United States of AManchester.

January and the rain is falling

2012-01-22T21:30:00.002Z

"You Engleesh, you are always talking about the weather".
A neighbour who came over from Hungary two years ago, mentioned during one of our early chats. He had done the esatern European thing, and moved here to make some decent money, educate his family and will probably move back once he has done just that.
"Wait and see, I replied".

This time last year we had a few feet of snow that froze solid and stayed till the middle of February. This year we have had nice sunny days, high winds, heavy rain,, and just a couple of frosts. It has been said that we do not get seasons here. Just weather. My neighbours who are used to hot summers, hard winters and real snow, have become 'locals' and the regular "Nice Day" greeting has become the norm.

One thing is certain, the 'weather' in the North west of England, does not lend itself to riding, and reports of a rider being blown into the path of an on coming truck is not surprizing. Thoughts go out to his family. He was just on his way to work.

Nothing else to report this week other than I am in the jobs market and seeking employemnt within the bike industry if at all possible.

Thanks for looking

Pete

Ted Simon Foundation Companion

2012-01-08T17:59:00.004Z

The Ted Simon Foundation has kindly made me a 'Companion' of the foundation. This is a great honour to be a part of the work thay do at this early stage of the foundation.

I will be returning this web address and adding my book to the fray.

(Once I have finished it of course).

Join the foundation http://www.jupiterstravellers.org/

Winter is here with a vengence, as the wind and rain keeps me IN the house. The GS is wrapped up on a SORN and its first MOT is now due. ( If you are elsewhere in the world, that means no road tax, and road safety certificate, just a couple of the stealth taxes we have to pay).

I am looking for work at the moment so many of the 'plans' to tour this year are on hold. For a bit.

BUT.

there is a UK tour in aid of the armed forces (more later), this is a sponsored ride circum-navigating the UK taking in the best riding roads.

Vacation this year...... the aim (should finances allow), UK-Switzerland-Italy, and back via Corsica- ferry to Marselles, France and back.

Have a great New Year and lets hope 2012 bring the best for all.

December 2011 that went quick.....

2011-12-07T22:33:00.004Z

By definition, winter has seen 'leaner' times in the Johnson household. Being in the home improvement sector for some years, the cold and wet weather results in less work and yours truely looking for different work for the pre-easter, season.
This year work has never really got going. The situation in the UK is not good at the moment with the building industry on its last legs.
Normally Jan-Feb is my 'other job' time, but this year it has come early.
By pure chance I came across a great little job as Santa for a month.

I love kids and have always said I would be a santa when I got older..... not this old but really old.

Right through to the 24th December I will put on the suit and be Father Christmas for a few hours a day. Brilliant fun and though the beard itches like hell, that's another bucket lister to cross off.

Ho ho ho !

Have a fantastic Christmas and lets hope 2012 is a better year for everyone.

PS: follow me on www.twitter.com/road2manchester and www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester

Cool Running

2011-11-21T09:53:00.003Z

The colder days are with us. Autumn came a little late this year, the sunny week before bonfire night confused the trees, and they kept there leaves for a bit longer.

By the 19th, the Bike ShowLive event at the NEC (National Exhibition Centre) in Birmingham, was underway, and unlike last year, when it was almost snowed off, I rode there. Starting in Manchester about 9.30am, the sun was out and though not warm, my full riding gear list was added. Good job too. around Stafford it was foggy. Not enough to cause any traffic issues, but enough to stop the sun breakinhg through. Temperatures dropped to around 9f , which made my eyes water a bit and the visor steam up if it was completely closed.

Free parking for bikes at the show also meant no major trek from the car parks. 100 yards across the entrance road, and I was in the warmth. With 2 or three events on, the place was buzzing.

I met up with Sam Manicom and Simon Gandolphy, both of whom were very busy selling thier adventure books, and meeting fans (they are both very laid back guys, and most welcoming). I then wandered about looking at new and old bikes, bikers and a plethora of gorgious girls in lycra suits and boots. (always a welcome chore).

The show is made up of sections, and you can target certain genres or like me just wander about with no agenda.

The blast back 85 miles to Manchester, was cooler, but the M6 keeps ones wits on full alert. Weekend drivers have a uncanny ability to do things that profesional drivers don't.

I class any driver to be a pro if they drive a vehicle for a living, or as part of their job. Weekenders are those that hit the roads for one or two days, or less. The motorways are an unusual place for them, and their perceptions are a little worrying.

It must be hard for non bikers to understand why bikes go so fast, overtake at any opportunity, and generally seem to be in a hurry. We are simply trying to get out of your way and into a safer , quieter part of the road. Pootling along with the traffic, is a dangerous place to be. Even more so when Sunday lunches are busy taking their toll on metabloisms and dozy weekenders.

Having said all that, within 1/2 mile of home, I pulled away from a set of lights into a left hand junction, followed the car in front at 10-12 MPH, as he passed an old lady, who was stood by the road, she launched herself across the carrageway in front of me, aiming for the bollard island only 10ft away.

Not even looking right, to see if anything else was coming, she gave me about 4ft in which to stop. The BMW R1200GS Adventure is a big bike, headlight on, it was dusk but not dark, I wear a white helmet and a red and silver jacket.. As the ABS brakes took over, I didn't even have time to sound my horn, I did however shout, but too late. As I came to a stop, so did she. But the shock of me staring at here from 5 inches away was to add to the minimal contact we made, and she fell over.

No major harm done, and both she and the guy from a queing car going the other way, stated that she had not even looked. He watched her as she lept into action and said she was looking at him to acknowledge her crossing.

They say that most accidents happen at the start or more so the end of a journey. In this case, it was a weekend pedestrian. High on meat and two veg, old age or just daft as a brush, she used up one of her 60+ lives. I wish her well and hope she is OK today.

Kawashazy is now painted (see above) in Sharons favorite blue. Despite not even trying to start the bike yet, I am hoping that the rest of the build will see me through the winter. Shaz will need to complete her test in the spring, and with luck getting her on the road (on her own bike), will start that elusive bug that gets to us all.

I am starting a short term job this week. (Thurs), right through till Christmas Eve. Seven days a week, 11 am to 5pm. It involves a red suit and white beard, but more of that later.

Lastly, I am conversing with a new twitter and facebook contact 'Oily Byker' who is planning a round Britain ride, by diesel motorbike...... sound interesting. Find him on facebook or twitter and say hello.

Seasons Greetings if I do not get back to you in December.

2011-11-05T22:16:00.002Z

Make avatar

I found this little gif maker online for my facebook avatar, but even at 100 pix, its a bit big. Great add on though. www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester and www.twitter.com/road2manchester still running well.

Sunny Sundays

2011-10-31T00:18:00.005Z

Hello to everyone visiting here in the past weeks.days/hours. Still tends to amaze me that over 7000 viewers from across the globe have had a peek at my ramblings. Thanks again.

Next week see's the 'BIG' Bike Show in Birmingham UK, probably the largest collection of manufacturers, suppliers and businesses in the UK trade, showing their wares to us 'punters'.

It's a costly affair with entry fees, parking and 90 miles each way. last years show was just about ruined by heavy snow, so maybe this time it might get busy. I will probably turn up like a dud battery, I need some winter gloves anyway, and often there are some bargains to be searched out.

I have been having word a with the new North West Blood Bikes, a charity (in the making), that rushes about the country with supplies of donated blood and baby milk, for free, 24-7. Aimed at the health service and hospitals, Breast Milk banks etc, they do it for nothing, and even pay their own fuel (for now).

Find them on Twitter and Facebook, and LIKE/Follow their progress.

KAWASHAZY

I recently bought this little Kawazaki Z250LTD for Sharon (Mrs R2M), as a doer upper. Shaz took here CBT earlier in the year, so to encourage her to take a further test before heading out, the 250 will be just enough until she gets a few miles done. Keep looking though, as it will soon be 'Electric Blue'. Renamed Kawashazy too..

After my experiences on the big Honda Goldwing, and my own R1200GSa, the heavy work loads have become the norm, and I have added the task of carrying camera men to my remit, to get some more mileage in.

My CV now looks like a copy of war and piece, and as my standard fully loaded kerbside weight has been in the 390- 500kgs range this year and for some time, having a monkey on the back throwing a 30kg camera around makes things so much simplier. (Honest)

Visit my Facebook page and vote for the photo competition....please

www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester I am also trying to boost my twitter friends at

www.twitter.com/road2manchester

another new one. E mail road2manchester@gmail.com NO PHISHERMEN PLEASE

Phew, that was a long post. It's now 1am though as the clocks went back today it would have been 2am. We have this weird hour gain and loss each year, to gain a few more hours daylight in the winter.

It doesn't work, it's still dark when you get up, and dark on the way home from work by the end of November.

Where did October go?

2011-10-27T10:47:00.004+01:00

Time seems to fly by when you get busy. Just finished a brick effect job on a portable cabin.

www.stonefxwalls.co.uk my new website.

The riding season is coming to a close for the recreational riders of the UK. Despite a bit of a heat wave in early October.The temperatures were strangly high for Autumn, the cooler air though has returned, with rain and high winds over the past few days.

My biking days have included a return trip to London (390 miles) using the motorways. (Freeways), this was a business trip, and as the client was in Chelsea, the thought of trains, cabs or driving was a no no. Stopping often in central London, I found the traffic to be crazy, though the car drivers are very bike aware.

I pulled up next to a Police biker, and asked him how he dealt with this everyday. The reply is not printable, but simple to say he was not a happy chappy.

As my old Transit van is at the end of its usefull life (without a major spend), I have been pootleing around on the GS. I love my bike, and despite the hassle of getting it out of the garage, putting on my gear (15mins) , and always concerned about the weather...... it's all worth it !

No work now, so a bit worried about the pre-Christmas run. Some years I have been mad busy right up to Xmas and beyond, the last two years the cupboard is bare.

I am looking for a proper job, and once again both Shaz and myself consider moving to France or in fact anywhere for a warmer, less costly alternative to the Dark Satanic Mills of norther England.

Big bike show at the NEC Birmingham in November. so something to look forward to.

Novemeber in a few days, so hoping to get out and about as much as possible. During the last few days I have been putting my video clips in order, and today will send them off to be edited. Road2Manchester the movie ...... soon..... maybe.

The Ted Simon Foundation

2011-10-08T15:02:00.005+01:00

North West Blood Bikes are setting up a Manchester branch of the NABB and currently looking for members and helpers. NWBB is a charity delivery service (My motorcycle), for bloods, baby milk and other emergency items. Run by volunteers and seeking their charity registration at the moment. PLEASE visit www.facebook.com/NWBloodbikes and 'like' their page.

Thursday evening 6th October saw the launchof the TED SIMON FOUNDATION at Coventry Transport Museum. I attended and sat there with 100+ other like minded travellers and wanna-go's (not wanna-be's).

The concept of TSF is for those who have had some success within the world of media, travel writing and publishing within the 'Round the World' genre, to help other travellers get their message out in into the world. Sixteen 'Jupiters Travellers' have already been selected from around the world, and we will see just what the TSF can do.

Jupiters Travellers some have been, some are going, watch this space.

Search the web and www.facebook.com/thetedsimonfoundation for more details.

If you have not read Jupiter Travels or Jupiter Returns, then you should.

Ted Simon and I enjoy a tipple before the start.

Also there on the night. Sam Manicom, Lois Pryce, Austin Vince, Paddy Tyson and many well know names from the RTW world.

Man-Lon-Man

2011-10-06T13:42:00.005+01:00

Over the past month, bike travel has been interupted again and again by work, holidays, work and weather.
A nice days ride over the Yorkshire Dales with my brother in Law (Arn) was welcome, as he hired a Honda from Hunts in Manchester for the weekend.
For once the weather was in our favor, and the ride over to Settle then towards Ingleboro and Hawes was fast and the quiet roads gave us a chance to take in the great views.
160 miles of 85% small twisty lanes and the rest a mix of motorway and a few towns to get us into the countryside.

I got the opportunity to do a bit of writing, and the book is at least 3000 words in the making. Lots more to go though.

October already, and despite a week of silly high temperatures in the 80's , the 6th (Thursday) returns of high winds and heavy rain makes it feel more like autumn.

Yesterday I went off to London on my trusty GS, to see a new client.
7 am start 196 miles each way, got the deal and back by 5pm without getting wet.
Sore all over, and rode in high winds most of the day.
£40 in petrol, but I did 'get along' at a pace on occasion.
London is a crazy place to ride, but most drivers are very bike aware compared to most roads in the UK. Still mad.... just aware that any gap will be filled with a bike.

Today is the launch of the Ted Simon Foundation at the Coventry National Transport Museum. 6-11pm
6.11.1973 at 6pm Ted started his RTW odyssey that became Jupiter Travels. The rest is history and tonight at 6pm the adventure biker world meet up to launch the foundation.

Am I going? Not 'arf !

www.jupitertravels.org

Facebook/thetedsimonfoundation

see more. www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester

www.twitter.com/road2manchester

Radio Radio

2011-08-24T17:00:00.003+01:00

10pm last night (Tuesday) and I am heading 33 miles north to Blackburn. Home of BBC Radio Lancashire and in the evenings tag along Radio Manchester.
John Barnes was the presenter that called me as I hit the Pacific Highway 101 coast road. The interview then went out live as last nights chat did, and John invited me to the studio once I was back.
Eventually after a couple of false starts, I made it to Blackburn and over a hour of air-time we chatted about the Road2Manchester.
John is a biker at heart, and had visited the USA some time ago. In between music, travel and national news items we enjoyed an in depth (ish) talk to the good folk of Manchester and Lancashire.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p00jl1wg/John_Barnes_23_08_2011/
Link to BBC I player which will be on for a couple of days. The first bit is saying it is not working, but wait 2 mins and it will start.

If you are reading this post after 30th August, it will probably be deleted, such is the Iplayer system.

