3-Day Ride to the Great Salt Lake, Utah

[SpudRider]

The Fall riding weather is still very nice. Therefore, I decided to pack my J.C. Whitney travel trunk, and take my YamaZong for a 3-day excursion to Utah. :) As I rode south, the farmers were harvesting hay in the Mink Creek Valley. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09001.jpg

When I got to Arbon, Idaho, I found a good sized haystack. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09007.jpg

The Arbon Valley of Idaho is very beautiful. Here is a picture I took as I rode the length of the valley to Snowville, Utah.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09011.jpg

I encountered another haystack south of Arbon, so I stopped to get a picture. The friendly farmer stopped by and asked if I wanted to buy his hay; I declined. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09013.jpg

I always enjoy visiting Holbrook, so I stopped by the grain elevator to take a photograph, and stretch my legs. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09017.jpg

Shortly thereafter I entered Utah, and rode gravel roads all the way south to the northern edge of the Great Salt Lake. In the next installment I will continue my ride report from the Beehive State. :D

Spud :)

[Jim]

Sounds like a good trip, great photos :) I always liked grain elevators.

Not sure who watches Corner Gas, but we had to get a photo in front of this one on our trip a few years ago...
http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h32/truckgotstuck/biketrip07/Picture114.jpg

[Weldangrind]

Hey Spud,

Thanks for the photos; that looks like an amazing ride. Do you find that the trunk changes the center of gravity much?

Jim,

That's too funny! I took a similar photo when I passed through Rouleau last year. We have all six seasons on DVD. :D

[TurboT]

Great photos Spud!

Looks like an enjoyable time!

...and here I heard there was a hay shortage this year.

[SpudRider]

...Do you find that the trunk changes the center of gravity much?...
Surprisingly, even when the J.C. Whitney travel trunk is fully loaded, my Zong still handles very well! :D I was heading out into the “boondocks” as I approached the Great Salt Lake from the north, so I had an extra 1.5 gallons of gasoline stashed in the travel trunk, along with my clothing and supplies for the three-day trip. ;) I knew I would not find any gas pumps from Snowville, Utah, until I had traveled east across the Great Salt Lake to Ogden. ;) Therefore, my travel trunk was fully packed, but the bike still handled very well. :D
...and here I heard there was a hay shortage this year.
There is no hay shortage in Idaho, Turbo! :D We have had an unusually wet summer, and the harvest is abundant this year. :D

My Garmin GPS receiver was absolutely necessary as I headed south over the gravel roads, into the Great Basin. ;) As I continued southward I was rewarded with several beautiful views of the Great Salt Lake.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09027.jpg

This area is quite remote, populated only by ranches and public land. The rancher below probably travels 50 miles of rough road before he reaches the nearest gas pump.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09029.jpg

After a beautiful ride in the Promontory Mountains, I arrived at Golden Spike National Historic Site. This is the place where the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads met, and completed the Transcontinental Railroad on May 10, 1869. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09032.jpg

I drove to the Visitor’s Center, and parked the Zong on the sidewalk for a quick photograph. ;) However, a park ranger came out quickly, and asked me to move my motorcycle. When I explained I was just trying to get a quick photo, he offered to take the following picture. :) I posed, thanked him for his kindness, and quickly moved the Zong into the nearby parking lot. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09033.jpg

The U.S. National Park Service maintains the original monument commemorating this historic event of 1869.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09036.jpg

Every day, at the correct hour, the U.S. National Park Service brings two vintage steam locomotives to the historic spot. In this photograph, the Central Pacific locomotive is on the left, and the Union Pacific locomotive is on the right.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09042.jpg

In my next installment I will continue my ride report as I head south, to Promontory Point, where the Promontory Mountains project into the center of the Great Salt Lake. :)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

...I always liked grain elevators.

Not sure who watches Corner Gas, but we had to get a photo in front of this one on our trip a few years ago...
That is a beautiful photograph, Jim. :D

Spud :)

[Jim]

Thanks Spud.

How many miles did you put on? I had a similar trunk on my Lifan, and it worked great, they are very handy to have :D

[SpudRider]

Thanks Spud.

