Epic Motorcycle Travel Across the United States on R1200GS (2016)

My motorcycle adventure around the US on my BMW R1200GS. 5 weeks, 11,000 miles and 31 states, lots of national parks, wildlife and beautiful scenery and visiting family and friends.
Some of the highlights of the trip were Avenue of the Giants, Pacific Coast Highway, Olympic Peninsula, Glacier National Park, Beartooth Pass in Yellowstone, Niagara Falls in New York, Dragon's Tail, White Sands in New Mexico and so much more!
For more information on how I pulled this trip off for less than $2,000 USD check out my other videos all about motorcycles, camping, travel and adventure!!
Thanks for watching!
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🏍 WHO IS TIM COLLINS OF FTA ADVENTURES? (FORMERLY FORTY TIMES AROUND)
A lifelong adventure enthusiast and a long time motorcycle traveler, I have spent the last few years honing my craft as a motorcycle adventure specialist. I am currently living full time on my motorcycle, a 2015 BMW R1200GS named Lupe.
Motorcycle travel and camping have become my largest passions in life. I have a meticulous nature that helps me analyze gear, technique and tactics in a way that is highly beneficial to anyone looking to embark on a motorcycle venture of any scope.
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[@oceanopescayaventuras8205]

The best part was the book, dedicating it to your brother.

[@yappingaboutcars]

Totally agreed, brought a little tear to my eye haha and amazing to find a fellow BMW employee loving life through the brand on two wheels!

[@flea-bittenrangebum5486]

That is... the best... motorcycle vid.... I have seen for weeks. Just... absolutely.. magnificent.The places... the people... your route. All magnificent. Filmed good, too.Well... wished I could have done that... earlier in my life.. But for me... it's too late now. Not everybody gets to live as long as they wish.Thank you pal. That lil' bitty kid... ridin' with ya.... was a re-affirmation of "good life"... after I pass on.Good luck in the future. You deserve it.Thanks again,adr

[@FTAAdventures]

Allan Regeon thanks so much for your comment Allan, it means a lot to me to see people enjoying my trip, best of luck to you.

[@dilligafmofoker]

Taking children on a motorcycle ride is one of the best-possibly life changing experiences they could ever experience. I fell in love with motorcycles at nine years old. I’m still smitten by them decades later. Nothing feels better then freedom on my face. Great video. Great memories.

[@FTAAdventures]

I agree, I still remember those experiences as a young boy. Always memorable and definitely life changing. Thanks for the comment! Ride safe my friend!

[@seanwhite9974]

What an absolutely great video. The editing must have taken hours of work. Nothing more needs to be said, except thank you for sharing it.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sean White I'm glad you enjoyed it! It did take hours of editing but I enjoy it because I get to relive the ride and the end result is well worth it. Thanks for the comment!

[@timscott4435]

Sean you would think hours of editing work. Trust me Im an old guy too and its amazing what the kids can do these days. (ooofff I just became my father there) Seriously though its amazing computers have made our children into computers.

[@gmhd650]

Truly magical. Taking your nephew for his first bike ride was a vey special moment for both of you. Take care.

[@FTAAdventures]

gmhd650 thanks for the comment!

[@littlekenny8411]

Did a similar route with my wife in an RV in spring of 2017. Perfect weather. Outstanding scenery. Polite and welcoming communities. Missed the Beartooth Pass due to way too much snow! Punched out 15500km in 5 weeks, but didn't have to do it on a bike. Kudos to you for such a well documented epic adventure.

[@tiduswhiteblade8535]

I wish I could live my life the way you do. Truly you are an inspiration.

[@04harley]

Saw a comment from one of our service men in AFG. Thanks to you guy's we get to do these things. God Bless You and America!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you!

[@timscott4435]

You sir are a good dude. Found you after I purchased my 2014 GS . Brought a tear to my eye when you dedicated the book to your brother. Too cool.

[@tsav6952]

Your gal was a trooper riding all that way as passenger on the back!

[@FTAAdventures]

T Sav She was only with me for about a week, but yes sitting on the back of a bike like that must be pretty rough!

[@1BigYin]

Great video! Makes me want to buy a GS and do the same. I Just moved to the USA from Scotland, lots of exploring to do.

[@flowrider5548]

Great video and vibe! Awesome bike too. I'd be happy to watch an extended version of this, with such beautiful footage.

[@FTAAdventures]

Spirit Biker Thank you! The US has some truly breathtaking scenery!