The bike has been away for a week as proper work takes over. The weather this summer is also a bit hit and miss, with regular rain and sunny bits.
The Autumn is showings its self already and thoughts of cold and frosty mornings are not so welcoming.
Being out of the UK for May and June has shortened my year, and as they say;
Time flies when you are having fun......................

Thanks to John B, a real gent and pro' I guess that will be my last 'media' thang !

Oh Yes !!!! there is another announcment, but that will have to wait.

Best laid plans

2011-08-21T12:46:00.003+01:00

Time flies when your having fun.

August is after all our summer month. It is time when 2/3rds of the UK go on holiday as the kids get a month off school.

Bikers too get a chance to go for a spin, a holiday or the odd weekend away. The 'season' for events is here, and the choices for every hobby and pastime and outdoor sport abound.

Adventure Bike Meet, Horizons Unlimited camps, shows, and rides to the local biker hang-outs all available if you don't mind chancing the weather.

Last week I had my 'fix' as I rode from home in Manchester to South Petherton in Somerset, so see a potential customer.

As usual the weather was 'iffy' and I dodged a couple of storms and got a little damp on the way down the M5 on the 210 mile A to B ride.

On the way back, via the Cheddar Gorge, one of the roads I had promised myself for years, and was disapointed by, I once again ran the gaunlet of rain and low cloud.

Coming off the M6 at around 5.30pm, I eventually caought up with a storm, and the last 8 miles was in heavy rain.

So 429 miles, one very sore backside (Who at BMW had the idea of putting a stone seat lining on GS's), and a damp suit and gloves.

The GS ran sweetly all the way and speeds more or less at the speed limit (officer !), the new higher grade gearbox oil was working well with up and down changes very smooth.

Next plan is to go for a weekend to Scotland at the end of September with some of the Adventure Bike Warehouse crew, and possibly before that (just possibly) ride to Spain for a couple of days as Mrs J goes to Cabo Riog for ten days. It's that damn ferry crossing from UK to Santander or Bilbao. Soooooo expensive.
250 miles inn the UK and 800+ in Spain..... one way, then return. Hmmn ! not quite a weekend away !

Summer in England

2011-08-05T19:42:00.004+01:00

As the world of the international biker 'celebrity for a bit', turns back to normal. The UK summer is upon us and as usual, the weekdays the sun is out. This would be great if by Friday night, the weather forecast didn't say RAIN ALL WEEKEND.

I am not sure which country built the weather machine, but I guess that the economy would not be on its ass, if the sun was out during August.

I had my bike (BMW) serviced at Adventure Bike Warehouse, and it is running great. Well it was when I took the long way home about 3 week ago. In between that I had a week in France with Mrs J, a week in Somerset working and a this week the rain is back.

Riots and unrest throughout the UK have reached Manchester, with thousands of 'youths' running the gaunlet and looting shops under the 'cival unrest' banner, started in London last week.
No reason to spread, its just a sick excuse to take advantage of this mayhem.
Disaffected, yes, lost in society, Yes, no repect, Yes,. No future....maybe.
Bring back National Service. The armed Forces need these yobs, if not as solders, then as trainee members of society.

Overland, it's the new black.

2011-07-14T21:54:00.003+01:00

Every now and then something 'nice' happens. It could be a gift, a chance meeting or a great night out. Often nice things just come along, sometimes great thing too.

A chance message on Facebook by Sam Manicom (RTW Guru), mentioned a new magazine. Overland. So being a curious type, I ordered their first copy which arrived today.

Magazine is the wrong word. More a compendium, a volume, a keepsake.

This 'production' is classy, informative and what I have cristened a 'Keeper'.
Great features from some the the best biker writers and travellers, really great paper and print quality and I feel that this motorcycle travel handbook, will be seen in receptions, collections and coffee tables long after the sell by date has passed.

http://www.overlandmag.com/ buy it but under no corcumstances let anyone borrow it. You may never get it back.

Whilst talikng RTW hero's take a look at TED SIMON FOUNDATION join, help.

I am still awake.

2011-07-11T17:24:00.002+01:00

Well that was a nice rest. After the mele of media mayhem that met me on my return to the UK, the world on R2M is now quiet. The PR company have asked for the camera, laptop and associated gubbins back, and there are no more requests from the TV, Radio or newspapers. (phew).
The issues with the Star-Com helmet camera and intercom turned out to be the 110volt power supply in the USA that would not charge the 240v system. NO help from Start-Com was forthcoming, so I will not be buying one in the near future. Go-Pro will be my camera of choice in the future.
I have made a guess that I lost about 4 days of video SD cards that I had not down loaded. Shame but the bits between Kentucky and Head north from Alabama are out there somewhere. I just hope that one day, they might be found by someone with the foresight to actually watch them.

I have returned to the BMW GSa with some trepidation as it was due for a service, and since Jon at Adventure Bike Warehouse (Manchester), got his hands on it, the B is running like a dream.
Better oil, new gearbox oil, tuned the carbs, treated the chassis to some fancy sealant, and she is running like a dream. The gearbox oil may be expensive but what a difference.

Just had a e-mail from Giz, at the Cromwell Ridgers (see 'On the road ',vids by Duke) with advise about film making, who is about to set out on another adventure ride and hopfully another fly on the wall film. Good Luck Ridgers. Wish I could come along.

Apart from that..... just off to France for a few days. (Yes we can pop over to Europe from here), and then back to proper work with gusto.

www.decopierrenorth.co.uk my other hat.

Best wishes to Colin on the re-launch of www.cubbproducts.com for his latest Mini Dumper.

PS: ne vids on youtube/road2manchester

P

Not over yet.

2011-06-22T20:59:00.003+01:00

Just when you thought it was over....... it carries on.

Saturday Home, Sunday, Manchester parade, Monday press call so I had to get my bike out again. Monday night, put my bike away. Tusday morning ..... "Hi Pete, the press would like another picture outside Manchester United football stadium, on your bike. Can you be there in ten minutes"?

"No, it takes me ten minutes to get my boots on, 15 to get the bike out again, same to get there".

"OK, see you in half an hour" !!!! Doh!

From Old Trafford, I had an interview at Rock Radio in Salford Quays, then rush home for telephone interview with Capital Radio.

That done I put my bike away again.

Today, Wednesday, Woken up by Mike from Bennetts (it was 10 am, so no problems, I should have been up).

Daily Star and Metro News both had mentions and now news about the BBC One Show on Friday.

The bike remains in the garage, my boots put in the cupboard and perhaps a few days rest for my aching hands (2000 clutch pulls in the parade), and bum !!!!

I will add the link for the TV shot on Friday, but meanwhile....... Mrs J has hidden my bike key.

May be going to the Horizons Unlimited meeting in Ripley Derbyshire. (If I can find the keys by weekend that is!!!!)

Home Sweet Home

2011-06-20T10:06:00.004+01:00

After 25 hours of travelling, I returned home at 6pm on Saturday to a warm and welcome reception from my family. The journey from San Francisco was delayed a few hours, and air travel is always an issue, me being slightly wider and taller than the seats were designed for.
Sunday morning I had to be up to attend the Manchester Day parade where I was to ride my bike in the procession.
At around 5am here and 9pm in my head, I was awake and eating anything I could get my hands on. (Unusual for me I know !!!)
(Nice cuppa tea !)

One o'clock and the rendevous in central Manchester at the start of the parade, totally jet lagged by now, I was informed that I would have to push the BMW for the 2 mile route due to health and safety.

(What about my health and safety???)

I suggested that I would like to leave !!! So they allowed me to ride, assisted by the engine (bonus).

Two hours later, engine getting very hot, oil light flashing away, we finished and that was the official end of the Road2Manchester.

Never cease to wonder why people took so many pictures, not knowing who I was, or why I was the only motorised 'vehicle' in the whole parade?
The Beemer seemed very light and very, very tall after the Goldwing, Driving on the other side of the road seemed very strange too.

Finally, Finally

Once again thanks you to all of the organisers, Bennetts Insurance for the Biker Dream, RGP International for the organisation, the good people of the USA for being so nice, and my family for their love and support.

Many thanks to the Facebook friends, and the 6000+ visitors here on my blog. I hope I entertained y'all just a little. I may well write a book about my adventure...... meanwhile I will always be on the Road2Manchester.

Keep on dreaming, you never know.

As they say in America......." well, there you go ".

Pete.

XXX

Take the Man out of Manchester.

2011-06-16T21:51:00.002+01:00

Sunset over Manchester California

Video antics. Gentleman Lawrence

The last full day of riding was another marathon. Big miles, but also a long time. This was due mainly to the regular stops for photos, video and views that are`just amazing. Highway 1 down the west coast is rough in places, land slides cause problems, big trucks and RCV's add to the cyclist, bikers and cars to make going a little fraught at times, but the scenery and road just blows your mind. The Griffin Inn at Elk, was a little more expensive than my normal motels, but it had a monopoly in the area, and as I took my life in my own head, and hit a few MPH over the limit to get back from the Manchester photo shoot 13 miles away. It was worth it. Breakfast bought to my 'chalet' in the morning.

At 46 degrees F, it was a cool start when I got back to Manchester to take some more photos. A quiet place with only the slightly dotty post mistress taking any interest. I soon deposited my message in a bottle near the towns sign. (Bottle with a message to all the Manchesters and the last few threads of the flag that had travelled with me). San Francisco was about 170 miles away, and the journey seemed to take forever as the '1' got busier and more populated as I got nearer. By 5pm I was crossing the Golden Gate bridge
and fighting the GPS and the roadworks to get into the docklands area.
My last night would be in the grand surroundings on the Argonaut Hotel near Fishermans Wharf, but I was a day early so I went back to the edge of town and stayed in a more modest motel.

As I write this , its 2pm on Thursday 16th June, the bike has been returned to Eagle Rider in SF, and the final mileage was 8525 miles. I have ridden every day for 34 days (though some days 5-30 miles).

My longest day was from Livingston, Oregon to Manchester,Washington at 748 miles. My shortest 6 miles to do some some laundry.

Though I was resticted by time and the task in hand, I have only scratched the surface of what the USA has to offer. In fact I have only taken the pin out of its box to start to scratch.

The people I have met have been great, the friendship and hospitality more than I could have wished for. One thing for sure, I can recommend anyone to visit this massive and diverse country, you will never run out of things to see or do. I have never been scared, worried or concerned about who I spoke too, or where I was. (Even that forest in Alabama).

Thanks go out to:

Bennetts Insurance (Bennetts Biker Dream), RBP International, (Nicolien, Becks and the team), Ben, Chris, Jonnys gang, Missy, John (Red), Cory and Jack for the offers of Beds, beer and great conversation.

To my wonderfull wife who put up with months of 'ME' prior to coming over, and a month of being lonely as I travelled. (Love you loads).

Before I fly home, just a short note about Lawrence, (Above) the old chap I met in a Diner on 'Flag Day'. The shortest encounters often have the most profound effect.

Lawrence was an 'Elk', onc of the age old fraternities that have existed here for many years. He was going to a blessing for the Start and Stripes and though he invited me along, it would have been too long to get to where I was going.

In ten minutes he told me of his family leaving Plymouth in the 1600's, how in his lifetime the country had changed, and how proud he was to be an American. I gave Lawrence a pin badge showing the Stars & Stripes along with the Union Jack given to me by the American Embassy in London. We shook hands and he had a tear in his eye (me too), as we parted he thanked me for visiting the USA and hoped his country had treated me well.

You all did, and may I add that I hope that if you should ever visit the UK, we too can offer the same welcome and friendship.

Goodbye America. God Bless and thanks again.

The Last Manc Standing

2011-06-15T07:42:00.002+01:00

Rememnber that due to time zones, it is still Tuesday here in Manchester California. After another long day of 13 hrs, 458 miles and the infamous Highways 101 and 1 (wow is that a twisty), I arrived in my last Manchester as the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. 8.30PM and I had a dash back 13 miles north for last orders and a meal in ELK.
Giant Redwoods and dramatic sea mists over crashing waves and choppy seas. The Pacific highway is full of great views and great roads. I will add pictures in the morning, Just thought I would let you all know. S'Done.Did it.... finito bonito, QED, Finis, The End
( well almost just got to get to Frisco now. !)

Last Manc Standing

2011-06-14T06:01:00.002+01:00

10pm on a Monday night, and I am about to retire for the day. Good start this morning from Manchester Washington, and leaving Jack my host and guide to the I-5 freeway, I got a 130 miles in before breakfast. A quick realisation that I was just motoring for the sake of it, I turned west and headed for the iconic 101 Pacific Highway.
80 miles west seemed an odd choice seeing as I wanted to get South to Manchester, California, 500 miles away.
Twisting and turning through a mist covered forest on the way down to Lincoln City, it turns out that it was raining when I reached the sea. Just in time to speak to BBC radio Manchester (John Barnes), live , I did my stuff via mobile phone before once again doing a few miles more.
So in the Dublin House Hotel, Yachats, Oregon (Spelt by a native indian or an Irish settler???? I dunno), a good chilli burger, beer and chat with the locals was the norm.
Bed now with 325 miles less to travel tomorrow. Looking for Giant redwood trees and giant sand dunes en-route.
Next blog.......
The Last Manc standing at the last Manc on the list.......... sad, happy, relieved and ready for my own bed, a good cup of tea, and a cuddle (but not necessarly in that order.

HOW FAR?????

2011-06-12T18:01:00.006+01:00

The past few days have been a blur. Just one very long day that lasted until Saturday night. On Friday morning 10 June 2011 my odometer read 19460 miles making my total journey 6029 miles in 27 days. Despite 2 days off, I still rode a little bit, just to relax !!!

Today is Sunday 12th and I am having my 3rd 'Day Off ' I have ridden 2333 miles this week and despite missing a whole lot of things, needs must. Deadlines are deadlines. So just a little ride with Jack my host in Manchester Washington. (Facebook friends are great) This is a beautiful place overlooking the sea with Seattle just in view about 10 miles away.The short ferry ride was enough to get back some sanity after all those miles and the Seattle rush hour.

