Take the tat. It’s great and you will be fine. Perhaps you want to skip a few of the technical mountain passes and you can. Just do it and have fun. You will learn all you need to know on the route.
Rookie considering taking the TAT. thoughts? advice?
Alright here's what is going on: I am getting my first bike (KLR 2023) next week and am trying to figure out what to do in regards to me moving across the country. Yeah it is poor timing for all of this but the circumstances couldn't be helped. I've gotta move late August/early September and since I only have my riders permit I can't take highways. There are tons of different routes to take to get from NJ to CA but the TAT sounds like such an adventure, and would keep me away from too many cars, though I know it is very challenging. I know doing this kind of long ride so early into my riding experience is nuts, especially solo so I figured I should reach out to the KLR community, especially those with lots of experience. What do you think? Is it nuts? Do any of you know of any groups that'd be fine with a 20y/o noob tagging along? I am researching as much as I can but direct input would be greatly appreciated. Any of you who have taken the TAT know what I should expect/be wary of for going in the late summer? Thank you for your time reading this, I hope someone can get back to me.
p.s. i know that trailer-ing the bike is technically an option but I do not have that kind of money
p.s. i know that trailer-ing the bike is technically an option but I do not have that kind of money
1 - 20 of 32 Posts
You will certainly gain experience as you make your way. Why no license? What is considered a hwy and who is going to know you only have a permit. You will have to gear up, maybe as expensive as trailering.
Not properly and fully licensed ? Your insurance company will love to hear that if you need to file a claim. DENIED !!
I have budgeted for good gear already, I don't have my license yet because I am still working on it, couldn't get my permit earlier. The general permit restrictions are no riding after dark, with a passenger or on restricted highways so interchanges and highways that have no intersections, just exits. I don't mind bending the rules if necessary to keep me safe in the long run.You will certainly gain experience as you make your way. Why no license? What is considered a hwy and who is going to know you only have a permit. You will have to gear up, maybe as expensive as trailering.
No license, no riding experience, first bike, TAT cross country not a good idea. Ride for a year then do TAT. It’s just too dangerous. I know you need to move.🙁🙁🙁
I haven't ridden the TAT, so what I have to say is just old guy/Dad advice:I have budgeted for good gear already, I don't have my license yet because I am still working on it, couldn't get my permit earlier. The general permit restrictions are no riding after dark, with a passenger or on restricted highways so interchanges and highways that have no intersections, just exits. I don't mind bending the rules if necessary to keep me safe in the long run.
1) Some of the TAT sections look more gnarly than a new rider might want to tackle on his first long trip.
2) It takes a LONG time to go across the continent on the TAT. I've heard of it taking a month or longer for experienced riders.
3) You can set "No Highways" as a preference in Google Maps or in whatever navigation aid you'll be using. That'll route you along the slower and prettier secondary roads. I use that option whenever I travel because I just don't like the speed and craziness of the interstate anyway.
4) Whichever route you take, be safe. Assume every driver on 4 or more wheels is actively trying to murder you.
I hope that helps.
thank you, Dad Advice is always appreciated!I haven't ridden the TAT, so what I have to say is just old guy/Dad advice:
1) Some of the TAT sections look more gnarly than a new rider might want to tackle on his first long trip.
2) It takes a LONG time to go across the continent on the TAT. I've heard of it taking a month or longer for experienced riders.
3) You can set "No Highways" as a preference in Google Maps or in whatever navigation aid you'll be using. That'll route you along the slower and prettier secondary roads. I use that option whenever I travel because I just don't like the speed and craziness of the interstate anyway.
4) Whichever route you take, be safe. Assume every driver on 4 or more wheels is actively trying to murder you.
I hope that helps.