[@flowrider5548]

Sure agree FTA! The times I've toured 43 of them states over dozens of journeys, it's been driving cars or 4x4s, or flying military airplanes, not riding a divine GSA which I now know and soon will drive more permanently.

[@KYPresto]

I taking a similar trip in June. 40 states with a few brief side trips into Canada. I estimate that I'll put up 10K miles or so. Watching your video reaffirms my belief that I can do this thing! Thanks for posting.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment! Glad I could help! That should be a pretty epic trip you are taking! Let me know how it goes! Good luck and ride safe!

[@RidingTusCanY]

1850US$ ? so little? in Europe you'd have spent the same money for the gasoline ONLY, plus all the rest, by the way it's still very little.... the video is beautifull, you made a great adventure, met important people among your family and friends, seen great places and landscapes. THUMBS UP !!

[@FTAAdventures]

Riding TusCanY thank you! I’m actually going to be making a video about how I budget on trips very soon. Fuel was my biggest expense like you said. Ride safe!

[@RidingTusCanY]

That would be really useful ! cheers from Italy

[@4grndkds]

I went on a 3 week tour of Alaska in mid June of 2018 and loved every minute. I went alone but met many new friends along the way. The hardest part was coming home. I wanted to just keep going. I rode a 2006 RT and had 0 problems even with it over loaded with gear, food and water. Enjoyed your videos. I am a subscriber.

[@FTAAdventures]

That is a dream trip for me! I am hoping to get up there next spring, have been planning that one for a while. Great bike for a long trip like that, I think my next touring bike will be an RT. Thanks for the comment, ride safe!

[@jackshack5488]

Excellent video of your EPIC ride!!! All the best to you!

[@thefriendlygrizzley6728]

Very nice video, from a dream tour. I am in the poses of buying my first BMW R1200GS so me and my wife are waiting for spring and new adventures. All the best to you, from us here in Norway.

[@FTAAdventures]

The Friendly Grizzley thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it, there's lots of exploring to do over here when you get your GS! I'm sure Norway is equally impressive based on pictures I've seen, I'm looking forward to getting my bike over that way in the next few years. Thanks for the comment, ride safe!

[@miguelmarlowe6]

It was great to see my home of Seattle as I sit here in Kabul, AFG. Great job, seemed like an awesome adventure.

[@FTAAdventures]

Miguel Marlowe thank you! Seattle was beautiful, quite an adventure!

[@jimthompson717]

Pure joy-thanks for sharing. I live in West Vancouver Canada . Several times a week I ride my 2017 r1200gs up the Sea to Highway to Whistler BC, before breakfast or after work. But I am planning some epic long rides-videos like yours are motivational.

[@FTAAdventures]

Jim Thompson thanks for the comment! Sounds like a blast, the R1200 is a great bike to tour on. I'll be passing through Canada next year on my way to Alaska, I can't wait. It looks like a beautiful country!

[@RickLincoln]

Thanks for taking me on your adventure! The video was amazing to watch and I enjoyed every moment of it. What made this very special in my eyes is that you used the miles to connect with your family and friends and that the affection that you share with them is so clear. You're using your time wisely.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Rick! I appreciate your comment! It is a great way to connect with friends, while on an adventure. Safe travels!

[@tmark1301cc]

Very nice, great that you are able to take the time to get away and enjoy life on a motorcycle.

[@FTAAdventures]

Tod Chapman thank you! I am lucky to have a slow season at work during the summer.

[@teckin139]

Brand new subscriber. I love this video so much. It was so clear to see the love between you and your brother, its a love only siblings can know. I saw it even before you said the book was dedicated to him. Love your videos man. And you are on the exact bike I want to do exactly what you are doing. Keep it up!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! I am so glad you love this video, it was a wonderful adventure. Ride safe my friend!

[@robertbotta6536]

Dude. Awesome. Love the family stop the most.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Robert for your comment, yep the family stop was the highlight for me.

[@alfredoblazquezmartinez5142]

Great job. Only one boy and perfect bike, not need more

[@FTAAdventures]

ALFREDO BLAZQUEZ MARTINEZ thank you!

[@Da.Onus.Burger.618]

Absolutely wonderful, man! Looks like a great trip!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you very much!

[@mdf1951]

At 5:57 you caught a BNSF train, pulling freight. That's what I retired from in 2011. It always makes me proud of staying there for 34 years. That's some awesome country.

[@afdude2220]

Wow! I wish I could watch this in slow motion so much to see in so little time. Great job and very inspiring!

