Etiquette for the Anonymous Book

[dwyer12180]

This isn't exactly a ride report but I figured most long distance riders look here.

Lots of listing in the Anonymous book include a place to stay for the night. My listing included. But I heard that it really isn't proper to be on the road and ask to stay at a members house for the night unless it's an emergency. Is this true? What do you think?

Frankly, I'd rather spend the night with like-minded folks in a real house (or sleep in the barn) than in an impersonal motel, but if it's impolite to ask or not expected (a cultural no-no) , I don't want to embarrass someone or put someone out by asking.

So how do most people find lodging when doing long bike trips?

Thanks -- -Scott

[Semper_Fi]

When my wife and I plan long trips we always have an end destinaton in a hotel.

Our idea of camping is a hotel 6.

[ljjohns]

From my perspective, I'll help out any BMW rider with lodging in an emergency. That's why I shaped my response in the Book.

I'd not be excited by someone taking a chance that I'd have something available as a part of the plan. But if someone was planning a trip and needed a place for an overnight and then let me know of the need and date in advance, I'd be happy to work something out

So far, we've done that with some folks who simply needed parking space for trailers--El Paso is a good starting place for some long rides but not someplace you want to ride to voluntarily--and the same could be done for folks needing a night's lodging (since our kids don't visit that often even though we have a casita for relatives and friends).

[Pat Carol]

I have had rider's call me due to a motorcycle malfunction. I live 90 mile's southeast from the Mackinaw Bridge. ( a high volume tourist area )
I have met and housed lifelong friend's. There is usually a cold beer and good food at my house plus, I'm a good cook. (not that I'm bragging)
Several rider's passing through have set up their tent's and camped out on my property. I have alway's had a great experience meeting new friend's from the MOA.
The MOA is my extended family. I have a very special place in my heart for our club and the Anonymous is a great benifit/tool. I too have had to use the Anonymous Book. I called and met Fred Abli from Battle Creek, Michigan.
My rear wheel bearing went south and spun the rear axle on my 78 100 rs. I could not ride the bike. Fred (with hesitation) turned to his wife Janet and let her know that he was going on a road trip. Fred Abli loaded up my bike in the back of his truck and drove me 344 mile's back to my home.
Since that malfunction, me and Fred have gotten together for ride's and consuption of adult beverage's. Fred Abli is the perfect example of how the Anonymous Book works.
MOA member's are welcome at my home. The Anonymous is a great experience, just don't abuse it.

Take Care & Ride Safe
Pat Carol

[The_Veg]

One approach you could take is call well ahead of when you'll be in the area, and ask if the person has any recommendations for places to stay in the area. They may invite you to stay with them, or they might not. Seems like a polite way of testing the waters, since opinions of etiquette regarding this do differ.

Or better yet, join the Motorcycle Travel Network (http://www.motorcycle-travel.net/)

[lineman126]

One approach you could take is call well ahead of when you'll be in the area, and ask if the person has any recommendations for places to stay in the area. They may invite you to stay with them, or they might not. Seems like a polite way of testing the waters, since opinions of etiquette regarding this do differ.

Or better yet, join the Motorcycle Travel Network (http://www.motorcycle-travel.net/)

Very well put.:thumb

[BuddingGeezer]

I have personally invited several riders to stay at my home while on the road if thy re coming through my area. Riders I had only known through forums such as this one. On the couple occasions my offer was accepted a date was set. I cooked supper and we had a great visit.

One individual had been camping 3 days, he arrived, took a shower, I fried fresh bass fillets, hushpuppies talked a couple hours. I rode a 100 miles or so the next day with him. a great time.

I am also a member of the Honda STOC and there is a list similar to the Anonymous book, but our names are listed. I have never figured out the anonymous part.


Ralph Sims

[ddorwart]

I tend to agree with the call ahead and ask for the lay of the land. If the owner has room and feels comfortable, they will and should make the suggestion.

[kgadley01]

I would like to think most members would call only when in need. that being said any member is welcome at my home at any time. just don't call this week, as I will be in Johnson City... :thumb