Turned into three!

I have been watching the weather, and decided to leave on Thursday to ride down to Tucson.  As anyone from Phoenix will attest... a wise decision on my part.  Rain started early morning today, heavy at times, a few scattered thunderstorms, wind, etc.  A secondary low is about to roll in tonight and bring the snow levels down to 4500ft!

Here, today it has been moderate winds with some gusts, light intermittent rain, temps in the upper 60's... perfect!

So here's my new part...

A "license plate protector."  On my last trip back from Yuma, I secured my backpack to the back of my "passenger retention device."  When I got home, the weight had shifted slightly and bent one corner of my license plate.  No permanent damage, quick bend back and good as new.  Yet, it spurred me to get something I have always planned on adding.  I am happy to report that on this ride, it functioned perfectly and my license plate was protected!

This was the last customization I had planned.  After seeing a few more bikes and talking with other riders, I have two more items that I want to get; one of which, I have already ordered.  The other I will look for.  Once obtained and installed, I'll share some more pics.  After that... depends on what I see and who I talk too!

The ride down to TUC was quick compared to YUM, about half the time.  I have not traveled on I-10 E for many years, and was surprised to find that they have widened many sections of it to three lanes.  Also, amazed at how much has filled in between.  I can remember vast expanses of desert, now buildings, homes, RV parks, etc. all along the route.  It used to be after Casa Grande, little or nothing.  And once past Picacho Peak, when you saw the cement plant you knew you were getting close to TUC!

After about 90 minutes, I pulled of at Ina Rd. to visit the local HD Dealership.  By far, one of the best things about riding a Harley, is the vast network of dealerships!  I got off, walked in, used the facilities, then headed to the Rider's Lounge.  Plush couches, TV, billiards if one wanted too, coffee, water, etc.  Just a nice place for a rider to take a break and relax for a bit.  It's the rider equivalent to the airline first-class lounges at airports, minus full food/bar service.  Although if timed right, one might visit when the local H.O.G. Chapter is sponsoring an event.

This morning I took advantage of the less intense local weather and ran some errands to get a few things.  Two more days to re-orient myself to TUC, try a few different routes to work, and explore a bit.  Then Monday, my "on-boarding" occurs and I officially start.

Keep warm!