Heed 505

Here we go! The Red Bull U.S. Grand Prix is only days away and the adventure begins now as I leave the MotoUSA office and make the trek north to Monterey aboard a replica Yamaha YZF-M1 MotoGP motorcycle, also known as a 2009 R1. It’s even fitted with a set of FMF slip-on mufflers so it really sounds like Rossi’s bike!
 
Over the course of today and tomorrow I’ve got an epic 492 mile voyage on some of the finest roads in all of California and maybe even the entire country. Long, wide fourth gear sweepers, dirty one-lane switch backs, miles of miles of top gear straight-aways, roller coaster-like uphill/downhill stretches, there’s even a shallow river crossing. Check out the route here and perhaps you can make it your adventure one day.
 
Without question almost 500 miles in the saddle of a sportbike is an aggressive undertaking so it’s been outfitted with a few Yamaha accessories to keep us comfortable on the trip. First we’ve installed a comfort seat that is made from multi-layered foam as opposed to the previous generations gel construction. It’s said to be way more comfortable than the comfort seat of old… I’ll definitely know in a few hours. A new raised windscreen has also been installed and is suppose to better deflect wind over your body which should make those top speed blasts way more tranquil. Since my motorcycle is my only mode of transportation for the race weekend I also mounted a sleek AXIO tank and tail case which will eliminate the need to carry a heavy back pack.
 
If all goes to plan I should land at the Dry Lake right Thursday afternoon. From there we’ll be keeping you updated to what’s happening at the track. And if you happen to be there as well, make sure you stop by MotoUSA's area within Ducati Island between Turn 2 and 3. See ya’ll there.