HU Travellers Meeting California 2017

Erik Munck Airbag ATGATT Saved My Life! Demonstrating the Helite Airbag System

As an avid advocate of rider safety and safety gear, I was fortunate enough to be wearing my Helite Airbag vest when I was violently rear ended and could very likely have been killed. I did break my left femur, the hospital bill was over $100,000! However, from the waist up, not a scratch. I will be showing gory pictures of totalled cars and my new R1200GS, and doing live demo of the vest inflating!

With 44 years of riding under his belt, Erik is an avid traveler, photographer, journalist, techie, and PR/marketing guru to the motorcycle industry.

Richard Frith Richie's Ford's Riding Intro A pictorial insight into the little-known English sport of wet off-roading

Rich's presentation is a visual feast to the lesser-known highways and byways of his part of the U.K. Along with some useful and interesting anecdotes, he will show you a side of the U.K. not many people get to see. Rich is from SW England, recently retired from the U.K. Fire Service. Due to his work shifts, he's managed short trips abroad, but is well-travelled in the U.K.

Elijah Anisovets, Lone Ridin' Visor Against 13 Countries Travelling 13 countries is an adventure; solving the visor problem is a journey

Following one's dream to travel through Latin America may seem crazy enough to many. Not knowing what to expect and what problems would arise can cause anxiety for many would-be adventurers. Elijah would like to talk about some of the challenges he faced from connecting with locals to seeing problems as an opportunity to do something great. One of the problems that haunted him from the start of the journey followed him to the last country he visited. The problem had created a whole other journey that he could not have imagined when he left for his trip.

Elijah quit his corporate job and left to to travel Latin America for eight months, leaving his peers to think he's crazy. After riding a motorcycle through 13 countries, a dream was formed to bring a new innovative solution to every rider.

Michelle Nilles Thailand - Mae Hong Son Loop Rent a bike and ride in Thailand on a short time frame!

In 2015, Michelle rented a bike in Chiang Mai and rode solo on the Mae Hong Son loop alongside Burma, which is called one of the best rides in the world. In 2016, she returned and repeated the trip with her boyfriend. They explored caves, got bitten by a gibbon, and had fabulous Thai cuisine from street vendors. They will talk about how easy and inexpensive it is to do such an adventure, when you only have four to five days of vacation to use for it!

Michelle has attended HU California every year from 2009 until now. In 2010, she rode her 1997 F650 from California to Guatemala and back, solo. In 2015 and 2016, she rented a bike in Chiang Mai and rode along the Mae Hong Son route, bordering Thailand and Burma. Next year, she plans to go all the way to Argentina!

Dave Thum, Overland Adventurer The Whys & Hows of Getting Organized Feeling the struggle? Get motivated about why it's essential and how to get started

Many of us have been in a state of "I want to get my gear more organized" for years. Reasons include procrastination, not staying present to why it's important to you, and not knowing where to start. Dave will refresh your motivation and give you some practical tips and strategies to make this happen. Dave is preparing to become a full-time overlander in a few years. He has backpacked around the world and is currently doing shorter adventures on his KTM 1190 Adventure R and four-wheel pop-up truck camper.

Grant and Susan Johnson, Horizons Unlimited How it all began. The story of Grant and Susan's 11-year trip around the world, without a plan or a clue!

Way back in 1987, before the Internet, two young and naive Canadians set out from Vancouver to ride around the world on a motorcycle. The plan (and budget) was for 3 years, but it didn't quite work out that way!

Amy and Buck Perley, The Great Ride of China The Great Ride of China Overlanding With Your Significant Other

1. The Great Ride of China

By early 2013, after more than two years living in the nation's capital, Buck and Amy started feeling like they were missing out on the "real" China that lay beyond Beijing. Sheltered in a bubble of comfortable expat life in a fast growing cosmopolitan city, they wanted to see more of the country that they had originally (and separately) come to experience. With a population of a 1.5 billion people made up over 56 ethnic minorities, a history that spans millennia, and climates that range from grass plains to deserts to high altitude mountains, there was a lot to explore! Buck and Amy share some of their experiences traveling in the Middle Kingdom, including passages from their just published narrative of the trip, "The Great Ride of China". With a familiarity of both the language and the culture, they were able to scratch below the surface of what most tourists and even veteran adventurers are typically able to experience of the country, including 20-mile traffic jams in the center of coal country, visits to the ancient capitals of long-dead empires, and a chat with a resident of a cave dwelling equipped with satellite TV. Savour their unique view into a country that, today, is often heard of, but rarely understood. Plus, some tips on preparing to travel around China (licensing, visas, dealing with the law, where to visit, etc.).

