Changes in 2 wheel touring in usa recent years

I have been riding since 1955(Travis Bike Motor or HD 125) First real long trip 1957 to Canada (Indian Woodsman which is Royal Enfield 500 Bullet).

Any way I have been back living in the US since 2010-2011 after more than 40 years in Europe or Asia, riding everyday------ridden quite a few scooter miles since I got back.

Changes I have noticed---the Motel 6 where you can park right in front of your door are now India controlled which means to me dirty parking lots, poor condition of rooms and in some cases cheating on prices----food on the road=not very good, worse in South. Traffic has gotten busier, drivers worse. Used to be able to travel on $100 a day, getting harder-----I can stay in upscale like Drury, but I mean having to lug my stuff up to room. Dog ok. Some upscale India Run motels charge extra for dog...if they can get away with it.

I like motorcycle camping, but too hot and humid in South in summer to be worth it for me or comfortable.


Back roads old style motels can be found and decent food. Motels in Canada seem to be better and kept at higher standard.

Nothing stays the same. Prices always go up nothing new there. The standards and quality seen to be slipping though. I could offer many reasons but we all can see it and opinions vary.

Ride ON.

Motel 6 used to be my go-to on trips. Nice thing is they allow pets without a fee. Downside is so many of them have slipped in the quality department as John says. There are still a few good ones around but I am getting gun-shy. Willing to pay more for a decent night sleep with a/c and heat that actually works. I have been using Quality Inns lately; a bit more and usually a small pet fee but with the nice rooms and a free breakfast it works out. Also as a frequent traveler I earn free nights.

My wife and I agree with John and Glenn about motel 6. We now stay at a Choice Hotel much like Glenn. We pay a little more, and get free hot breakfast. I figure breakfast for two would cost $35 with tip. I like Belgium waffles, scrambled eggs, sausage and bacon with coffee and orange juice for breakfast. The group of hotels that belong Choice Hotels includes Quality Inn, Days Inn, Econo Lodge (cheaper), and others.