[@FTAAdventures]

Levon Smith Thanks for the comment! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@crux123451]

Great video. Saved it to my favorites. Will watch that many times.

[@FTAAdventures]

crux123451 Thank you very much! I'm glad you enjoyed it 👍 getting ready for another big trip soon, should make for a great video so be sure to stay tuned!

[@olafzeyen3150]

Best Regards from Germany, were your BMW was build. That was a fantastic trip across your great country. Thank you for this very good video.

[@FTAAdventures]

Olaf Zeyen I'm glad you enjoyed it, thanks for the comment! Hoping to come visit Germany in a few years and see your great country too!

[@Jamilsiddique]

That was a great video. Really shows what the US has to offer. Thank you .

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Jamil for your comment it is much appreciated. The US is a beautiful place to travel on a motorcycle.

[@kena5906]

Amazing ride, great adventure. Nice video

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@larryambrose7302]

Epic Adventure! Excellent video!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed it :)

[@Quebechalifax]

Great video Tim again ! I’m sure you missing NYC traffic and all those courteous drivers 😂 You can’t pass semi on a double yellow line buddy🤣🤣😜😜 Good job

[@FTAAdventures]

LOL thanks Jim! NYC is better in a car haha. And yeah I know but he wouldn't let me around!

[@coverttwenty]

Wonderful. Thanks for sharing! Regards from Melbourne Australia.

[@FTAAdventures]

Jacob Botha Thanks for the comment! Australia must have some great riding! Can't wait to get my bike over there 😎

[@coverttwenty]

+Forty Times Around The eastern part of Melbourne has some of the best scenic routes specially on a GS. Then there's the Great Ocean Road along the coast toward Adelaid. You should definitely consider Australia. Regards Jacob.

[@Joez86]

Beautiful video-log! Riding from LA to NY... I enjoyed my ride until I got to NYC - the drivers in NY are insane. And I’m from NY too... crazy.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you for your comment I really appreciate it , your right driving in NYC can be a real challenge, I try to avoid that whenever possible.

[@AniruddhaNatekar]

That's one heck of a ride! Thanks for making and posting this video!

[@FTAAdventures]

Aniruddha Natekar Glad you liked it, thanks for the comment!

[@BarrettPowell]

Great adventure and video. Thanks for sharing.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment! I'm glad you enjoyed it :)

[@sukhmon]

wish I could join. Lucky man. gr8 video, enjoyed

[@FTAAdventures]

Sukhmon Sultan Thank you, glad you liked it, ride safe!

[@williamcollins1655]

Awesome video Tim!

[@FTAAdventures]

William Collins Thank you! 😎

[@johnscottreardon]

Nice trip ! Nice video ! Well done !!!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment! I'm glad you enjoyed it :)

[@timmcg8138]

Another great one Tim! I just finished reading your book & its good to "meet" Bob & Billy to put a face to the names that I enjoyed reading about in your wonderful, inspiring book!

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks Tim! Glad you enjoyed my book, thanks!!

[@ironhorsegladiator5034]

Nice long trip and an even nicer gesture to your brother.

[@FTAAdventures]

Javan Dell thank you, it was a beautiful trip.

[@kharisalif4866]

Very nice ,cool trip ,and many beautiful place . Dont stop ride , greetings from Indonesia

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment!!!

[@Mr05021948]

Nice ride, nice music....thanx

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you!

[@Boxer1250RT]

awesome - is the word! thanks for sharing.

[@FTAAdventures]

Becker Inal Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 👍

[@1glopz]

You do realize that some of us spend a lifetime wishing we could find the time to do this and kudos to the rear seat camera person I think you never let her drive?

[@FTAAdventures]

You have to make the time! I know it's hard, I have been fortunate in finding jobs that let me leave for extended trips, but still, I would take what I could get. Thank you! No, she didn't drive. She was only with me for part of the trip. Thanks for the comment!

[@cinikcynic3087]

Hey buddy great ride! I do the same in Europe in the summer. So great when you meet all those nice people. Just got a brand new GSA. Can't wait to hit the road again.

[@FTAAdventures]

Cinik Cynic That's awesome! I'm looking forward to shipping my bike over there in a few years to do some exploring in Europe! Congrats on your new GSA! Amazing motorcycles!

[@johncoopwood7226]

Excellent video, shows the beauty of our country and yes, dedicating the book to your brother, heartwarming.

[@johnpaulgarzaniti5065]

Wow, What a magnificent video covering a magnificent trip. Thanks so much for sharing.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you John Paul for your comment and for watching. It really was a great trip and I love watching the video too from time to time to re visit the great moments of that trip. Safe Travels!

