Picture it: two souls, two bikes, and a week to dodge winter’s chill, chasing the sun like a pair of retirees who’d just discovered the joys of throttle therapy. I’m telling this as David Sedaris might—dry, a little snarky, and with a soft spot for the absurdities that make a trip like this stick in your craw.

Mr. Knobby, a lanky specimen with a beard that looked like it’d been styled by a sandstorm, his eyes glinting with the kind of fervor you’d expect from a man who thinks a gas station burrito is a gourmet meal. Mrs Knobby mapped this jaunt with the precision of a tax accountant, though I suspect half the fun for her was dragging Mr. Knobby along. She was the voice of reason, with a laugh that could scare off a coyote and a knack for spotting the one decent motel in a sea of flops. She rode because she loved him, sure, but also because she wasn’t about to let him have all the near-misses to himself.

Day one, they clocked 140 miles to Palm Desert’s Best Western Plus, a place that sounded fancier than it was, with a bed that creaked like it was auditioning for a horror movie. Mr. Knobby, stretching his knobby knees, declared, “This is the life—open road, fresh air!” Mrs. Knobby, kicking off her boots, shot back, “Fresh air? I’ve got sand in my bra, you lunatic.” The next day, 137 miles landed them in Blythe at the Best Western Sahara, where the desert heat lingered like a bad houseguest, and Mrs. Knobby swore the showerhead was mocking her with its dribble.

Gila Bend, Arizona, was day three—180 miles to the Best Western Space Age Lodge, a kitschy joint with a neon sign that promised more than the lumpy mattresses delivered. “Retro charm,” Mr. Knobby called it, grinning through a mouthful of jerky. “Retro backache,” Mrs. Knobby countered, rubbing her spine. San Manuel followed, 201 miles to the San Manuel Lodge, a no-frills spot where the walls were thin enough to hear the neighbor’s snores. Mrs. Knobby, peering out at the moonlit desert, mused, “It’s almost pretty, if you squint.” Mr. Knobby, fiddling with his bike, chuckled, “Squinting’s half the fun out here.”

Day five, 220 miles to Buckeye’s Holiday Inn Express, and the terrain turned brutal—gravel roads that rattled their teeth, sagebrush clawing at their shins. A jackrabbit darted across their path, and Mrs. Knobby swerved, yelping, “That thing’s got a death wish!” Mr. Knobby, steady as ever, said, “Or it’s just late for supper.” Brawley came next, 230 miles to the Best Western Plus Main Street Inn, where the air smelled of irrigation and regret. They rolled in late, dust-caked, and Mrs. Knobby groaned, “I’m too old for this.” Mr. Knobby, unpacking their Wolfman luggage, grinned, “Nonsense—you’re a warrior queen.”

The final push was 150 miles to home, their bikes growling like they’d earned a medal, the ocean breeze a sweet reward after days of desert grit. They checked into no motel this time—just home, or someone’s couch, I imagine—and collapsed, a tangle of sore limbs and triumph. Over a beer and a plate of something greasy, Mr. Knobby asked, “Worth it?” Mrs. Knobby, her face a roadmap of exhaustion and glee, said, “Worth it? I’d do it again, you fool—just maybe with a chiropractor on speed dial.”

So that’s the Knobby Desert Dash: 1,250 miles of sand, sweat, and the kind of love that thrives on shared misery. It’s not a grand epic—just a week of two people proving they can still surprise each other, and themselves, one dusty mile at a time.

The truck ride felt like an eternity, the anticipation for our dual-sport adventure building with every passing mile. September 22nd, 2018 – the start of a 1,700-mile journey across the stunning landscapes of Utah and a sliver of Wyoming.

Day one dawned crisp and clear. Leaving the familiar confines of Hurricane behind, we pointed our knobby tires north towards Panguitch. The initial 160 miles were a fantastic introduction to the trip. We cruised along scenic highways, the DR-Zs purring beneath us, the air carrying the scent of sagebrush and pine. The red rock formations started to appear, hinting at the geological wonders to come. The Color Country Motel in Panguitch was a welcome sight after a day in the saddle, the small-town charm already starting to seep in.