How many miles did you put on? I had a similar trunk on my Lifan, and it worked great, they are very handy to have :D
I did not record the mileage before, and after, my trip, Jim. However, I estimate I traveled about 500 miles during this 3-day excursion. :D My Zong's odometer rolled past 18,000 miles on this trip. :)

I love my J.C. Whitney travel trunk. :D It is rugged, waterproof, and easily locked, and unlocked, from my luggage rack. When I reach a motel, I unlock the travel trunk, and use it as my luggage. :D

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

After I left Golden Spike National Historic Site, I headed southward, on the west side of the Promontory Mountains. I reached the shoreline, but a gate on private land prevented me from continuing to Promontory Point. In the photo below, the Promontory Mountains are shown in the background

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09043.jpg

That’s one bad thing about using GPS; it tells you a road is there, but it doesn’t tell you if it is gated. ;)

I backtracked to Golden Spike, and headed down the east side of the Promontory Range, toward Promontory Point. Along the way you notice that the Great Salt Lake is quite shallow in this area, with large, briny salt flats extending from the lake toward the adjacent farmland. The photograph below shows the Wasatch Mountain Range in the distant east.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09049.jpg

Here is a close-up photograph of the farmland and range leading up to the salt flats, the Great Salt Lake, and the distant Wasatch Mountains.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09059.jpg

Here is a view looking back to the north, from which I had come. The Promontory Mountains are on the left; the old Transcontinental Railroad grade is at the horizon, running just north of the Great Salt Lake. In the distance, an experienced eye can discern the ATK Thiokol plant, where the SRB (solid rocket booster) units for the NASA space shuttle are produced.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09062.jpg

Below is a photograph I took last year, at the ATK Thiokol plant.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/GoldenSpike121.jpg

Continuing farther south, the Great Salt Lake becomes wider, and the salt flats approach closer to the Promontory Mountains.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09069.jpg

Getting closer to Promontory Point, the Great Salt Lake continues to widen.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09084.jpg

At Promontory Point, the Great Salt Lake gets much deeper. The photograph below was taken from Promontory Point, looking southeast, toward Antelope Island, on the horizon. Once again, the briny salt flats extend for a hundred yards or more, into the lake.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09092.jpg

At this point, I decided to head east, across the Great Salt Lake, to Ogden. Rather than follow the railroad east, I decided to take a road that parallels some solar evaporation ponds, used to harvest potassium-bearing salts from the lake. Below is a photograph taken from the road, looking northeast, with the Wasatch Mountains reflected in the water. If you look closely, you can see some salt sticking to the underside of the Zong’s fender. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09120.jpg

Looking to the south, you can see Antelope Island, with "saltbergs" floating in the briny water. :D

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09124.jpg

Here is a close-up view of Antelope Island, and the "saltbergs." :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09127.jpg

Getting closer to Ogden, the solar evaporation ponds get saltier.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09131.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09133.jpg

Closer yet to Ogden, the solar evaporation ponds become large reservoirs of potassium-bearing salts. These enormous piles of salt are moved about by bulldozers, and transported by truck.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09135.jpg

I passed a large pile of the harvested salt as I left the Great Salt Lake, and once again reached landfall, a few miles west of Ogden.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09138.jpg

As the sun was setting, I traveled to Ogden to spend the night at Motel 6. :)

In my next installment I will continue my ride report as I head east, into the Wasatch Mountains, riding high above the Great Salt Lake Valley. :)

Spud :)

[Jim]

Thanks for the pictures and story.

18,000 MILES? Wow, definitely getting your money's worth. Does your odometer read in miles or km's?

[frostbite]

Finally, a picture of Spud! I thought you'd be taller. :lol: :lol: :lol:

[FastDoc]

Dude, I was just there on a bike trip. I was in Pocatello also, but on a Gold Wing. You are my hero on a CB!

[FastDoc]

We stayed at that little $hithole in Snowville. We must have crossed paths many times.

[FastDoc]

We did Wa, OR, ID, UT, AZ, CO, and WY in 10 days and 2,200 miles, but I was on The WIng. You are hard core buddy. Maybe next year I'll meet up with you on the Q.

BTW, I ride through the winter, but I expect it's milder here...

[SpudRider]

Thanks for the pictures and story.

18,000 MILES? Wow, definitely getting your money's worth. Does your odometer read in miles or km's?
I agree; I definitely got my money's worth from my Zongshen Sierra 200GY-2 motorcycle! :D

The odometer on my Zong measures miles; I have verified its accuracy. :) I just got back from a two-day trip to the Big Lost River Range; I am now closing in on 19,000 miles on the odometer. :D

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

Finally, a picture of Spud! I thought you'd be taller. :lol: :lol: :lol:
My cover is blown! :lol: For the record, I am 6'-0" tall, Craig. :)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

We stayed at that little $hithole in Snowville. We must have crossed paths many times.
I'm sorry I missed you, Doc! Let me know the next time you are coming my way; you can test ride my YamaZong and post your impressions on this forum. ;)

Spud :)

[AZ200cc]

Those old trains in the background are awesome, You have a great state to ride in..........Might hafta move there in my geezer days.

