NYC to LA in Winter and then back again in Spring

[lachlan4000]

Hi guys,

My name is Lachlan, I'm 23, I'm Australian, but i've been travelling since I was 17 and have lived in Moscow, Geneva, Hong Kong, London and NYC since I left home 6 years ago. I've spent the majority of my time in Moscow and London where I taught English at Moscow state University and then studied in Law at the University of London. I've just graduated and decided to travel again before I start work for a Law firm (6-foot pine box). I've travelled at every opportunity I've had and for some reason consider getting a Job with a Law firm to be the end of all that.

Sooooo, I've taken another year off and decided to pursue my love for bikes. Something I've wanted to do since I first began my adventure 6 years ago. I arrive in NYC on Feb 16th and plan to cross to LA. I'm completely flexible in regards to time and route, but would prefer to make good time considering I intend to ride back to NYC 4 months later via an alternative route...one that I can take time to enjoy and see the sights of your beautiful country.

I've already sourced a 1999 Triumph Adventurer. It's absolutely my favourite bike in the world, and from what I hear, quiet suitable for what i'm planning.

My question to everyone here is:

What is the best destination to take in Feb (winter)? And is it safe to ride? I'm really serious about this trip and want it to be safe as possible.

I'd love to open the floor to people's experiences and opinions and hear what everyone has to think about riding at this time of year.

It sounds like you guys have some incredible experience in here and have seen/helped many people in the quest to fulfil their dreams.

My preliminary plans are to Ride from NYC south to Atlanta and then take the 1-20? I was hoping that heading south, although losing me time, will let me spend more time riding in warmer weather. Having never been through these areas, I'm not sure about elevation and other issues such as that.

On my way home, I was hoping to go further north and see Wyoming, Colorado and places like that.

I think thats all I can think of so far, so would love to hear what people have to say.

Thank you all

Lachlan

[nomad]

Welcome to the group, Lachlan!
It sounds like a plan for an unforgettable trip!
First of, when you say LA, I think you've meant Los Angeles (LAX) in California.  Correct me if I am wrong.
Feb is cold!  I have ridden on snow sometimes (several hundered miles, but not that far as you plan.
For sure, taking I-40 to cross the country will be the best route at that time of year.  Temperature on the south is milder, but you will need seriously warm clothes for this trip.
Anyway, I would have this trip if I have change.   Crossing USA is always in my dreams every day, even though, I have crossed the country many times.
Good luck and let us know if you have any questions. 
Nomad

[Steppenwolf]

Welcome aboard first of all.
Arriving in NY in february,is bike located there? Not a good time of the year for a ride in that part of the country. One option is to rent a U Haul truck,they have ramps,and drive south,sight seeing along the way till ya hit better riding conditions.Don't know if I 10 or I 20 would be better for the southern part of the journey...weather always IS a factor. Hot and humid to Cold and pouring down rain. So what kinda things do ya wanna see in our country,scenery,historical landmarks or just good roads and a fun time...camping or moteling it.