DK Custom '19 Summer Adv. Riding to where Titanic Sank -Newfoundland Island & More

[Zammy]

Bummer on the oil migration Kevin, I just assumed it was fixed.

[BILLIJAK]

Kevin, looks like an amazing trip! Great pictures and travel conversations.

After watching the loading/unloading video, a question has come to mind. When the trike is loaded in the trailer..while intransit for example...how do you get to the front of the trailer - to the kitchen/bath and bed? If I remember correctly, (and that's taking a big leap of faith!) the entry door of the trailer is in the back, so you'd have to climb over the trike?

Inquiring minds want to know!

Really enjoying the Canada adventure.

Bill

[DK Custom Products]

Another great adventure!! I love the ride around Cape Brenton and the Cabot Trail. I made that trip just 2 days after finally getting my trike. I took the ferry from Portland ME to Yarmouth and made the long drive up the east coast of NS to Beddeck. Spent two nights there while riding all day. Road back to NH via New Brunswick Canada, Maine....

Can't wait to go back after I retire!!!

I think you're gonna love it!!!

Bummer on the oil migration Kevin, I just assumed it was fixed.

Yep, I was hoping. All the 2020's have the primary vent as OEM now. Pretty sure when I install that it will be taken care of.

Kevin, looks like an amazing trip! Great pictures and travel conversations.

After watching the loading/unloading video, a question has come to mind. When the trike is loaded in the trailer..while intransit for example...how do you get to the front of the trailer - to the kitchen/bath and bed? If I remember correctly, (and that's taking a big leap of faith!) the entry door of the trailer is in the back, so you'd have to climb over the trike?

Inquiring minds want to know!

Really enjoying the Canada adventure.

Bill

Thanks man!

Answered that with some photo's in the other thread...HERE.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

This ride on The Cabot Trail is shaping up...



...to be one that will be remembered for the fun road...



...and the amazing views!



Neither is better...



...they both are...



...Great!!!



A look back...



...and a look ahead...



...we're almost at Ingonish...



...a small harbor town...



More in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

Ingonish is a town sitting in an inlet/harbor...



..it is amazingly picturesque as we ride up the other side of the U shaped inlet to the main town area.



Soon after Ingonish we are going to be taking a gravel road up to Mary Ann Falls.

Before doing that we get some fuel and then ride down to a rock beach for a bit.



Wow!



Texting with the shop, taking care of some business items.



Time to head out...



Back rolling for a few miles on some fun road...



...headed for the 7km gravel road...



...that is mostly smooth, but does have a few potholes...



...here and there...



More in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

...and a big one! It rained last night, so the low spots are full of water.



We made it! Mary Ann Falls.



It's a short walk to the falls...



...a beautiful spot in the middle of the woods...



...we enjoyed about 30 minutes here...



...looking around a bit...



...before heading back across this rotting bridge...



...to where the trike is parked. Now for the gravel road ride...



...back to where the TG is...



...more at home...the asphalt!



Will post more on Day 4 as time allows.

Kevin

[Fabricater]

Kevin, I also have a goldwing trike and a Harley ultra limited. Can you make a attempt to describe the difference in traveling on each, and which you prefer on trips.

[DK Custom Products]

Kevin, I also have a goldwing trike and a Harley ultra limited. Can you make a attempt to describe the difference in traveling on each, and which you prefer on trips.

Really interesting questions. I will attempt...but will probably miss some points.

Many things are the same, being in the wind, but will not take time to try and list those. I will make a list of the differences below-

1. We can carry more on the TG than on the Softail, or on a Touring 2 wheeler.

2. Additionally, on the TG it is easier to get to what we carry.

3. When Mary moves around (taking pics, fidgeting, etc.) it makes no impact on the TG, on 2 wheels I need to compensate for it.

4. Whether it is a Softail or a 2 Wheel Ultra, Mary starts getting a bit tired after 5-6 hours riding, and is whupped by 8-9 hours riding. On the TG she can go 10 hours and be the same as 5-6 on a 2 wheeler. For me, it's about the same on either...8-10 hours is when I start getting a bit tired.

5. On the TG, while I am aware of the following, they are not potential serious problems like they are on a 2 wheeler.

---Sand, dirt, small pebbles on the road

---Oil on the road

---Debris, large or small, pieces of wood, metal, road gators, etc.

---Small critters, dogs, cats, squirrels, raccoons, armadillos, snakes, etc.

All of the above can be catastrophic on 2 wheels, especially in a curve. While on the TG I would like to avoid them, but none of them will put us down on the ground like they could on a 2 wheeler

6. Our experience is that 95 times out of 100, folks that WOULD pull out in front of us on a 2 wheeler, DON'T pull in front of us on the TG.