[SpudRider]

Those old trains in the background are awesome, You have a great state to ride in..........Might hafta move there in my geezer days.
Thank you, AZ. :)

I am teaching a motorcycle rider safety class on Sunday; I will post my Wasatch Range photographs on Monday. :)

Spud :)

[Jim]

Does your school use any China Bikes?

[SpudRider]

Does your school use any China Bikes?
No, Jim; Idaho STAR owns a fleet of Japanese motorcycles. My home training site uses Suzuki GZ250, Kawasaki BN125 Eliminator, Yamaha TW200, and Yamaha XT225 motorcycles. Another training site where I work uses Suzuki DR200SE motorcycles, instead of Yamaha XT225 bikes. :)

Spud :)

[Jim]

I always thought that Chinese bike dealers / distributors should target riding schools, offer them good bulk discounts and so on. Imagine Idaho Star with a nice shinny fleet of Qingqi/Q-link super motos. :D (or yamazongs :wink: )

[SpudRider]

After spending the night in Ogden, I left the next morning to ride in the Wasatch Range. Skyline Drive begins in Farmington, Utah, and ascends the Wasatch Mountains to elevations exceeding 9,000 feet above sea level. This first photograph was taken near Francis Peak. Looking west, almost 5,000 vertical feet below, you can see Antelope Island, and the Great Salt Lake in the background. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09167.jpg

The next photograph looks down a nearby canyon to Antelope Island, and the vast Great Salt Lake Valley.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09158.jpg

Here is a close-up photograph of Antelope Island, and the nearby towns of Syracuse, Layton, and Kaysville, Utah.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09149.jpg

On the other side of the ridge, looking east, the city of Morgan is visible in the distance.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09186.jpg

Many small trails branch off from Skyline Drive. Heading to the north a fun trail yields excellent views to the south of Morgan, into East Canyon.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09207.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09214.jpg

Heading south from Francis Peak, you are rewarded with many beautiful views of the valley. In the next photograph the Promontory Mountains I visited the day before are visible in the distance, above the Zong’s mirrors. Hill Air Force Base, in Ogden, is also visible above the Zong’s luggage rack. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09219.jpg

Many beautiful canyons extend into the valley below. :) Solar evaporation ponds west of Farmington provide a foreground to the Oquirrh Mountains, which extend from the south to the shore of the Great Salt Lake. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09231.jpg

Heading south to Bountiful Peak, a fun little trail leads to slightly lower, but more intimate views of the valley below. :) The following photographs sweep the horizon from the Oquirrh Mountains, south of the Great Salt Lake, past Antelope Island to the Promontory Mountains, north of the lake. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09240.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09261.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09262.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09263.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09264.jpg

Backtracking up the small trail, I headed for Bountiful Peak. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09266.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09269.jpg

I parked the Zong below Bountiful Peak, and climbed several hundred feet to the summit. In the following photograph, Francis Peak is in the background, to the north. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09279.jpg

At an elevation of 9,259 feet above sea level, Bountiful Peak is approximately 5,000 feet higher than the Great Salt Lake. Here is a view from the summit, looking north to Francis Peak. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09282.jpg

Here is a view from the summit, looking to the east. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09287.jpg

Here is a summit view, looking to the south. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09291.jpg

Here is a view looking to the west, across the Great Salt Lake, with Antelope Island in the center, and the Promontory Mountains on the horizon to the right. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09298.jpg

Descending from the summit, I rode south. Skyline Drive descends into the valley just north of the Mormon temple in Bountiful, Utah. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09349.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09353.jpg

After an afternoon of great riding, I headed south to Utah's capitol city. :D In my next installment I will continue my ride report from downtown Salt Lake City, where I visited the annual Utah State Fair. :)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

I always thought that Chinese bike dealers / distributors should target riding schools, offer them good bulk discounts and so on. Imagine Idaho Star with a nice shinny fleet of Qingqi/Q-link super motos. :D (or yamazongs :wink: )
That is an excellent idea, Jim. :) However, it seems the Chinese communists fail to fully understand capitalist economics. ;)

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

Thanks for the amazing photos Spud.

