I feel like there is plenty to discuss here and I got some topics to see if we can bring some life back to this..
I just got my bike, a 1994 Virago 1100, and plan on taking off sometime late spring. A lot of shit to do with the trip is basic topics you can find on here, but I've thought of a few motorcycle trip specifics. Like:
Shelter- Having a bike is rad because you're not limited to the 25lbs or so you can carry on your back. That in mind I was hoping to bring along my trusty backpacking tent (some haggard early 2000s model) AND a hammock. I would love to have my hammock to hang out in, but it is definately an extra. I feel like on a bike I'm gonna have to wait out some rainy days and would want the tint to chill around in. There are also motorcycle specific tents for 200 that are worth a mention. Not for me, but still kinda badass. >>
http://abelbrown.com/products/nomad-tent . What I'm not sure on is how much of the hammock setup to bring. Bug net and tarp or just the nest itself? It's going to come down to how much space I have, but the cool thing with eno is i can clip the parts onto random places as well during travel, like the side of my bag.
Sleeping- I'm investing in a National park pass for sure. $80 for year long rent in all of the national parks and land reserves? Fuck yes. That aside I think another handy part to a bike is it's easier to hide than a car. I see all kinds of options like pulling off into the median from the highway in wooded areas, and anywhere outside the city doing similar things. My concern is finding a place to dwell in the cities I visit with my bike. Any ideas?
Busking- Still working out a way to mount my banjo to the back of the sissy bar. I'll get back to you on this..
Maintenance- I have basic knowledge, but this is where I fall short. Luckily I have the bike to toy around with for a while and learn before I take off. Adjusting the carbs for altitude and changing a tire on the road are two things on the top of my list to learn. I want to either fix part of one saddle bag or make a PVC carrier to keep a toolkit handy. But anything anyone knows about caring for a bike that's being driven long distance, feel more than free to shout some shit out.
Storage- I'm a welder by trade. I plan to fab up some aluminium saddle bags that I can bolt on and lock. I have heard multiple stories of people getting their bags cut off while they sleep (Actually both stories in San Francisco?) and want to avoid that shit. I'm also making a taller sissy bar that will allow me to strap on my backpack on one side and a banjo on the other. Think easy rider, if you're not already.. I've seen where people can make all kinds of interesting storage devices for their bikes, though, and if you have any rad ideas please share.
That's the main one's for now, but I have hella more to talk about if anyone finds interest in this topic again.