Before I go anywhere though........ odometer reading is now 20650 and my 12 hrs jaunt yesterday from Livingston, Montana through Idaho to Washington clocked off at 748 miles, six tanks of gas (Petrol), and one tired rider..... BUT the beer at the Manchester Pub was cold, the Pizza was incredible and the welcome from everyone was staggering. So...... I am staying again tonight as the good people of Manchester WA, (SSHHH! keep this place a secret !) are expecting some mad guy from England to arrive on a Goldwing this afternoon. Might be worth staying around to meet me, him, I. (4 time zones in 4 weeks...... its 10am here, my watch says 1pm and at home its past 5pm, no wonder I am confused).

Monday and SOUTH, to my final Manchester, Port Arena, California.
Happy to be heading home, missing my wife, daughter and dogs, but boy do I have a tale to tell.

Highway 1 down the Pacific coast.......... what a way to finish.

NB: Anyone anywhere in the world thinking that the Honda Goldwing is a poor bike...... Wrong. 7209 miles without a hitch, murmer or issue. 120mph in total silence (Ssssh, someone told me that !), comfort and load capacity second to few. Big? , Yes, Heavy ?, Yes, but so am I.

QED.

Horse shoes and turbo bikes.

2011-06-09T00:00:00.009+01:00

Running a few days behind, the need to get places has become the main activity with 12 hour riding and big states to cross.

To catch up I have to add my thanks to Corey Clark in Fond Du Lac in Wisconsin. Another Facebook/Advrider pal, who asked me home for B&B (Beers and Bed). A busy night with Horse Shoe throwing contests, chicken wings to feed an army, and good company back at Corey's place.

It was Corey's idea to take the SS Badger, the old ferry across then lake. Good Call.

Next day Manchester Just down the road. A small agricultural village with a great Diner and a big breakfast. The ladies that 'do', were great and the facebook page gets another friend. ( Rubber Bottom, is another story).

A big day of almost 400 miles in 100 degree winds (From the South), and by 6pm I had covered 2 more villages with the name. Now in Minnesota the wind was burning as the temperatures hit 105 again. Drink, cover up your arms and use factor 50. Riding in the gusts and side wind was a killer with 12 degree off vertical and massive jumps from side to side when passing trucks. The avergage speed was in triple figures ans the miles swent by.

Another Super 8 Motel by the free way and an early night, I managed a good 9hrs sleep before heading west again. Today 52 F and a north Westerly wind..... the full riding suit was bag out of the panniers. 3 layers, double gloves and RAIN.

South Dakota...... IS.....................massive !

Manchester SD was blown away by a hurricane. No wonder, this is one BIG FLAT state. Straight roads that blow your mind. Views so far in all directions, you can see the curve of the earth. Manc SD....... as predicted NOTHING.......................... Little House on the Prairie, my they had it tough.

Visions of 20 million Buffalo come to mind on these vast grasslands. Those early Americans must have been tough cookies to set off over these lands with no roads, no idea of what was beyond.

The Badlands, where two of the earths 'plates' meet is a surprize. The land drops a thousand feet in a display of pink white and sand coloured layers eroded into sharp peaks and troughs. $10 toll and a very pretty 'warden' at the gate, and it was twisties and awe inspiring scenery again.

After another 12 hrs day, 312 miles I find myself looking up the Devils Tower in Wyoming. The volcanic formation was the star of the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'. Looking like a 1200ft high tree trunk, this is a sacred place for the Native Americans and a strange looking object.

The local town of Hulett (pop: 140) was increase by myself and a guy from London, who was touring Esat to West (in a car). Good beer, good looking women, great Burger. Bonus.

Met the mayor, who seemed over cheery and loud, but hey thats fine.

Eileen from Seattle regailed tails of Sturgis Bike week and meeting her man there last year. Having dropped off Highway 90 earlier, Sturgis is getting ready for the 1/4 million bikers that turn up in a month. That must be a crazy event.

Even the sleepy town of Hulett saw 110,000 bikers turn up during Bike Week.

So its the 10th June and in 7 days I fly home to the UK. 1200 miles to Seattle and another 1000 down the Pacific Highway.

6029 miles covered to date and an average 286 per day needed to catch that flight.

Thanks to all those who have added laughs and memories, please. If I missed you out of the blog, visit www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester where the photo albums and mentions continue.

I will try and keep up with more stories right through the next seven days. But time to go........ Another Day another Manchester.

Michigan 'In a great State'

2011-06-07T23:32:00.005+01:00

The Tour Bus.

Party time in Michigan with Missy Covill

Singer songwriter and all round mate.
www.ironcowgirl.com

Michigan gave a double whammy. After leaving my host John in Manchester Michigan, I was just a few miles down the road for Saturday

night at another facebook friend Missy Covill (See Facebook/missycovill)

Missy and I had been chatting for months about bikes, music, theme songs for my up and coming video stuff etc: the invite to come over was in the diary. Even her Mun arrived on a Harley.

Late into the night the 20-30 guests ate great food, drank more than enough beer, argued about game shooting and even had the odd wrestling match. Once I had answered questions about what we hunt in the UK (Nothing !), A ten gauge shot gun was thrust into my hand and I was sending beer cans to a better place. Add a bit of a jamming session on the old harmonica & guitar, seeing lightning bugs, hearing bull frogs and watching Chip Monks playing in the yard, I took to the 'Tour Bus' for a hot and very dark night down in the dell . Leaving Missy and her family in peace I thank here for a great experience and friendly stay that will remain a fond memory for ever.

I left after a great hot breakfast heading for an old coal fired ferry that would save me a 300 mile slog through Chicago. The SS Badger runs a 60 mile trip across lake Michigan and was around 80 miles north of my unique hotel at Missy's.

On the way I stopped for a Dune Buggy ride on the massive dunes that line the shore. The best $16 I have spent, the 45 minute tour in a massive open top 16 seater truck. (Note to self; Southport Beach???)

Ludington overnite as the ferry left at 8am, and then a quiet 4 hours on the ship. Good news I had time to sort out the massive amount of photo & video files and found my DEALS¬GAP (Dragons Tail) vid hiding in a picture file. Way Hey 80)

More pics at facebook/roadtomanchester and facebook/bennetts_bike.

Arrived in Manitowoc, Wisconsin at mid-day where it had been raining hard and 72F (seemed really cold after 85F the day before). 2 miles in land....... 85F again.
Next stop another facebook invite from Cory Clark in Fond Du Lac.

Next blog, Chicken wings, Turbo bikes, Throwing Horse Shoes, Manc' Wisconsin and 105 degrees + 35MPH side winds. (Fun in the sun.....not !).

Oh Oh Ohio and Michigan Memories

2011-06-05T23:13:00.010+01:00

Manchester Ohio, another small town on the banks of the Ohio River. The winding road that runs by the river promises another pleasant town. And Manc-ohio is. It is what I always thought an old US` township should look like with a main street on which a combination of brick and timber buildings show the history that made the town. As if the dust road from yesteryear had simply been concreted over.

A settlement town named after a UK mancunion who was sent there to survey and mark out the area to be given to war heros and military solders as reward for their services to the country.

Suffering from the world wide recession, the town showed signs of the times with shops closed and many households holding yard sales to make ends meet. Having visit the town hall and speaking to the Mayoress, I went to the river bank where two old timers in a pick-up chatted about the demise of the town, lack of employment and stricken economy. I felt sorry for this unique and classic town that to me (Just my opinion), is what 'small town USA' should look like, its a shame that the vast River Ohio can't bring some tourism and a brighter future to a charming place.

On to Michigan.

John Stedman Filling sand boxes

Manchester Village , Michigan,

After another 350 mile blast through to Michigan, I arrived in Manchester MI on Friday, about 6.30pm. Despite the long day, I was keen to meet up with John Stedman, another Facebook contact who had seen an article about me in the local Manchester Enterprize newspaper. I had spoken to Dave, there reporter a week before on a bad Skype connection that was cutting out every few seconds due the the electrical storms they were having in the area. (Great more rain up north !).

An invitation for bike talk and beer was enough to look John up.

As I arrived at THE traffic lights in one of the nicest Manchesters I had seen to date, I spotted as guy on the veranda of a bar, just above a classic Honda parked on the corner. It was John, but due to my fatigue and being at one of the four-way-give-way junctions, I didn't think it might be him until I tuirned the corner. I had his cell number and within seconds John said thats me on the corner !
A quick beer and a meet and greet from the patron of the pub, and Mrs: S turned up and I was quickly invited back for steak and a bed for the night. John had some chores to complete, and I watched as he made Tortilla Chips and a big frier in the back yard. These would be sold at the farmers market along with home made preserves.

After a steak and just one more beer, we eventually retired at 11.30pm. 4 seconds and was snoring like a good un!

Next morning more duties for the Manchester Mens Club and community led charity that created events and ploughed the profits back into the village. A few hours of filling local kids sand pits, and we were free to ride a little and see the area.

In the afternoon I was due at Missy Covill's house about 15 miles away for a party so Saturday became my second day off (but on) the bike since I started. More about Missy next time.

3 STATES IN A DAY

2011-06-03T00:26:00.004+01:00

Seems like a long day all rolled into one. 19 days ago I set out from Boston and to date have ridden to Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Connecticut all in the rain, then Toronto, Pennsylvania, Maryland, through Virginia to North Carolina, Kentucky, Tennessee Alabama (2), Georgia and back north managing Alabama to Kentucky via Tennessee in just one day. Today I visited Manchester Indiana a very pleasant small town nestled in what seemed like the county of Cheshire back home. Now I am just 12 miles from Manchester No 16 in Ohio.

This weekend another day off (thats the second in 20 days, huh!) I will be staying with music legend Missy Covill (see facebook and youtube) who has been following my progress since before I got to the US.

With a maxed out road temperature of 118F yesterday, it went from Barmy to balmy today with a mere 80F and cloud stopping even more burnt bits.

If you are in the UK, buy MCN (Motorcycle News) next Weds: for some stuff about the trip, and listen to Sidestand Down radio this Tuesday for my witty banter and general rubbish.

Thanks to the 6000 visitors to this blog, and my many facebook/roadtomanchester friends.

To date, the trip has been a pleasure and the people I have met have all been very pleasant, welcoming and interested in my quest.

May I send out my thoughts to the people in those states that I can not visit due to storm damage.

Bad vibrations

2011-06-01T03:39:00.002+01:00

Starting off with telephone interviews by the UK's Manchester Evening News and then Rock Radio 106.1FM, I set off late (9.30) and with a balmy 75F headed for Goergia and over to Alabama. Its a sad day today though. I have lost the last weeks worth of SD cards with all my video footage. Somewhere between 7 gables Hotel in Burnside Kentucky (where I was trying to download them), and Madison, Alabama, (the long way round) I either dropped them or they were taken from the small shutter style storage boxes on the wing.(I doubt the second option). Fact is I down-loaded some to my notebook, but the big 8GB chip with Deals Gap & the Dragons Tail is lost. Sad sad day. I stopped a few times en-route and also at Lynchburg Tennesse the Jack Daniels centre. Anyone going there this week might want to ask. Small bag of SD chips all blue, most are 2GB all feature me. With a bit of luck, those finding them might realise they are lost (Doh!) and see the road to Manchester logos etc:
Alabama has two Manchester and the story about the first resulted in a quick get away as I was warned by a local who had shown me to this mountain forest 'town' !, that the area is not safe for 'outsiders'. He had left me but came back. I was setting up my camera but he wouldn't get out of his car, and soon shot off down the single track forest road. Tales of Hill Billies, meths stills and strange people were exchanged and shot guns being standard, had me make a fast retreat.
In comparison Manc#15 Alabama near Jasper, is another small community, little there and a short visit and to an air conditioned hotel in Jasper. Maxed out at 109F the Goldwings air temperature gauge told me enough was enough.Tomorrow North to Indiana and Iowa. Hope its cooler.

Tennessee to Alabama

2011-05-31T03:29:00.003+01:00

After my rest day Sunday I set off early in a mere 72F and cooling mist, for Manchester Tennessee. T Shirt and jeans as the day was going to reach the mid nineties. Burnside KY, and Route 27 was quiet and the road changed from a wide 3 laner, to a nice twister with plenty to keep me busy.
Within an hour or two it was 80F and climbed to 94 before the 314 mile day was up. My target for today was Manchester #12 and then on towards lucky #13 in Alabama.
Not sure where I was going, I got in behind a group of Harley riders who eventually stopped to get some shade. They quickly put me right and I ignored Helga (my nutty GPS lady), and once again ended up at a bikers favorite haunt, the Jack Daniels Distillery. To make the 92 degrees bearable I looked for a beer........ No, this is a dry town ! Lemonade???
Jack Danny but no alcohol for sale.......
Cheered up by a couple I met last Friday at Deals Gap, I set off once more and managed Manchester by three o'clock,,,, except it was only 2pm as I had passed the Eastern to Central time zone line, now that is strange. One side Eastern Time a step west and central time. You can arrive an hour before you left ! Result.
Still by 4pm eastern time I had managed to find no one in at Manchester TN as it is a public holiday weekend, took some pics and you guessed it, hit the road again. 5pm in Madison Alabama with 314 miles added I gave up and sit once again in AirCon bliss. Within a few days I hope to be heading north again via Ohio and Michigan.
Take a look at http://www.us129.com/ where pictures of every rider thru' the Dragons tail are listed. Thursday last week and about page 10-12 you will find pics of me hitting the dragon. (Tourers pages) I have ordered copies and will download them asap.
At last that universal question you ask a stranger..... " Oh Manchester UK, my friend 'fill in' lives there do you know him?" Only 6 million Manc's to choose from, in this case, NO.

See more on my facebook/roadtomanchester page

Cumberland Kentucky

2011-05-29T13:31:00.004+01:00

Manchester Kentucky

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-manchester-13365503 just for fun, a pre-trip feature on the BBC website.