It looks like you have a few months to get used to the bike before taking the trip. This should also give you time to get a proper license and maybe take a course along with proper break in, maintenance, etc. It will also give you time to ride as often as possible before the big trip and really think about it, especially what if'ing any crashes and break downs and thinking about how much worse they could be where you don't know anyone. You can also take short trips to learn how to pack all your stuff and how the bike handles with all the extra weight. And learn as much as possible about the mechanical side of things.
At the end of the summer you should know if you still want to tackle the trip. My guess is you will either be a total motorcycle junkie by then or give up riding altogether.
At the end of the summer you should know if you still want to tackle the trip. My guess is you will either be a total motorcycle junkie by then or give up riding altogether.
Motorcycles are not like cars and you need to be able to fix a flat, repair a chain, replace the battery at a minimum with no help.
Braking on dirt is a bit different than on pavement. Gear will save your life. And if you are low on funds the TAT is not the way to go.
State roads and smaller highways.
Good luck and have fun.
Braking on dirt is a bit different than on pavement. Gear will save your life. And if you are low on funds the TAT is not the way to go.
State roads and smaller highways.
Good luck and have fun.
I personally wouldn't recommend that anyone with less than 2 years of experience and 10,000 miles under their butt even consider attempting your proposed trip.
Bad idea!
It would take a noobie a month to cross country using the TAT.
Plenty of backroads that are a direct path for your trip.
You’re gonna have a hard time spending 8 hrs a day riding with no experience.
It would take a noobie a month to cross country using the TAT.
Plenty of backroads that are a direct path for your trip.
You’re gonna have a hard time spending 8 hrs a day riding with no experience.
My two cents - get your license in order and take the old blue highways - it'll still be an adventure. Save the off-road adventures until you get settled in your new home, find a community of other riders, and have a lot more experience.
Forget the TAT for now, It would take you too long and to risky for a rookie rider. Plan your trip using secondary roads. Your chances of getting stopped by a cop on a KLR are very low, just watch the local speed limits. You will get to see the real America that way and eat at some great Mom N Pop joints. If you will be living in Ca. then you can do the Baja instead.. "WAY BETTER Tacos down there....
I’ll echo what others have said. Get your gear and license in order, ride allot this summer before you go and take backroads, but leave the TAT for later on after more experience. Just picking up the heavy beast by yourself, in mud/gravel/rough terrain can be a huge challenge.
If you’re buying a new bike, expect it to get banged up on a TAT trip. Why not get to CA then buy the bike. Just my thoughts.
I rode dirt/street for about 15 years then took a 20+ year break. It took me six months to feel ready for a big trip like your planning. But after six months I did it, but with two buddies. Had I been alone I would have been in trouble a few times in muddy/rough terrain like the TAT. All highway wouldn’t have been a problem.
Best of luck!
If you’re buying a new bike, expect it to get banged up on a TAT trip. Why not get to CA then buy the bike. Just my thoughts.
I rode dirt/street for about 15 years then took a 20+ year break. It took me six months to feel ready for a big trip like your planning. But after six months I did it, but with two buddies. Had I been alone I would have been in trouble a few times in muddy/rough terrain like the TAT. All highway wouldn’t have been a problem.
Best of luck!
Forget TAT until you get more experience, specifically off pavement experience. As others have recommended, ride secondary roads/state highways, avoiding the interstate. You'll have a staggering amount of places to adventure ride once you get established in CA.
You mentioned trailering being expensive, your biggest cost will probably be lodging along the way. More days on road = more $$. If you have a car with a hitch, U-Haul has pretty affordable rates on motorcycle trailers. If you only have KLR, hopefully can get some minimal camping gear and use it to avoid hotels at $60-110 per night. Although at your age I occasionally slept in my car in a dark corner of decent hotel parking lots; don't know what your budget and time schedule constraints are.
Best of luck to you on your journey/adventure out west!
You mentioned trailering being expensive, your biggest cost will probably be lodging along the way. More days on road = more $$. If you have a car with a hitch, U-Haul has pretty affordable rates on motorcycle trailers. If you only have KLR, hopefully can get some minimal camping gear and use it to avoid hotels at $60-110 per night. Although at your age I occasionally slept in my car in a dark corner of decent hotel parking lots; don't know what your budget and time schedule constraints are.
