Soloing Cross Country on CM400 Picture 25 of 27

Mike Shihrer - This brings back memories  January 11, 2011 09:36 PM
I too, once rode a CM400 cross country. It was 1982, and I did it solo as well. I was 19, and had never done anything like it. I left Bakersfield, CA for Scotia,NY in June of '82. I too planned to camp, but no tent, just a sleeping bag. I left with 300 dollars, some tools, spare spark plugs, and my clothes and sleeping bag. I wanted to get there as quickly as possible, so I took I-40 most of the way. It was a great adventure, only problem was a flat rear tire first day out in Kingman,AZ. Some Gold Wing riders helped me patch it up, and the tube held the rest of the way. Like you, most folks ridiculed me for riding such a small bike so far, but, alot of other riders allowed me to tag along, as long as I could keep up! My only regret was not having a windshield. I tended to draft behind 18 wheelers alot. I averaged 75 miles to the gallon! Back then, the stretch between Barstow and Needles, CA was 100 miles, and no gas stops. I made it easy, without extra fuel. I'm 47 now, and still ride. Of course, I've graduated to a bigger Honda, a 2005 ST1300 that has yet to make that trip. But, due to a recent layoff, your story has me thinking.....
Good for you for saying no to the naysayers. I know EXACTLY what it was like!
BTW, I made it in 7 days. I sold the bike in NY and took the bus back. I also had 150 dollars left when I got there, unreal.
Anyway, thanks for the story, maybe see you on the road someday!