2. Overlanding With Your Significant Other

There's solo travel and group travel. And then there's couples travel. After traveling for five months together around China just two years into their relationship, one of the most common questions Buck and Amy got wasn't "What was your favorite part" or "Did you ever have problems with your bike", but rather "How did you guys not break up?". Long distance travel can be stressful enough as it is. Doing it with your significant other, while invaluable to have the support system of a partner, can sometimes add an extra dimension to the dynamic of life on the road. Amy and Buck start off with some of the steps they took to set themselves up for success (spoiler alert: they're now married!) as well as some stories of the most… precarious moments of the trip for their relationship. Dive into an informal Q&A and conversation on strategies and stories for traveling with that special someone in your life.

3. Managing Technology on the Road
Strategies for managing your blog, website, digital media, social media, and online sales of the post trip fruits of your labor.

Not everyone has the benefits of deep pockets or support crews to take along with them on their adventure, but that doesn't mean you can't record your journey like a pro. On their five-month motorcycle trip around China, Buck and Amy took with them on a single bike: 6 cameras, 1 laptop, 2 external hard drives, and a wifi router. With so much to keep track of on top of the day-to-day grind of the road, routines are one of the most important parts of effectively capturing and sharing the memories from your adventure. Buck covers some of their most effective routines to capture over 1.3 TB of photos and video (later compiling into a 5-minute trailer and 25-minute TV pilot) while maintaining a daily trip diary online, plus some of Buck's advice as a professional web developer on how to make technology work for you.

Buck works as a software engineer in the Bay Area. In 2013, Buck and Amy broke a Guinness World Record when they motorcycled through all 33 provinces in China where they lived for six years. In 2017, he self-published a book about their trip: "The Great Ride of China".

Spencer Hahn England to Bulgaria on Two Wheels A 26-year-old kid wanders east

Three weeks from England to Bulgaria, including the Route de Grandes Alpes, Transfaragasan, and more. Highlights include the White Cliffs at Dover, the French Alps, Romania, Bulgaria, and Czech Republic. Learn how Spencer prepared for the trip; what he packed; what he wishes he packed and didn't pack; where he went, what he saw, who he met, and more. Get inspired to do your own 'big trip'!

Spencer has ridden in Greece, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and from England to Bulgaria.

Carla King and Jonathan Ehly Exploring Magical Baja

We like to describe central Baja as a combination of the Galapagos Islands and Namibia that's only a day and a half's ride from San Diego. Its natural beauty and the opportunities for exploration by land, sea and air are endless. Baja has always been friendly to tourists and expats, and tourists flock to the northern and southern ends of the peninsula. But it's the central area between the Sea of Cortez and Scorpion Bay on the Pacific that calls to us, as it retains the original feel of old Baja.

Ride your dirt bike, your adventure bike, heck, even your Harley. There's no wrong way to explore Baja. Lately we've been trailering our KTM dirt bikes along with inflatable paddleboard-kayaks and camping gear to keep our options open.

We look forward to showing you a lesser-known network of dirt and tarmac through landscapes that range from the rugged and pine-scented Sierra San Pedro Martir Mountains to desert ranchitas to glittering seas. We'll explore seaside wonders like Bahia de Los Angeles with its hundreds of thousands of dolphins frolicking in the sparkling blue waters among stark islands rising from the Sea of Cortez and Scammons Lagoon on the Pacific Coast for spectacular whale watching.

Travel with us through the Catavina Desert with its thick-trunked elephant trees and Boojum forests, a surreal landscape borrowed by Dr. Suess to illustrate his children's books. Further south we bump along arroyos and oasis to the 7000-year old San Borjitas cave paintings. These are just a few of the opportunities we'll show you to inspire a plan for your ride to Baja's undiscovered treasures.

ALSO, How to set up a 4x4 vehicle with camping and motorcycle/bicycle hauler for less than $5000

Carla King is an adventure travel author who has specialized in solo explorations of the world on a series of cranky indigenous motorcycles. Jonathan Ehly is also a world traveler and he has been exploring Baja for over 30 years by motorcycle, 4x4, boat and small aircraft to seek out hidden trails, remote valleys and secluded bays. We've spent the last year exploring Baja together, and have chosen Mulegé and Bahia Concepcion as our base for continued explorations.