Temps heading for the 90's today again, having a rest today, I am in Rockwood Kentucky and missed a custom car show yesterday. Arriving at Cumberland Falls, the GPS on the bike had a 'bad mood' moment again and sent me north back the way I came from. With nothing but road for 15 miles, I decided to call it a day as it was 5pm and I had not eaten since my breakfast of nuts, water and cerial bars. Arriving at the first hotel I was told it was full. Then stepped in Jonny 1. Boss of a working gang building a coal power station down the road, John insisted they could sort out a bed. His team had been there a month and had 'settled in'. After some sorting out I stayed in Jonny 1's room and he joined one of his team in a 3 bed room. What a gent' mad as a frog, but friendly and helpfull beyond anything I have found to date. We had a great evening by the pool, Jonny 2 a tobbaco chewing Liberace look alike, joined in with Jeff and a few other guests having a great BBQ of steak and salad. Many towns in Kentucky are 'DRY' and alcohol not on sale, so the guys travel 40 miles and stock up with Miller Lite in 32 can packs..... 10 at a time. (This part of Kentucky is 'a li'l damp', as they say around here.

5300 to go, 19 days. (Wow !).

I am a bit homesick today, missing my family & dogs.8o(

Sunday, and as its memorial day, and I have had 12 days on the bike, I guess I am having a day off. A local boat owner invited me on a powerboat trip around the massive lake nearby, (on Monday) but I will be 400 miles south in Georgia, Alabama or Tennessee by then. (Damn).

A Tale about a Dragons Tail

2011-05-28T04:59:00.003+01:00

Bought the T Shirt, rode the Dragon

381 Bends in 11 miles 4500ft up a mountain. Am I skying? No just ridin' the Dragons Tail.

The USA has a secret bikers paradise, we in the UK know little about. The area in and around the Appalachian Mountains have enough fantastic roads to keep anyone busy, but there are a few specials. The Dragons Tail is one of them. The Dragon is a series of 381 bends that have become the bucket list of many a biker. Today I met riders of all types of motor sickles, Two stroke classics, BMW, Ducati, Yamaha, Honda, Moto Guzzi and the standard HD's. Riders from Canada, a guy from Jersey (as in UK), all have a great passion for the constant bends, lack of straights and the fantastic scenery. I completed an on bike video, which will eventually be on the media, but for now believe me when I write. The area is brilliant, the roads are mind boggling, the people friendly, and the experience is a life changing one. Perhaps there are better roads out there I have not ridden yet, but this one was like being on skis. Having taken the big and heavy Goldwing down there, I was lucky enough to back back up and follow another wing'er doen. This guy was 400 lbs, and had a pillion. But he knew the road and knew his bike. Great day, great fun and I fell in love a little with the area. Bucket Lister..... oh yes.

I'll be back.

Oh Yes ! I finished the day on Manc #11 in Kentucky.

Blue Ridge Parkway

2011-05-27T03:08:00.003+01:00

Bends that really do go almost 360 degrees.

Cool Tunnels the odd wake up call, and a laptop that won't turn pics,

From Boone NC, (as in Daniel), this morning I took the Blue Ridge Parkway. Doesn't sound much does it? Do not be fooled, this is a +400 mile 'old road' that takes in some of the most stunning riding and views I have seen on this trip. Great surface, fantastic bendy bits and vistas around every corner.

As you climb ever higher the peaks are still above you as the road reached 3500ft or so. Once again the bikes sat nav gave me some odd calls, this was made more frustrating as I wasn't actually using it to navigate , it was set for my destination, and kept trying to send me down the 'fastest' route.

As I approached Waynesville in Haywood County, the glorious weather I had enjoyed all day, became darker, cooler and just ahead..... clouds of the thunder storm variety.

I hit the first hotel and booked in. Within 20 minutes, it came with a vengence. Fully blown thunder and lightening, and heavy wind and rain.

Hopefully tomorrow will be back to 'great', and down to the Dragons Tail at last.

This is one area I would come back to (on a bike of course). Loving my Bennetts Biker Dream.

Scorchio....

2011-05-26T02:16:00.002+01:00

Short blog tonight. Why????
351 miles, Average 83 degrees F, 11 hours on the road, highest peak on the bikes 'Surrounding Air temp' gauge 109F. at 1pm. not eaten yet. I am in Boone in the Appelation Mountains, North Carolina. The Sat Nav got me lost a dozen times today, and the lap top took 2 hrs to sort out due to internet issues.
Night Night ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Home from Home

2011-05-25T00:22:00.003+01:00

The last couple of days have been a busy time. Lots of miles to make up, and two more towns called Manchester under my tracks.

Manchester Pennsylvania was another quiet place, with no one in at the Municipal or the Fire buildings. A few pictures and a cooling hour in a diner, the increase in heat today (Monday) was a shock to the system after all the rain of the previous week.

Manchester Maryland was only 40 miles away, so I saddled up once again and headed a little further south to a nice reception from a fireman, who gave me a great badge, and the staff at the small town office. The people I have met throughout the trip have been so nice, and welcoming, as a 6ft 3" bloke in a space suit, who then speaks in tongues, arrives unannounced.

The real prize came later as I was invited a few days ago for a Roast Beef dinner and English beer.

Chris and Mellisa live in Middletown Maryland and being from the UK, Chris found a story about my trip on the BBC news website. I was promised a dinner and beer as long as I brought tales of my adventure to the table. (Little did they know how I can talk !!). I found the house after a short rain shower had resulted in re-dressing in my riding gear. And within minutes, was welcomed with open arms, an open can of Boddington Beer, and a room for the night. A real bonus was getting a great dinner, and my laundry washed and dried. many thanks to C & M the kids and the 3 dogs, who took me in and treated me like an old friend. Talking of which, Melissa mentioned the village she was from in Cheshire, England, and we have a common link with a guy I know there. What are the chances of that.

Many, many, many, thanks. Mel had to hide Chris's bike keys this morning 8-)

Tonight I am 265 miles south and 140 miles short of Manchester No 10 in North Carolina. 91 degree F, today ..... that really burns at 80mph. (No not me officer.....).

Tried route 301 to get off the hot freeway..... that was too slow and burned more.

Tonite I am in another motel about 265 miles south.( Roanoke Falls ). I think I will go to Manchester , tomorrow.

Blessed Bike and a great day.

2011-05-23T03:04:00.004+01:00

I promised myself a day off every 7 days, and today Sunday, was the first. But hey, what do I do on my day off ?????? I go for a ride.

Yesterday I was told about a diner on route 40 south of Buffalo, that is frequented by bikers. So up at 6am yet again, and packed and off by 7.45, I headed for the border and had a chat with the very nice customs lady.

About two hours later I stopped in a diner (not the right one) but had breakfast and was told about a BIKE BLESSING in Hamburg, about 13 miles away
Arriving at the McKinley Mall, there was already about 100 bikes there. What a mix, O.K. mainly HD's , but within a few hours about 1000 (or it seemed that way).

With a mention over the PA, kindly arranged by a photographer, I was met with the usual greetings and awe at my trip.
After speeches and the National Anthem, the priest blessed the bikes as they/we, rode out a few miles to a BBQ n Beer in a farm. I stayed a few hours and decided to get underway as it was over 300 miles to the next Manchester (No 8) Pennsylvania. I also had an appointment with a Roast Beef dinner in Maryland.

Heading down the great roads in this area I eventually hit Hornell NY about 6.30pm and called it a day. 240 miles tomorrow to Manc#8 and straight on to Maryland for cold beef sandwiches (Hope they have English Mustard Too !!! )

Lost in Space

2011-05-21T23:54:00.003+01:00

Manchester Ontario Canada. Manc#7

138 miles each way, and back to Niagara Falls for Saturday nite in town,. Its Victoria Day, so fireworks over the falls. Worth staying another night in the Candlelight Inn. (Good WiFi).

7am start this morning and another Highway Blast.
Manchester #7 is more than likely the smallest 'town' I will visit, comprising of a gas station, diner and a few buildings. Its not on the big USA map I am carrying, its not on the Sat Nav, it is on the intersection of R7 and R7a. An hour of asking and wandering once in the 'roughly over there' area.......

Nice diner though, and a coffee and Chicken n Bacon wrap (late breakfast early lunch). Big biking country this , with a quick meet at a service halt with 10 riders off to Smallville (???) NY, where there is a popular bikers cafe. (maybe tomorrow).

Within 10 minutes of arriving a dozen bikes of all types had stopped, passed or were just leaving. Then the obligatory..... my wifes mother was from Doncaster (did you know her !!!! LOL) from the OAP in his 75 Corvette Stingray.

Classic cars, trucks and all manor of bikes out today. Canadians take their 'motors' seriously.

Sunday I'm heading south for Pennsylvania via that Springfield small ville or what ever it was called !

have a nice weekend.

The best news of the day.... 26-28 degrees, hot and dry.

Today I will be mainly getting wet

2011-05-20T21:59:00.005+01:00

Fully suited with the wet gear, I had a late start from the hotel and within 6 mins was in a full rain storm as I hit Route 90 again. Its a shame that I am missing some on the 'real' NY countryside but miles need munching to get me to Niagara Falls and into Canada today. An hour later, too hot I removed the suit in the dry only to be got again, no warning, as they say up north (uk) a reet good soakin !.

Niagara Falls is a surprize, its not in the Jungle..... its in the middle of two massive cities. The USA side and the Canada side. A few shots and video and I was back on the bike to Manchester Canada (#7), Just over the bridge and through the check point (all of 3 mins), I was back in yet another downpour and decided to call it a very short day. Motel for the night, just outside the centre and within 10 mins, the sun is blazing and my suit is drying on the fence.

Tomorrow 130 miles each way to Man#7 near Oshawa, then back to the good 'ol USA. Next stop Pennsylvania 300+ miles south.

Bennetts Biker Dreams are running this theme again this year, worth a punt !

Thanks BBD 's good call.

1170 miles down, ....... no don't even think about it.

Damp pants, downtown Niagara, Ontario, Canada.

PS Thanks to to +5000 visitors to my ramblings here and on Facebook/Twitter, makes it all worth doing.

Did I mention the rain

2011-05-20T02:13:00.002+01:00

Short blog tonight, its 9pm, and it's been a long day.
Albany to Manchester New York 200 miles.
Rural NY started with a warm morning and a late get away. Gloveless, no liner in my jacket, visor open and starting to feel the force. Guy in the petrol station ($4 a gallon !!!), was born in Manchester UK..... UTD or City, the universal question for any Manc from Manchester UK.
Tried the cruise control on the Wing and it was nice to have hands free for a change.
40 miutes later on the freeway..... total wipeout, the first rain storm came over just where I couldn't stop. 40 miles to the next service halt, I dried off and zipped up the vents in my pants and jacket. Ten minutes back on the road, it was 80 degrees in my gear.
Manchester NY the double town and a nice reception at the town hall, free t-shirt and few provisions from the supermarket. Once back on the freeway It was 100 miles to Niagra Falls, 40 miles out, the big one hit. ZERO VISABILITY often means it was heavy rain, spray etc: NEVER have I experienced REAL zero viz. Couldn't see the screen on the bike and thats only 2 ft away. Scariest and wettest 12 miles I have ever ridden.
Staying 40 mins outside NF in Batavia NY. Tomorrow NF then Canada and Manc#7

Tar Tar For now....... P

More Manchesters

2011-05-19T01:01:00.007+01:00

It's been a couple of days since I have had internet access, so here goes.
Running out of man#2 New Hampshire, I went via Portmouth and Route 1 along the coast, North. Antique shops, fish restaurants, forests and great roads. Still raining though, I was aiming to get to Man#3 (Maine) 161 miles away in good time. As`I passed the above antique shop I turned around to take a closer look. Part shop part museum, Bill Johnson (no relation), colleccts anything old and has even bought complete buildings and relocated them on his plot. Signing his guest book, Bill played an original 78rpm record of King Edwards (Mrs Simpson) speech on a wind up gramophone. complete with large brass horn speaker. A great 30 minute break.

Manc#3 had little to offer so with a bag of nuts and a coffee, I retired to bed at 10pm after a quick photo.

Golf course,lake, petrol station....... rain.

Next day and a 7am start to get over to Vermont. The plan was to get to Mount Washington ride the road to the top (As recommended by Ben Slavin of NH)

The weather once again dropped a few millions of gallons on me, and getting nearer to the turn off, I stopped for fuel and breakfast to be told the road was closed. Had a nice chat with an avid MAN UTD fan. (can't go anywhere without footy being mentioned).

This was a long day with almost 300 miles covered . damp but not tired (Liar), I arrived at the MANCHESTER BAR & GRILL on the outskirts on Man #4 Vermont, at around 5.30pm. With a motel just across the road, Ben, Hank and a few customers enjoyed my tales, as I enjoyed Jerk Chicken and a few beers.

Bed` by 10pm. (Thanks to the above for the excellent time and MB&G hoody).

Tomorrow, Connecticut 127 miles if I go the right way !!!!

Wednesday: 5.45 am.

had a message from the Manchester Journal in VT, so went off into town for some breakfast. Up For Breakfast a great cafe fed me with a fry up (naughty but nice), coffee and pancakes. My savory tooth, can not handle sweet at that time in the morning, so i had a nibble then called it a day.

9am and a visit to the MJ office for interview and photos (see facebook).then off to Connecticut , in the rain.

The roads in this area are hit by frost in the winter, and a good pounding by the logging trucks and hold a few humps, bumps and potholes for the unwary biker. Wet, windy and slower than I would of liked, I arrived in CT (Man#5) at around 2pm, and met the Town Clerk and staff, the local Fire Chief popped over and a few photos and gifts changed hands. Great people and just another friendly welcome (Videos to follow). What a nice Manchester.

After a few pictures outside, I decided to carry on towards Man#6 New York 305 miles away. The rain had stopped and it was warmer and more humid, so I could take a layer off, and open the air vents on the jacket.

Managed to stay alive around Springfield in the rush hour / highway / nutter combination stakes.