The next leg to Torrey was shorter, but no less captivating. The landscape transformed as we ventured closer to Capitol Reef National Park. We dipped into washes, the suspension of our bikes soaking up the uneven terrain with ease. The Broken Spur Inn offered rustic comfort, and the stories shared with fellow travelers that evening fueled our excitement for the days ahead.

Our route continued its northward trajectory, each day offering a new visual feast. From the expansive valleys around Salina to the dramatic climbs towards Fairview, the DR-Zs proved their worth. The Skyline Motel in Fairview provided a cozy respite before we tackled the winding roads leading to Daniels Summit Lodge. That ride was a highlight – the air grew cooler as we gained elevation, the views stretching out in panoramic splendor. Staying at the lodge felt like a true mountain escape.

Crossing into Wyoming towards Evanston marked a subtle shift in the scenery, the vastness of the American West truly beginning to sink in. The Best Western Dunmar Inn offered a comfortable night before we turned back south towards the turquoise waters of Bear Lake and Garden City. The Lodge Motel lived up to its name, a charming stop nestled near the lake.

The miles continued to melt away beneath our tires as we navigated towards Heber City. The ride was a mix of open roads and winding canyon paths, testing our skills and rewarding us with breathtaking vistas. The Best Western Heber provided a familiar comfort before our longest single day – a 215-mile push to Price. That day was a testament to the DR-Z’s surprisingly comfortable nature for longer distances, though we were certainly ready for the rest at the Legacy Inn by nightfall.

Our journey then looped back west and south. The ride from Price back to Panguitch felt like revisiting an old friend, the landscape now familiar yet still holding a certain magic. The Purple Sage Motel offered a different perspective on the town we’d visited nearly two weeks prior.

The final leg back to Hurricane was bittersweet. The 110 miles flew by, our minds already replaying the incredible experiences of the past twelve days. Pulling back into the Econolodge, the bikes felt like extensions of ourselves, having carried us through diverse terrains and unforgettable scenery.

The next morning, loading the DR-Zs back into the truck felt like saying goodbye to old companions. As we drove south, leaving the red rocks behind, the memories of dusty trails, winding mountain roads, and the camaraderie of our dual-sport adventure filled the silence. 1,700 miles on our trusty Suzuki DR-Z400s – a trip etched forever in our minds.

July 22nd, 2018 – the start of a 2,232-mile dual-sport odyssey. Our initial destination: Chama, New Mexico, a small town nestled in the southern Rockies. The long drive through Arizona felt like a prelude, the anticipation building with every mile. Our first overnight in Flagstaff at the Best Western Pony Soldier Inn was a brief pause before the real fun began.

Arriving in Chama and unloading the bikes at the Cumbres Suites felt like releasing caged birds. The crisp mountain air and the promise of open trails were intoxicating. The next morning, we pointed our knobby tires north into Colorado, our first official riding day. The 106 miles to South Fork were a delightful introduction, winding through pine forests and alongside gurgling mountain streams. The Four Seasons Lodge provided a cozy mountain welcome.

The following days unfolded in a tapestry of breathtaking scenery. The ride to Salida was longer, 173 miles, but every twist and turn revealed stunning vistas of the San Juan Mountains. The Silver Ridge Lodge offered a comfortable respite after a fulfilling day in the saddle. Gunnison, Paonia, and Rifle followed, each leg showcasing a different facet of Colorado's beauty. From the rugged terrain around Gunnison to the orchards of Paonia and the gateway to the Rockies in Rifle, our DR-Zs handled everything with aplomb. The Rodeway Inns in Gunnison and Rifle, and the charming Rocky Mountain Inn in Paonia, offered comfortable and convenient stops.