[@jakejaekels7991]

Just got back from a bus tour of most the national parks plus Denver ad Vegas. One of the best bus tours I have ever been on. I’m watching vids of two guys that went on the Trans America Trail across the country. So far very interesting. I had a Moto Guzzi 850 for years I used to take on trips and vacation. I’ve been missing it a lot lately.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks for the comment Jake! Sounds like an epic adventure you had! That Trans America Trail is on my bucket list! I'll have to find that documentary. Safe travels my friend!

[@caseyjones2117]

Everything about this video was brilliant and it looked an amazing trip.

[@FTAAdventures]

Mark Downey thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@sergioandre8759]

Thanks for sharing, all the best from Portugal. Make life a ride.

[@FTAAdventures]

Sérgio André Thanks for the comment! Ride safe 😎

[@bradleywilmore9927]

One of the best videos I've seen. Beautiful bike, lots of family & friends, the camping and the magnificent scenery. Excellent job my man, excellent job.

[@cemyatman]

Very nice memories and movie records...I liked....

[@timothymcclure3370]

Wow incredible, can't wait to do this ride myself!!

[@FTAAdventures]

Timothy McClure thank you for the comment! Safe travels 🙂

[@steves7359]

Sweet video, what a land. Oh course you know your nephew now had bikes in his blood.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks Steve! It is a great world we live in!! And yes, I hope that experience left a lasting impression with my nephew, I don't get to see him often so I hope he remembers that time!

[@dwightalfred]

Hey man, awesome scenic ride.

[@FTAAdventures]

Dwight Alfred thank you!

[@Debbie-ee2oj]

another excellant vid tim. i was never really interested in going to the USA. but in those 15 minutes youve convinced me otherwise....i am on my way..thanks Tim you inspire me.

[@FTAAdventures]

Glad I could help persuade you, it's a wonderful country to ride in. Our road system is incredible here, definitely worth putting on your list of places to go! Ride safe!

[@MrTedy117]

Awesome Video thanks for taking time and effort to share your adventure 👍🏾

[@FTAAdventures]

adeesha pietersz thanks for the comment, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@kingsqueak2221]

Well done, editing vids is so much work.

[@FTAAdventures]

Chris Esser Thank you! A lot of work indeed but worth it tho, great memories from that particular trip 😎

[@myyou2b]

Thank you for sharing such an inspiring trip and such a beautiful piece of work! I can hardly wait to do the same, which I plan to very soon.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Michael, I appreciate the comment, safe travels and enjoy the ride!

[@ron5184]

Great video!! Well done, Thanks for sharing. That kind of a trip is on my bucket list.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Ron for you comment I appreciate it. The trip really was a fantastic adventure!

[@D-Imagine]

Great video, amazing family and friends time. Thanks for sharing !

[@FTAAdventures]

dimagine1 Thank you!

[@gerhardk98]

Great video, enjoyed going along on your journey.

[@mossy-tube]

Great video.. I too travel 2up motocamping with the wife although I've only attempted one video. We are going from San Diego to Colorado in June. Can't wait.

[@FTAAdventures]

That should be a great trip! There's a lot to see from San Diego to Colorado! Some of the best scenery in the US for sure!!! Have a blast and ride safe!! Thanks for the comment!!

[@reablack152]

I liked the dedication of the book to your brother! Respect!

[@FTAAdventures]

Rea Black thank you! He's been a huge influence in my journey, he's a really great guy!

[@MrShad73]

Thank you so much for sharing this. Seeing someone take a trip like this is so inspiring. Hope to take a trip soon myself and i hope you do more like these.

[@oscarrr931]

Thanks for sharing, greetings from Durango, México.

[@FTAAdventures]

oscar r r Thanks for the comment! I'll be riding through Mexico next year on my way to Patagonia. Any suggestions?

[@oscarrr931]

In México there are many beautiful and interesting places, like Durango city, Zacatecas city( Colonial style), Querétaro, Teotihuacán Piramids, Arqueological places like Yucatán and Quintana Roo, etc. I live in Durango state, I hope to meet you here, and say hello, later I´ll tell you more suggestions. greetings. [e-mail] Oscar Rueda R.

[@FTAAdventures]

oscar r r Awesome! I will definitely be contacting you, thanks!

[@beverke7]

Great trip for sure ! Love BMW motorcycles, did some testrides and GS and especially GSA were awesome and quite comfy.