Where is your trunk? How did your bike breathe at 9000 feet? 8O

[FastDoc]

Spud:

a) Do you get nervous being so far away from town in the hills on your won? I'd be concerned for breakdowns and injuries and no one to help. I frequently ride 'way out there' on my own and it occurs to me it's not such a good idea. I have my tools, handgun, and cell phone but still...

b) Wanna take me next year? I can take my Q there on my little pickup and we could have a grand time! Or, we can do the Cascade Mountains out here...

[SpudRider]

Thanks for the amazing photos Spud.

Where is your trunk? How did your bike breathe at 9000 feet? 8O
You're welcome, WG. :)

I left my travel trunk at the motel, in Ogden. After visiting the Utah State Fair in Salt Lake City, I returned to Ogden to spend the night. :)

After installing the FMF Turbine Core 2 spark arrestor/silencer, my Zong is running a bit rich, even at my home elevation of 4,400 feet above sea level. The Zong was definitely running even richer at 9,000+ feet above sea level, but the bike still breathed very well. :) The Zongshen/Yamaha TW200 airbox provides plently of oxygen for the tough little 167FML engine. China Riders member Madbare rides his Zong at 9,000 feet above sea level, in Colorado, and he has also installed the same FMF silencer on his bike. He has jetted down his carburetor, and I plan to do the same in the near future. :)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

Spud:

a) Do you get nervous being so far away from town in the hills on your won? I'd be concerned for breakdowns and injuries and no one to help. I frequently ride 'way out there' on my own and it occurs to me it's not such a good idea. I have my tools, handgun, and cell phone but still...
After riding it for 19,000 miles, I trust my Zong's reliability. :) However, I carry the same equipment as you, whenever I ride "out back." ;)
...
b) Wanna take me next year? I can take my Q there on my little pickup and we could have a grand time! Or, we can do the Cascade Mountains out here...
I would love to go riding with you, Doc; the Pacific Northwest is a beautiful place to live, and ride. :D

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Cool Spud. I'll put that on my list of stuff to look forward to.

As far as dangers go I was not thinking so much as a breakdown but a flat, broken chain, or broken arm or leg.

I'm out in places I'd have no idea how to tell someone to come and get me.

I usually carry a can of fix a flat with my tools but the constant vibration and shaking of the bike tends to blow up the can making a sticky mess.

[SpudRider]

...As far as dangers go I was not thinking so much as a breakdown but a flat, broken chain, or broken arm or leg...
You make some excellent points, Doc. I am going to start carrying an inner tube patch kit, and two small tire irons with me. ;) My Tsubaki 428HQR drive train is of very high quality. Also, I regulary inspect, tighten, and lubricate my drive chain; therefore, I trust its reliability.

I ride pretty conservatively, especially when I am in remote areas. ;) Therefore, I am not too concerned about broken limbs.
...I'm out in places I'd have no idea how to tell someone to come and get me...
I always bring my Garmin GPS and cell phone with me whenever I head into fairly remote areas. Therefore, once I obtain cell phone coverage, I am pretty confident I can always give someone my exact location. :)

When I lived in suburban Portland, Oregon, I used to belong to the Mazamas mountaineering club. On every hike we made, let alone every climb, we always carried the "Ten Essentials."

http://www.mazamas.org/your/adventure/nw/hiking-with-the-mazamas-and-aym/

I think I am going to renew that practice when riding my YamaZong. ;)

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

extra clothing (extra layers, warm hat & gloves, extra socks)
sun protection (sunscreen, hat with brim)
extra food (snack bar, munchies)
topographic map of your area
first aid kit
headlamp or flashlight
pocket knife
compass
fire-starter or waterproof matches
emergency whistle

I'd add:

High quality firearm.

Leatherman tool.

The problem with cell phones is that we are out in places without coverage.

Oh well. Most of the great things worth doing in life involve risk. Heck, I'm a pilot and a motorcycle rider, AND I was once married! 8O
Your GPS idea is good too.

[Cal25]

I dont carry the tools to fix a flat on my short rides. I do however have a small tire pump from a bicycle in my day pack I have mounted on the back rack.

I suppose I would pack tire irons and such if I was venturing too far off the regular roads and cell coverage.

I also TRY to remember to leave my truck keys at home.


As always Spud, I very much enjoy the wonderfull pics you share with us.

[FastDoc]

It beats a day long hike into town but the thought of changing a flat out on the trail somewhere. What a PIA. When I had the HSUN I put in heavy duty tubes and Slime. I should do the same with Q.