Justin Parker Intro to Moto-Camping in Bear Country Bear vs. human behavior, specialty gear, how to make a bear-safe campsite, and other best practices.

Wherever your adventures take you, safety is always priority #1. And in North America (and Russia) when it comes to feeling the need for safety, nothing make one's heart race and eyes widen quite like camping in bear country or encountering a bear in the wild. The truth is bears are not innately dangerous and spoiling for a fight; theyare really quite shy. If a bear sees you first, chances are you will not see the bear. This is not to say bears present no danger — there is a very real possibility of danger-a-plenty if you do the wrong things — which is why Justin covers doing the right things, how to avoid the wrong things, and specific best practices for motorcyclists camping in bear country. Topics include: 1. Understanding Bears and Bear Behavior 2. Preparing For A Bear-Country Camping Trip 3. Bear Specific Gear 4. How to Pack for Camping in Bear Country 5. How to Set Up, Maintain, and Leave A Bear-Safe Campsite 6. What to do in Event of a Bear Encounter. With a good understanding of these topics, you can greatly reduce the odds of attracting a bear to your campsite, or a chance encounter on the trail. All facts, recommendations, and research discussed in the presentation have been referenced from leading bear authorities and other outdoor and wilderness experts in preparation for his own travels through bear country.

Justin loves learning new adventure travel skills almost as much as travel itself! On-road and off-road riding skills, mechanical training, and, most recently, he was certified in Wilderness First Aid. The bear-country best practices discussed in his talk were learned in preparation for moto-travel into the Rocky Mountains of USA and Canada.

Gerard Ungerman, Respectful Revolution Through the Rodeo of Finding Sponsors Lessons learned from jumping through crazy hoops to convince a motorcycle manufacturer to sponsor a slightly odd project.

Since 2012, Gerard has been crisscrossing the U.S. by motorcycle to interview on camera sustainable do-gooders who strive each day to make our world a better place. He's created a website, a YouTube channel, an active Facebook page, and a TV show, eking out funding and a living with a combination of debt, selling his stuff on ebay, donations, and patrimony dilapidation (pardon, "investment"). Almost everyday, he's learning new tricks to do what he does better. One of his latest pursuits is trying to secure SPONSORSHIP. How to go about selecting potential sponsors, then getting their attention to engage a dialogue, and eventually convince them to give you a bike, gear and a budget in order to to carry out your crazy project that's not your typical racing endeavor?? Gerard shares his experience, adventures, hopes and findings, what's working for him and what isn't - so much so that you can venture into the world and pursue your own crazy motorcycle travel dreams.

Gerard is an ex-military who has been obsessed with motorcycles since before he could even walk. He's been producing documentary films since 1995, and, at 49, is still trying to figure out how to make a semi-stable living.

Nancy Foote and Walt Fulton, Streetmasters New Zealand - the South Island Wonderland When You Get to the Road Less Travelled

1. New Zealand - the South Island Wonderland

An adventure "through the looking glass" at the bottom of the world... see why a trip to the land of Kiwis needs to be on your "to do" list! New Zealand is a motorcyclist's dream come true! Particularly, the South Island, which will be the focus of their presentation. Curve-filled roads with spectacular scenery, charming accommodations, and beautiful (and tasty) food. Outstanding back road travel abounds on an island almost the size of California. Come hear about their travels in New Zealand, and what's in store for 2018 (and it may include some off-road adventures for those so inclined)!

2. When You Get to the Road Less Travelled

Riding off-road on a large adventure bike or a smaller dual sport bike is unquestionably a unique skill. When the pavement ends, the hard work starts. So, what can you do to prepare for that big (or small) adventure? Walt and Nancy will share some tips and tricks learned over a million-plus miles both on and off road, including: suggestions on gear, technique, focus, awareness, pitfalls, and surprises. They'll also address anything that comes up during the 40-minute presentation.

Walt Fulton and Nancy Foote, owners of Streetmasters Motorcycle Workshops, are focused on rider safety both on and off the pavement. Walt is a retired (and resurrected) motorcycle road racer and dirt tracker who continues to teach and ride off-road. Nancy has been an avid on-road rider for the last 30+ years whose love of the sport brought her to her involvement in Streetmasters. They have traveled much of the western U.S., including Alaska, and are going back to New Zealand for a third time in 2018.

