[Ep 1 of 2] Trans America Trail -Tips and Insight. Virginia to the Rockies

TAT ride report with observations and advice on motorcycle camping, equipment, preparation. It provides an overview of what to expect and help you prepare for this epic journey.

[@TheWinger1008]

Just completed the same trip in 2020 (well almost) I started in Naggs Head NC instead. Followed Sams route. It's nice to see some of the same places I visited. Did mine in the beginning of September and by the time I hit Colorado I was so done being hot! Advice for anyone doing this no matter if it's just a few states or the entire thing make sure you have plenty of liquid. If you think you have enough, double it. It was an epic trip filled with highs and lows but I wouldn't trade a single moment for anything. Thanks for posting.

[@jrdepew]

You are so right on all those points. I’m itching for another adventure to equal or exceed. Thanks for watching.

[@coolbananaboy5075]

Your videos are legit! Your experience and expertise is amazing - you're a wealth of knowledge. Thanks for doing the videos!

[@jrdepew]

I appreciate that!

[@chriscopeland1318]

Awesome! Loved it.

[@jrdepew]

Thank you!

[@danielcarroll5667]

Fantastic ! Thank you for sharing this with us !

[@jrdepew]

Your very welcome…it was a memorable trip and there are many more on the channel…

[@DavidNorthcutt-gk1jn]

This is the riding like to . This is a great video.

[@ArizonaAdv]

Great Job ""RIDE ON""

[@jamesphillips2141]

You are correct, this is a bucket trip list for me! Enjoyed the video and looking forward to part 2 as well as the WYBDR.

[@jrdepew]

Thank you, WYBDR is in planning stage. Probably do it with my Son.

[@user-pc7pc8yb3n]

Very nice job on the videos! THANK YOU for sharing!

[@jrdepew]

Glad you like them!

[@bigstu3856]

Great video looking forward to the rest of the trip

[@jrdepew]

Thanks. Not the best videography but I’m learning . Hope it’s helps anyone planning a TAT adventure.

[@tonyrdr7207]

Excellent videos very entertaining and informative. Subscribed like you I stopped counting years after 40 and am still young at heart. So people like you give me hope and assure me I am not totally deluded doing the harder trails. We appreciate all the hard work that goes into the editing. Subscribed 😊

[@jrdepew]

Thank you. The TAT videos were a very rough start to videoing a ride…later ones improved!

[@troyrunyan249]

Incredible! I will probably not ever do that trip, but I'm great full for this great video and to get to see it on here.

[@jrdepew]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@DinosTinkerShed]

Great video, love the footage and pace of the content. Just love it

[@jrdepew]

Glad you enjoyed it! The very first attempt to video and edit so its pretty rough You produce great content. Thanks for commenting.

[@DinosTinkerShed]

@@jrdepew keep it up, I really enjoyed it a lot.

[@ajkylen]

Fantastic riding I’m jealous as hell

[@jrdepew]

Thanks for watching. Makes the editing effort worth it when it’s enjoyable.

[@ThePriceIsRising]

Sooo wanting to do the TAT, but a bit nervous. I was going to do it solo, but at 55 years old, not sure that's a bright idea😂. Plus, my DR650 breaking down, while alone. Im fairly mechanically inclined, but concerned about that one problem that I cannot solve and being in the middle of a long lonesome road. Appreciate these great videos !

[@jrdepew]

You can do it! I never had a single mechanical issue other than a flat. There is always someone who will help with what ever comes up. Be prudent and prepared and go forth!

[@ThePriceIsRising]

@@jrdepew ; I'm probably overthinking it. You are correct!

[@jimmallery294]

Nice video, thanks!

[@jrdepew]

Glad you liked it!

[@ALittleDTour]

Nice video. Looks like it was a really great ride.

[@jrdepew]

It was! First attempt at videos and later ones on channel much improved. Thanks for watching!

[@bdayo4406]

Quality info. Big Thanks! Oklahoma, part of the stitching of the fabric.

[@jrdepew]

You bet!

[@Heartlanddualsport]

Good stuff my friend. Thanks for sharing. dale

[@jrdepew]

Thank you, for watching and comment!

[@davec.3198]

The TAT is on my list. I just picked up a 300KLX and plan to use this bike to tackle this ride in the next few years. Thank you for sharing.

[@jrdepew]

You and that bike will do it!

