It's the little things that start to add up...

[fotocycle]

So I'm getting ready to go on my next trip, off to AL and GA and then...?? Maybe TN or maybe MS. Anyway, I buy the usual little things: 10 Slim Jim snacks, travel-size tube of toothpaste and new toothbrush, new maps, etc. I bought my Givi topcase and rack about a month ago, to get the big purchase out of the way. New tires a month before that.

Then I'm going through my travel list, and I realize I'll be out for several days with no computer access, so I'll have no way to download my pictures - and can only shoot about 90 frames to a 256MB card. Crap. New Sandisk Ultra (I like 'em fast) 512MB CF card: $70

Now I'm thinking, how will I follow these nice new maps with no way to stick them to the tank? Plus I really could use a little extra space... OK, must get a new tank bag. I knew I shouldn't have sold my trusty ol' Icon bag.. So, Chase Harper tank bag from kneedraggers.com: $80+ due to 2nd day shipping (I'm trying to leave Saturday morning, and thought of this too late.)

So I head to the auto parts store to pick up some spare taillight bulbs. And what do I see? An "all-weather" (covered) power outlet. I've been meaning to get one so I can carry my air compressor in case of a flat - battery is too hard to get to on an F3 for attaching alligator clips, but an outlet would do me just fine. New outlet, 12-gauge wire and connectors, spare bulbs and other little crap: $33

I also just changed the oil (Castrol Actevo) and filter (OEM Honda): $32

And the budget for the whole trip, factoring in gas, lodging, and eats, is supposed to be under $400...

Well, when I'm throwing the CBR around on the Georgia mountain roads in a week, I suppose a few lousy dollars will not be missed at all

[VIVID1]

Yes it all adds up quick. This is a very expensive hobby. Just when I think I have everything that I’ll ever need, I realize I need something else.

And then come the replacements when things break. This year so far my GPS broke and my Arai helmet got blown across the gas station and now the visor is scuffed and needs to be replaced. One back tire with less than 2000 miles punctured with a nail. Also, my leather riding pants tore and had to be fixed. And the season isn’t over yet

[fotocycle]

Well dam I don't feel so bad anymore... sorry to hear about all that, VIVID. I know that GPS unit, in particular, will not be too cheap to replace.

You reminded me that I also had to order a new visor (old one's just worn out) but it hasn't gotten here yet...

You know, I don't really think of this as a hobby. I ride everyday so this bike is my only transportation, but the touring thing is purely for fun. So I guess I do have another hobby besides reading! lol