Tahoe Adventure Trex

10/24/2026

Thank you to TeWai-motorcycletoursnz for the opportunity to ride one of their well-maintained BMW R1300 GS bikes around their island's backyard.

We might be testing the payload capacity of the adaptive suspension with our two-up adventure on their GS, as opposed to our GSA at home. But, the setup is handling it like a champ. Each configuration has their pros and cons. And, this is a great way to test out a new bike the best way possible. It may not be equipped exactly how we would choose. But, it's ready for adventure!!!

So far, we're very appreciative of all the kiwi hospitality and look forward to quite a bit more, as well as some great riding weather.

So, who would have stayed in the GSA lineup and who likes the "sportier" GS configuration?

We're liking the spirited engine and gearing. Although we are missing our own packing setup from home. But, as you can see, the Mosko Moto duffel is ideal with these panniers. Next time, we might choose to leave the Nelson Rigg duffel and add our bags which secure to the front crash bars to keep the center of gravity a bit lower. Although, it's all working productively, which is what really matters.

10/20/2026

Sitting next to some nice fellas going to Phillip Island for MotoGP™ for a grand finale at an amazing circuit on the Moto GP/World SBK schedule. Well, where do you think that we should we end up to go for a ride? Lots of great options, even with Winter closing in around the northern hemisphere.

09/21/2026

As I was riding today, I actually thought to myself a pretty morbid thought. Then, after I got safely home, I was scrolling through the news feeds and saw that a 60yo and a 50yo were struck on their motorcycle by a suspect while evading police at high speed and killed. Well, we never know what time that we'll die. But, we 100% know when we can live our lives to the fullest. So, get out there...before it gets too late.

08/08/2026

I'd have to say that Clearwater Lights definitely come in handy when you push the day to it's limits. Extra twist of the throttle, some bright lights to illuminate the way, and a little extra attention to Mother Nature's children bounding across the road make evening rides a lot more exhilarating, too. Maybe next ride up there I'll have a bit more time to add some off-highway adventures up there.

07/05/2026

Thank you In-N-Out Burger® for being open on this fine Independence Day. I needed a place to stop, look closer at my Dunlop Motorcycle Tires tires, and see if I should push another spirited ride, go for a fun shortcut through the Pine Nuts, plan for a 2up ride post 4th of July festivities, or be more responsible in my decision making. Looking a bit closer, I think it's time to set this set of tires free. I've been pretty happy with their performance both on and off road. Plus, I've gotten over 10,000 miles before their performace actually degraded. So, I'll probably get another set of the same tires before the upcoming commute to and the next round of racing MotoAmerica.

07/02/2026

It's only ~11 to 15 miles of twisties, from the east. However, there are multiple tight 15mph switchbacks, 23% grades, you climb up over 9000' above sea level, and there's lots of action to keep you on the edge of your seat. Plus, the views are some of the best around. Can anybody name this fun ride?

The Clearwater Lights do a great job keeping surrounding traffic alert. Plus, they add a bit of confidence, just in case the ride goes a bit later than expected.

05/27/2026

I've been trying to catch up with some of my Insta 360 videos. It's pretty crazy how I can spend hours dialing in a "perfect" edit. Then, their software kicks out an AI memory in a matter of seconds that isnmt half bad.

AI has come a long way, but there's still a long way to go. Will we eventually be replaced? Probably. But, will AI take our joy from so many of the activities that make us feel alive? Never!!!

05/09/2026

Last Summer, I took advantage of one of Marriott Bonvoy's new outdoor collection lodging options, while outside of North Cascades National Park. I was able to use my points for the brief stay, which was greatly appreciated. We don't always want to stay in high rise, high density, boxes in the sky. Sometimes, we'd like to maintain our connection with nature just a bit more

The tiny house was a great option while on my motorcycle tour. I was able to feel like I wasn't "cheating" on my adventure. My bike was safely in sight and close enough for gear runs. I was still able to maintain the true outdoor feel, and even sit beside a fire. Yet, I was able to clean up from the road and have the option to cook inside or outside, all without breaking out my mess kit.

I'd love to see more options like this. Personally, I think they would do great around Lake Tahoe or other areas known for outdoor adventures. Let's see if Marriott (or even other brands) continue this trend. Check out this article from The Points Guy giving a bit more detail into the latest outdoor collection lodging option.

Marriott is leaning into the great outdoors with The Outdoor Collection by Marriott Bonvoy and Marriott Bonvoy Outdoors to help travelers connect with nature.

04/21/2026

Now that we're seeing the resorts close for Winter 25/26, it's time to look forward to Summer fun 2026. Here are some of the opening dates around the Lake Tahoe Basin.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/laketahoebasin/newsroom/releases/opening-dates-lake-tahoe-recreation-sites?fbclid=IwZnRzaARUxaBleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe5bDVExuhqRJXlLzdu9wWL_ScWhSgazWHyVK2h-mXIDfjh6N2EkkrRswAYHE_aem_K5J3gxD1NaI_6jh7bzcWHg

(South Lake Tahoe, Calif., April 21, 2026) – Winter is winding down, spring is in the air, and summer is just around the corner at Lake Tahoe

03/27/2026

Spring is always a tough time. The end of Winter is definitely hard. Powder days are often a distant memory. But, spring slush sessions keep the spirit of the snow capped mountains alive. Of course, this time also means that there's less ice on the commute. So, throw a leg over, strap on the skis/snowboard, and enjoy the best of both worlds. Riding next to a raging river isn't that bad either.