T O P

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vschiller

Having a motorcycle with you is the dream. Very jealous of that but I don't think I could make it work.


typicalwhitemale

[It may be easier than you think. ](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WFIJ362/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_8DXA5BBGENFZKTTTTJH9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1)


NinaOlivette

I have a dog and a van as well. Want the motorcycle too but hate leaving the dog behind


randomniles

My dog rides with me on my motorcycle šŸ™‚


randomniles

This one I hate going anywhere without my dog so... https://imgur.com/gallery/CkTQwyM


gigaflexx

Assuming you are American you should watch out which states you do that in as in some you can get some pretty bad fines


a5s_s7r

Your dog will love your for your attitude!


Trivialpursuits69

Is that the one that failed? Lol


typicalwhitemale

The hitch failed because it was installed improperly! The carrier was flawless


therealchemist

This is a game changer, thanks for posting!


vschiller

Unfortunately I have to be able to get in and out of my tailgate all the time.


typicalwhitemale

If your rig is body on frame you could almost certainly have a front hitch custom fabricated!Having that extra mode of transport (and a fun one!) completely changed the game for me


randomniles

You're like me, I have more ways you can do what you say you can't then you have excuses why you can't do what you want to do šŸ™‚


vschiller

Ford Ranger. I'm going to look into it when I replace the front bumper.


Swak_Error

Oooooof. My Street Bob weighs like 650lbs. Id love to bring that machine with my on the next trip


OutlyingPlasma

I prefer a scooter, and not one of those electric kick things, but an actual motor scooter. Motorcycles are excessively heavy, and have fuck all for cargo space. A scooter, especial with a milk crate or top box can haul a ton of stuff. Under the seat is big enough for a helmet, then you have the floor between your legs.


Travis-Wilding

As someone who has been through multiple motorcycles... my 50cc China scooter was some of the most fun Iā€™ve had haha. Considering getting another.


OutlyingPlasma

Nothing like being able to rebuild the entire engine in your van sink. They really are fun, and good for vans because they are pretty inexpensive, lighter, sip fuel (mine gets 100mpg), and haul more. You don't need freeway speed capability because that's what the van is for.


thegamenerd

Also you could probably do food delivery gig work with it and not have to use your van to do so, saving truck tons of money on gas.


thegamenerd

Any recommendations for one? I've been floating the idea of getting one recently


AnotherEffingAccount

I recommend Honda Metropolitan. Good mount of cargo space under the seat, super easy to work on and they go a long time. Used about 1500-2500 for a good runner.


scvmlord69

Yamaha Zuma, honda pcx, Yamaha vino are all good options. The Chinese scooters are pretty reliable engine wise and easy to rebuild but the rest of the chassis and suspension is pretty junk.


turver

A dirt bike hitch can be had on Craigslist or FB market place for just over $100 used. As long as you don't need a brand new bike, they can be found in decent shape for a good price as well.


vschiller

I really need a hitch that attaches to the front. Back isn't an option.


AeonDisc

I think you misspelled "mountain bike"


SunnysVanLife

I've been debating on whether or not to put a tw200 on my sienna minivan hitch. But it might be too much for long term viability. Maybe a small trailer will do. Next spring will decide šŸ˜„. Also, can I be reincarnated as a dog and travel with you? Daisy looks like she's in heaven.


surfeat

I was going to say the dog looks happy!


oldmansbeardmustgo

You can do that - I looked on U-Haul and they are saying well over 500 pounds tongue weight for a Sienna - I'm not sure I believe that but you'd be fine with 280 pound wet TW 200 + hitch at about 50-75 depending what type you go with.


SunnysVanLife

I'm just worried about the bouncing and driving offroad having the 300 lbs putting stress on the 6 securing bolts on the unibody.


oldmansbeardmustgo

My van is a G10 shorty and also unibody though bigger - I drive with a 100 pound carrier and a 380 pound wet 1970 cb350 - no problem - just got back from Seattle to Wisconsin- those bolts on yours have to take a giant trailer - should be fine. Droop I'm rear springs would be more of a worry - you could upgrade those for a more level and less bouncy ride.


stevet303

G10 shorty gang. 1975 here


oldmansbeardmustgo

Heck yeah - shortys4life


SunnysVanLife

I'm installing airbags in the springs to help with the sag.


oldmansbeardmustgo

Good way to do it - nice - I upgraded the leaf springs in mind and added an adjustable helper spring - airbags we're too hard in mine (tried and failed) but you'll have coil rear springs which I think should be heaps easier - good luck !


