So anyhow, I suppose I should probably create another blog for ongoing trips and rides, as TeamAmos will now be riding solo, what with Hank in L.A. and all, but I like the idea of a continuation here, so that's what I'm going to do. Look here for occasional ride reports and what's happening in the motorcycle world of Randy.
More later, hopefully!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Home
Well, several days have passed since I got home. I am now well-rested and ready to enjoy the rest of my Summer with the family, but wanted to post an overview of the long, lonely trip home.
I had a wonderful several days in Redondo Beach at Hank and Dara's pad, and Truman and I got along famously.
Such hospitality I've rarely seen! It was nice just to hang out, mostly (trampolines make for GREAT naps!), but also enjoyed a ride up the Malibu canyons to the Rock Store, a SoCal motorcycling institution.
We also had a great time exploring the LaBrea tar pits. fascinating.
Eventually, it was time to head East, so after a good breakfast and leisurely morning, I got on the road a little after noon. I took Artesia out to I-10 and plodded on, bypassing Phoenix down to I-8 in 114 degree heat. Again, I sure was glad I had the cooling vest.
It was a strange sensation to have cooler air inside my helmet than outside- Normally, when I get hot in there, I flip up the shield for some relief. This day, it was like aiming a blow dryer in there. Much more comfortable with the visor closed! I made it halfway between Phoenix and Tucson that first day.
The next day, I continued on I-10 (pretty much S.O.P. at this point) across the rest of Az. and New Mexico and into Texas. All through N.M., I had a 25 M.P.H. or so crosswind, so I was at a bit of a lean angle just going straight down the road.
Along N.M. and into Texas, the number of Border Patrol officers was impressive. At one point, all traffic on the interstate was diverted through an inspection station manned by Border patrol. Very foreign (bad pun) to this Florida boy. Anyhow, made it through El Paso and continued through the never-ending state of Texas where I stopped in Ft. Stockton for the night. Remember how we wrote of how nice Texas rest stops were after experiencing the excellence of Oklahoma on the ride out? I found yet another example of this on the way back at this Tx. stop:
The next day was rainy, and I didn't do so well on overall mileage. I made it through San Antonio and Houston, and was shooting for Louisiana, but had to stop for the night, still in Texas, in the town of Hankamer. Today, while waiting out a particularly strong storm under a closed truck inspection station, I was a lawbreaker!
The next day was a haul- from Texas to just outside Tampa in Land O' Lakes, Fl. where I dropped in on Amy Cullen, had a visit and crashed for the night. About 900 miles in all. Nothing notable, just the conflicting feelings of getting farther away from my brother, who I enjoyed spending time with immensely, while at the same time getting closer to my family, who at this point I was missing terribly.
The next day was a short jaunt down I-75 to home, taking the "creative" route in my home territory to try to dodge the rainstorms we get every day here in Summer, and arriving home to this:
I'm a lucky guy.
7,460 miles in all, only 1 flat (in the driveway before we left) and no mechanical problems, good weather for the most part, an incredible travelling companion and a trip I won't ever forget.
I'm a lucky guy.
thanks for reading.
I had a wonderful several days in Redondo Beach at Hank and Dara's pad, and Truman and I got along famously.
Such hospitality I've rarely seen! It was nice just to hang out, mostly (trampolines make for GREAT naps!), but also enjoyed a ride up the Malibu canyons to the Rock Store, a SoCal motorcycling institution.
We also had a great time exploring the LaBrea tar pits. fascinating.
Eventually, it was time to head East, so after a good breakfast and leisurely morning, I got on the road a little after noon. I took Artesia out to I-10 and plodded on, bypassing Phoenix down to I-8 in 114 degree heat. Again, I sure was glad I had the cooling vest.
It was a strange sensation to have cooler air inside my helmet than outside- Normally, when I get hot in there, I flip up the shield for some relief. This day, it was like aiming a blow dryer in there. Much more comfortable with the visor closed! I made it halfway between Phoenix and Tucson that first day.
The next day, I continued on I-10 (pretty much S.O.P. at this point) across the rest of Az. and New Mexico and into Texas. All through N.M., I had a 25 M.P.H. or so crosswind, so I was at a bit of a lean angle just going straight down the road.
Along N.M. and into Texas, the number of Border Patrol officers was impressive. At one point, all traffic on the interstate was diverted through an inspection station manned by Border patrol. Very foreign (bad pun) to this Florida boy. Anyhow, made it through El Paso and continued through the never-ending state of Texas where I stopped in Ft. Stockton for the night. Remember how we wrote of how nice Texas rest stops were after experiencing the excellence of Oklahoma on the ride out? I found yet another example of this on the way back at this Tx. stop:
The next day was rainy, and I didn't do so well on overall mileage. I made it through San Antonio and Houston, and was shooting for Louisiana, but had to stop for the night, still in Texas, in the town of Hankamer. Today, while waiting out a particularly strong storm under a closed truck inspection station, I was a lawbreaker!
The next day was a haul- from Texas to just outside Tampa in Land O' Lakes, Fl. where I dropped in on Amy Cullen, had a visit and crashed for the night. About 900 miles in all. Nothing notable, just the conflicting feelings of getting farther away from my brother, who I enjoyed spending time with immensely, while at the same time getting closer to my family, who at this point I was missing terribly.
