Perhaps the most famous Ducatisti (and for that matter, one of the most famous LD riders in general) that has completed many IBA rides is Gary "Hobatz" Eagan, who most recently set the record for completing the "Ultimate Coast to Coast" (crossing North America from Prudhoe Bay/Deadhorse, Alaska - the northernmost tip of the USA and about 250 miles North of the Arctic Circle, all the way to Key West, Florida - the southernmost tip of the USA, in under 30 days). He completed this ride on a Ducati Multistrada in 4 DAYS, 5 HOURS! Hobatz also holds the record for the "50CC GOLD", which he completed on a Ducati ST, riding from San Francisco, California, to New York City, New York, in 36 HOURS, 57 MINUTES!
One of the easiest (?!) of these IBA rides is the "SaddleSore 1000" (1,000+ miles in under 24 hours). And one of the IBA rides designated as being "extreme" is the "BunBurner GOLD 1500" (1,500+ miles in under 24 hours). After completing my first SaddleSore 1000 ride, I thought that would be enough. But, as you can see, I've caught the long distance bug!
The challenge is not just about completing such a grueling ride. Part of the battle (and reward) comes from the detailed planning, preparation, and time/fuel management needed for LD riding. While I really enjoy riding the 900SS/FE in the twisties and on the track, LD riding presents a new set of challenges for both the rider and the motorbike.
2. SaddleSore 1000 (1000+ in 24): June 25, 2005 - Ducati Group Ride
3. BunBurner GOLD 1500 (1500+ in 24): July 30, 2005 - Solo
4. Saddlesore 1000 (1000+ in 24): September 9-10, 2006 - Solo (with a twist!)