Crossing into Wyoming towards Baggs brought a change in the landscape, the mountains giving way to more open, rolling terrain. The Cowboy Inn in Baggs was a quirky and welcoming stop, perfectly fitting the spirit of the West. Our two nights in Saratoga Springs at the Hacienda Motel were a welcome pause, allowing us to explore the natural hot springs and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the town. One of those days included a 130-mile loop that further explored the surrounding Wyoming countryside.

Re-entering Colorado brought us to the famous ski town of Steamboat Springs. The ride was exhilarating, the anticipation of the mountain scenery building as we approached. The Steamboat Mountain Lodge offered a comfortable base to explore the area. From there, we continued through the stunning Eagle River Valley to Eagle, staying at the Best Western Plus Eagle Lodge.

The journey south took us through the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Buena Vista, with its stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks, was a memorable stop. The Best Western Buena Vista provided a comfortable night before we continued to Canon City, known for its proximity to the Royal Gorge. The Best Western Canon City offered a convenient location to explore the area.

Our route then turned east and south, leading us through the charming town of La Veta and on to Fort Garland, with its historic fort and expansive views of the San Luis Valley. The La Veta Inn and the Mountain View Motor Lodge offered comfortable and characterful accommodations.

The final Colorado leg took us to Red River, New Mexico, a popular mountain resort town. The ride was a fantastic mix of winding mountain roads and scenic overlooks. The Copper King Lodge provided a perfect base for exploring the area. A short but incredibly scenic ride brought us to the artistic haven of Taos, where we spent a night at the beautiful Casa Benavides, soaking in the unique culture and atmosphere.

Our journey then looped back to where it began – Chama. The 120-mile ride felt like a familiar embrace, the landscapes now holding a deeper meaning after our extensive exploration. Returning to the Cumbres Suites felt like coming home.

The final leg of our adventure involved trucking the bikes back west. Our overnight stop in Kingman, Arizona, at the Best Western Wayfarer, was a quiet interlude before the final drive to San Diego, California. Unloading the DR-Zs one last time felt different. This trip, spanning three states and countless breathtaking vistas, had forged an even stronger bond between us and our trusty motorcycles. The memories of mountain passes, winding trails, and the vastness of the American West would stay with us long after the 2,232 miles faded into the odometer's history.

June 24th, 2018 – the start of a 2,485-mile journey that would wind through mountains, forests, and along shimmering lakes. Our first destination, the mountain town of Idyllwild.

The initial 160-mile ride to Idyllwild was a fantastic warm-up. Leaving the coastal plains behind, we climbed into the San Jacinto Mountains, the air growing cooler and the scenery shifting to towering pines and granite boulders. The Fireside Inn offered a cozy mountain retreat for our first night.

The next day’s ride to Tehachapi was a significant jump in mileage – 225 miles. We traversed diverse landscapes, from high desert scrub to rolling hills dotted with wind turbines. The SureStay Hotel in Tehachapi was a welcome sight after a long day in the saddle, the dry desert air making us appreciate the comfort of air conditioning.

Our journey then took us into the Kern River Valley. The 130-mile ride to Kernville was a delightful descent, following the winding river through scenic canyons. The Kernville Inn, with its rustic charm, felt perfectly suited to the surroundings. From there, we continued into the heart of the Central Valley towards Exeter. The 150 miles were a contrast to the mountain roads, the landscape flattening out as we approached the agricultural heartland. The Best Western Exeter Inn provided a comfortable overnight stay.

The climb back into the Sierra Nevada towards Shaver Lake was a highlight. The 181 miles were filled with breathtaking views as we gained elevation, the temperature dropping and the forests thickening. The Shaver Lake Village Hotel offered stunning views of the glistening lake. We enjoyed a second night in Shaver Lake, this time at the Tamarack Motor Lodge, allowing us to further explore the area's beauty.

Our route then took us west towards Madera. The 150-mile ride was a transition back towards the valley, the air growing warmer as we descended. The Holiday Inn Express offered a familiar and comfortable stop. From Madera, we turned back east, climbing into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada towards Sonora. The 201-mile ride was a fantastic mix of winding roads and picturesque small towns, the anticipation of reaching the historic Gold Country building with every mile. The Sonora Aladdin Motor Inn provided a quirky and memorable stay.

