THE ULYSSES ODYSSEY
The Ulysses Odyssey will be a motorcycling adventure ride from Ushuaia, Argentina to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska beginning late August 2007.
Distance: 17,000 miles. 13 countries in less than 21 days
Brief history of Trans-Americas World Record Rides:
- First: 47 and1/2 days
- Second: Kevin and Julie Sanders in 35 days
- Third: David Gerulski in 27 days in 2006
- Fourth: Dick Fish in 21 days
"...Buell is supporting the Ulysses Odyssey project...we are very exited about the journey Chris is about to embark..." John Flickinger, CEO of Buell co.
"...I strongly believe Chris picked the right bike for this ride, the 2008 Buell Ulysses can easily handle the mud, mountain terrains, gravel, snow and provide at the same time a very smooth and comfortable ride..." Erik Buell.
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FOLLOW THE RIDE
- Expected departure date: August 22nd
- Expected start date: August 26th (please click on blog and read about updates)
- Goal: Ushuaia, Argentina to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska. 17,000 miles, 13 countries in less than 21 days
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Chris Carr, Chris Houghton (owner of HD Atlanta), Micah Cash (mechanic)
Loading up the Buell to Argentina
Reasons for the project:
- Set a new World Record
- To promote the performance of the 2008 Buell Ulysses XB12X
- To raise awareness for the American Cancer Society
- " This ride is about life. It is in honor of my mother's perseverance and determination in her fight against breast cancer. It is also a celebration of a joyful new life with my soulmate..." Chris Carr.
When asked the reasons for his motorcycle choice, Chris responded: " This was the easiest facet of the entire trip planning process. First was my experience riding the Buell from key West, Fla. to Prudhoe Bay , AK in 2006. The Buell was a treasure to ride. It was comfortable, when we logged the 1,000 plus mile days. It was equally at home on the 800 miles of American's worst road "the Dalton Highway" which sometimes resembled a minefield. I rode through the mud, in the rain, in the snow and hit some of the biggest potholes. The Buell cruised for hours at speeds that easily exceeded posted speed limits. Finally, its versatility is unmatched by any rival motorcycles. The 4.4 gallon fuel tanks helped prevent excessive fuel stops. The 2008 Buell Ulysses has improved suspension and a larger turning radius. It is powered by the 1203 thunderstorm V twin motor which provides all the power I could need and most importantly unquestionable reliability.
Also, I am employed by a Harley-Davidson Buell dealer. The owners Chris and Eddie Houghton have supported my racing for 6 years without ever guessing me. I owe them my loyalty in showcasing one of their products.
Finally, it is the man whose name appears on the side of the Bike "Erik Buell" himself. He is a personal hero to me. Erik started from humble beginnings by building motorcycles in his garage. He proved that not only did he have a vision, but that he also possessed the character and persistence to follow his dream despite the obstacles. The man has created a company out of a vision for a true american sportbike. He is passionate and a racer at heart..." Chris Carr.
Buell Motors, owned by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company in Milwaukee, WI, is also excited about the project. Paul James, Director of Marketing and Communications for Buell added "the high handlebars and neutrally centered foot pegs will offer Chris lots of leverage for negotiating curves and turns".
The motorcycle is also equipped with headlight grill, hand guards, and frame pucks to make it more practical for the trip. Finally, the Ulysses XB12X will be outfitted with special racks and packs, navigation and satellite communication systems and other accessories needed for the ride. The GPS satellite tracking device installed on the motorcycle will allow sponsors and supporters to follow Chris during the ride.
PROJECT HAS BEEN POSTPONED, FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ONGOING RIDE, PLEASE READ BLOG
