When Ron Ayres first competed in the Iron Butt Rally in 1995, a hardy, but loosely organized group of endurance riders took the field to participate in a sport that barely existed at the time. Ayres riveting account of his sixth-place finish, Against the Wind, would introduce countless motorcyclists to this virtual community for whom mileage means nothing-and everything. And naturally, many readers became hooked. Best-selling author Ron Ayres has written the first book to share the proven advice of long-distance veterans with all riders who are looking to extend their range on a motorcycle. Those hard-core motorcyclists who aspire to participate in endurance rallies will find all the basic information they need to get off to a great start, but touring riders and less ambitious travelers also will be well-served by this book-as would anyone looking to learn a few tricks for enjoying more time in the saddle. To ride long distances, first one must be comfortable riding in a wide range of conditions and situations, and long-distance riders typically choose and modify their gear with these goals in mind. Preparation is also key to success, and you'll learn how to make the most of your ride before you even mount up, utilizing the latest techniques for computer mapping and GPS navigation. See how the Big Dogs manage fuel consumption, speed, and rest breaks to maintain a high average mileage. And lastly, an extensive resource directory will put hundreds of valuable contacts at your fingertips.