[phil]

spud i understand capitalism let me know if i can arrange something :D
fastdoc i would also add a liitle gas in a old coleman gas can the kind backpackers use, when i can a friend to help me pick up the pieces that fall or get knocked off (me not bike 8O ) i also never leave home without the quality firearm. the firearm reduces my odd on being on t.v. UNSOLVED MYSTERIES :lol:

[FastDoc]

Amen Brother Phil.

Let Freedom Ring.

Something the poor bastards who build our bikes can't experence for themselves.

[phil]

just for now they cant but capitalism breeds democracy so they may have hope im more worried for us or U.S. (i am doing my best to stay off my soapbox for brothers up north who are under gun laws i dont understand)

[Weldangrind]

extra clothing (extra layers, warm hat & gloves, extra socks)
sun protection (sunscreen, hat with brim)
extra food (snack bar, munchies)
topographic map of your area
first aid kit
headlamp or flashlight
pocket knife
compass
fire-starter or waterproof matches
emergency whistle

I'd add:

High quality firearm.

Leatherman tool.

The problem with cell phones is that we are out in places without coverage.

Oh well. Most of the great things worth doing in life involve risk. Heck, I'm a pilot and a motorcycle rider, AND I was once married! 8O
Your GPS idea is good too.

I'd add:

Ride with a buddy. :)

[SpudRider]

I dont carry the tools to fix a flat on my short rides. I do however have a small tire pump from a bicycle in my day pack I have mounted on the back rack...
Yes, I need to get a small tire pump! :)
...As always Spud, I very much enjoy the wonderfull pics you share with us.
Thank you for the kind words, Cal. :) I still have more photographs to share from this enjoyable excursion to the Beehive State. :)

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

After exiting Skyline Drive in Bountiful, I headed south to Salt Lake City. :) I am using a 13-tooth countershaft sprocket, along with a 50-tooth sprocket on my YamaZong’s eighteen-inch rear wheel. This combination gives me enough torque to fight both headwinds, and significant inclines. :) My Zong cruises easily at 60 mph, indicated, with a top speed of 70 mph. My Zong will go even faster downhill, but I don't know how fast, since the bike “pegs” the speedometer after 120 kph (approximately 75 mph). ;) If necessary, I can travel on limited-access freeways for short distances, but I do not do so frequently! ;) Therefore, I had all the power I needed to contend with the heavy traffic, and the crazy drivers in Salt Lake City! 8O

After riding all day in the Wasatch Mountains, I was quite hungry as I entered Salt Lake City! However, I made a quick detour to get a couple of photographs before I visited my favorite Chinese restaurant. :)

First, I headed up Capitol Hill, to get a picture of my YamaZong in front of the Utah State Capitol building.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09354.jpg

I then headed downtown to get the obligatory photograph in front of the Salt Lake Temple. ;)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09357.jpg

My photographic mission completed, I headed west on North Temple Street to my favorite, Chinese restaurant! :D This restaurant is conveniently located across the street from the Utah State Fairgrounds. I parked the Zong, ate a delicious, hearty meal, and walked across the street to visit the Utah State Fair. :)

The butter sculpture is a long-standing tradition at the Utah State Fair. This year’s sculpture depicted a farmer playing the accordion, and two dancing cows. :D The farmer, and cows, were both about 5 feet tall! The butter sculpture is kept in a refrigerated case to prevent melting. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09359.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09360.jpg

Among other things, I also discovered what fashionable Utah sheep were wearing to the fair! :D

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09363.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09365.jpg

After visiting the fair for several hours, I rode my Zong back north to Ogden, to spend another night at Motel 6, before riding home to Idaho. :)

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

That paisley-looking fabric is so 2008. Fashionable sheep, my foot. :wink:

Excellent photos Spud. Did you decide against that Clarke tank? It seems that it would preclude a gas can in the trunk.

[SpudRider]

That paisley-looking fabric is so 2008. Fashionable sheep, my foot. :wink: ...
You must remember, these are Utah sheep, not New York City sheep! :lol:
...Excellent photos Spud. Did you decide against that Clarke tank? It seems that it would preclude a gas can in the trunk.
I am most certainly going to mount the Clarke fuel tank, WG! :D I just wanted to make this 3-day trip in warm weather, and I have not had the time to get the Clarke fuel tank mounted. ;)

Spud :)

[AZ200cc]

Sheeep in spandex? Kinky

[Weldangrind]

Sheeep in spandex? Kinky

I'm glad you said that before I did. :wink:

[TurboT]

Sheeep in spandex? Kinky

I'm glad you said that before I did. :wink:

..and I'll be the first to say, "ewwwwwwww"

8O

[SpudRider]