Crossing into Nevada brought us to the stunning Topaz Lake. The 140-mile ride offered expansive views of the high desert and the shimmering blue lake nestled against the mountains. The Best Western Topaz Lake Inn provided a perfect vantage point to soak in the scenery. We enjoyed a second night at the same hotel, taking the opportunity to relax and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere with a shorter 125-mile ride exploring the surrounding area.

Re-entering California, we headed towards Murphys, a charming town in Calaveras County known for its historic Main Street and wineries. The 165-mile ride was a pleasant journey through rolling hills and vineyards. Murphy's Suites offered a comfortable and well-located stay. Our exploration of the Sierra Nevada continued towards Oakhurst, the gateway to Yosemite National Park. The 171-mile ride was filled with anticipation for the natural wonders ahead. The Comfort Inn - Yosemite Oakhurst provided a convenient base.

Our journey then looped back south, retracing some familiar roads but offering new perspectives. Exeter again provided a stop, this time at the Kahweah Motel, before we headed back into the Kern River Valley towards Kernville. The 130 and 123-mile rides respectively were enjoyable jaunts through familiar and beautiful landscapes, with another comfortable night at the Kernville Inn.

The final mountain leg took us to the popular resort town of Big Bear Lake. The 210-mile ride was a fantastic culmination of our mountain adventures, winding through forests and offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The Best Western Plus Big Bear Chateau provided a comfortable and scenic final mountain stay.

The final 130-mile ride back home felt good. The familiar coastal air and the sight of the Pacific Ocean marked the end of our incredible journey. 2,485 miles on our trusty Suzuki DR-Z400s, a testament to their versatility and our thirst for adventure. The memories of winding mountain passes, shimmering lakes, and the diverse beauty of California and Nevada would stay with us long after the last mile was ridden.

The contrast was stark – the DR-Z, nimble and dirt-focused, and the Africa Twin, a continent-crossing machine built for both pavement and rough tracks. May 16th, 2018, marked the beginning of a 3,470-mile journey through Arizona and New Mexico, a blend of solo exploration on the DR-Z and shared experiences with a friend on the Africa Twin.

The first leg, a hefty 335 miles to Wickenburg, Arizona, was primarily a highway cruise to get us into position. The Africa Twin ate up the miles with comfortable ease, while the DR-Z, though capable, was more buzzy on the open road. The Best Western Rancho Grande provided a welcome respite after the long day.

Our route then turned east towards Springerville. The 303-mile ride showcased the vastness of Arizona, the landscape transitioning from desert scrub to higher elevation grasslands. The Best Western Sunrise Inn offered a comfortable night before we ventured deeper into New Mexico.

The ride to Reserve, New Mexico, was a significant shift. Leaving the more traveled routes behind, the 143 miles took us through winding mountain roads and into the heart of the Gila National Forest. The Frisco Lodging Company, a charming and rustic inn, perfectly matched the remote feel of the area. Pinos Altos followed, a historic mining town nestled in the mountains. The 158-mile ride was filled with scenic beauty, and the Bear Creek Motel & Cabins offered a unique and comfortable stay.

Our journey then took a more easterly turn towards Alamogordo. The 217 miles were a mix of high desert plains and the looming presence of the Sacramento Mountains. The Super 8 provided a no-frills but necessary stop. Climbing into those mountains the next day towards Cloudcroft was a highlight. The 177-mile ride was a twisty ascent through pine forests, the air growing cooler with every foot of elevation gained. The Dusty Boots Motel, with its quirky charm, felt perfectly at home in the mountain village.

Continuing our loop, we headed north to Socorro. The 191 miles took us back down into the desert, the landscape opening up once again. The Super 8 provided another reliable stop. Truth or Consequences (T or C) was next, a town with a unique name and a laid-back vibe. The 119-mile ride was relatively short, and the Comfort Inn offered a comfortable base. We even spent a second night in T or C, a shorter 104-mile loop allowing us to explore the surrounding area more thoroughly.