7. I know this is frowned on by many, and I know it makes no sense, but I like to ride no handed sometimes. Can't do that very much on a trike. My record on a 2 wheeler is around 26 miles.

8. In general, probably mostly because of what is listed in #5 above, the riding on a TG is more relaxed.

9. Many times it is no bother, but sometimes (day when my foot is hurting more than normal, certain angles, etc.) it is easier to stop & wait without having to put my feet down and hold the bike up.

10. It is easier to mount and dismount from the TG than a 2 wheeler...for both of us.

11. On a 2 wheeler, in the curves (not general cruising), I am able to lean/feel much more like effortless flying (I've always thought riding is like flying) thru the twisty and curving road. On the TG I am much more aware that there is a machine involved, and it takes a bit of work on my part to "fly through the curves".

12. In adverse conditions, rain, snow, sleet, the TG is more sure footed than a 2 wheeler.

I am sure there are more, but these are the big differences that come straight to mind.

Regarding what we prefer on trips-

We both really like 2 wheels, and the feeling of "flying thru the curves", and Mary gets more "in the wind" feel on 2 wheels than the TG.

BUT, if it is a long trip (many days or weeks on the road) Mary has too much stuff (and with the Drone, I now have more too) to comfortably carry on 2 wheels.

Yes, prior to getting our first Tri Glide in 2011, we did many long (multi-week) trips on 2 wheels, but it is MUCH easier for her on 3, because of the packing.

If there are going to be long days...8 hours or more of riding, 3 wheels is preferable to 2.

Not really sure why, but there is more of a feeling of freedom on 2 wheels than 3. Probably goes back to #11 above.

Regardless of the feeling mentioned above, the reality is that we actually have more freedom/flexibility/can ride more, on 3 wheels.

Conclusion is that on some trips we find 2 wheels preferable, on others 3 wheels, depending on the circumstances of the trip.

Last thing to keep in mind is that at 61 and 63 we are not as spry as we once were, AND we prefer/enjoy more creature comforts than in younger years.

Kevin

[Fabricater]

Thanks for the reply. I agree with you on the points you stated. I am just not good at putting it into words. I enjoy 2 wheels and will still take some trips on the ultra. But I am also more relaxed on 3 wheels. Having a short inseam and I have issues with my back more often than not, sometimes I just can't get my leg over the bike. I have found I can get on the bike from the right side using the passenger floor board as a step when my back is to tight. As you stated ,the trike is much easier to get on. I am a little younger ,at 54 and wife will soon be 55, we both find the trike easier to get on. I find that being shorter, I am always afraid of my foot slipping when in loose gravel and sand ,resulting in dropping the bike. I have not done that in several years,but the worry is always there. I can park the trike just about anywhere without a problem,and prefer the trike in traffic. I like the seating position on the ultra,but my wife is much more comfortable on the wing ,trike or not. We tend to take the trike on trips more than the bike,and I have noiticed this more this year, than years past.

[Gray Biker]

Have to agree with what you said about the differences. Git the Trike last September and Took it to Sturgis this year... We pull a Bushetc trailer too, and the trike makes it much easier getting around with the trailer in the campgrounds.. We noticed too that we were not nearly as tired after 550 mile first day out. or and of the other days. I'm 66 she wont let me say how young she is LOL... I also noticed people waited for the trike, where they would pull out in front of the Ultra. After the lift and the shocks and some engine tweeks, it rides and runs pretty good.

Its not quite as much fun In Spearfish Canyon, but We went through Custer park and up to Spearfish. and It did great in the corners... I was pulling away from the "kids" in the corners like I did on two...

I have a 16X7 enclosed trailer for the RZR and set up some for camping... Got it all wired up from old camper parts, looking into roof AC for it. found used, rebuilt for $275. Thinking about taking it across Iowa and Minnesota, and most of SD and setting it as a base camp like you did. Do the hills and out to Yellowstone and Bear Tooth, then come back load up and do the boring drive back home ....

Only so many ways out to the hills and in 27 years we've hit them all... We both love Marys pictures...

[DK Custom Products]

Thanks for the reply. I agree with you on the points you stated. I am just not good at putting it into words. I enjoy 2 wheels and will still take some trips on the ultra. But I am also more relaxed on 3 wheels. Having a short inseam and I have issues with my back more often than not, sometimes I just can't get my leg over the bike. I have found I can get on the bike from the right side using the passenger floor board as a step when my back is to tight. As you stated ,the trike is much easier to get on. I am a little younger ,at 54 and wife will soon be 55, we both find the trike easier to get on. I find that being shorter, I am always afraid of my foot slipping when in loose gravel and sand ,resulting in dropping the bike. I have not done that in several years,but the worry is always there. I can park the trike just about anywhere without a problem,and prefer the trike in traffic. I like the seating position on the ultra,but my wife is much more comfortable on the wing ,trike or not. We tend to take the trike on trips more than the bike,and I have noiticed this more this year, than years past.