Sheeep in spandex? Kinky
I can't even make an innocent trip to the fair! 8O What about the butter sculpture and the other photographs? :? Now we know where AZ has his mind! :roll: :lol:

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

You're the one photographing sheep that have been dressed up. :lol:

[TurboT]

You're the one photographing sheep that have been dressed up. :lol:

Yeah you might want to 'lose' those sheep photos, someone might get the wrong idea. ;)

[AZ200cc]

Hey Everyone thought it I was just the first to say it :lol:

NOW BACK ON TOPIC PEOPLE!! SHeeeeesh :lol:

Nothing to see here

[Cal25]

Sheeep in spandex? Kinky
I can't even make an innocent trip to the fair! 8O What about the butter sculpture and the other photographs? :? Now we know where AZ has his mind! :roll: :lol:

Spud :)

Udderly amazing!

[FastDoc]

FWIW peole do that to sheep to keep their coats clean befor being shown. Some horse people dom it also. My cat hates Spandex, although she does have the figure for it.

Spud, thanks for taking the time to post the pics. You have totally inspired me to take a trip on Q. :D

[SpudRider]

FWIW peole do that to sheep to keep their coats clean befor being shown. Some horse people dom it also...
Thank you for reminding me to point out this salient fact, oh wise physician! :lol:

I undoubtedly should have mentioned this fact in the original post! ;) The annual state fair is a big event in all rural, western American states. People from across the state bring their finest livestock to be judged. Prior to judging, the livestock are groomed for their best appearance. Since the fair stalls can get soiled during the weeklong event, many, if not most owners, cover their sheep, and horses, with show blankets to keep their coats clean for judging. ;)

I have been going to state fairs for many years, so I am familiar with this practice. However, I forgot that many members of this forum are not familiar with livestock judging, and would not be aware of this practice. ;)

In the past, I have only seen the plain, traditional sheep blanket sold in the link below.

http://www.sullivansupply.com/Iowa/detail.aspx?ID=12565

This year was the first time I had seen the colored sheep blankets. :) Fellow China Riders, you never know what you might learn reading the posts in the Dual Sport Forum! :lol:
…Spud, thanks for taking the time to post the pics. You have totally inspired me to take a trip on Q. :D
You are welcome, Doc. :D Thanks once again for reminding me to explain this common practice, which I forgot was unfamiliar to many of our forum members. ;)

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

We have to 'splain stuff to the city folks, Spud. :D

[SpudRider]

After a good night’s rest in Ogden, I loaded my J.C. Whitney travel trunk and headed back north to Idaho. :)

Needless to say, I usually travel the secondary and tertiary roads with my 200cc motorcycle. ;) Initially, I considered riding the back roads a great limitation on my travel speed. However, I now very much appreciate the relaxed pace, and the many interesting places I get to visit by avoiding the interstate highways. :D As I visit the many small towns, I stop frequently to take pictures, stretch my legs, and talk to the local citizens. If people comment about the small size of my motorcycle, I have a standard response; I tell everyone that it takes me twice as long to get where I am going, but I always have at least four times the fun getting there! :D

Riding north up the Wasatch Front, I encountered this interesting billboard just south of Brigham City, Utah.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09375.jpg

There is no doubt; this billboard contains a true, and sobering fact for all motorcycle riders! ;) I commend the Utah Department of Public Safety for their ingenuity. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09370.jpg

Entering Brigham City, I decided to get a quick photograph in front of an historic Mormon building, the Box Elder Tabernacle.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09376.jpg

Traveling north of Brigham City, I closely paralleled the beautiful Wasatch Range. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09380.jpg

I traveled north to Fielding, Utah, where I filled my fuel tank, and my stomach. :) As I ate my lunch, I chatted with a friendly couple. The husband encouraged me to take a different route home than I had originally planned, and I decided to take his advice. ;) I backtracked slightly, and headed east into Utah’s beautiful Cache Valley. As I rode north to Cache Junction, I was rewarded with beautiful views to the east of the mountains rising above the city of Logan. :D

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09385.jpg

Shortly thereafter, I returned to the Gem State, Idaho. :) The following photograph shows the mountains west of the village of Clifton.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09388.jpg

Continuing north, I came to Red Rock Pass, just south of Downey. It was raining in the distance, but I was fortunate to remain dry during my entire journey. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09390.jpg

Red Rock Pass delineates a boundary of the American Great Basin. North of this pass, all water flows into the Snake River drainage basin, and exits into the Pacific Ocean. South of this pass, all water flows into the Great Salt Lake, and eventually evaporates, never flowing to the sea.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09394.jpg

Red Rock Pass is also the site where ancient Lake Bonneville overflowed an alluvial dam, about 14,500 years ago. The remnant of the receding Lake Bonneville eventually became the landlocked Great Salt Lake.