Our journey then retraced some steps back to Socorro, a 149-mile ride that felt familiar yet offered new perspectives. From Socorro, we pointed our bikes north towards Los Alamos, the famed site of scientific research. The 219-mile ride was a mix of open highway and the scenic approaches to the Jemez Mountains. The Comfort Inn in Los Alamos provided a modern contrast to some of our more rustic stays.

Chama, New Mexico, was our next destination. The 158-mile ride took us through beautiful northern New Mexico landscapes, the anticipation of reaching this familiar dual-sport haven building. The Chama Trails Inn offered a comfortable and welcoming stay. Our northward trajectory continued to Cuba, New Mexico. The 236-mile ride was one of our longer days, traversing varied terrain and offering glimpses of rural New Mexico. The Frontier Motel provided a basic but necessary stop.

Grants, New Mexico, was our next point, a 145-mile ride through volcanic landscapes and under vast skies. The Days Inn offered a standard roadside accommodation. Our loop was nearing completion as we headed back west towards Springerville, Arizona. The 158-mile ride felt like a homecoming to a familiar stop, this time at the Rode Inn.

The final long push back to Wickenburg, a mirror image of our first day at 305 miles, brought our epic journey to a close. The Best Western Rancho Grande felt like a familiar landmark at the end of our extensive loop. The next day, the final 335-mile ride home was filled with reflections on the incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences we had encountered.

3,470 miles across Arizona and New Mexico, a journey shared between the nimble Suzuki DR-Z400S and the capable Honda Africa Twin. It was a testament to the different ways to explore the open road and the enduring spirit of motorcycle adventure.

April 27th, 2018 – the start of a 2,500-mile adventure primarily on asphalt, a departure from our usual dual-sport focus, but no less exciting.

Our first leg was a significant one, a 271-mile ride from home to Kernville, California. Leaving the familiar coast behind, we wound our way through inland valleys and climbed into the scenic Kern River Valley. The Africa Twins, loaded with our gear, handled the curves with planted confidence. The Kernville Inn, a familiar stop, offered a comfortable welcome to the start of our tour.

The next day took us into the heart of the Central Valley, a 228-mile ride to Clovis, California. The landscape flattened out, the warm California sun beating down as we cruised through agricultural fields. The Best Western Clovis provided a comfortable and air-conditioned respite from the valley heat.

Our route then turned east, climbing back into the foothills of the Sierra Nevada towards Sonora. The 206-mile ride was a delightful mix of winding roads and charming small towns. The Gunn House Hotel, a historic landmark, offered a unique and atmospheric stay in the heart of Gold Country.

A shorter 95-mile hop brought us to Amador City, another gem of the Gold Country. The Sutter Creek Days Inn provided a convenient base to explore the area's rich history and picturesque scenery. From the rolling hills of the Gold Country, we headed north towards Quincy. The 232-mile ride took us through more mountainous terrain, the forests growing denser as we approached the Sierra Nevada’s northern reaches. The Spanish Creek Motel offered a comfortable and quiet night's rest.

Our journey continued north to Alturas, a 200-mile ride across the high plateau of northeastern California. The landscape opened up, offering vast views under the expansive sky. The Super 8 in Alturas provided a reliable stop in this more remote part of the state.

The next leg was our longest single push, a 367-mile ride all the way to Caldwell, Idaho. This day was primarily about covering ground, the Africa Twins proving their long-distance touring capabilities. The miles of highway were made comfortable by their smooth engines and upright riding positions. The Best Western Caldwell Inn became our base for four nights. This extended stay allowed us to visit friends and family in the area, a welcome break from the constant movement of riding.

Leaving Idaho, we headed south into Nevada, our destination Eureka, a historic mining town. The 374-mile ride was another long day, traversing the vast and often empty landscapes of Nevada. The Gold Country Inn in Eureka offered a glimpse into the state's rich mining history.