Zee Traveler Minimalist Motorcycle Vagabonding See the world from two wheels affordably with minimal belongings

The reputation around traveling has always been that it's expensive, dangerous and requires hauling large amounts of luggage. Becoming a motorcycle vagabond allows Zee to share online and with people she's met on the road her experiences about traveling which are neither expensive nor dangerous. She takes advantage of public lands and forests where camping is free and, with the right precautions, has very little safety concerns. It's also a joy for her to inspire others to start motorcycle camping, take longer trips, or become a long-term vagabond by showing you can fit what you need on your motorcycle. After seeing so much segregation in the motorcycle community, Zee created a group called "Minimalist Motorcycle Vagabonds" to have a place where the brand of bike you ride or how you camp doesn't matter. Here, it's all about the journey and how we grow as people in our adventures. This is the way she lives and believes it's worth sharing with the world.

In 2016, Zee became a motorcycle vagabond traveling across North America. She inspires and show others you don't have to have money or carry much to have a rich and glorious life living on your motorcycle.

Anthony Ramirez & Grandpa Grandpa, Can I Go, Too? A 10-year-old's insights and experiences on including kids in your motorcycle travels, how to limit risk and add fun.

Anthony Ramirez, a young rider (actually a passenger), will speak about his views on riding on long and short motorcycle travels. As a seasoned passenger, with more than 5,000 miles and four years experience, he will share a 10-year-old's perspective. You might think spending days with a 10-year-old on a motorcycle trip is about as desirable as getting a root canal, but Anthony will convince you otherwise. He'll provide some insight into why you should consider including the young rider in your life on your next trip. His views on the value he gets from participating, how to reduce potential issues, and creating an entertaining experience will provide a unique young man's perspective and new ideas for you. Anthony will suggest some steps on getting started - from first ride to participating in multi-day long distance travels. Finally, he'll describe his own recent experience putting these steps into practice including his perspective as a trip report from a recent 11-day, 2600-mile ride from California to Colorado by way of numerous back roads and mountain passes.

Anthony is a 10-year-old motorcycle passenger veteran from Paso Robles, CA, in a fanatical motorcycle family. His experiences include three BMW rallies, HU California, and recently, completing an 11-day ride from CA to CO. In total, he's ridden over 5,000 miles since the age of six.

Ginamarie Austin, Two Wheels Two Feet Life After Travel So, you've returned home after traveling, so what do you do now?

After deciding to quit your job, pack your bags, and saying goodbye to a world that is so familiar may feel like it is the hardest part about traveling. However, returning home can be more emotionally challenging than leaving for the trip in the first place. Now that you're back from that once-in-a-lifetime adventure and it has changed your outlook on life, work, friends and family, the reality is that those you left behind at home have remained the same while you were away. They even expect you to act and behave just like you did before you left on your trip. The transition back to reality without a job or a sense of direction of where to go next can make restless, anxious, or even depressed. You'll be constantly gazing out to the horizon, looking, dreaming, and wishing for another opportunity to get away again. Until you can travel again, come hear how to use those lesson learned while traveling and apply it to every day life back home.

Ginamarie is a motorcycle rider who had to learn how to stand on her two feet again after losing her husband to cancer. She learned how to maintain her own motorcycle and rode a 200cc Yamaha dual sport bike on a trip of a lifetime on the back roads of North America. She will share her experiences, strength and hope with others on the road.

Mark Barrington South America 2016 – 2 Bikers, 1 SatNav Rides in Europe and Morocco

1. South America 2016 - 2 Bikers, 1 SatNav

In January 2016, Mark joined up with Gary (a fellow UKGSer chum) and resurrected a ditched group ride planned for South America. They planned to ship their BMW R1200 GS bikes to Buenos Aires, ride about 6000 miles through Argentina, Chile, Peru and Bolivia and return to Buenos Aires to fly home - in three weeks! The ride pretty much went according to plan, but Mark and Gary had a couple of epic adventures along the way, and realised just how big the Andes really are! This presentation includes some video and Mark hopes to convince other average folks that South America is 'do-able'. He offers details of the simple shipping process and the pros and cons of two average blokes taking on South America.