Hitting the Turnpike to get some miles under the wheels, I headed north on R90 for about 100 miles and hit fog, rain and cold around 4.30pm. (Great, layer back on). Still managed a good turn of speed (only keeping up with the locals officer !), and arrived in Albany NY at around 7pm.That was a long day with about 300 miles done, which put some of my 400+ targets into perspective.

Its only 200 to Manchester, New York (before breakfast.)

Now 8.45 pm I need food, and sleep. zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

PS: Thanks to to 5000 visitors here on my blogette. Enjoy and see more at

facebook.com/roadtomanchester

Manchester NH to ME

2011-05-17T00:29:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Dr.Benny (Ben Slavin and Amber) for their welcome to Man2 in New Hampshire. Had `a meal at Arrow Diner and quick beer and some advise about the best roads through NH and Maine Wide awake at 6 am again' Then a call from a Manchester NH radio station for a quick interview. Find Ben on advrider.com and buy his video about riding Mexico.

Took a few hours to sort out a US mobile phone and an internet dongle, but eventually in the pooring rain (again), got underway by 10am. I headed for Portsmouth aiming for the Route 1 coast road. Fantastic insight into this area, with Antique shops, Thrift Shops and every other store was a sea food restaurant. Clams, Lobsters, you name it. This is one occasion during my trip that I should have stopped, but to early for lunch, I carried on stopping at Bill Johnsons Antique Museum/shop.
Stepping back 100 years, I was entertained by Bill and his customers and signed his visitors book. Bill buys buildings.... yes whole buildings and ships them to his plot. Along with lots of collectables and old stuff, I enjoyed a half hour break and created` another warm memory.

In Man #3 Maine tonight. Not a lot to see here, so starting out towards Vermont tomorrow. Hope the rain stops....... please.

I have lots of video to send to Bike Torque TV once I get the hang of file downloads, but meanwhile see my video on facebook or youtube.

Early nite again. White Mountains tomorrow. 230 miles to do.

I'm singing in the rain

2011-05-15T21:55:00.004+01:00

Wet Wet Wet, thats my weather report for today.

Started the day with a 2nd shower as a big 4x4 hit a "road-lake" just beside me, and manage to send 40 gallons of water straight at me. That was 1 mile from the hotel, so add wet roads, and fully 10 gauge rain by 3pm, it was a great start.

Despite the overnight rain, I left Boston at 7am and was in Man#1 by 8am. Manchester-By-The-Sea. Breakfast of easy over eggs, bacon and coffee for $7.94 cheered me up, and a long chat with a local chap, made my breakfast an interesting one.

M-B-T-S as the locals call it, had the "by the Sea" title added to make sure the town was not confused with the New Hampshire , Manchester. I am not sure when this happened, but I bet it was when Sateleite Navigation Units became available. (Tee Hee)

This part of Massachusetts is fantastic and shows signs of a certain 'wealth' within the North East. Some of the best houses I have ever seen..... ever. And I have seen some nice ones.

Here are` some pics taken today, but my battery went early on. (the only one I didn't charge).

Between Manc #1 and #2 in New Hampshire, I set the Goldwing sat nav to 'avoid highways', which I took for meaning Freeways ...... oops !

The advantage, some great backroads, but the rain was getting heavier by the hour, and by 2pm total deluge, so on the outskirts of Manc' New Hamps, I pulled into the Best Western, (I know , getting soft !). Tomorrow a skip around the town, more photos and video, and then off to Manc#3 Maine.

Thanks to all invites from www.advrider.com forum (Brit Passin Thru).

And if you find youself in Boston...... go see..... by the sea.

More stuff on my facebook/roadtomanchester page.

(Missing Shaz, Lexi,Harley & Ruby XXX)

The Beauty & the Beast

2011-05-14T21:36:00.002+01:00

No comments which one is which, But here it is. My office for the next month.

Many thanks to Boston Honda (Victory) dealers in Foxboro, Boston. Who went out of there way to help and even asked me to join them for lunch and a meal tonight.

Thanks guys.

Goooooood Morning USA

2011-05-14T12:46:00.003+01:00

Hello from Boston Massachusetts.
Well what a shock the last 48 hours have been. TV and Radio interviews, Newspaper stories. Over 3000 extra 'Red Dot' hits on my Revolver Globe. (see below right). Twitter followers up t0 1100. The Bennetts Biker Dream machine is really getting started.

After 21 hours on the go yesterday, I arrived in Boston around 10 pm local time (3am in my head).
I am collecting the bike today from Boston Honda, and starting the search for Manchesters just 30 miles down the road in Manchester-by-the Sea. (MA). New Hampshire, Maine then Vermont.

Over the next few days I will be adding photos, video and comments that can be seen here,or facebook/roadtomanchester or twitter/road2manchester or on facebook/bennetts

Thanks to all at then office for their help and support, and a quick hello to my friends and family back home.

LATER DUDES.... as no one has said around here. (yet !)

OK here it is then......

2011-05-10T17:46:00.002+01:00

Boston to Manchester (in front of each) and (= miles to). (Read left to right, not up and down)
Massachusetts (30). > New Hampshire (72) > Maine (161) > Vermont (252)
Connecticut (127) New York (304) Niagra Falls (89) Ottawa (150)
Penn (Pitts) (367) Penn 2 (366) Maryland (36) Nth Carolina (448)
Deals Gap (362) Georgia (256) Alabama (211) Tennessee (162)
Kentucky (250) Ohio (167) Indiana (105) Michigan (280)
Wisconsin (223) Iowa (195) Illinois (266) Missouri (90)
Arkansas (483) Louisiana (359) Texas (348) Oklahoma (370)
Kansas (183) Minnesota (505) Sth dakota (272) Montana (841)
Washington (667) California (756) San Francisco (101)

Somewhere in there the odd day off.
So these are the towns, the route between each is 'in theory'. I am hoping to keep off the highways if at all possible, but with some high mileage between some.... who knows.

Thundersprint

2011-05-08T18:04:00.003+01:00

The Cheshire Town of Northwich came alive today. Despite windy, raining on and off, red hot, sunny.... weather mixture throughout the day. The crowds were out for the Thundersprint, where a short track rings out to the sound and smells of classic bikes at full blast.

Brilliant day, with hardly any chance to get off the stand and have a look around.

The other BIG NEWS, is that I am leaving the UK a week early NEXT FRIDAY, due to commitments at the other end of the month. (More later).

So by this time next week I will be somewhere in the North East USA, (Maine, New Hampshire area), on the start of my journey.

See Bennettsbike on facebook and twitter for more pictures of todays show.

Off to do some packing,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, LATER.....................

Thundersprint

2011-05-05T13:05:00.002+01:00

Northwich, Cheshire. Sat-Sun 7-8 May Bikes Bikes Bikes.

Spanning the town centre and the River Weaver , the small Cheshire town of Northwich comes alive with the sound of music, (well bike engines anyway).

When I say 'Town Centre', the streets become bike parking, the pubs and shops stay open, and the dealers and traders share the side streets, car parks and footpaths with the whole biking world. The big bonus is the array of modern and classic bikes that take on the time trial. A small +/- 700mtr car park track, that over the years has seen just about everyone on the 'who's who' list in the 'biker' world, take their turn.

Add live music and lots of bike fans, and the weekend is a great spring event. (Sunday remains the main day for the events.).

The Bennetts Biker Babes will be giving out goody bags, and your truly will be taking my bike there on Sunday for display on the Bennetts stand.

Started to get my 'packing' sorted with the usual 1st pile, that will inevitably be reduced greatly to ensure the Goldwing is packed to the gunnels with stuff I will probably not need.

Twitter: Reached my 1000+ followers target today. Thanks to all that have taken time to join.

See you at Thundersprint or ............... on the Road 2 Manchester

It's a hard knock life......

2011-04-28T18:48:00.004+01:00

Busy Busy.
Been to Manchester (UK) to have some press launch pictures taken with the Bennetts Biker Babes, Amber and Sara. Firstly the town hall (Albert Square), then Lincoln Square, The Velodrome where I met briefly with Chris Foy (Olympic cyclist), and then across the road to the Man City ground. (Built for the Olympic bid and used for the Commonwealth Games).

What started off as a cool morning before the sun came over the top of the Town hall, turned out to be a scorcher as I did some action shots on my BMW R1200GSa.

Thanks to Sara and Amber for making the pics look good

More at www.facebook.com/roadtomanchester

I have added a count down timer to the bottom of this page, Man-Boston on the 20th May getting closer.

Off to the THUNDERSPRINT at Northwich , 7-8 May. I might just see you on Sunday as I wander about the Bennetts stands, ask the Babes for a Road2Manchester badge.

Hot Hot Hot

2011-04-22T15:22:00.003+01:00

Want a R2M badge? Just ask.

Its not often we get an Easter break with great weather. As us English are always talking about the weather, it should come as no surprize that I mention it here.

Easter bank holidays this year include some wedding or other, (Billy and Kat Royalty) giving us some added riding time. BUT for once its not raining. (ssshhh! not too loud).

Thanks to all the 689+ RED DOT visitors to the globe (right side, down a bit). It is quite daunting and exciting as the MAY 20th gets closer.

My fellow Bennetts Biker Dream winners Steve and Ali are currently riding Route 66 and can be followed on twitter @steveandali66 please pass on my regards. Weather there (Oh here I go again), has been varied with a start in rain, though the further south east they go, the better.

Mrs R2M and I rode over to Matlock Bath in Derbyshire on Sunday to see thousands of bikers enjoying the sun and meeting the Biker Babes.

Next Wednesday 27th I am doing a photo-shoot in Manchester (UK) with the girls to start the ball rolling. (tanning up this weekend).

Get out and ride this week... enjoy the ............ chips. (see it's not all about the W )

DATES FOR THE START

2011-04-16T19:15:00.003+01:00

Ryan-Airs new overland bus service. No luggage restrictions, or allocated seats.

May 20th 2011 will be the start of my Dream Trip. Flying MAN-UK -to-BOSTON then 36 days later back via San Francisco California........ in between 9600+ miles, 32 Manchesters and some wonderfull stories to tell.

Watch me on youtube/road2manchester , facebook/roadtomanchester and twitter/road2manchester.

Meanwhile off to Matlock, Bath (A6 Derbyshire), 2moz to meet the Bennetts babes (again, Tut!), and the weather forecast is GREAT BIKING DAYZ.

TTFN

All a go go

2011-04-12T19:29:00.003+01:00

Take a peek at facebook/bennettsbike for a bit more info. And what about this pic of Mr Toseland and 'one'. Oh ! Not forgetting the ladies of course. Great video from one of my new forum friends. Take one road, one Goldwing..... the road just happens to be Deals Gap, Tennessee...... madness. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nrMQ3QwyPo Thanks to the unique visitors on the globe (below right), 500 and counting. Madness ! MORE from Sth America and Africa would be nice.

Bennetts video from MCN Live

2011-04-11T13:01:00.000+01:00

Bennetts video from MCN Live

2011-04-11T12:25:00.002+01:00

http://www.bennetts.co.uk/Bennetts-News/BennettsLive-2011/Bennetts-Live-Photos-Videos/MCN-Live-2011-Video/ Yours truly is at the end..... last 2mins. Sunday. Fantastic weather with total sun, (unlike today, its raining again). I took the GS for a spin. Cat N Fiddle Nr Buxton. I passed an old chap on a 1960's Triumph about a mile from home, said hello at the lights in Timperley then an hour later whilst chatting to some guys at the Cat N Fiddle pub, in he rolls, a quick circle around the car park, then straight out again heading for Buxton. Hope I am still riding when I am his age. (+70 at least). After a great days riding yestersday (Sunday) a BBQ, a beer and a good nights sleep. I am getting 'stuff' ready for the trip. Then I will start to decide exactly what I can fit in the 'boot' of the Wing. Packing is always a choice of minimums but in the case of the USA, I guess I can always buy 'stuff' when I get there. Pants !!!! wash em or trash em!!! Hmmmn ??? Take a look at the Bennetts video.... I am the big ugly one near the finish. (James Toseland look tiny next to me, sorry Jimbo). Later World !!!! PS: Thanks for your RED DOTS on the revolver globe, I love this app.

A Dragons Tail a Wing and a prayer.

2011-04-07T16:17:00.005+01:00

Some roads just have to be included. But this one puts our local 'best roads' in the lower bracket. 318 bends in 11 miles. Trust the Americans to build a road specifically for bikes..... brilliant. 80). Deals Gap (The Dragons Tail), is between Tennessee and Alabama on my route. AND most definately on the list of must do routes. Been over to see a Honda 1800 Goldwing, that will be supplied for my 9600 mile pootle !!

With a seat like an armchair, great weather protection, and more buttons than a Jumbo Jet, the wing is certainly the bike for doing long, long days in total comfort. Built in sat nav, CD player, heated everything, and a reverse gear. Though I once had a 1989 1500 Wing, the newer version is a much better option. This baby is for sale for a mere £23000...... ouch. See Honda Knutsford....... if you are feeling flush. NB: Anyone got a Union Jack flag that fits the wing aerial ???/ They only seem to do USA flags here??????

Happy Birthday-------- 2Me

2011-04-05T16:52:00.002+01:00

Just days after the announcement that Bennetts Biker Dreams, have made this trip a reality, another announcement. Today is my birthday. 53 yrs old and though the bod' might be looking it's age, the brain is still a teenager. (OK mid twenties then !) Fancy that, a man of my age running off to explore the USA on a motorbike !!!! Thanks to the 400+ visitors to my revolverglobe (down to the right of here). Almost all are from Adventure Riders site and 85% from the states. Though odd one from South America, Oz, India, Middle East and Europe just go to show that the old addage "One World" is still relevant. Answer to world harmony: Give everyone a motorbike, a tank full of fuel and a road to wander .

2011-04-03T19:28:00.005+01:00

I won my biker dream.

I can now officially thank Bennetts Insurance for the fantastic prize that is Road2Manchester.

Those of you that have read the blog back to the early days will realise that the concept for R2M is not new.

I had the idea three years ago, and as late as January this year, was about to give up then with a very short entry to the Win your biker dream competition, my fortunes changed.