[@thegreatoutthere]

Thanks for the videos! I rode the eastern half of the TAT on a Suzuki V-Strom 650 back to my home in central Arkansas. Then I rode the western sections on my WR250R! I know there are plenty of riders who love the big bikes, but if I was going to ride it again I'd go as light as possible. As a fellow "Senior rider", it's important to be equipped for the worst sections - and light is best. Less is More - which is why I coined the term: MotorBikePacking: the intersection of bicycle bikepacking and ADV riding!

[@jrdepew]

Right. I’m going to be riding my WR250R This season

[@alainmaurice5383]

It's a wonderful adventure. Thanks for your precious advice. I'm leaving 2 nd of July to do the TAT.

[@jrdepew]

Good luck!!

[@chasewilliams2004]

Hey Joe, we crossed paths on the TAT last week in Utah just north of Monticello. Love the content, hope your ride east is going well! -Chase

[@jrdepew]

Hey Chase! Yeah suiting up for the rain that never hit me. Resting up some in Westcliff and ride on! Hope your doing well on the Dr too.

[@2manyrides]

Well, I am with you guys on this one, virtually that is. I am afraid I have just gotten too old. It WOULD be epic as I have done little more than day rides and group tours. Rarely have I left my state of California. (but we got good stuff right here) Short, not so sweet is the window of retiring from work and having enough money and health at the same time to take on an endeavor such as this. I began to get things in order for rides like this, but reality has set in that it's not going to happen. I have 1 or 2 years of what I do then I'll have to succumb to the inevitable hanging up the helmet. I have a long history and no regrets. In fact, glorious memories. I keep saying I'm not done yet! Good video here! One thing I noticed right off though is all the skewed photos. You gotta get your equipment's' aspect ratios all on the same page! I have struggled for years to afford consumer grade equipment on a laborer's budget. Found methods I self invented only to be thwarted by the "latest/greatest" new thing out there. Compatibility new for old stuff is an issue. As of late, I've remastered old video 8 footage shot in 4.3 to look good on today's modern 16.9 wide screen. I used to make videos back in the day when the mastering was done onto VHS and you rode around to friends houses to show it. Now we have the world wide web! There's no excuse for you having laid this wonderful trip out with photos of "fat-headed-friends" mixed in and black borders that don't fill the screen. I mean, much of your footage is skewed to match up with your helmet cam. (or I don't know what) While I am being friendly/critical... Did I notice poor audio at some points on the helmet cam? I am not a hater! I watch footage from other people's handlebars as a rule when the tv is turned on. So this was a little poke to give thought to your next production. Oh, and if you should ever see one of my efforts, be aware that I am on a constant battle to achieve what I set out to produce. Though it was in the most archaic way towards the end result. I am not professional. Knowing that, I lean towards odd, nutty and home spun tactics in order to put forth a "different" kind of production. Again, great video! 2many

[@jrdepew]

A first effort with No prior skill and cheap Chinese knockoff camera. Lucky theres any video at all. Check my current videos. They are somewhat improved. I ride for the adventure and videography,, photography is low priority.

[@2manyrides]

@@jrdepew Sorry, I felt like an ass for the lecture! Really... apologize. I am amateur all the way and don't have a leg to stand on. I too have a cut off point when out on a ride as to how much I am willing to detract from the riding to address all the tech issues. I am slow to adopt the newest system so I too have struggled with image and format compatibility over the years. Keep on riding, 2many

[@craigconway4093]

Awesome

[@jrdepew]

Thank you!

[@doc650adventures]

Excellent video JR! Looking at doing the TAT myself. Great tips for travel. Bummer that you had a couple of flats. Did you switch tires halfway? The last picture of the DR looked like it has Shinko 700s on it. Great video! Going to watch the next episode also! Cheers!

[@jrdepew]

Next episode shows tire change in Trinidad,CO. They are Shinko 700.

[@stevenjohn4]

👍👍🇦🇺

[@william0834]

Just found your channel while doing a TAT search. Great video full of info for me to take in. I plan on the complete TAT in 2023 using Sams route. My biggest concern for my trip is bike maintenance (chain cleaning and adding oil) on the KLR650. Did you bring all your own trail maint gear of look for a shop?

[@jrdepew]

Thanks for subbing! I carried a tool roll. Tools to fit most nuts, hexes etc. for my bike. Came into use removing panels, air cleaner, carburetor and a clutch lever on trail. Put one together performing maintenance at home. Things happen far from a shop. Loose shifter, nuts, chain adjusting etc. I did oil change In Walmart parking lot into foil pan and they took my used oil free. Clean and treat chain with WD-40. Carry JB Weld, Gorilla Tape, Zip Ties and tools to change repair a tube at a minimum.

