Pretty Much My First Big Boy Long Trip Ever

[Stichill_imp]

Enjoyed your report!

The key to taking long solo rides, for me at least, is to rest every hour to hour-and-a-half. Also, you mentioned watering eyes with speed. If you're not wearing a helmet with a face shield and ear plugs, the wind and noise will bring on fatigue much sooner.

As for tipping in and taking curves with confidence, try to learn about and implement what is called a "late apex" turn. Essentially you want to brake hard on entry before tipping in, then stay on the brakes lightly while you steer outside on a curve for good visibility through the turn. Don't look down near the painted line or near the front of your bike. Lift your head up and assertively turn your head to look ahead through the turn. When you can see the exit open up, push on that inside bar and give 'er the beans to power around the turn.

I highly recommend Keith Code's [url=https://www.amazon.com/Twist-Wrist-II-Keith-Code/dp/0965045072]video and/or [url=https://www.amazon.com/Twist-Wrist-Vol-High-Performance-Motorcycle/dp/0965045021]book Twist of the Wrist II. He introduces the idea of "survival instincts" that surprisingly can cause you to crash your motorcycle. One example is "target fixation" where your attention locks onto a threat. You have to consciously force yourself to look away and focus on where you want to go...otherwise you will ride straight into the threat you meant to avoid.