Best of luck to you on your journey/adventure out west!
Your desire to do it is overriding some critical aspects you need to consider, IMHO.
As others have said, wait, to soon.
Also, already you have, it appears, imposed a mandatory "got to make it" by date.
This will subconsciously push you to take unnecessary risks, to meet that schedule.
You might think, running behind, got to push it just a bit further.
Maybe you are already tired from the day before or whatever the case.
By all means, you should ride the TAT.
But only after all the other items have been completed, and you have the time to enjoy it.
It will probably be around for a few years, not going anywhere.
I want to ride it, have for decades. Still, I would not want to go it solo.
As an old dirt rider, we never went off in the woods, so to speak without a riding buddy.
Sure, they have Sat Nav and Geo Tracking and this and that...what if you are unconscious and can't activate it?
Or it takes 24 hours for rescue to find you?
Those are great assets, BUT..
A riding buddy can save your life, or vice versa.
I would advise learning some basic First Aid and CPR as well.
PLEASE do not think I am throwing that out as scare tactics, I just think too much too soon, as others have said.
I would think renting a trailer is cheaper than riding the TAT.
You mentioned a budget and we can all relate to that, at east I sure can.
Or, if you get sorted out on a lisc and are comfortable with the bike, maybe an alternate back roads route as others have said.
Less off the beaten path so to speak but sure, avoid the interstate if possible.
Please take an accredited motorcycle safety class ASAP, even if your state does not require it for getting a lisc. (some do some don't).
I would also respectfully suggest, if you DO go it solo on whatever route, let someone some where know your route and estimated arrival.
Maybe keep them update or if you have the tech stuff, they can track your route.
Let me put it this way...
Sheriffs office speaking (provided they knew what state you were in)
Yes, I would like to report a missing person.
OK, where was the persons last known location?
Well, he / she was headed to CA from NJ...we got a text 3 days ago and he / she was in TN
Without that geo tracking stuff or sat nav emergency activation thing...do you think they would find you in.....a day, a week or month?
With a riding buddy, THEY could activate EMS or make call for help while attending you.
Just saying.
If you were my offspring I would say NO. Not at this time. If a relative or good friend I would discourage doing it AT PRESENT TIME.
Being new riders that is.
I also would be remiss if did not mention, the KLR is a heavy beast. Not the ideal and this is my OPINION only, learner bike.
But, you are not my offspring, nor relative.
This is my advice, since you asked.
AND I THINK that is awesome.
We all need to ask questions,, get advice...see others view points from TIME to time....Good on you for being a person who can see the value in that.
I would say, best luck but in this situation, counting on LUCK to get you through is a totally bad idea (as always in everything).
Look at it more closely, plan it out, make some changes as needed, post pone is not forever.
Just means waiting until things are better lined up, more prepared, mastered the bike, etc.
I will say may your journey be and stay safe in which ever way you go
As others have said, wait, to soon.
Also, already you have, it appears, imposed a mandatory "got to make it" by date.
This will subconsciously push you to take unnecessary risks, to meet that schedule.
You might think, running behind, got to push it just a bit further.
Maybe you are already tired from the day before or whatever the case.
By all means, you should ride the TAT.
But only after all the other items have been completed, and you have the time to enjoy it.
It will probably be around for a few years, not going anywhere.
I want to ride it, have for decades. Still, I would not want to go it solo.
As an old dirt rider, we never went off in the woods, so to speak without a riding buddy.
Sure, they have Sat Nav and Geo Tracking and this and that...what if you are unconscious and can't activate it?
Or it takes 24 hours for rescue to find you?
Those are great assets, BUT..
A riding buddy can save your life, or vice versa.
I would advise learning some basic First Aid and CPR as well.
