Day One: Chattanooga, Tennessee - Ellijay, Georgia

-From Jake's Journal-

01) What was your favorite part of the day?

My favorite part of this day was swimming at the campsite with some of our fellow riders. It was a relatively mellow day so it was super enjoyable getting to have a relaxing evening at the campsite.

02) What was the most challenging part of the day?

My most challenging part of this day was getting into the mental game of riding for 10 hours. However after day 1, I didn’t even think about it anymore.

03) Did you have any bike problems today?

We did have quite a few motorcycle problems on this day. Before we rolled off the start line, a triumph and a cl360 had electrical issues. The cl360 had electrical issues pretty much the entire day. We had to replace the battery as well as the points isolator to keep the points from grounding out. Somehow this piece melted.

04) What’s something you’re glad you packed today?

I was extremely thankful I packed my battery jump box. It was super helpful with troubleshooting the cl360 electrical issues.

05) Is there something you wish you packed today, but didn’t?

I really wish I would have packed more water. I thought I was drinking enough but I think I was sweating it all out which put me in the continual stage of dehydration.

06) What made today different because you’re on a Harley-Davidson?

My lack of suspension combined with the weight of my HD made today slightly more difficult than the other riders. Keep in mind, I also had the 2nd oldest bike next to a 60’s Honda.

07) Where did you travel today?

Today we started in Chattanooga TN with a destination of Ellijay, GA. It was an hour long drive if you were to map it with interstates. But because of our route, having to take trails and service roads 70% of the day, and multiple team breakdowns it took us about 10 hours to get there.

08) What were the general vibes from today’s ride?

Everyone was mood and vibe was positive today. We were all excited to be out on an adventure on our two wheeled machines.

09) How are the other rider’s doing?

The other riders are doing well. Everyone made it through today except for maybe the Ural with the sidecar.

10) Write 5-10 sentences about today’s ride.

It was a little frustrating not being able to leave the start line without two bikes breaking. I was anxious to get out for our first day. I’m pretty sure everyone doubted my HD, but no doubt about it, she was solid today! Overall, today was great and all of the trials were relatively easy. I’m hoping for more smooth days like today!