One of my scooter clubs organized a rally this last weekend in New Braunfels, Texas. Most camped along the Guadalupe River and a few of us seasoned (older) members stayed in a close by motel. The distance between Houston and New Braunfels is about 180 miles and we were able to stay on US 90(A) most of the way there and back. US 90(A) is a two to four lane road in fair condition with posted speeds of 55 – 70 mph. It is a commercial route and you encounter a number of 18-wheelers. The 300 GTI easily cruised at traffic speeds, felt rock steady and handled the road better than my 70’s mid-sized Japanese bikes. Except for one or two very steeps hill I never felt that power was ever an issue. The winds were very strong out of the south and passing 18 wheelers created turbulence and still the bike felt stable. I averaged over 72 mph over the 550 miles traveled which also included city driving in Austin and local driving in New Braunfels. I used an Airhawk R on my seat and I experienced little discomfort aside from what you might expect at my age riding for that many miles. I also used a medium-sized Biker’s Friend bag and back rest. The bag has a well-designed, adjustable and removable back and lumbar support pad. The straight bars and upright riding position of the GTI do not allow for an Easy Rider laid back riding position (and I may have to chop and rake the 300 some day) but the bag nonetheless provides appreciable back support for my 5’9†tired, old body. The bag might not work well for much taller or leggier folks who perch towards the back of the seat. The medium size (at 11†diameter) is the largest back that won’t interfere with the rider’s portion of the seat. It will hold a goodly amount of stuff and will be useful when extra carrying capacity is needed. The bike exceeded my expectations and I awoke this morning as though the trip had never occurred.