[@FTAAdventures]

beverke7 They're amazing bikes, the GS seat could use some improvement, but other than that no complaints. Thanks for the comment!

[@advridertim]

I enjoyed this ride report, having done a few trips like this it brings back a lot of memories ...

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks Rockbreaker! Glad you enjoyed this video!

[@sueandjaybo]

Great video, great trip bud. Thanks for sharing.

[@MrSTAdventures]

Cracking adventure, thanks for sharing :)

[@FTAAdventures]

Shane Tierney thanks for the comment! Glad you enjoyed it :)

[@hansverhoeven5156]

like your trip!!!

[@FTAAdventures]

Hans Verhoeven Thank you!

[@stoneblue1795]

Nice guy, nice family. All good sir.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you.

[@Mr1wd]

Wonderful video...you really captured the essence of ADV! I also read about your big trip planned and hopefully we'll cross path someday. Cheers! :)

[@FTAAdventures]

Charlie Thank you! I'm sure we will cross paths someday, ride safe!

[@ShineBright__]

I m speechless all beautiful

[@dreamrider2956]

Amazing.. just.. f'ing amazing.. yes.. dreams do come true.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you! It was quite a trip!

[@silvervalleya-frame7829]

I want to meet the 4 people that didn't like this video haha This is GREAT!

[@FTAAdventures]

Jim Scott LOL I appreciate that! Thanks for the comment, glad you liked it and didn't make it 5 👍

[@whitebeltforlife5271]

Thank you .... that was amazing ....

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Christopher for your comment and for watching it truly was an amazing trip for me. Safe Travels!!

[@masterspin7796]

Fantastic road trip, I cant wait to do it myself in 2021..

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you!

[@citov9217]

Great video..thanks for the journey..safe travels

[@dalethebelldiver7740]

Fantastic video. You pretty much summed up my next tour. You also answered my question on time. I was thinking 35 to 45 days. Now; 45 days minimum.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you Dale for your comment enjoy the ride and thank you for watching. Safe Travels!

[@michaelpatterson6678]

Very cool video ! 👍

[@FTAAdventures]

Thanks!

[@Rafasz1983]

Great video, must take lots of work!

[@FTAAdventures]

Rafa Souza it was but it was worth it! Thanks for the comment!

[@James-jt4wf]

Thanks for sharing the ride.Looked like a great trip.

[@FTAAdventures]

James Wenzel thank you! It was an amazing trip.

[@FeralDragon47]

Well done!

[@FTAAdventures]

francis merritt Thank you very much for the comment!

[@benvannoie8536]

Awesome journey! Great job on recording it all to share keep the videos coming! Thx

[@markehooker5423]

that was a relaxing video to watch. Thanks

[@FTAAdventures]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment!

[@MRMRS2wheeler]

I can’t believe I never saw this one. Great video. I think this is my favorite of all your videos.

[@ArizonaRE]

I loved going through Beartooth Pass, absolutely a must do for anyone traveling by motorcycle! Great video B-)

[@FTAAdventures]

Arizona RE Absolutely an amazing road, have you done the "Going to the Sun" road? Just as impressive. Thanks! Glad you liked my video 😎

[@ArizonaRE]

No I haven't but GNP is on my list B-)

[@Fredricksen390]

Cool trip bro 👍

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you!

[@2wheelsandatent]

What a cool ass adventure, thanks for inspiring us to adventure more and chase dreams

[@leonelolivares6845]

I Enjoy your videos!. Awesome.

[@ChicAgo9944]

Epic adventure, thank you kindly for sharing your tour!

[@pistolpete6321]

Great video, exactly the kind of trip I want to do!

[@FTAAdventures]

PistolPete63 go for it! It's so much fun, so worth whatever hard work it takes to make it happen. Thanks for the comment!

[@michaelb2398]

Thanks for sharing! 👍

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

what an incredible life you live keep going strong be safe !!

[@sifirid]

Amazing journey.

[@FTAAdventures]

Thank you it truly was an amazing trip!

[@aljones9114]

Great video. My buddies and I hope to go cross country this summer. From NC to CA. Haven't mapped it yet. You gave me some good ideas.

[@heathogle4430]

great video, just purchased the same bike want to take a couple week long trips . would love to see videos on what gear you like and dislike and items that are a must.

[@FTAAdventures]

heath ogle Thanks for the comment, I am in the process of putting together a video like that so stay tuned! I've learned a lot of things the hard way or through trial and error so I'll definitely try to save other people some time and effort with a video about gear soon.