us that is cheap.

Did you figure out your route, which way you going Chicago, Ferry or Ste.Saint Marie?

[Montauk]

Canadian gallon is bigger than ours.
I Canadian Gallon = 1.2 US Gallon
$3.78/Cdn Gal = $3.90 US Gal, based on prices you listed for gas.

[dpeace]

Attending.