After a few attempts at catching me in, the ensuing phone conversation was a bit like one of those timeshare calls.

"Oh yea, whats this gonna cost me", surprize, confused, excited, NOTHING, you have won your biker dream".

That was in February, and now and over the past 48 hours at the MCN Live at Skegness, it was time to announce to the world that the whole trip is happeneing thanks to the team of very clever and good looking crew at Bennetts. (Was that enough???)

As you can see, it was hard work and harder play as Mrs J (yes. she took the photos), and I had a great weekend and as they say on the tin, Bikes, Babes and Bands, made it a great weekend.

Friday afternoon to Sunday, there was lots of action, stunt shows, Wall of Death, Bennetts Biker Babes (did I mention them ????) and met James Toseland who later entertained the troops with his rock band, Crash.

Chatting R2M, Mr James Toseland, off the track at the moment due to his broken hand. Later on stage with CRASH he mentioned that he will be back on form by the end of April and heading for Monza to kick some.....

Good luck Jimbo.

Did I mention the Bennetts Biker Babes. (No dear, its just for my blog followers, I didn't notice them really XXX).

Back in Manchester now and once again many many thanks to the Bennetts team for a great opportunity, great prize and great weekend.

Start date 2nd week in May, with a visit to the Northwich Thundersprint (May 7-8) just before I go.

Have a go at this years Win your biker dream you never know..............................

LATER DUDES

Nice day for a ride.

2011-03-29T21:38:00.004+01:00

I passed my (Car) driving test in about 1973, (Yes, 1st time), and since then I have travelled the UK extensively. Both for work and play in various vehicles from a bicycle to a 7.5ton truck. (and on foot). I have been to the North Yorkshire Moors more than once, but today was probably the best and most exciting visit to date.

Weather. Misty and damp, with the odd sunny moment.

Roads. Bit muddy but quiet.

Route: Manchester to Skipton via Clitheroe, Gisburn. Tea and Scones in Skipton. Then: Grassington, (What a fantastic road, if only the sun was out.) Over to Hawes, even better. On towards Ingleton (B6255 Challenging) passing that 'long' viaduct and sweeping left back over the tops towards Settle. Probably the best roads in the North West, if not the UK , and scenery to ride for.

I imagine that on a Sunday, with the 'Joe Public' & 'Plod' all over the place, it would not have been so much fun, but today....... perfic.

Biker Cafe Hawes.

I know for a fact that there a few million Manc's that pass this area on a bank holiday or sunny Sunday to go further north, BUT forget the Lake District, the NYM's are better. If you are a visitor to the UK and want to see James Herriot & Wuthering Heights country. Head North. (Lancaster turn off the M6 turn East. ) Or from Skipton, follow Grassington then your nose.

New Logo. Thanks to http://www.andrewsimpsonadvertising.co.uk/ for the logo. (above) for advertising space and layout, print and stuff contact Andy my old mukka is the man.

Thanks to Mrs J for her company today. XXX

Captains Log, Star Date .......

2011-03-26T12:03:00.003Z

I have just added a revoling globe to the bottom of the page. This should be a live 'Place your place' feature allowing y'all to add your location, message and picture to the map.
Hope it works, and feeol free to add something.

Twitter page reaches 970 followers with only 30 to go to my 1000 pre-start target. No reason, but it's a goal. Pass me on @Road2Manchester

Quote: "A man going nowhere, usually get there". Harry Stottle, or may have been Popeye (I always get them two mixed up).

Ready for Skegness, just got to wait for the tickets etc

Update

2011-03-21T09:20:00.003Z

http://www.mcnlive.co.uk/

"We are off to Butlins, Skegness."

A phrase I thought I would never say to anyone, let along Mrs J. But it's true.

The 2011 Motor Cycle News (MCN Live) event, party, biker gathering is an annual 'Season' opener and with all the facilities that Butlins holiday camps enjoy, an ideal all weather location.

I have an invitation to trade stands including Bennetts Bike Insurance.

The party runs from 1st to the fourth of April.

We will get up there Friday evening and will bring along some Road2Manchester badges to give away.

Looking forward to the official launch of the 'BIG TRIP' and introduction to my 'celebrity' riding buddy. (I could tell you, but then ........ it wouldn't be a surprize).

On any Sunday.

2011-03-13T19:11:00.004Z

One way of being noticed... or not !

Rivington Barn , Horwich, Bolton (today)

What a great day for riding. Sunny, not too warm and bright, clear skies.

I was not the only one thinking the same, as a visit to Rivington Barn near Bolton proved.

I lost count at 120 bikes in the car park, and as more came and went, one thing struck me.

Variety is most definately the spice of life.

Cruisers, (Harley, Goldwings, Moto Guzzi), Sports bikes from every era, the big trialies, and choppers, quads and scooters.

With an age group from lads riding pillion on their dads bikes, teenagers on scooters, to us 'mature' riders and many ladies on their own bikes, fantastic.
No issues about who ride what, everyone with a common interest.

Bike of the day, a Turbo Triumph Rocket (with a very handy, and probably necessary back rest for the pilot). Oh and a nice Harley Chopper, and a nice old BMW Combo.

See Roadto Manchester on facebook, or @Road2Manchester on Twitter for a short vid.

NEWS.
Onwards and upwards. March start for the 'movie' still planned. Things are speeding up a bit, some filming in Manchester soon.... (thats a daft statement innit????).

Keep watching.

If ya gonna go by bike... start here

2011-03-06T19:54:00.003Z

Go to Horizons Unlimited, the website that's all about motorcycle travel. Travellers Community, Bike Travel information on the Bulletin Board, free Monthly Motorcycle Travel E-zine, Travellers' Stories, and plenty of tips and info!

The HUBB of motorcycle travel no matter where you are in the world. If the answer to that question is not already on the site somewhere, you will soon get a reply from those in the know.

TWITTER NEWS.

If one partakes in a little Twit or two, PLEASE follow the main man of motorcycle travel @sammanicom . (see previous post).

Hints.

The 'producers' are still hinting at a March start, (End of). Thats it ! No more information at the moment. Sorry.

Out and about.

With a couple of spring rides last week (Settle and Cat & Fiddle), I am getting into the flow and stretching some of the muscles not used over the winter.

Despite joining the local gym to get fitter, I pulled my back out, and have been popping pills all week.

I am not sure if it was the gym, the rides or the 30kgs buckets of *Decopierre I was lifting last week, but by Sunday night, only a twinge.

*Decopierre www.decopierre.co.uk my proper work (when I can get some).

Petrol may go up to £2 a litre.

Back in the day (when I were a lad), I can remember petrol going up to £1 a GALLON (4.454 ltrs). The shouts of despair, "No one will ever drive a car again".

"How dare they". Soon whiskey will be cheaper. (remember your length of plastic tube to drain some off ).

"Hey sonny I will swap my E-Type for your mini" (Actually, I was ask that very question, but insurance for a 17yr old in an E-Type..... don't ask).

Time for a bit of action from our truckers, and car drivers me thinks. It would never happen in France.

Rant over. MORE news as it happens, keep watching.

Biking Days

2011-03-01T16:00:00.003Z

Market Square, Settle.

Lovely day for March 1st, so I put my bad back on hold (thanks to a few tablets), let the list of housework slip out of my mind, (never a hard task),and got the GS' out of wraps.

Having decided on the town of Settle, the small market town nestled in the Yorkshire/Lancs borders, it took a good few miles to get my riding head on. Fifty or so miles across the Lancashire hills is a good way to spend the best biking day this year (so far).

Its a funny thing how riding clears your head. Total concentration in the first and last few miles of any ride, seem essential from a safety and 'into the flow' perpective.

Having not ridden for even a short time, and the odd gear clunk, over banking, and mad braking really wakes one up.

Taking the obligatory M60 & M66 over to Haslingdon, towards Clitheroe, and pass the witches haven of Pendle Hill, the roads were quiet, clear and quick enough. This part of the North West is stunning on a sunny day, and many from the south frantically pass the area on the M6 heading for the Lake District, miss out on some classic vistas.
Settle has a small street market which is limited to a few stalls, and the mixture of cafes, chip shop and pubs mix well within the natural stone buildings. Bah-Gum, Really country-fied, proper "Last of the Summer Wine", meets All Creatures Great and Small.

I parked next to a brand new 30yrs anniversary model R1200GS, and sat opposite talking to owners, John & Jean, enjoyed a brew, and swopping stories about trips to the Pico mountains in Spain, and trips to Portugal and France.

John's new baby was new to the road, as well as to him and Jean, and plans to travel to Holland this month with the TRIUMPH club , were confirmed.
Bikers chat...... always.

Bad back ????? not at the moment, but ................

CAPTAINS LOG......................................... NO NEWS
Tornados and heavy snow, stateside. NUFF SAID.
I am keen, but not crazy.

More if and when.

Work before play....

2011-02-22T10:45:00.003Z

Been busy, so a bit short on information updates last week.

I have however found a great route planning tool called http://www.myrouteonline.com/ . This is a great system that gives the user a multi-point address plan, on a single or many journeys.

For distribution or holiday routes, it's better than standard google map, and the map below shows an outline route for Road2Manchester that was 'optimised' to give the shortest route between all 30 Manchesters.

DATES:
The March start dates have not been confirmed due to weather patterns in the northern states, so an April or even May start has been 'suggested'.
The on-going organisation of the filming and 'the other team member' , is still pending, and news of who the lucky one is, will be announced once the PR team is ready.
Once everything is in place, there will be a full press release, and dates will be set in stone.

Meanwhile, I am getting some miles in on the Beemer, to get my biker head on for the 300-500 mile days that are ahead.

cheers

Pete

Weather Here, wish you were lovely

2011-02-13T21:40:00.004Z

Rain Rain Rain, despite a quick ride to Ozwaldtwisle on Thursday, I missed out on the fair weather Friday morning brought.

The usual MANCHESTER rainfall started on Friday afternoon, and hasn't really stopped

I took a drive (in the old transit) to Chorley Yamaha ,to sit on a FJR1300 tourer. Just to see if they fit my ample proportions.

Nice bike.

FJR or a scooter ?

Looks small "under" me, but it's a nice fit really. Might have to book a test ride..... or two.

www.advrider.com discovered through a twitter follower, is a great forum based site if you want direct advise, contacts and invitations whilst riding in the world.

A few threads within the 'Regions' of the USA, and I have invites for beer, food, riders coming along for a few miles, hotels, chicken dinners, B&B, more beers. and some 'unmissable roads'.

Within 36 hours, I have received 46 messages (all positive), 600+ views, and did I mention invitations for beer.

Threads: Brit Passing through & Road2Manchester

Valentines Day tomorrow. Feb 14th I might, just might be getting confirmation of start dates.

NB: Some mentions on the advrider site have warned of snow, ice and cold weather in the North Eastern states in March...... winter draws on then.

My GS ready for an outing.

Later dudes.........

Updates.... Feb already.

2011-02-09T12:45:00.004Z

Hmmmmn! March start, though still the target, no exact date has been decided due to production issues. As mentioned, plans to film the trip for posterity have been included in the remit, so getting all that 'stuff' confirmed is a slightly slower process than thought.

I am however seeking a 'Team Member' using this simple calculation.

Biker + Mancunian + Celebrity x free in March = March start. Simples:

Any ideas on an E-mither or here.

Twitter: ALMOST at 1000 followers @Road2Manchester , RT me and lets hit 1k by the end of Feb.

Wish List: Crossing just about every State, in the USA, means every weather pattern there is.

Deserts, Mountains, Rain, Wind, and nice sunny days (I hope).

What to wear?????

Despite my collection of 2 jackets, 3 helmets, 3 prs gloves, leather pants, 2 pairs of boots, muff,s bandanas, face masks, long johns, wicking shirts etc etc etc; There is always something that is not quite right.

Riding on short trips from home is simple. Weather this wekend is ----------- so I will wear-----------. Easy.

This trip I really need...

NordKapp Infinito Adventure Suit.

A) Inner liner is a two way jacket that can be worn alone. Windproof and thermal.

B) Middle Layer: Mesh and panel armoured summer jacket, worn over A), or alone.

C) Outer breathable, waterproof, vented.

Pants to match, means ALL weather, all temperature multi wear.

VISIT www.adventurebikewarehouse.co.uk for clothing, parts, camping gear, lighting,

FREE fitting service. M27 Manchester. Tell em' road2manchester sent ya!

2011-01-29T20:19:00.002Z

Do gifs work on blogs???? Dunno ! So here goes.

Just spoke to my old junior school mate, Dave Sharp , (The Alarm, 1980's 'new age/rock group). Conversation soon turns to 'Theme Songs' and he suggested one of his own toons,

'Hard Travellin' take a look on YouTube,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTJPKS7GZfc&feature=related

The Alarm's big hit was 68 Guns..... classic. And those hair cuts man !!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apERyZlTUZU&feature=related

Just realised that another school mate Nigel, was the drummer. Crickey, takes me back 40 years doing 'shows' in Dave house. Think I played maracas and tambourine ) Doh!.

Dan Walsh

2011-01-27T07:35:00.004Z

Got a facebook follow, from fellow Mancunian Mr Dan Walsh one of my biker hero's and writer of a fave' motorcycle adventure book "These are the Days" (Very funny and a must read). Currently doing his stuff in Bike magazine.

Follow me :

Roadto Manchester on Facebook

Road2Mancheter on Twitter.

Today, I am mostly thinking of a packing list for 10-11 weeks bike travel.

Having done big tours on my old GL1500 Goldwing (my first bike), on which there was a lot more luggage space, the old adage 'Less is more', might apply.

At least I can buy new stuff, if the first lot falls apart.