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09396.jpg

Continuing northward into very familiar territory, I quickly arrived safely home. :)

Spud :)

[Weldangrind]

You're an interesting guy Spud. Thanks for photo-documenting your amazing journey.

Yes, I'm familiar with fairs (ours is called the Agrifair), but it was fun to tease about the sheep. No foul intended. :wink:

[SpudRider]

You're an interesting guy Spud. Thanks for photo-documenting your amazing journey.

Yes, I'm familiar with fairs (ours is called the Agrifair), but it was fun to tease about the sheep. No foul intended. :wink:
Thank you for the kind words, WG. :) No problema; I was not offended. ;)

Spud :)

[AZ200cc]

Hey sheep jokes have ben around as long as rednecks have populated the earth :lol: I grew up on a Farm/ranch/wreckingyard/outhouse...I understand some. :lol:

But Idaho looks like an awesome place to be, I am in awe....I thought my area was awesome but that place offers more.
And that sign is a good reminder of how it can go with one wrong move.

[SpudRider]

...Idaho looks like an awesome place to be, I am in awe....I thought my area was awesome but that place offers more.
And that sign is a good reminder of how it can go with one wrong move.
Thank you, AZ. :) Indeed, Idaho is a beautiful place to live and ride. :D

When I passed that sign, riding north, it took me several seconds to comprehend the message. ;) Once I understood, I knew that I must immediately turn back and get a photograph! :D I have not seen a more witty message promoting motorcycle rider safety; I must truly compliment the Utah Department of Public Safety. :D :lol:

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

…18,000 MILES? Wow, definitely getting your money's worth…
I thoroughly enjoyed my trip into the American Great Basin. I also continue to be gratified, and completely satisfied, with the performance and reliability of my Zongshen Sierra 200GY-2 motorcycle! :D

Despite the negative comments I sometimes read about it, my Zong’s 167FML engine has been completely reliable. :) I don’t do anything extraordinary to keep it running well; I just regularly change the oil, and occasionally adjust the valve clearance. ;) This engine is an almost exact copy of the same engine used in the 1987-2009 Yamaha TW200 motorcycles; it is a wonderful, bulletproof, little powerplant. :D

After my Yamaha XT225 swingarm conversion, and the FMF Turbine Core 2 silencer installation, my Zong lost twenty pounds. :D My YamaZong is now light enough to be a very capable trail bike, but it is also heavy enough to travel well on the street, even when fighting the frequently stiff Idaho winds. :D

In particular, I love my Zong’s wide, comfortable saddle! I frequently ride 200-300 miles a day, and I could not make these rides without a comfortable seat. :D

After riding this motorcycle over 19,000 miles, I am still very pleased to own it! :D With the addition of a Yamaha XT225 Clarke fuel tank, my YamaZong will become a superb, small displacement adventure bike, with excellent trail capability. :D

I hear rumors that production of the Zongshen Sierra 200GY-2 might be discontinued. If so, I am very glad I purchased my Zong while it was still available. I am confident I can run this motorcycle for twenty years, using Yamaha parts. My Zongshen 200GY-2 motorcycle is a close copy of the excellent Yamaha TW200 motorcycle. However, my Zong’s saddle is much more comfortable than the TW200 saddle, and fitting a larger fuel tank to my Zong requires fewer modifications. ;)

Maybe I just got a good bike, manufactured on a Friday, when all the Chinese workers were happy! :lol: Whatever the circumstances, I love my Zongshen Sierra 200GY-2 motorcycle. After riding it over 19,000 miles, I enjoy it more than ever! This bike is an exceptional value, and I intend to keep it for a very long time. :D

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

19,000 on a Zong 8O . I 'only' have 21,000 on my 2007 Goldwing! I could use a Zong as a dinghy just to get to shore :D .

You are hard core Spud. Is the Zong your only streetbike?