PLEASE do not think I am throwing that out as scare tactics, I just think too much too soon, as others have said.
I would think renting a trailer is cheaper than riding the TAT.
You mentioned a budget and we can all relate to that, at east I sure can.
Or, if you get sorted out on a lisc and are comfortable with the bike, maybe an alternate back roads route as others have said.
Less off the beaten path so to speak but sure, avoid the interstate if possible.
Please take an accredited motorcycle safety class ASAP, even if your state does not require it for getting a lisc. (some do some don't).
I would also respectfully suggest, if you DO go it solo on whatever route, let someone some where know your route and estimated arrival.
Maybe keep them update or if you have the tech stuff, they can track your route.
Let me put it this way...
Sheriffs office speaking (provided they knew what state you were in)
Yes, I would like to report a missing person.
OK, where was the persons last known location?
Well, he / she was headed to CA from NJ...we got a text 3 days ago and he / she was in TN
Without that geo tracking stuff or sat nav emergency activation thing...do you think they would find you in.....a day, a week or month?
With a riding buddy, THEY could activate EMS or make call for help while attending you.
Just saying.
If you were my offspring I would say NO. Not at this time. If a relative or good friend I would discourage doing it AT PRESENT TIME.
Being new riders that is.
I also would be remiss if did not mention, the KLR is a heavy beast. Not the ideal and this is my OPINION only, learner bike.
But, you are not my offspring, nor relative.
This is my advice, since you asked.
AND I THINK that is awesome.
We all need to ask questions,, get advice...see others view points from TIME to time....Good on you for being a person who can see the value in that.
I would say, best luck but in this situation, counting on LUCK to get you through is a totally bad idea (as always in everything).
Look at it more closely, plan it out, make some changes as needed, post pone is not forever.
Just means waiting until things are better lined up, more prepared, mastered the bike, etc.
I will say may your journey be and stay safe in which ever way you go
Very well said…..
Thanks, I don't want to sound preachy and hope Marin did not take it that way.
I do think errrr "older" riders have some responsibility to help out new riders, esp. ones who ASK for tips or advice.
That is what is great about this site.
Lots of talented folks with lots of tech knowledge.
I doubt their is one mechanical malady or mod or farkle that has not, somewhere on here been discussed, trouble shot or means of repair outlined.
It really is a vast collective of knowledge here.
And you have your opinion section for other stuff where folks can kick in their thoughts experiences. Kinda rare when you think about.
I grew up self taught and was amazed, decades later, after taking a MSF course and even later having a stint as a MSF instructor...the bad habits I had accumulated.
I started out in the late 60s early 70s but was doing it in the dirt first. My first BIG street bike came the year after HS.
And in the early to mid 70s, a 500cc bike was still considered a big bike ahahha.
Yamaha XS500. Many fine memories of riding that bike.
Even now, I strive to be a better rider AND improve each ride.
Continue to learn and apply.
Trail Braking...wow, that was a BIG revelation to me..and still don't have it down.
But when I ride... maybe in cornering, safety awareness or as the Military likes to or used to say "situational awareness" as I am riding, scanning and predicting, being at the ready and above all NOT getting into a "bad situation" in traffic, etc.
All I know is, motorcycles are the stuff....greatest most fun ever...heck, I get giddy just riding to the store......but riding comes with responsibility, sure
I do think errrr "older" riders have some responsibility to help out new riders, esp. ones who ASK for tips or advice.
That is what is great about this site.
Lots of talented folks with lots of tech knowledge.
I doubt their is one mechanical malady or mod or farkle that has not, somewhere on here been discussed, trouble shot or means of repair outlined.
It really is a vast collective of knowledge here.
And you have your opinion section for other stuff where folks can kick in their thoughts experiences. Kinda rare when you think about.
I grew up self taught and was amazed, decades later, after taking a MSF course and even later having a stint as a MSF instructor...the bad habits I had accumulated.
