Sorry guys, I thought I had submitted some input on this topic. The supplimentary ad-hoc meeting at the race track was excellent. There was a clarity of thought and efficiency about the proceedings that quite frankly blew away any typical meeting in the Bay State.
Was it the Patron? Was it the brisk race fuel laden air? Was it the rolling northwest CT hills? Was it the mezmorizing orange flicker of the dish fire flames?
There is something to be said about #3's comment about all machines looking good in the July heat. That is a very insightful observation. Not sure if it's the gloomy global economic conditions, or the fact that for many years now most of the seemingly commited riders that have backed out of the trip just can't swing the distance, or a strong swell of American, or yesteryear pride - but when Maine was mentioned (by #3) there was an immediate resounding chord of support!
I have presented a Maine/Canada/Maine trip for the last 2 years. A loop that would consist of trailering to Jackman (perhaps the Bloods?), getting a 1 or 2 day pass to Quebec (which can be picked up the day of the ride from the first warming hut as we have done in the past), travelling northeast paralleling the US/Canada border, then dropping back into Ft. Kent, heading south through Presque Isle, and to Millinocket, then turning west through Baxter State Park, around Moosehead Lake and back into those beautiful cabins for a final night celebration. I think that could be done in 4 days of riding.
Snow conditions will dictate as always. We could always do day trips into Canada and around the lake, and maybe a single overnight loop up to Caribou.
I will put together a more researched proposition for the first meeting in Sept. But the idea of talking snow machine has already got me excited!
Enjoy the remainder of this hot lazy summer. The nights have already turned...
One of the many pluses of attending a Lime Rock Raceway event is that you can avoid traffic on the MA Pike by leaving at off peak times. For example... If you wanted to visit on Friday, why not plan to arrive at 9 or 9:30 just in time for the camp fire discussion and the bottle of Patron that was leaking from the top. This would have allowed you to leave from Easton after 6pm. Or perhaps one might choose to leave at 5:30 saturday morning. This would put you at the camp site in time for breakfast and well before the days warm ups. Out the door by 3:00/ 3:30 and back home for dinner or to the lake for a refreshing swim. You have options my friend.
The rumors of me coming to the far edge of the earth (Northwest CT) were greatly exaggerated. Mapquest told me 3 hours 5 minutes+Friday night traffic on the pike would have equalled 4 plus hours of driving.
Maine is good for me. I'm planning on registering there this winter anyways. It's also where this little obsession of mine started.
I will never have a problem going to Gaspe' either. The views of the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other side make it worth the long drive.
Northern Maine and the Gaspee were discussed. It sounded like Maine may have the edge at this point. Snow depths will weigh heavily in the finial choice.
Dates were not mentioned. We all agreed that it would be prudent to consult the Farmers Almanac before making any suggestions.
It seems everyone is currently happy with their rides. They all look real nice in the heat.
Yes the cars were fast. Faster day two. The rain slowed a few drivers down on day one.
Their was a rumor that you might show. Many of us were giddy with anticipation.