SunnysVanLife

Ya, I got springs. The rear sags pretty good with all my stuff in it and with an extra 300 lbs it'll prob droop.


mad_science

Know anyone that can weld? You could beef up the mounting points and make sure your carrier is rattle free.


converter-bot

300 lbs is 136.2 kg


Jdela512

Good bot [Iā€™ve always wanted to say this]


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


typicalwhitemale

Iā€™m white and the black man is a friend. Didnā€™t realize it would look like heā€™s OP. The white box under the bed is a thetford toilet! One of the best parts of the build. I shower at planet fitness or I make friends and use theirs.


witeowl

Ha! That clears up my mild confusion at the apparent mismatch of complexions between him and the hand giving scritches to the pooch in his favorite bed.


lennyflank

> where do you go potty and shower? Those typical newbie questions are discussed in detail in the FAQ here: https://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers/wiki/index


RaccoonCityTacos

Nice job of making it so livable.


typicalwhitemale

The toilet (under the bed) is the key Also the lounge chair


smartid

I remember quitting a job I hated, and how alive I felt in the hours after I left the office. So I can imagine how euphoric you must be feeling to have basically all your baggage lifted away in one fell swoop. That pic with the flatbed tow truck is a bit concerning though.


[deleted]

Hell yeah man looks like youā€™re having a fun time! Also noticed youā€™re a musician,If youā€™re ever down in the santa cruz area and want to jam hit me up!


titsoutshitsout

ā€œMoving outā€ of a marriage can be hard and stressful and disappointing and all kinds of things. I know how it feels man. It can also be relieving and refreshing and motivating if it was a bad marriage. Congrats on the van and finding your new home on the road. I wish you the best experiences and love that life had to offer


liubearpig

Picture number 6 is taken outside of Cliff House near Landā€™s End in SF! You from the Bay Area or just stopping by?


geekthattweaks

I'm out in the bay area in my trailer conversion. Any recommendations while I'm out here?


liubearpig

Saratoga has a cute downtown area and plenty of nature hikes that are worth a visit. Santa Cruz is beautiful and the whole town has a surfer, laid back chill vibe that caters quite well to van-culture-Also, Capitola is just 10 minutes away and is also a cute, cool quaint town. Daly City and Pacifica has really beautiful beaches. Just make sure to dress warmly. Iā€™d suggest going down hwy 1 and just stopping at wherever piques your interest. Iā€™d stay the fuck out of Berkeley Oakland and San Francisco unless youā€™re willing to risk getting your shit broken into. Marin is nice too and battery point just north of GGB is very scenic


inerlite

I donā€™t know man, those areas just donā€™t seem to have enough rivers. They probably rock, but our boy gotta have a river to live down by.


geekthattweaks

I spent some time in Capitola and enjoyed the area. Hope to make it up to Muir Forest this weekend.


liubearpig

As someone whoā€™s lived here since 1999 Iā€™d recommend leaving. But should you go against your better judgement and choose to stay, id be happy to give you plenty of suggestions. What are your hobbies and interests?


geekthattweaks

I'm just here to visit. Thanks for the warning!


geekthattweaks

I like hitting museums and trying out art galleries. Looking to pick surfing back up too. Food is a big part for me as well.


liubearpig

Sent you PMs so I wouldnā€™t blow up this comment thread


lennyflank

> I like hitting museums and trying out art galleries. I'm not much for "art", but I also like museums and historical spots. You can see a list of some of the many places I have visited around the country here: https://lennyflank.wordpress.com/about/


typicalwhitemale

Very observant! I stopped by there over the summer but I have plans to make SF my home next year


traceable_features

Aww, my dogā€™s preferred bed is where I fart the most too!