2. Rides in Europe and Morocco

Mark recently shipped his bike from the U.K. into the U.S. to ride the Trans-Canada Highway before hooking up with a mate to ride into Alaska, getting up to Prudhoe Bay, and then riding back down the Rockies into California. He lives in England and "cut his teeth" riding a number of short bike trips into Europe and Morocco before taking a trip to South America. This presentation is a mix of his early bike rides and gives an overview of the sorts of short bike rides (2-3 weeks) he has done in Europe throughout the years. It may include some content from his current bike trip across the U.S. and Canada.

Mark is an average 50-something married bloke with a passion for the outdoors. A latecomer to the motorcycle fraternity, he has done a few long trips through Europe and one to Morocco. He yearns for a 'big trip' and likes adventures - but only with a small "a".

Ken Freund Crossing Borders Getting you and your motorcycle through international borders

The process of getting through border checkpoints and customs can make or break your trip and budget! Learn helpful tips about passports, visas, vaccinations, carnets, shipping, money changing, bribes and "tramitadores" at certain borders. Ken will end with a Q & A session at the finish. Ken is a full-time motojournalist, photographer and technician who loves to travel and explore the world. He's been to 81 countries, on all seven continents, and has ridden across the Sahara Desert to Timbuktu. He's also a former EMT with Search and Rescue, air rescue pilot, and medal of valor recipient.

Tim Carden, Tim Carden Photography Lingering in Mongolia and the Stans Vladivostok to Istanbul the Slow Way

1. Vladivostok to Istanbul the Slow Way

After a rear shock leak delayed the long ride across Asia, Tim decided to store his DR650 in Bishkek to allow for another riding season. He'll discuss his own balance of patience, self-sufficiency, flexibility, and intentionality... most of which slowly developed over 12 years of tours spread over five continents to date. He welcomes questions about what one could expect generally in the former Soviet Union states and about the Suzuki DR650.

2. Lingering in Mongolia and the Stans

Tim covers his three months of riding in Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. In early summer 2016, Tim returned to Ellie, his 2008 DR65, that had been stored in Bishkek after arriving the previous autumn. He'll discuss more generally the importance of patience and preparedness, particularly for solo riders who like to slowly take less direct routes with intention. Tim is happy to field questions about what one can expect in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

Tim has ridden 300,000 km, on either Skylar (Suzuki DL650) or Ellie (Suzuki DR650), through sub-Saharan Africa, North America, Europe, New Zealand/Australia, and Northern Asia scattered over the last 12 years. Trust those who seek the truth, doubt those who've found it.

Nicole Espinosa, Rugged Rider World Dreams A common thread of dreaming big throughout humanity in all corners of the globe

Ever wonder what dreams and life plans look like in other areas of our world? Especially in corners of the globe like Africa and Egypt where so many are struggling? Join Nicole on her most recent "Living on the Road" path where embracing a financial squeeze opened the doors to global travel. Come see how other cultures answered the question, "What is your dream?" See how serendipity danced through daily travel, and ancient wisdom was unlocked along the way. All because of letting go of the reins and opening up to the beauty of humanity. Come experience the tapestry of similar hearts found in Africa, Egypt and Indonesia, all in 2017.

Living on the road on her DRZ400 for the past year and a half has gifted Nicole with a live-in-the-moment outlook on life. She was pulled to the mystical area of Joshua Tree in California's Mojave Desert where she spends much of her time in-between global travels.

Chris Baker Motorcycle Diaries Redux: Cuba

Cuba is the hottest new travel destination, and for the first time in decades, U.S. travelers are flooding the island. Now is the time to explore this previously forbidden and endlessly fascinating Caribbean isle before it gets overrun by U.S. tourists. However, U.S. travel restrictions remain in place and it is illegal under U.S. law to ship a motorcycle or other vehicle to Cuba. No one knows Cuba like professional travel writer/photographer and motojournalist Christopher P. Baker, whose six books about Cuba include the Moon Cuba handbook, National Geographic Traveler Cuba, and Cuba Classics: A Celebration of Vintage American Automobiles. The author of more than two dozen travel guidebooks, Christopher famously shipped his BMW R100GS to Cuba in 1996, resulting in Mi Moto Fidel: Motorcycling Through Castro's Cuba (National Geographic Adventure Press). In 2013 he introduced the first group of motorcycle tours of Cuba for U.S. citizens since the Revolution, and has since led dozens of tours of the island end to end.