Yep! Getting older is not for the faint of heart!

Have to agree with what you said about the differences. Git the Trike last September and Took it to Sturgis this year... We pull a Bushetc trailer too, and the trike makes it much easier getting around with the trailer in the campgrounds.. We noticed too that we were not nearly as tired after 550 mile first day out. or and of the other days. I'm 66 she wont let me say how young she is LOL... I also noticed people waited for the trike, where they would pull out in front of the Ultra. After the lift and the shocks and some engine tweeks, it rides and runs pretty good.

Its not quite as much fun In Spearfish Canyon, but We went through Custer park and up to Spearfish. and It did great in the corners... I was pulling away from the "kids" in the corners like I did on two...

I have a 16X7 enclosed trailer for the RZR and set up some for camping... Got it all wired up from old camper parts, looking into roof AC for it. found used, rebuilt for $275. Thinking about taking it across Iowa and Minnesota, and most of SD and setting it as a base camp like you did. Do the hills and out to Yellowstone and Bear Tooth, then come back load up and do the boring drive back home ....

Only so many ways out to the hills and in 27 years we've hit them all... We both love Marys pictures...

Yes, many advantages to the Tri Glide!

Sounds like you're getting the trailer set up nicely to bypass those limited, straight, somewhat boring roads, to get to where you really want to ride! Have fun!!!

I'll pass on your compliment to Mary!

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

Back rolling on the asphalt...



...it's not long before...



...we come to Lighthouse Road...



...and a Lighthouse! A reminder of just yesterday & our tour of Lighthouses on PEI.



We didn't even get off the bike. Took in some of the views...



...and then we're back rolling!



We're cutting across the northern...



...tip of Cape Breton...



...headed west...



and climbing!



More in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

This road is a blast to ride...



...I don't know if is always like this...



...it is VERY WINDY. Gusts easily up to 40 mph, probably more...



...but a great road surface, great scenery, and fun, fun, fun!



Another look back...



...and ahead, to more curves!



We're getting close...



...hey, look, a little waterfall...



...to the northwest...



...coast of Cape Breton!



More in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 continued-

Headed down from the Highlands...



...the views and...



...the road are stunning...



...the pictures don't do them justice.



We come upon some construction. Guys up the side of the hill jackhammering rocks that are breaking loose and tumbling down, being caught by steel mesh before entering the roadway. Crazy!



Headed south now...



...along the west coast...



...a quick look back...



...as we ride this amazing road...



...back toward sea level.



More coming on Day 4, The Cabot Trail, as time allows.

Kevin

[Fabricater]

Very nice. Beautiful. As a Christian,I can't help but see Gods power through his creation

[DK Custom Products]

Very nice. Beautiful. As a Christian,I can't help but see Gods power through his creation

True that!

And just think...what it would be like if it were not cursed!

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 Continued-

At sea level again...



...I had a feeling this morning...



...that today was going to be...



...one of "those" days that lifetime memories are made of...



...The Cabot Trail has not disappointed.



Fantastic views...



and superb riding!



Headed toward Cheticamp...



...where we got some gas and Mary did a little grocery shopping.



Back heading south, still along the western coastline.



More in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 continued-

There is a bit more coastline...



...before we turn inland/southeast, back toward Baddeck.



This sign caught my eye...



Myles from Nowhere. Two old buildings, full of old stuff. Myles, the proprietor, was an interesting guy to talk to. Mary picked out a few things for gifts, and for our home.



We're back rolling...



...toward Baddeck...



...no snow this time of year...



...looks like we'll be on time...



...for our dinner plans with Jerry, J. Carolyn & Dave.



Day 4 concluded in next post.

Kevin

[DK Custom Products]

Day 4 concluded-

This is the view across the street from their motel-



Jerry & J. Carolyn live about 40 miles from Mary and myself. Earlier this year, Jerry and I were both planning a trip up to Nova Scotia (unbeknownst to each other).

After we had both mapped out our trips, we found out that the other had been planning similar trips. We compared notes and realized that we would both be in Baddeck at the same time for about 16 hours...that was the only overlap.

So dinner was arranged.

Dave, a friend of Jerry & J. Carolyn took this photo. L-R Jerry, Mary, Kevin, J. Carolyn



On the two Tri Glides and...



...one Ultra...



...we all made the short trip to a great local restaurant...



...where we all enjoyed a good meal and swapping stories!



As the sun was setting, Mary and I rode the 4 miles back to...



...our home on wheels.



What an amazing day!

Tomorrow we take the 17 hour ferry ride to Newfoundland Island!!!

Kevin

[ol' school]

Awesome pictures! My son and his wife lived in Nova Scotia for a while for their jobs. They absolutely loved it!