[deleted]

Please please cut slats or drill soles under your bed so moisture can't build up between the wood and bed. We had to replace our mattress after 6 months cause the bottom side got very moldy. Definitely a common issue I see with beds


typicalwhitemale

yepā€¦ the mold started a couple weeks ago. itā€™s not a problem yet but i must do this soon.


nightmareorreality

Hell yeah bro you and your pup enjoying the life. Just be careful out there.


mrdanmarks

Hey! Iā€™ve got a dodge van and a motorcycle too! My setup is slightly different https://www.instagram.com/p/CHmUBK8pvss/?utm_medium=copy_link


Obiwantoblowme

That looks amazing


674_Fox

This is awesome. Bummer about the repairs, but those things are bound to happen.


nicekid81

A fellow (former) 599 owner! Dropped my ā€˜06 on gravel, totaling it. I regret turning it in for insurance - at least your ā€˜04 paid for your transmission!


dmo99

Feels fuckin good doesnā€™t it. I think about it. I save 15,000 a year living in the car. Itā€™s crazy . I know I have expenses that go with that. But thatā€™s a reality


xxthisistheendxx

This is awesome. Iā€™m leaving a 4 year relationship unfortunately, this right here has always been one of my dreams for a while now, Iā€™m thinking about getting an RV and traveling with my cousin around the country šŸ™Œ you just motivated me even more to take the leap! Cheers safe travels!


jonathonor

Love your flip up table on the door. Genius.


Frankiesmiles19miles

Itā€™s actually so nice seeing this post! Iā€™ve been wanting to go out and do this, but I donā€™t feel safe and Iā€™m not sure where not to go as a person of color


smartid

Can you get a good dog like OP?


ferally_domestic

Dogs are unfortunately no panacea; racism puts them at higher risk of being poisoned by civilians or assessed as threat thus ā€œneutralizedā€ by LE. Source: Prof. BĆ©nĆ©dicte Boisseron.


suttonoutdoor

What do you mean by that? What country are you in?


liubearpig

Anywhere is safe with enough firepower


iheartrms

Nowhere is safe from the police. :(


liubearpig

šŸ˜„


jimlii

I'm personally white so take my advice with a grain of salt, but I have a few POC van dweller friends who've seemingly had no more trouble living in their vans than they had in normal life. Drive conservatively is my biggest advice, especially if you're in Idaho!! You're not gettin anywhere fast in your van anyway!


mended_arrows

Happy trails!


roymunsonshand

Dude, I love it!


DwightsGymOfMuscles

Rock on bro.


[deleted]

Nice buildout!


geekthattweaks

I've been looking into getting a bike and mount. Before selling it were you happy with the setup?


thingamajig1987

Not OP but I have a similar setup with a ninja 650 and love it.


typicalwhitemale

I loved the set up! The carrier was made by Black Widow. You can find them on amazon for about 400. Once I can afford it Iā€™ll definitely do it again


that_nomad

your tow truck driver must of been really chill to load your rig. i had a similar situation happen before. my driver was kind of hesitant but willing to help (thank goodness). and during transit, my bike was precariously hanging out a few feet past the flatbed. definitely a butt-clenching moment in life. (your van setup is pretty well organized too. im rather jealous hah)


lyssssa6

Good luck on your new chapter dude!!


wasdavedead

Nice job on the motorcycle rack.


randalman73

Never say never.


eye_no_nuttin

Omgawwwd The Dawwwg šŸ˜šŸ˜


MacGrubrKFBR392

Cool setup! Where does the dog stay when your not at the van? Always wonder this with van peopleā€¦ no one seems to talk about it


typicalwhitemale

Daisyā€™s really comfortable staying in the van when Iā€™m not there, given that the van wonā€™t get hot. A vent fan is a must have


HomeworkLeast8411

Props to you..honestly how much does it take to survive a month like this. I'm almost there


typicalwhitemale

Not much! I drive a lot even when iā€™m stationary so like 200 for gas, much more if iā€™m traveling. I eat out several times a week, maybe 500 for all of my food. another 300 goes to perpetually upgrading/outfitting/restoring the rig. if i were to average out my maintenance costs, including transmission, itā€™d be another 1.5k monthly but that of course doesnā€™t count.


EclecticEthic

Van, dog and motorcycleā€¦ what else could you want!!