Chris regales his 1996 journey and describes how you can follow the trail of Che Guevara in your own "Motorcycle Diaries" redux. Mi Moto Fidel: Motorcycling Through Castro's Cuba – Travel Book of the Year "This is a wonderful adventure book... a meditation on philosophy, politics, and the possibilities of physical love. It has the depth of a novel and the feeling of a great love story." — Judges, Lowell Thomas Award.

Chris shipped his BMW R100GS to Cuba in 1966 and rode 7,000 miles. Since 2013 he has led group tours to Cuba for U.S. motorcyclists. He reports on adventure journeys from South Africa to Scotland for leading magazines from Motorcyclist to Penthouse, and is the author of more than 20 travel guidebooks.

David Rankine Motorcycling to Alaska

A 40-minute presentation on various routes for those planning on riding a motorcycle to Alaska. Dave is originally from Alaska, but is retired and lives in Reno, NV. He has ridden a motorcycle around the world twice. His presentations emphasize useful information for people contemplating a trip to far off places.

Lyn Williams and Alan (Curt) Curtis, Twoxtw Hidden Gem Eastern Europe Magic Morocco

1. Hidden Gem Eastern Europe

Travels through Bulgaria, Romania, Czech, Hungary and into Poland. This area of the world is often overlooked but the roads, sights and people are some of the best in the world. Let us show you how wonderful Eastern Europe can be. It is accessible, safe, cheap, and full of friendly, helpful people, and it would be a real shame to miss it!

2. Magic Morocco

Let us take you on a magical trip through Morocco, from the Atlas Mountains, the Gorgeous Gorges, and to the Sensational Sahara, over a period of four weeks. The sights, smells, scenery, and the people were amazing.

We left Australia in 2014 to ride the world, riding through South East Asia and then flying the bikes to Germany. From there, we have travelled all of the UK, Europe, Morocco, and back into Eastern Europe. Then to Scandinavia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Vladivostok. Shipped the bikes to L.A. and are now travelling the Americas.

George Leavell What to do after a "butt-pucker" moment What do you see?

1. What to do after a "butt-pucker" moment

You escaped that close call, what are you going to do next? How do you avoid repeating the mistake? All riders make mistakes. If you don't learn from it, you are going to repeat it and next time you might not be so lucky. Let's discuss how to troubleshoot the mistake. It only takes a few moments of thought.

2. What do you see?

Vision drills to help riders understand how better use of their eyes gives them more control, more confidence, and improves their safety. Vision drills include wide field of view and narrow field of view, and how and when to use them. I will teach you how important both central vision and peripheral vision help reduce anxiety.

George comes with 47 years' riding and racing, on- and off-road. Over 450k miles. Professional riding instructor for seven years. His passion and addiction are to help other riders be safer and to enjoy riding more and for longer!

Lynda Lahman The Winner's Mind / What I learned researching & writing the 'Women's Guide to Motorcycling'

1. The Winner's Mind

Motorcycle classes stress the need to be focused when riding, but often don't teach exactly how to focus. In addition, fear can turn a wonderful riding experience into an unpleasant one quickly. Add in travel to foreign environments and it can increase anxiety for many. Those new to adventure riding, returning riders after years away, and those getting back on the bike after an accident or injury can learn how to focus on what's important and how to keep those fears from interfering with the joys of being out on the road no matter where you are going. It's a skill we can all improve no matter your current level of expertise.

2. What I learned researching and writing the Women's Guide to Motorcycling

A motorcycle doesn't care if you are male or female, so why a book just for women? While we're capable of anything put in front of us, I discovered a few unique characteristics of women who ride. There are two main areas of focus that arise that are common to men and women, although they show up differently, and one much more unique to women. Come discover what they are and what they may mean for your riding and for riding with others.

Lynda got her start riding at fifteen when a boyfriend taught her on his Honda 50. Leaving bikes behind until meeting her second husband in 2004, she was introduced to long distance riding and is now the only person to complete the eleven-day Iron Butt Rally as a pillion (twice) and as a solo rider (once). She is the author of four books; her most recent release is 'The Women's Guide to Motorcycling.' She currently writes a weekly 'Ask Lynda' column for WomenADVmag.com and wrote a regular column in the print version of the Iron Butt Magazine. Lynda has a private practice as a Mental Skills Coach helping athletes, including motorcyclists, break through mental barriers to reach peak performance, get back after injuries, and find pleasure in their sport. She works with clients both in person and remotely via Facetime and Skype. She lives with her husband Terry in Snoqualmie Washington.