1st ride of 2011

2011-01-23T12:45:00.002Z

Despite the 'about zero' temperature on Wednesday, I taxed the GS, got wrapped up, and took a leisurely 100 mile spin over the pennines to Humberside.
The freezing fog that blanketed the Manchester area, was the result of the westerly direction that the weather front had come from. With no escape as the ground level climbs over the Saddleworth Moor, the damp air was going nowhere.
Once over the hill, and heading towards Yorkshire, the sun was bright, sky was blue, but my nose was too.
Even a hint of shutting my visor all the way down, was like someone filling my helmet with milk.
Even the neck and face buff I was wearing, did little to stop the chill factor on my nose, knees and toes.
Thank goodness for heated grips on the GS, for the first time ever, I had them set on No2. (Scorchio).
After a great meeting (more on that later), I set off back, hoping to beat the M62 traffic around Leeds, and more importantly, the early night darkness and dropping temperatures.

Back over the Pennines, the fog was still a thick grey blanket that looked like a valley full of dirty sheep skins, from the top of Saddleworth Moor.
It was around 5pm when I got home, and despite the 'all motorway' trip of 200 miles, it was nice to get back in the saddle.
Roll on spring and the USA leg of the Road2Mancheser. Follow me on Twitter @Road2Manchester or Facebook Roadto Manchester

Note to me: GET SOME BETTER SOCKS.

Sam the Man

2011-01-17T11:30:00.002Z

Welcome to Sam Manicom. Biker Travel Guru, to my followers list.

If you are a serious RTW rider, planner, dreamer....... read Sams books. QED:

2011-01-17T11:25:00.003Z

Thanks to Lois Price for here message.

Hi Pete,
Thanks for the message and the link. Looks like you've got a great trip ahead.
Good luck with it all and happy Manchester trails! I hope the other Manchesters have better weather!
Lois
x

If you have not read Lois on The Loose, or Red Tape, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ?

Even got my missus to read these two, then she took her CBT.... ready for DAS this summer.

Thanks Lois

See you on the road.

Hero's of the motorcycle travel world

2011-01-13T13:57:00.008Z

Sam the man Manicom RTW biker and writer of some fine travel books. His latest Tortillas to Totems carries on his long long trip around the globe. I am in the middle of it..... so more later.
Under Asian Skies my fave' so far.

Here at the NEC Motorcycle show Birmingham earlier on this year.
If you want to ride the world or just learn a bit about life, visit http://www.sam-manicom.com/ also on Facebook.

Post Christmas fat Guy is me........ back on the diet after seeing this picture.
Talking of old gits !!!!!! (He won't mind)

Simon Gandolfi (right) another 'veteran'. At 72 years old he decided to ride a 125cc bike through South America. Old Man on a Bike, his 11th novel shows that age, bike and fitness don't matter.
What matters is determination.
Why I am sat on his knee.... is another story,

Travel, politics , religion, laughs...... all there.

Additional reading

Ted Simon and Jupiter Travels, & Jupiter Returns. The Bibles of RTW.

Lois Pryce, Lois on the Loose and Red Tape, showing that ladies can do it too.

Dan Walsh, . These are the days that should happen to you. One of my faves.

(RTW one of my shortened phrases, Round The World. Also see M/c as Manchester, and R2M need you ask?).

There are many more good travel writers that have done the 'Biker Thang' , sorry if I missed you out.

You may notice I haven't mentioned Charlie & Ewan and the Long Way Round/Down teams.

Well YES they have been an influence, and YES they get slammed for having support team, and multi million dollar backing.

Despite this, they produced a great series that put pictures to many places mentioned in the books above. They gave Charley Boorman a career, and Ewan another £m or so.

After only watching the whole series 10-15 times.......... I am a fan, and lets face it. ALL those that lampoon their methods, would have swapped places without hesitation.

As the Mercat says: "Simples"*****

BIG NEWS MANCHESTER

2011-01-12T08:50:00.003Z

GREAT NEWS WOW,
Within the next 7 days, the final planning will STOP and re-start as there will be some awesome news about the trip. Can't say more at the moment, BUT IT'S FANTASTIC NEWS.
Happy Face..... 8-)
SSSHHH! 7 days and all will be revealed.

URGENT
The route between the towns called Manchester have to be 'looked at', and en-route 'things to see' places to visit, bike events, people to meet.
It's a long road, and this part of the 'plan' is what will make the video, book and blog worth it's salt.
If you live in the areas, near or on the route to Manchesters across the USA (see list) PLEASE send ideas.
FACEBOOK Roadto Manchester Twitter; @Road2Manchester or here on comments. E-mail Road2Manchester@37.com

SEE YOU ON THE ROAD.

Happy New Year

2011-01-02T10:54:00.004Z

2011 arrived and I am a little sad.
It has been 3 years since the concept of taking this bike trip to Manchester was born.
I guess reading just about every motorcycle road trip book out there, added to the videos, the TV coverage and my head full of ideas, has created a monster.

On the bright side I have started Roadto Manchester on Facebook, and tjhe @Road2Manchester twiietr page now has almost 2000 followers.
Both media lines have brought Manchester based people to see the quest.
(Thoughts of Monty Python, Holy Grail... "What is your quest?").

So it;s 2011, No job, no income, business closed down, Christmas cost far too much, bike all wrapped up for the winter...... and still no positive GO GO GO! for the United States of Amaniac.

BUT, life goes on and despite this depressing blog today, I still have hope.
I have asked the Facebook foloowers in all the Manchesters across the USA to pass my on (as it were). The request for information about their town and maybe a bit of video put on facebook, is out there.

Fingers crossed. and as they say in the song. "the only way is up".

2nd Jan 2011 Manchester UK (Man1)

Many thanks from Chris in Manchester Montana USA

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T14:52:00.002Z

Seasons Greetings to anyone watching. I have had some success with Facebook
Roadto Manchester with photos coming in from new friends in Manchesters across the US. (see below).

Xmas Eve tomorrow and with 9 for dinner on Christmas Day, the prep starts for the big one.
The bike has been relegated to the garden and fully sheeted up against the freeze that continues. Minus 13.5 this week, is pretty much a record for Manchester (1) and the ice has not melted for 3 weeks now. Not rare, but unusual for us.

This Christmas is a low profile one as our pockets are bare (as they say).
Work dried up in November and the lack of funds means a quiet, low spend Xmas this year. This also does not bode well for the trip of a lifetime, which is fast becoming a road to nowhere.

Still, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Merry Christmas (Happy Holidays for the US) and looking forward for a better 2011 all over.

Manchester Montana yesterday. Cool

Trip by Twitter

2010-12-16T09:47:00.002Z

Having just read a web report about a guy that travelled the world, through help from twitter followers, the seed has been planted.
If a man with no transport, money or maps, can get around the globe, then surely I can get support from this media and facebook, to get to Manchesters 2 to 36.

The 'as the crow fly's' mileage has been calculated at 8976 (US) which in real terms could be 12,000 on the road. (250-300 per day = a month on the road).

@Road2Manchester on twitter is heading for 1000 followers and following 2001 (limit for Twitter until I get 2000 followers) I am still looking for methods of getting contacts in the USA Manchester's This is a slow process.

Contacted Manchester.com today to seee about a new e-mail address ending in @Manchester.com. Thought process for the 'who@' being, road2@manchester.com. Comments please.

Big Plan: It seems daft to transport my GS to the USA and add $000's to the costs. So idf I can get enough media coverage, I will approach Harley, Triumph, Victory, BMW for a free loan bike.

The Film.
The video camera bought off e-bay is not quite as good as the advert stated.
Digital.... its the future.
As my aging ACER laptop has just about died after 5 yrs of abuse, coffee spills, drops, cat sitting on it to keep warm, memory full, a new one is on my xmas list.
The trip has to happen now, the problem is the cost. I have had no work for 6 weeks, the crappy UK weather has put a stop to the already crucified building sector as the UK's economy hit a lifetime low (My lifetime certainly). Christmas is just 10 days away, and I have never been so broke, and know many friends and family that are having money trouble.
Bad times, but this makes me more determined to get this project 'on the road'.
Two years ago I thought of the idea, the time is right.

The Manchesters

2010-12-03T17:55:00.003Z

Other than adding Manchester, Mexico, the route from East Coast USA to West coast via 32 towns called Manchester, continues as a PLAN. Add Manchester UK (Man1) and the route is still unclear. I am looking for an on-line mapping / route maker that wuill allow 32 addresses to be added and routed, without paying for a new program. The sponsorship SEARCH CAME TO A HALT a few months ago. it would seem the world economy does not allow for the 'small' NON celebriry endorsed films. not sure some time in the lime-light or infamy makes it more suitable. still looking for information regarding the Manchesters. Some are small groups of houses, some towns. do you have any info about the following: Manchester Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
Manchester, IA 52057, Manchester MO,
Manchester, TN, Manchester, AL 35503 , Manchester, GA
Manchester, IN 47041, Manchester, CT, Manchester, MA 01944
Manchester, PA, Manchester, AL 35976
Manchester CA , Manchester, IL , Manchester, IN 47933
Manchester, KS 67410. Manchester, LA 70647, Manchester, MD Manchester, Manchester, NC
Manchester, OH 44319, Manchester, SD 57231
Manchester, VT, Manchester, WI 53946, Manchester, KY 40962, Manchester, ME 04351 , Manchester, MI 48158
Manchester, Sun Prairie, MT 59404, Manchester, OH, Manchester, OK, Manchester, TX 75412, Manchester, WA
twitter; please add me to your followers list at road2manchester

October 2010

2010-10-03T23:03:00.002+01:00

New video camera on the way, £43 off ebay. So it begins with a few shots of Manchester 1.(Man1) UK. to create some markers of what to seek in the USA. Man2 will be in New Hampshire, so a big leap of faith to get things moving, YOUTUBE footage to follow.

Confused ?

2010-07-20T16:33:00.005+01:00

The mileage and ther nuber of Manchester's keeps changing as the invites come in. There are 39 we have outlined (a aprt from Manchester UK Man1). Even Jamaca has one. Some have disappeared in hurracanes or floods, and some are nor accesible in one road trip. The final route and numbers will be depending heavily on just which states the sponsors want to cover.

Wow where did this year go

2010-07-20T14:07:00.003+01:00

Desite the Long gap, I am still here and still planning. The NEW BMW R1200GS Adventure is in my garage, and despite not being the Triumph Rocket or Harley I would have liked for the USA section (most of the trip) It has a great pedigree, a massive 400 mile tank, and tend to be very reliable. I have had some interest from potential sponsors but the current financial problems in the UK and USA are not helping. Any how, the bike is ready, I am ready, just need the £25k to get the video production system and trip on its way.

Follower

2010-01-31T21:16:00.004Z

hello, I have a follower. H'ray. At last I am not just blabbing to myself.

Thanks and welcome, feel free to pass it on.

Feb; tomorrow. Crikey time flys. I have not got much further, as times in the UK are bad. No work since November and now very broke. The big plan is on hold, but with twitter account active @Road2Manchester you can see regular update and chat there.

Desperate to get on a bike right now, but today it snowed 2" though not as cold as last time. +3 today, it seems ages since the minus 12's two weeks ago,.

Still looking for good USA road map or atlas, but found nothing in UK yet.

Ta Tar for now.

Pete

Haiti

2010-01-20T13:33:00.002Z

Thoughts and hope for the Haiti thousands and especially the kids now without families. Lets hope the outside world do not use this disaster as a means to a political end and that the Haiti people now join the rest of the world as a democratic and safe country. The start is now, and all everyone involved should start a fresh with hope. God Bless.

Glimmer of hope

2010-01-12T22:35:00.002Z

MANCHESTER ONE UK

Every time I get dispondent and think this is just a pipedream, someone calls or e-mails at gets me all excited. @Road2Manchester on twitter more and more followers keep adding support messages. I am adding all States twitter writers to my list to see if i can get sponosors and the Million Pixel site is brewing up nicely.

December

2009-12-01T10:11:00.002Z

WOW that came fast. Well its official. the trip will not start in Jan 2010. The introduction of sponsors new model bike has to coincide with the start, so we are postponing until April.

The weather issues will be less hassle and maybe sunny throughout.

Doing some work with mountain rescue, twitter @Funds4Rescue or my new twit @road2manchester

No work at the moment, so very broke, not nice so close to Christmas.

2009-11-17T16:17:00.002Z

An open invitation to join me on your bike goews out to celebrabiker Amanda Bearse Aaron Eckhart Caprice Hulk Hogan ANASTACIA (please please) Adrian Brody Carre Otis Ice Cube Angela Jolie. Oh yes. Al gore Catherine Ball Jay Leno Ann Richards Al Kaline Charle Sheen Jezzer Irons Antonio Banderas Alanis Morisette CHER Jim Carrey Axl Rose Aland band Cindy Margolis Jessica Alba Ben Campbell Alfonso Ribeiro Clint Eastwood John Travolta Bill Goldberg Alton Brown Dan Akroyd Jude LawBill Mueller. Billy Bob Thornton The Hoff Kate Hudson Bill wallace Billy Gibbons Demi Moore Keanu Reeves Billy Joel Bob Geldoff (Sir) Dennis Hopper (a must) King of Jordon Prince William Bob Segar Doobie Bros Kyle Petty BONO Brad Pit Fabio (bit of competition) Laurence Fishbourne Branscombe Richmond (Cool) Bree Turner Gary Condit Leo Dicaprio Brian Bosworth Brock Lesnor Harrison Ford Llam Nealson (I will find you)Bruce The Boss Springsteen. Bruce Willis Heatgher Kozar Malcolm S forbes Bryan Adams Cameron Dias Hugh Laurie Marc Knopller Mary Hart Matt Le Blanc Mel Gibson Michael Schumaker Mickey Rourke Mike Oldfield Naomi Watts Nastassja Kinski Nick Cage Nikki Sixx Orlando Bloom Ozzy Ozbourne Pam Anderson PETER FONDA PINK Russel Crowe Rutger Hauer SAM ELLIOT Sheryl Crowe Slash Sting Ewan and Charlie Tom Cruise Vin Diesel
join me for a mile and add your name to the cause.
anybody know these guys e-mail or twitter accounnts PM me.