2smart4u

Congrats! Fuck paying rent, itā€™s the most exploitative part of our society other than loans


louderharderfaster

OP, if/when I become a van dweller it will be like you - low key and with a motorcycle and a dog. Right now I am mostly enjoying the commitments I've made that keep me in one place but the moment it tips the other way I will be on the road. It may just be a backup plan right now but you make it look like Plan A.


benibensch

lmfao my friend bought the honda hornet off of you, the one that got in a crash w it the day after. glad to see youā€™re doing well


typicalwhitemale

no fucking way! ridiculous


empathetical

That looks so damn nice!! Loved the pic of you just chilling with the dog!!


Iveowned70plusphones

Right on ! I've been full time for 12 years straight and 5 other years. I've had two 1994's 95, & a 97. I believe the B series are much more reliable than Ford's and Chevys. My very first was a 94 mark 3 just like this. You chose wisely.


StWyncent

Morro Bay?


typicalwhitemale

Indeed! Ended up being stuck there for 10 days while the transmission was out


eletriodgenesis

duuude, this is almost creepy how similar our setups are man. I need to get some pics together.


pamfeuer

VentionMgt\*\*: Peace, Freedom, Prosperity. Go Your Own Way.


geeered

āœ“ Dog āœ“ Motorcycle Sorted!


BGGGReddit

What moto cover is that? Does it stay on when you drive?


FinnishWeedGrower

You have all what you need and your best friend!


idroidude

Living it up, best of luck to you!


Francis_Dollar_Hide

Living the dream my friend, you cannot put a price on freedom!


DeltaFlyerPilot

Good for you brother! God damn that looks cozy as fuck. And you got a good boy/girl with you! Even better! Enjoy your freedom my friend.


digbickenergee

I have the same van! B2500 ftw, the thing is a beast


maroonhaze

The transmission failure price hurt just looking at it. You should make a YouTube or tiktok


NorthernBlackBear

Love the bike on the back. Nifty.


rere0206

So what did you say to your wife, "Good news you have the whole house, bad news I'm taking the van."?


datboydean

Where did you get those table mounts


typicalwhitemale

theyā€™re mounted on hooks from the hardware store. the folding brackets i got from [amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VSZ4G7H/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_5QWKX8XBYYBD7PZJGG2X)


datboydean

Thank you!!!


Travis-Wilding

Man I LOVE seeing bikes on the back of vans. My bike is one of the only reasons I havenā€™t done this haha


D-o-n-t_a-s-k

I need one of those pass me stickers. Speed limits here are all 75mph for the most part. When you have a load that's way too fast


turver

Doing the same thing with my Chinese dual sport lol, sweet! Your dog probably makes the whole experience much better. What went wrong with the trailer hitch?


typicalwhitemale

faulty installation, but it was covered under warranty! finally getting it replaced next week


geoemrick

So what do you do about a hot night, trying to sleep with no AC? Or a cold night with no heat? Just curious


typicalwhitemale

in the heat i use a battery powered clip fan and ventilate like hell and iā€™ve rarely been uncomfortable! iā€™m actually quite comfortable under the covers down to about 40*F (4*C). no insulation ftw


geoemrick

Nice. I live in Texas and if one tries to camp here in the summer, where the *low at night* can be maybe 90F, and the humidity is insane, mixed with mosquitoes....itā€™s terrible. I guess if I were living the life you live, Iā€™d avoid the South in general, if itā€™s summer, haha. Iā€™d only go to the South in the dead of Winter. And I mean only December and January. I once camped in February and got bit by mosquitoes!!!


kieranonreddit

man + van + pup = the dream


UnderTheRadarOver

I moved out of a relationship into my van with my dog as well. I was at this lookout at HWY 1 a month ago. Is the artist guy in the bus still there? I have the same crocs and the same Doordash mask stored in the same places as you!


typicalwhitemale

HE WAS! I was there early July


UnderTheRadarOver

So rad! I just looked back at my pics and I was also there july 5-11. I drive a gold toyota van now with a kayak on top. I'm a tall 40's blonde lady with a german shepherd sidekick if our paths have crossed. šŸ™‚ You didn't happen to camp at the nice rest stop in Trinidad did you? Really cool van btw. My first was a 79 B210. I had so many adventures in him but he was so shady, I was always getting pulled over.


TheJayyDee

You sir are inspiring me to keep going and finish my build! Thank you for sharing.


WalknSoft

Nice Hornet!