Our final Nevada stop was Pahrump, a 332-mile ride across more of Nevada's stark beauty. The Pahrump Nugget Hotel provided a comfortable and somewhat larger accommodation after the quiet charm of Eureka. The final day was a 303-mile ride back home, the familiar landscapes of Southern California welcoming us back after our asphalt adventure.

2,500 miles on the comfortable and capable Honda Africa Twins. This trip, focused primarily on pavement, showcased the versatility of these adventure machines as comfortable touring bikes. The memories of winding mountain roads, vast Nevada landscapes, and cherished time spent with loved ones in Idaho would linger long after the engines cooled.

Let’s say you’re looking at your map in Google My Maps, but it feels a bit small, and you want to see it bigger. Here’s how you can do that:

1. Look for the Expand Option: When you’re viewing your map, check the top-right corner of the map area. You might see a little square icon with an arrow pointing outward (it looks like it’s trying to stretch). Click that. This makes the map fill your whole screen or at least a larger part of it.

2. Open in Google Maps (Alternative): If you’re previewing your custom map and see a link or button that says 'View in Google Maps' or 'Open in Maps,' click it. This takes your map to the full Google Maps website or app, where it’s bigger and easier to explore.

3. Zoom and Adjust: Once it’s larger, you can use your mouse wheel to zoom in or out, or drag the map around to see more details.

That’s it! You’re just telling the map to take up more space so you can see everything better.

This works whether they’re on a computer or a phone, though the exact buttons might look slightly different. If they’re stuck, they can also hit the 'Preview' button in Google My Maps to see it in a cleaner, larger layout.

How to Export a Track from Google My Maps

1. Open Your Map

   • Go to Google My Maps on your computer and sign in.

   • Select the map containing the track (e.g., a line or route you’ve drawn).

2. Identify the Track

   • In the left panel, find the layer with the line or route you want to export. This could be something you drew manually using the "Draw a line" tool (the squiggly line icon) or imported from a file.

   • If it’s not already a line, you’ll need to have drawn it as one (e.g., a path between points).

3. Export the Map or Layer to KML/KMZ

   • Click the three-dot menu next to the map title (at the top of the left panel).

   • Select "Export to KML/KMZ".

   • A dialog box will appear. Check the box if you want to export only a specific layer (e.g., the one with your track), or leave it unchecked to export the entire map.

   • Choose KML (for broader compatibility) or KMZ (a compressed version of KML).

   • Click Download. This saves the file to your computer.

4. Verify the File

   • Open the KML/KMZ file in a program like Google Earth to confirm your track (the line) is included. It’ll appear as a path or shape you can view.

5. Convert to a Track Format (Optional)

   • If you need a true "track" format like GPX (common for GPS devices or apps), use a third-party tool:

     • Online Converters: Sites like GPS Visualizer or MyGeodata Converter let you upload the KML/KMZ file and convert it to GPX.

     • Steps: Upload the file, select GPX as the output format, and download the converted file.

   • Alternatively, software like QGIS or Garmin BaseCamp can also handle this conversion.

6. Use Your Track

   • Once you have the file (KML/KMZ or GPX), you can import it into a GPS device, a mapping app (e.g., Gaia GPS, AllTrails), or another platform that supports tracks.

Notes

• What’s a Track?: In this context, a "track" is typically a recorded path with timestamps (like from a GPS device). Google My Maps doesn’t record timestamps, so your exported line is more of a static route. Converting to GPX might add basic track-like properties, but it won’t include speed or time data unless you add that elsewhere.

• Limitations: Google My Maps excels at static maps, not dynamic tracking. If you meant exporting a track from Google Maps Timeline (your location history), that’s a different process involving Google Takeout, which I can explain if needed!

• Drawing a Route: If you haven’t made the track yet, use the "Draw a line" tool in Google My Maps to trace your path, then follow the steps above.