Don't miss her Q&A session about the mental and emotional aspects of riding. See "Tech Sessions" below.

Grant Johnson, Horizons Unlimited Hex GS911 Diagnostic Tool A super-helpful tool for BMW bikes

Grant does a demo of HEX Code's newest 'HEX GS-911 WIFI' electronic diagnostic tool for BMW bikes. It's saved him plenty of headache and money to get HU's BMW R1200GS roaring again. Grant says, "This tool lets you identify the problem BEFORE spending loads on diagnostics. Hindsight is 20/20. It's an awesome tool and now a part of my regular travel kit. Just wish I had it sooner! Anyone with a compatible BMW and is NOT carrying it is missing out on a great diagnostic tool that could save them major money in the long run."

Read Grant's review of the HEX GS-911 Wifi here.

Kathy Storin & Richard Battles, Manic Nomads The R.I.D.E. Video 101 Back-to-back sessions

1. The R.I.D.E.

Research, Integration, Decision-making, Expansion... all about bluetooth communications. Communications, and bluetooth in particular, has been advancing at light speed. Even if you've heard this seminar before or have been using bluetooth technology, Richard guarantees that you'll learn at least one new thing.

2. Video 101

"So, I got a video camera, now whattaidowithit?" Sound familiar? Richard and Kathy lead you through a Video 101 lesson for beginners. They do not consider themselves a videographer by any stretch of the imagination, but they have over 150 videos on their YouTube page - they feel qualified to offer you a guide to start your video product carriers.

Since 1985, Richard and Kathy have been manufacturing motorcycle luggage and offering communications systems.

Nancy Foote and Walt Fulton, Streetmasters Dirty Streetmasters (Saturday, Sept. 23rd) Paid motorcycle training workshop

Streetmasters Motorcycle Workshops is best known for offering Advanced Cornering Techniques for the past 13 years, but for the last four years they have combined on-road and off-road skills in a class called "Dirty Streetmasters". If you ride a dual sport or adventure bike and would like to get off the beaten path, join us for a day-long workshop on Saturday, September 23rd. Dirty Streetmasters is designed for riders who want to explore the path less traveled, but haven't yet kept going when the pavement ends.

Already ride in the dirt? This is an excellent opportunity to refresh your skills under the watchful eye of an avid off-road instructor. The day will start with a bit of classroom, then an hour or so working on dirt-specific skills before heading out to some local dirt roads. You must have an adventure/dual sport bike with dual sport tires to participate in the Dirty Streetmasters workshop. Class size is limited, but we do need a minimum of 6 riders, so sign up soon to ensure your spot!

Cost: $100, an INCREDIBLE PRICE JUST FOR HU CALIFORNIA 2017 PARTICIPANTS!

Walt Fulton, former professional dirt track racer and long-time off-road rider, will help you obtain the skills you will need to be comfortable riding your bike in the dirt.

Click here to sign up for "Dirty Streetmaster" class.

Grant and Susan Johnson, Horizons Unlimited 4 Easy Steps to Overland Travel! You can do it - we can help! Finding your way around Horizons Unlimited, other resources. Lots of great pics and video clips.

"Grant and Susan Johnson are icons in the round-the-world (RTW) motorcycling community. The Johnsons host - or more appropriately write, edit, produce, manage and coordinate Horizons Unlimited - a global network of motorcycle travelers... and a bona fide adventure motorcycling phenomenon." Dan Hilton, Rider Magazine

This seminar will be an overview of various 'How To' topics. Includes 'How to' content from the Achievable Dream series and great pics from HU Photo Contest winners!

Ken Freund First on Scene - What to Do at a Crash Helpful tips if you are at the scene of an accident

Someday you'll find yourself at the scene of a serious accident where people need help to stay alive. It may be a motorcycle crash, car accident, or other type of incident. Seconds count and can make the difference between life and death. Yet many times on adventure riding trips, you're far from help. Knowing what to do and what not to do could save lives, perhaps that of your friend, partner, or other family member. Learn practical tips and gain experience before you need it! Q&A session at the end.

Scott Sinan, Blauer Tactical Systems Personal Defense Readiness What if learning self defense was easier then you think? Learn to be your own bodyguard.