Spare us a penny guvnor'

2009-11-16T11:05:00.002Z

OK This is the big push for PENNY sponsors. get listed and help us make £$€,0000000 for water aid charities.
TARGET $200,000

I penny per visit. thats it. (more if you like), paypal us (ask for details). Nothing an be simpler.

YOU CAN'T BUY ANYTHING FOR A PENNY, BUT ADD THEM TOGETHER>>>>>>>>

2009-11-16T10:37:00.002Z

I hail this interchange of sentiments, therefore, as an augury that, whatever else may happen, whatever misfortune may befall your country or my own, the peace and friendship which now exists between the two nations will be, as it shall be my desire to make them, perpetual." Abraham Lincoln 01/19/1863 Letters to the people of Manchester.

And as the wheels turned once more, I think of what I left back there, yet the horizon beckons to another town called Manchester, out in the world, somewhere.
Pete Johnson . May 2009

The United States of AM-anchester.
"For Manchester is the place where people do things.... 'Don't talk about what you are going to do, do it.' That is the Manchester habit. And in the past through the manifestation of this quality the word Manchester became a synonym for energy and freedom and the right to do and to think without shackles."From "What the Judge Saw" by Judge Parry, 1912.

"I arrived in a shower, in the wet now set off,Eight days in the place I remained:Seven days, seven nights and a quarter, I vow,By Jove! it incessantly rained.What then? not a day nor an hour was I dull:The Lancashire lads played their part:I found every friend of politeness brim full,And myself in the midst of the arts.May Manchester flourish! and if once againBy chance I should ere be brought hither,I hope that from weeping the clouds may refrain,And grant me a peep at fine weather."From anonymous poem written at the coach-office and appearing in the Manchester Chronicle, 1821.

"If I should be so blessed as to revisit again my own country, but more especially Manchester, all that I could hope or desire would be presented before in one view."From the letters of Robert Clive (Clive of India).

"Certainly Manchester is the most wonderful city of modem times."(From "Coningsby" by Benjamin Disraeli, 1844.)

Our charity for fresh drinking water throughout the world. Poem competition. Aug 2009.

Counch pennies, Pocket pennies, Top Draw pennies too,
Ash Tray pennies, Mucky pennies, Any Penny 'ill do.
Under the bed pennies lost in't fluff, YOU can't buy now't with a pee
But send your pee's to us my friends, And we can buy a sea.

B Morton. (12)

The Manchesters

2009-11-16T10:33:00.000Z

0) Manchester UK , Lincoln Square,
1.New Hampshire
2.Connecticut
3.Iowa
4.Massachusetts
5. Missouri
6.Pennsylvania
7.Tennessee
8.Marshall, Alabama
9.Walker, Alabama
10.California
11.Georgia
12.Illinois
13.Dearborn, Indiana
14.Montgomery, Indiana
15.Kansas
16.Kentucky
17.Louisiana
18.Maine
19.Maryland
20.Michigan
21.Minnesota
22.Montana
23.North Carolina
24.Adams, Ohio
25.Summit, Ohio
26.Oklahoma
27.South Dakota
28.Red River, Texas
29.Vermont
30.Washington
31.Winsconsin.
32.Pando, Bolivia
33.Nickerie, Surinam
34.Ontario, Canada.
35.Manchester Parish, Jamaica

The Bikes

2009-11-16T10:17:00.006Z

problem is that all the biker TV that now exists expect to get a bike for nothing + support, cash, promotion etc etc.

BMW, TRIUMPH, HARLEY I like these bikes, but they get asked everyday for a free hand from bigger fish that l'il old me.

This is of course you top dog world tourer, BMW R1200GS Adventure. made famous by Ewan N Charlie (Long Way Round & Down).

£12,000 is a bit rich

Your Triumph Rocket 3 tourer is of course a big beast 2.9 litr engine and enough power to rip your arms off. Great for the USA highways, and frankly a bit of a wish lister for me. just to show that we still have a UK bike legacy for the world.

Pic courtesy of Triumph USA

Then there is Harley and the list of models is endless. They are in trouble so they say. lets hope they say Hey pete, take ur pic.

29 Manchetsers in USA.
It would be rude not to visit every one. Even the Dakota Ghost town, blown away by a tornado. 7000 miles, thats a lot of Manchesters.

More Manchester info to follow.

Update

2009-11-16T10:03:00.003Z

many a good idea was quashed by the complete lack of 'getting it' , by the potential backers. The art of sponsorship is a battle ground and I have no doubts that if I was some B lister celeb, then the powers would listen a bit longer.
I have read just about every biker adventure book out there, and i common with ebery other writer, they did it because it was what they wanted to do. No issue of selling books or getting fame. Days like these should happen to you, written and oerformed by Dan Walsh, a real renegade and social drop out, Brilliant. Lois on the Loose and Under Asian Sykes, Ted Simpson and the Jupiter duet of motor cycle bibology. They all got paid, and got backing for the follow ups, I do need to make a living, but I also beleve that there is a story going back 120 years about Manchester, the 6 million people city in Northern England where it all began. Famous for just about everything, from public transport, modern policing, computers, railways, Rolls Royce, The industrial revolution, cotton, music and black puddings.
The other 30 odd Manchesters spread across the globe must have a connection, and it's my mission to search for the slightest thread that shows that The man can leave Manchester, but the Manchester can not leave the man.
I need help and all the bits between, business is bad, the UK is in a massive downturn and the economy is at breaking point. All we need it some light hearted informative and lets hope funny Mancunions from across the world to show that we can take it, make it and shake it, with the rest.

Busy Busy

2009-11-03T17:26:00.002Z

Been TWITTERIN like crazy, search Road2Manchester for daily comments.

Bin for a long one on a R1200GS BMW, its just the job, though it;s a bit like paying £150 for a tennis racket, just for Wimbledon Week trips to the park. Nice Bike Nice Nioce want one.

STILL trying to get things done but Spring 2010 seems more likely.

7000 miles total including Dakota ghost town Manchester.

BIN Travellin

2009-09-24T15:42:00.003+01:00

hey just been over to Zermatt (Switzerland) on a get fitter not fatter hit.

Gotta get rid of 4-5 stone to stop the fatigue. and look better in leather pants.

10,000 ft above Zermatt looking at the Matterhorn, breathless in more ways than one.

2nd mortgage for food and hotel but worth it.... go see ur self.

Here seen reading my MCN.

Got Radio interview to do live on Sunday.

More later.

Whatever next

2009-09-02T13:20:00.002+01:00

Twitter now has 39 followers.. gee should be 300000000 by now.
Bike not forthcoming

Off to Zermatt n the 19th to see Matt Ahorn, (who is he anyway)

No work this week... quiet quiet quite broke.

Been away

2009-08-24T10:48:00.003+01:00

Sorry been 'orf for a while. Work commitments, just trying to make a living in the currnt climate is a chore.
OK the trip planning is going slow. Everyone is cutting back and unless you are a celebrity, the chances of sponsorship by the big butts, is not happening.
Got the TV side sorted, though they only agree to principal based on a promo starter.

WANTED 30 second video clips from Manchester's across the globe. Best one gets inclusion on promo.

send to pete.johnson@37.com
or download to twitter. pennyperlitre.

Keep watching.

Pete

Le Tunnel

2009-08-05T10:37:00.003+01:00

So spent a few days in Le Touquet Paris Plage, in Normandy, and was shocked at the price of everything. The Euro € has done to Europe, what decimalisation did to the UK in the 70's. No one really wanted it, then realised that the price of just about every thing went up 50%
'Lets build a tunnel under the channel to make European travel accessable to the masses'
The TUNNEL, when announced all thse years ago, was said to be the answer to England's high priced ferry transport to the rest of Europe. WRONG, like the Euro, it has just exceeded all my missgivings by charging £108 one way (out), and as we stayed an unplanned extra day, €280 Euros one way (Back in), at 2pm on a Tuesday. CRAZY CRAZY CRAZY price, No wonder the train was empty. A ferry from £112 is bad enough and the attendant was so **oody rude.
" So do you want this ticket or not???" Nice lady NOT.

EG: Great Lakes Canada 789 miles $115 car a 2 passengers and a cabin. Now thats good.
RIP OFF BRITAIN, why those lost souls trying to get on the back of trucks for a free ride to the UK are bothering, I just don't know. Do they know what it's really like over here? I doubt it.

GRIPE OVER.

BIKERS join me for a mile.

2009-07-30T20:52:00.000+01:00

Crickey Charlie, well William actually. Just shocked about the number of celebs that are bikers. Here is a list and the challenge for today is to get
A) At least a penny sponsorship from ya'all. You are either IN or your N'owt. (As Geldoff once said.).

B) You can join me for a mile whilst passing your nearest county.

Amanda Bearse Aaron Eckhart Caprice Hulk Hogan
ANASTACIA (please please) Adrian Brody Carre Otis Ice Cube
Angela Jolie. Oh yes. Al gore Catherine Ball Jay Leno
Ann Richards Al Kaline Charle Sheen Jezzer Irons
Antonio Banderas Alanis Morisette CHER Jim carrey
Axl Rose Aland band Cindy Margolis Jessica alba
Ben Campbell Alfonso Ribeiro Clint Eastwood John Travolta
Bill Goldberg Alton Brown Dan Akroyd Jude Law
Bill Mueller. Billy Bob Thornton The Hoff Kate Hudson
Bill wallace Billy Gibbons Demi Moore Keanu Reeves
Billy Joel Bob Geldoff (Sir) Dennis Hopper (a must) King of Jordon
Prince William Bob Segar Doobie Bros Kyle Petty
BONO Brad Pit Fabio (bit of competition) Laurence Fishbourne
Branscombe Richmond (Cool) Bree Turner Gary Condit Leo Dicaprio
Brian Bosworth Brock Lesnor Harrison Ford Llam Nealson (I will find you)
Bruce The Boss Springsteen. Bruce Willis Heatgher Kozar Malcolm S forbes
Bryan Adams Cameron Dias Hugh Laurie Marc Knopller
Mary Hart Matt Le Blanc Mel Gibson Michael Schumaker
Mickey Rourke Mike Oldfield Naomi Watts Nastassja Kinski
Nick Cage Nikki Sixx Orlando Bloom Ozzy Ozbourne
Pam Anderson PETER FONDA PINK Russel Crowe
Rutger Hauer SAM ELLIOT Sheryl Crowe Slash
Sting Ewan and Charlie Tom Cruise Vin Diesel

Well thats a few of you, if you a a biker or know others.... register for a Pee.

One penny, one cent, one Dollar one Euro, one day, one world one litre, one aim, water for one....everyone.

Real bikers care.

pennyperlitre at twitter.

S'all gone pear shaped.

2009-07-30T12:55:00.003+01:00

Ohhhhh! not good at the moment. Still trying to get TV sponsorship, but ready to approach Triumph again ref T Bird: Nice size and more agile than the Rocket. Got some good leads forUK and USA.

Lincoln Square to Free Trade Hall

2009-07-23T16:40:00.004+01:00

Lincoln Square, Queen Street Manchester UK, and the massively tall Lincoln Statue with carving of of his letter to Manchester.

Lincoln Square is off Deansgate (the main road through the busy cafe culture centre of town). Though this famous friend has links with the city, many people will have never seen this quiet corner, with it's paved area and benches. Surrounded by offices and a few cafes and a pub, the square is only 60 mtrs off the main road. Lincoln himself an inpressive 12ft or so tall on a 8ft marble plinth, looks over the Manc's as they enjoy a few rays of sun after an afternoon of heavy showers.

Twitted

2009-07-22T09:34:00.002+01:00

Twitter account followers still growing. The 'water' charity theme seems to be hitting home.
It's the one thing we can not survive with, and without the simplest supply of clean water, millions will die this year across the globe.
If this was a dictatorship, government or religious group causing this disaster, there would be outrage. 1 penny, 1 cent, 1 nickle, from all of you will do. Pennyperlitre is the twitter site, go there and join in.
coming soon MILLION PIXEL SITE add your pennies worth.

Twitted

2009-07-20T14:35:00.000+01:00

twitter me at pennyperlitre wanted 1,000,000 followers

Summer Finshed.

2009-07-19T16:49:00.002+01:00

Wow, the Triumph Rocket is a big bike. Hard on the arms to keep on under acceleration. Choices still to make.

Rain all day today so not going out. Harley the dog being a pest, wants too much attention.

Tesco dayz...... what have we become, when the entertainment for a WEEKEND IS TO SHOP.
Brits have gone mad. Can't buy it, but no harm in looking, why not go back to work Monday with a feeling of defeat. One day eh Doris!!?

OK Abe Lincoln.

2009-07-13T10:02:00.002+01:00

Pres Abe Lincoln memorial statue in Lincoln Square, Manchester, UK Good place to start the journey. Captains log, Star Date 31st Dec 2009. Then across town to the Free Trade Hall refer to letters from Mr President Lincoln read here 200 years ago. Next stop Manchester Town Hall visit Mayor to receive message for all Mayors across USA Manchesters.

Busy Busy........
Launching Millon Pixel Sponsorship map this week. Site addess to follow.

Sunday again.

2009-07-12T18:24:00.003+01:00

Manchester Manchester, spent a great night in town Friday. Really busy as weather was OK, Must get answer from Town Hall and some photos of landmarks.

2009-07-09T10:16:00.002+01:00

SPONSOR MILLION PIXELS

If you are anywhere on this map, you can sponsor by adding your advert, logo or message in 10 pixel squares (min 100) The route through the Manchesters will go first. Sell your service now.

Triumph Rocket 111 Touring.

2009-07-09T10:04:00.003+01:00

Going over to Blackburn later to see a Rocket. Must get a photo or two of me on one.
Also reading book (Good Vibrations) just to get the juices flowing. Scores 5/10
Read this and " These are the days that must happen to you" Dan Walsh. 9/10
Long Way Round and LW Down, McGregor Boorman. 9/10- 7/10
Jupiter Travels and Jupiter Returns by Ted God. 10/10 - 9/10
Lois on the Loose. 4/10

So watch out for US of AManchester, byMe