Just wanted to post that I think that even though this winter has been milder so far than the previous ones, I am really itching for a motorcycle trip. I am also planning to go to Spearfish again this year if nothing unusual happens at work. I am even trying to swing that Pre-rally in CO.
I am also planning on riding the DR650 this time. Especially since Chuck talked about doing some 4x4 roads in Colorado. If my plans pan out I will be on a single motorcycle vacation and hit the Pre-rally first, then monument valley and other good Utah sites that lend themselves to a Dual sport. Then go to SpearFish and head home. Eastern Kansas is wrong direction so won't be able to go home get the NT and back up to Spearfish. I would prefer to take the NT to Spearfish, but the last time I rode in CO, AZ, NM, and UT I felt like I brought the wrong bike and why I purchased the DR in the first place. So if they let me go of work early enough to include the CO Pre-rally I will be on the DR. Can't wait!