[@TBdown70]

Bring your own tool to service your bike you will be in place there are no shops for miles and if you get a flat tire better be prepared to fix it.

[@richgran]

Great scenery, thanks for the vid - experience. Curious, did the XR need jet changes going over the mountains?

[@jrdepew]

No, nor did my DR650. There is power loss of course. I had an open air box and opened exhaust system and carb set for sea level.

[@johnboy3100]

Not knocking but seems like fairly good roads so far, may have to give it a go..

[@jrdepew]

There are difficult places that can be avoided readily.

[@jamespolucha8790]

I’ve been wanting to do this for my whole life and can’t get any of my friends to do it, now that I’m 66 I guess all I can do is watch your videos, I still have hope that maybe my last friend will go with me

[@jrdepew]

Get on the TAT FB page and put feelers out for ride buddy group. There will be someone out there needing a partner. Just make sure all are on the same page. I found the group I rode with having never met before. You can do it!

[@jamespolucha8790]

Thanks I will do that

[@LoraxOfLiberty]

I'll go with ya

[@scottburghart9278]

That was really good! Few questions: Any ill effects from riding/camping at high altitudes? 11,000 feet is pretty high after riding in the lowlands. Also, you all seem to be on 650, 690, 800cc bikes. Would someone be OK on a ride like this on something like a KLX250, CRF330, Himalyan? How about something like a V Strom 650? That one log crossing looked difficult but doable with 3 guys helping. Thanks!

[@jrdepew]

Had no ill effects other than shortness of breath when exerting myself. You are gradually moving to higher elevations. Being in good shape will help. Smaller bikes can certainly make the entire trip. All loose power at high altitude so more power to start means still more power after the loss. All the bikes you mentioned could do it. Work with what you have and who’s accompanying you. There were just the two of us crossing the log. If had been by myself I would have had to detour. Adapt as needed will get the job done. Thanks for watching. And keep doing the research.

[@JMotorcycleAdventures]

looks fun. Informative video. what wind screen is it that you have on there?

[@jrdepew]

Thanks. It is a Madstad. Made in Florida for many other bikes too. Adjustable up, down, fore and aft. Great on hi-way. Tad large for rough terrain.

[@4211welderman]

What size tank did the Honda xr650 have? And did you carry spare fuel? Asking cause I’m getting a 650 ready now. Thanks. And great vid.

[@jrdepew]

After market tank, Acerbi I think. Don’t know the size but extra fuel should not be needed. Mine was 5 gal tank.

[@BobSmith-vs5jp]

Im in NYC. Hoping to do the TAT from NC, starting 1st week in June. I ride aCRF300 rally & I have approximately 10hrs(not a typo) off road experience. Ultimately, I’m headed to New Mexico-> then north on every BDR I can find. I have 8 weeks to get back to NY. I would be grateful, if anyone was willing to let a novice tag along. At the very least, offer some consultation. Thanks for inspirational videos!

[@jrdepew]

There is a route from NYC that connects to TAT. Check GPSKevin.com. This is what I joined in Virginia.

[@stan7899]

Many thanks for this video. I am going to do this ride next year and I found your inputs are very helpful. I am 67 and I will bring my bike from Europe for that purpose. What would you recommend to get the route files (.gpx) for the GPS ? Your route is very appealing to me. And second question: with this route in mind, what would be the best period to do this ride, I mean weatherwise. I was thinking April to June (because I have to do it both ways, perhaps the way back through Canada). I am considering 3 months in total, is it feasible in your view ? Thanks a lot in advance for your help.

[@jrdepew]

There are two route sources with the GPS files. The original founder of the trail is Sam Corero. TRANSAMERICATRAIL.COM. The other is GPSKEVIN.COM. They overlap some. Sam's is preferred. The Coloroda Rocky Mountains are only passable from July through September due to snow. Most make the trip in 4-5 weeks.

[@stan7899]

@@jrdepew Thanks a lot for your detailed inputs. I will work out my plan accordingly. Thanks again for your help.

[@raleigh5here182]

@@jrdepew in case you need the current link: www.transamtrail.com/

[@MFISH29]

How did the XR's jetting do in the high elevation? Do you know if he did Dave's Mods or if it was stock?