So whats stopping you from doing that trip? Have you ever been caught in the 'fear loop'? Understanding and managing fear can be the catalyst to help you take the plunge and experience this amazing world we live in! Scott will go into the reasons he chose to ride, and his experiences throughout his 11,000-mile ride from California to Europe that helped him step out of his comfort zone. In addition, you'll learn some training models he uses to help other people understand the emotional and psychological affects of fear.

When overland traveling, you'll find that our world is relatively safe, but understanding fear and physical self defense go hand in hand. Scott has been teaching and training in martial arts and self defense for almost 30 years. He'll help you uncover your body's natural instincts and ability to protect itself, giving you the confidence to handle most confrontations.

James Kitt MotoFood -You Don't Have to Eat Sawdust! Prepare great tasting meals in camp with easily available items from home and on the road.

We've all been there: you get into camp after a long day of riding. You're tired, hungry, and know that it's going to be the same old drill. Boil water, pour it into the bag, wait, mix and eat. What if you could take that same bag and make a deliciously different meal each time? Or at least have some fresh ingredients to liven things up? As moto-travelers, we're always thinking about space and weight. However, it's really all about thinking ahead, what to pack from home, what to look for in advance of camp, and how to use things you can find almost anywhere in any country to kick your meals up a few notches every time.

In this session, you'll learn how to: elevate the flavors of freeze-dried foods; prepare your own pre-packaged meals from home; make great comfort food in camp; source local foods and ingredients; what will keep on the road and how to store them; what spices work with certain foods and how to pack them efficiently; timing and coordination of your meal to cook great food with minimal equipment; and above all else, how to do these things with just the items he currently carries on his bike.

James Kitt (a.k.a. Roamin' Joe) is a Moto-Photo-Foodie just roamin' the world. Living life to its fullest through the people he meets, the food he finds, and the photos he takes wherever his travels lead him.

Lynda Lahman A Q&A session about the mental and emotional side of riding

Based on the 'Ask Lynda' column of the WomenADVMagazine, Mental Skills/Relationship Coach Lynda Lahman will answer your questions and create conversations within the group to address all manner of concerns about the mental and emotional side of riding. Questions can be as varied as 'How do I divorce my riding partner' to 'What's a gut feeling and how do I know if I should trust it?'

Jim Kirkland Mad Max Road Side Repair Tips and Tricks Many running issues can be trouble-shot on the side of the road and fixed...believe it or not!

In spite of riding a low mileage or new bike, plus doing all the maintenance the owners manual calls for, sooner or later you may experience a non-start condition, or a stop-running problem while on a great trip. OR what if a horrendous vibration or noise develops while you are on a lonely back road? Maybe even while riding solo. Where you start, where to check, and how to check will be presented in easy-to-follow-and-to-do layman's terms. After all, it is not rocket surgery or brain science! LOL. Learn how to get yourself out of mechanical pickles and what tools and equipment to carry. Learn to talk and walk Tech!

Ridden and wrenched on bikes since I was four, I retired two years ago as Director of Service with American Suzuki after a 42-year career. Degree in Industrial Education Automotive. Taught Tech school for Suzuki in my younger career days. Helped launch the GT750, RE5, GSXr 750, GS1000, Cavalcade and the entire VStrom line up.

Volkmar Druebbisch Modifying a Bike to YOUR Needs, and Why

Volkmar covers modifying your bike to YOUR needs for extended trips. Most of us have done it. If you want to accommodate camping gear, extra fuel, fishing rod, etc., this demo is for you. If you are interested to increasing comfort, safety, reliability or performance, then don't even think about missing this! With one of his two bikes at the seminar, Volkmar will share the fun and challenges a 1981 BMW R80 G/S or 2008 KTM 950se have given him. Bring your questions, there might be just the answer you've been looking for.

At the age of six, Volkmar's brothers had nothing better to do but to take him to the movie "Easy Rider". Did it change his outlook on life? Yes, instantly. He could not think of anything better than to move to California's motorcycle heaven 20 years later.

Grant Johnson, Horizons Unlimited Fix that flat! How to change a tire anytime, anywhere!

Grant's tire changing seminars are always well attended and appreciated. This seminar covers: how to prevent flats in the first place, and fix them when you get one; the best tools and how to use them for tube and tubeless tires; hands-on practical for beginners to experts, optional tire changing contest.

Grant's tire changing seminar at HU California meeting.