[SpudRider]

19,000 on a Zong 8O...You are hard core Spud. Is the Zong your only streetbike?
Yes, the Zong is my only motorcycle; I don't have room to store another bike. ;) Also, I really enjoy riding dual sport motorcycles. I love to ride in the mountains, and I also love riding on gravel roads. :) Some of Idaho's most beautiful scenery is viewed from its gravel roads. ;) I enjoy the ground clearance, suspension, torque, traction, and easy maintenance of my dual sport YamaZong. :)

I have recently considered buying a Kawasaki KLR650, or Suzuki DR650SE. However, I really enjoy riding my YamaZong; the Yamaha XT225 adjustable shock absorber is excellent, and the Zong's wide saddle is quite comfortable! :D The Zong is easy to maintain, and economical to ride and repair. Since I only paid $950 for it, I ride it like I stole it! :D The KLR650 is a great motorcycle, and definitely more road worthy than my Zong. However, my much lighter, lower YamaZong is easier to handle on the trails than the KLR650. I have decided that I can't justify the price difference to switch to the KLR650. The YamaZong goes fast enough to allow me to safely arrive at any destination I choose, and the lighter, lower Zong, sans fairing, gives me the confidence to explore any trail I discover along the way. :)

I don't like tall dual sport motorcycles, and I really don't like the hard, narrow saddles found on most of them. My YamaZong has become a very nice little adventure bike! :D Once I add the 3.5 gallon Clarke fuel tank, I think my YamaZong will compare very favorably with many Japanese motorcycles. The Zong's low price tag is an added feature; I can do a lot of riding with the extra $3,000-$4,000 I saved buying this bike. ;)

Here is a photograph I took several days ago from a local mountain in Idaho. :)

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/ChallistoHoweLoopTrip045.jpg

I am quite happy to own the YamaZong as my only motorcycle. :)

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Ride it into the ground and have fun doing it, Spud. :D

Has Fall arrived in your neck of the woods yet? It's cooling off here. I don't like it. :?

[SpudRider]

Ride it into the ground and have fun doing it, Spud. :D ...
Thanks for the encouragement, Doc; that's my plan! :D
...Has Fall arrived in your neck of the woods yet? It's cooling off here. I don't like it. :?
Yes, Fall arrived with a vengeance on Wednesday. :( I'm afraid the really good riding weather is gone for this year. :evil: I will dress more warmly, and continue to ride, but I prefer to ride when the temperatures are in the eighties, and higher. ;) This is why I made my 3-day excursion to the Great Basin while the weather was still warm. ;)

Speaking of excursions, I also decided to make a 2-day trip to Idaho's Lost River Range and Lemhi Range of mountains before the weather turned cooler this year. It was a beautiful trip; perhaps I should post a ride report? ;)

Spud :)

[FastDoc]

Of course you should post a ride report!

On the Zong, may I suggest a cheap generic handlebar mounted windshield, and a good electric vest, and a sense of humor. Even in your neck of the woods, you'll get an extra month riding at the end and again at the beginning of the season. 8)

I ride 10 month/year, but I have a milder climate, and a Gold Wing with heated grips, feet, legs, and seat. Cheating. :P

Also, I can ride off road almost all year on Q as the speeds are low and the physical workload is higher.

Never say die, Spud. :D

I'd rather freeze on a bike than be warm on a cage.

But I'm an odd duck. :roll:

[SpudRider]

Of course you should post a ride report!...
I am teaching a motorcycle rider safety class for Idaho STAR this weekend. However, I will post my ride report after the class is finished. :)
…On the Zong, may I suggest a cheap generic handlebar mounted windshield, and a good electric vest, and a sense of humor. Even in your neck of the woods, you'll get an extra month riding at the end and again at the beginning of the season. 8)

I ride 10 month/year, but I have a milder climate, and a Gold Wing with heated grips, feet, legs, and seat. Cheating. :P …
Yes, that is cheating! :lol: I rode the Zong every month last year. :D As long as the roads are clear, I will try to do the same this year. ;)
…Also, I can ride off road almost all year on Q as the speeds are low and the physical workload is higher…
We received snow in the mountains several days ago, Doc. However, it will melt in a few days, and I will still get some trail riding done before they gate off the mountain roads for the winter. ;)
…Never say die, Spud. :D

I'd rather freeze on a bike than be warm on a cage….
Amen! :D

Spud :)

[SpudRider]

The weather has suddenly turned colder here in Idaho. I am truly glad I made my trip to the Great Salt Lake while the weather was nice. :)

You can spend a lot of time exploring the fun trails that lead off Skyline Drive. I made this trip last year, with my stock, factory Zong. The trip this year was even more enjoyable riding my more trailworthy YamaZong. :D

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09206.jpg

http://i442.photobucket.com/albums/qq146/spudrider/SLC%20Trip%20September%202009/SLC9-17-09210.jpg

Spud :)