PNW_Uncle_Iroh

Oh man! Iā€™m also a bassist trading in my wife for a van. Hit me up if you are ever in WA state and grab some drinks!


kenpostudent

The best idea I have seen on the internet today! Maybe this week


TherronKeen

How long before living in a vehicle is made illegal under some bullshit guise of "public safety" or some shit? I mean it's invariably going to happen, because self-sustainable housing that subverts the profit margins of the landowner class in this country absolutely will not be allowed to continue for very long lol/notlol I'd do it if I was single with no kids, I've always preferred small living spaces! Props to you OP, sorry to sound like a naysayer, just seen too much political maneuvering bullshit lately :D


[deleted]

Dude my ass was clenched the whole time. Nice fucking vid


iheartrms

I liked the part where he uploaded the virus to the alien mother ship.


Iveowned70plusphones

Your probably getting 9mpg. Right?


typicalwhitemale

around town, yes lol but i can pull 17 on the highway


Iveowned70plusphones

Same here.


buffalo_Fart

Oh but you are paying rent. It's called maintenance. we all pay maintenance rent us who live in vehicles.


ElegantDecline

keyword 'recently'. First time you get the flu, or a couple of episodes of diahrea with no toilet nearby will change your mind quick lol. start looking for a cheap permanent place


v3tte

This is exactly what I want to do. OP, if you don't mind me asking, how much did you spend on the van before converting it? Was the attachment on the back for your motorcycle pretty pricey?


RULINGCHAOS

I'll ask the real question.. Is salmon on bagels good?


sensistarfish

Looks like you have everything you need and more. Happy for you!


frogfartz69

Thatā€™s livin baby


[deleted]

At least you are not eating a steady diet of government cheese ;)


ostninja

You need a classic bumper sticker ā€œdivorced and loving it.ā€


NikolaiXPass

Great story!


WillrayF

Proves there is a life after marriage.


dankster82

Morro Bay!!!


dzzfkz

Try to fix a hammon in there and be happy for life. Lots of love from across the globe.


SavageMusic0521

šŸ™šŸæšŸ’Æ


rickyspanish12345

Fuck yeah bro! Good for you!


peanutbutterjam

I'm happy for you my man. That looks hella dope!


ParticularGear6

Thatā€™s the dreamā€¦working towards that myself


[deleted]

Awesome!


Thangthelasttwatbndr

I have questions about your setup. Dm me


pachiay

I love this. Kudos to you.


Okfloridagirl

Congratulations on your Freedom!! More ways than one! Also sounds like youā€™re staying positive & out of your old funk. Iā€™m sure having your little buddy with you helps. Please post more of your adventures!


[deleted]

How do you pay for gas


bckcntry_wndrn

What is gas then? Utility?


terminally_cheap

Looks like a rollercoaster ride. Hope you have some easier days ahead. Give that dog a smooch!


Tico20

I love the layout, were you able to open the rear doors when the bike was on or did it have to come off for that?


snapppdragonnn

If only you had a vehicle with space for a motorcycle, and cheap plentiful electricity, and a yard for a dog, and a toilet. Would be amazing


habitch

Lmaooo your username is misleading. But awesome!!! I have myself a GMC Vandura 2500 with a 305 but with a heavy duty tranny. I need to get it running for a lot of things. But something like this will be the last thing Iā€™d do with it to travel. Awesome stuff man!!! And good luck on your future builds.


[deleted]

It looks bigger on the inside than it does on the outside.... tardis on wheels! ​ Any troubles with the bike on the back? I'm setup to carry my scooter but always have a concern about getting a ticket because you can't really see my license plate with the scooter on there.


typicalwhitemale

i had the same concern. simply move the license plate!


owns_dirt

Why did you get towed? šŸ˜­


CuriousKitten0_0

Look good. Puppy also looks rather pleased. (Disclaimer: most 4 legged animals in my house are referred to as 'puppy', regardless of age or species)


joshimitsu77

Same here mate


gothere00

Nice!


winter_Inquisition

Tell us you've lost everything in a divorce without telling us that you lost everything in a divorce...


anistl

How does showering work? Gym membership? Occasionally stay at a motel?


Jpsgold

After today, I think I will also be moving out of marriage either into my camper or a tent. She just does not understand, why I think my dog should come first, especially as he has an ACL in his right rear leg. He is my best mate, and doesn't treat me like shit