I started out in the late 60s early 70s but was doing it in the dirt first. My first BIG street bike came the year after HS.
And in the early to mid 70s, a 500cc bike was still considered a big bike ahahha.
Yamaha XS500. Many fine memories of riding that bike.
Even now, I strive to be a better rider AND improve each ride.
Continue to learn and apply.
Trail Braking...wow, that was a BIG revelation to me..and still don't have it down.
But when I ride... maybe in cornering, safety awareness or as the Military likes to or used to say "situational awareness" as I am riding, scanning and predicting, being at the ready and above all NOT getting into a "bad situation" in traffic, etc.
All I know is, motorcycles are the stuff....greatest most fun ever...heck, I get giddy just riding to the store......but riding comes with responsibility, sure
Rode the TAT in 2021 on 2012 klr. Two of us rode east to west. 27 days of solid riding with only one down day. Skipped Oregon as we wanted to go home and we were tired. Doing that part in June this summer. my advice -you do not have the experience to do this ride. East coast is mainly asphalt but from Mississippi west you are on dirt, and in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah, not always easy dirt roads. There should be two of you with a couple of thousand miles of “learning” dirt under your belt first. Much of the Wild West is just that - wild. No services around for 100 miles and you won’t see another rider or car for hours. You have to have a good gps ( the roll maps suck) and I would recommend a satellite recovery service like the Spot or a Garmin. In Colorado there is a section of the TAT where you pass a sign that says “no emergency services beyond this point” then the trail gets challenging. If you don’t have the skills to ride it, you will be in a world of hurt. Literally. Parts of Utah require you to have skills in sand. Deep sand sucks if you can’t handle it.
KLR’s are awesome bikes and can go just about anywhere. But they are not light. Thankfully I had two guys come on me and help me get the bike back upright at 11,000 ft on Cinnamon Pass when it took a dirt nap…aimed down hill…the wrong way down so I was lifting it uphill. This was after I had already picked it up but the kickstand folded under and back down onto the other side it went. Loooong day of technical riding and getting separated from my buddy and I was tired. KLR weight plus 100 lbs of gear and tools and it was difficult to get back upright. Hence why I say you need a riding buddy.
TAT is a real bucket list ride. Incredible experience I recommend to anyone with the interest and time and skills. It is not a ride for a new rider in my opinion and experience. Ride the two lane roads west. Find campgrounds or do some wild camping. Learn the bike, improve your skills on the road first. Then learn how to ride the dirt. Take some classes, they really do help. Attend some Rally’s like Touratech coming up in June in Washington ( find something close to home) and talk to the more experienced riders. Learn how to ride the dirt before taking on an epic ride like the TAT. Then you can really enjoy it!
KLR’s are awesome bikes and can go just about anywhere. But they are not light. Thankfully I had two guys come on me and help me get the bike back upright at 11,000 ft on Cinnamon Pass when it took a dirt nap…aimed down hill…the wrong way down so I was lifting it uphill. This was after I had already picked it up but the kickstand folded under and back down onto the other side it went. Loooong day of technical riding and getting separated from my buddy and I was tired. KLR weight plus 100 lbs of gear and tools and it was difficult to get back upright. Hence why I say you need a riding buddy.
TAT is a real bucket list ride. Incredible experience I recommend to anyone with the interest and time and skills. It is not a ride for a new rider in my opinion and experience. Ride the two lane roads west. Find campgrounds or do some wild camping. Learn the bike, improve your skills on the road first. Then learn how to ride the dirt. Take some classes, they really do help. Attend some Rally’s like Touratech coming up in June in Washington ( find something close to home) and talk to the more experienced riders. Learn how to ride the dirt before taking on an epic ride like the TAT. Then you can really enjoy it!
1 - 20 of 32 Posts
Kawasaki KLR Forum
A forum community dedicated to Kawasaki KLR 650 motorcycle owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, modifications, adjustments, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, conversions, and more!
Full Forum Listing