[@jrdepew]

I don’t know about carb mods and he had no obvious issues other that power lose as can be expected. His big issues stemmed from an oil cooler installation that wasn’t quite right and took a long time to diagnose. Basically it was dumping oil into the carb airbox through breather tube which leaned the mixture. It shouldn’t have been dumping. Not familiar with more than that.

[@MotoOffroadAdventures]

So I believe you hit Colorado in August. How was the weather for you? I am trying to get the start dates figured out.

[@jrdepew]

Depending on winter snow levels, First week of July is earliest for high passes to clear. Summer weather through late August is monsoon season where afternoon rain storms develop. I came through west to east this past August and missed the storms that were all around at times.

[@JohnnyFuelMotorcycleAdventures]

Love the trip and story. Why is the screen distorted? A lot of the footage is "stretched" out.

[@jrdepew]

A complete novice and a cheap Chinese camera . Basically, I didn't know what I was doing! Later I did the best I could with footage I had . It's pretty sad compared to later efforts on my channel. Thanks for watching though.

[@bearfoot6910]

I'm sure you've answered this before, but how long did Andrews, NC to Colorado take? I live in Co Springs and am thinking about doing that section next year.

[@jrdepew]

My route did not include Andrew's, NC. Similar location though and I would alow 2 weeks. Maybe less if you're hustling.

[@chasinggeckos8843]

Hey JP, also a DR rider in canada. Maybe one day I will attack the tat. Great video and good content. Questions for ya What kind of windshield is that? You said “enduro body arm”, what brand and model did you do with? Thanks Jim

[@jrdepew]

It is a Madstad adjustable windscreen. I use the Forcefield Pro XV2 armored top or shirt if you will. Klim Tactical shirt is another of many examples. Versitile as you can adjust for weather and temps better than a armored jacket.

[@chasinggeckos8843]

@@jrdepew thanks a ton JR. Are you happy with the windshield? I was thinking of the Parabellem windshield. Like the one on Dinos Tinkers Shed channel. Love to hear your opinion

[@jrdepew]

The Madstad is best for highway travel where it superbly blocks wind. It adjusts tilt angle and up down in combination. It lowers way down for trail riding but is still large. Parabellum would be better for off road.

[@daviddestefano4839]

My question, the Dr 650, any carburetion issues with changes in elevation, particularly out west?

[@jrdepew]

None not. Expected ie: power loss. It started and ran fine. I have the Procycle jet kit with 150 main jet ,air box opened and performance exhaust.

[@scottloftin1730]

What carborator did you use on the DR and XL thr altitude change in the Rockies? Lectron?

[@jrdepew]

I used the stock Mikuni carburetor with the Procycle jet kit, needle and airbox modification for a LeoVince muffler. It worked fine enough in the high Rockies. I carried additional jets but never felt the need for them. I don’t know what the XL had but there was no changes made in the mountains for it either.

[@yurgon]

How long did the portion leading up to the Rockies take you?

[@jrdepew]

William, Approximately 20 days from central Shenandoah Valley,Virginia to Trinidad, CO. But 4 days were lost doing repairs in TN to the Honda bike. Thanks for watching.

[@cdougherty2106]

Haven't got to Ep 2 yet, but how did you get your bike home?

[@jrdepew]

I stored at my Daughters and rode the WABDR and IDbdr the following year. Then in 2022 rode the WYbdr and portion of IDBDR. 2023 I rode the ORBDR then back to Virginia via WABDR, IDBDR, UTBDR over the Rockies on COBDR and TAT through Oklahoma and Arkansas. Lots of videos for you to catch up and share. The DR is resting in my garage.

[@jpc2224]

on your dr650 did you use stock jetting or did you have to change jets when you went out west with higher elevation

[@jrdepew]

I did Procycle’s carb and airbox modifications setup at 1,000 feet elevation with a LeoVince muffler. A #150 jet that I have never changed and been over the Rockies twice without issue.

[@JC-gj1gg]

Awesome!! I live at 3000+\- ft elevation and have had some issues at sea level. Trying to figure out my set up. Thanks

[@rickreasoner8664]

What time of year would you recommend and do you suggest MX Boots over Adventure Boots?

[@jrdepew]

As early as possible considering snow levels in the Rockies make passage through there late June to early July. I use MX boots now. Level of protection is so much more.

[@Recycledhooligan]

Do you think a triumph tiger would be a good bike for trail?

[@jrdepew]

If you are comfortable maneuvering, handling it while loaded with gear it would be fine. If riding solo, be able to pick up the bike. Definitely do some short practice trips off road. Know your limits. There are usually easy options to choose from. Tiger can handle it!

[@rayrokni]

thx for sharing your experience, thoughts and recommendations. i’m 60 years old, in ok shape. i want to do the tat, as it has been on my bucket list. i’m planning on getting either a ktm 890r or 1290r. or maybe any of the 5 main amenities bikes, to be honest i want as light as possible but capable enough to do the trip. do you know of any groups that i can join and maybe hook up with other enthusiasts who want to do the tat. thank you for any recommendations you could pass on.

[@jrdepew]

Thanks for watching and question. I rode this at 69. It’s a motivational goal to stay or get into shape. The KTM’s mentioned are great machines but not light. Honda Monkeys have done it so power is not an absolute issue but helps if you can handle it. The Honda 300L is a light choice example. 400-700 cc BIKES are mid weight and plenty of power. It’s a marathon not a sprint. Join “Trans America Trail Ride”group on Facebook. 8,000 members and good resource for you.

[@rayrokni]

@@jrdepew thank you, i started looking at ktm 390 adventure also.

[@jrdepew]

Ground clearance could be an issue. Also it has cast, not spoked wheels though that may have changed.

[@rayrokni]

@@jrdepew yes, ground clearance could make things a bit more interesting if i don’t pick the right line. which i probably won’t. they are still cast. i’m thinking the 890r maybe a better choice, 50lb heavier dry weight. bigger gas tank. decisions decisions. or maybe even one of the other mid size brand adv bikes, tenere?

[@MrHamish54]

@@rayrokni I have friends that ride 2 up on their KTM 390. Chris did replace the cast wheels with Woody's spoked wheels. He and his wife have done the IDBDR and the Heart of the West rides on it, easily keeping up with the larger ADV bikes in the group.

[@fasteddylove-muffin6415]

I checked out Mosco Moto luggage. Pretty rich/pricey for my only-on-social-security retirement budget. I don't suppose there is a budget luggage system available? I ask in part because the cost of luggage & gear could be a deal--breaker for me. I suppose I could go with a cheaper bike like a Honda 125 but as they say you get what you pay for. Can you add (a noob's question I suppose?) a luggage system to the financing of a bike? Any suggestions are appreciated.

[@jrdepew]

Mosko is spendy but the best especially for extensive long term use. Take a look at Tusk. Rocky Mountain ATV/Motorcycle carries it. Tusk is a similar set up at very reasonable price. I have not used it myself. Giant Loop has luggages also. Used Bikes, Used luggage is cheapest option. I have my Mosko Rackless set up well used I'll sell since i've bought a brand new one. PM me on FB Messenger if interested.

[@gordangraham]

Just purchased a Jeep and I was wondering if this is something you can do with a Jeep? I would be taking my dog. Thought about a late Spring trip

[@jrdepew]

Mostly you can. There are always work-arounds. There will be OHV and semi-single track in places but not a-lot. Out west is where you need to know what your getting into. Do plenty of advance research. It’s been done in some fashion or other so I’m sure there are You Tube videos out there or FB groups. Would be an awesome trip! The Rockies are the highlight but passes aren’t open from snow till early July.

[@gordangraham]

Thanks for the reply. Loved the video a big thumbs up.

[@thetravelingelk1155]

What time of year did you begin your adventure?

[@jrdepew]

Left Virginia July 6. Snow levels in the Colorado passes dictates how early you can pass! Usually early July.

[@thetravelingelk1155]

Thank you for these videos. Just finished your part 2. Looking to leave in 2024 on yamaha tw 200.

[@jrdepew]

@@thetravelingelk1155 You’re welcome. Early planning pays off. Testing and acquiring equipment, getting bike in top shape and shake down short trips. These 2 videos were my first feeble attempt at videos. Much improved now. Check out my channel for latest adventure rides.

[@mrh0wler353]

Have you done Virginia trail riding? Or is it too much pavement on the "Adventure" trails in VA?

[@jrdepew]

There are lots of gravel roads and some trails in the National Forests in the Blue Ridge Mountains and further west in West Virginia.

[@mrh0wler353]

@@jrdepew How much pavement is it percentage-wise? I saw a video that talked about some gravel sections getting paved.