The next day was a short jaunt down I-75 to home, taking the "creative" route in my home territory to try to dodge the rainstorms we get every day here in Summer, and arriving home to this:
I'm a lucky guy.
7,460 miles in all, only 1 flat (in the driveway before we left) and no mechanical problems, good weather for the most part, an incredible travelling companion and a trip I won't ever forget.
I'm a lucky guy.
thanks for reading.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Day 14- Clovis to Redondo Beach.
4,622.2 miles.
It is done.
Team Amos, Coast to Coast.
We got up at Jim & Joys, had a great breakfast, said goodbye to Jim, as she was heading off to the office, and then got to walk down to Nancy's house and do some gold panning. We did pretty well if I say so myself.
While we were panning, Joy's son and grandson rode up on their bike, so we got in a good visit with them. Nancy sent us off with a bag of dirt (that's a good thing!) a vial with our finds and our very own gold pans. We've caught the fever as well! Angie, I think there is a visit to Dahlonega in our future.
We said our goodbyes and headed out, South down the 99 to Bakersfield and I-5, which took us on a very hot ride into L.A. traffic. Around Bakersfield, a hand was waving out of a truck I was passing- It was Rick, Joy's son, who we had seen hours earlier, driving a delivery to points South! When we got to Los Angeles, I was too much of a chicken to try lane splitting, so Hank and I endured the traffic and rode down to Hermosa Beach for an end of the road photo.
we then headed to Casa del Amos del Sol, where Dara had an incredible feast of roast pork, grilled pineapple and really good salad waiting for us.
What a great trip- great people, places, and a better travelling companion I cannot imagine. I've had the time of my life on this one, and will remember it for years to come.
In a couple of days, I'll hop back on my bike and make the trek back to Florida, this time taking the more direct route along I-10. I'll probably post something about that, too, so check back here.
All credit for this blog needs to be directed to Angie- she set it up, laid it out, edits all our pictures into the videos you see, picks the music and generally makes me look good, when all I do is upload still pictures to her and type in a little bit of text. Thanks for continually making me look good, my darling!
thanks for reading.
It is done.
Team Amos, Coast to Coast.
We got up at Jim & Joys, had a great breakfast, said goodbye to Jim, as she was heading off to the office, and then got to walk down to Nancy's house and do some gold panning. We did pretty well if I say so myself.
While we were panning, Joy's son and grandson rode up on their bike, so we got in a good visit with them. Nancy sent us off with a bag of dirt (that's a good thing!) a vial with our finds and our very own gold pans. We've caught the fever as well! Angie, I think there is a visit to Dahlonega in our future.
We said our goodbyes and headed out, South down the 99 to Bakersfield and I-5, which took us on a very hot ride into L.A. traffic. Around Bakersfield, a hand was waving out of a truck I was passing- It was Rick, Joy's son, who we had seen hours earlier, driving a delivery to points South! When we got to Los Angeles, I was too much of a chicken to try lane splitting, so Hank and I endured the traffic and rode down to Hermosa Beach for an end of the road photo.
we then headed to Casa del Amos del Sol, where Dara had an incredible feast of roast pork, grilled pineapple and really good salad waiting for us.
What a great trip- great people, places, and a better travelling companion I cannot imagine. I've had the time of my life on this one, and will remember it for years to come.
In a couple of days, I'll hop back on my bike and make the trek back to Florida, this time taking the more direct route along I-10. I'll probably post something about that, too, so check back here.
All credit for this blog needs to be directed to Angie- she set it up, laid it out, edits all our pictures into the videos you see, picks the music and generally makes me look good, when all I do is upload still pictures to her and type in a little bit of text. Thanks for continually making me look good, my darling!
thanks for reading.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Day 13- A day off
Day 13 was not a travel day- We were scheduled to stay at Jim & Joys for two nights, as we had no destination today. We awoke, had a great breakfast and great conversation, and got to hang out. Nicole, Joy's daughter, came over and we got to visit with her for a bit, then Nancy came up from her house and we talked GOLD! Nancy is a prospector, with a claim and everything, who is more than happy to share her knowledge of prospecting. She is a true wealth of information, and it is absolutely fascinating to listen to her.
Anyhow, folks went off to work, and Hank and I were faced with what to do for the day. It was decided that we would go for a motorcycle ride (how often do we get a chance to do that?), so we suited up and rode the 7 miles to the movie theater, where we spent the afternoon (another HOT one-100+) watching Oceans 13 and eating popcorn. An excellent choice if I do say so myself.
That evening, Jim, Joy, Nicole, Dennis, Hank and myself all got together and went out to Sweet Tomatoes, where we had a great dinner and more good conversation. We came home, hit the hay and were out for the count.
Anyhow, folks went off to work, and Hank and I were faced with what to do for the day. It was decided that we would go for a motorcycle ride (how often do we get a chance to do that?), so we suited up and rode the 7 miles to the movie theater, where we spent the afternoon (another HOT one-100+) watching Oceans 13 and eating popcorn. An excellent choice if I do say so myself.
That evening, Jim, Joy, Nicole, Dennis, Hank and myself all got together and went out to Sweet Tomatoes, where we had a great dinner and more good conversation. We came home, hit the hay and were out for the count.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Day 12- Bishop, Ca. to Clovis, Ca.
Here are some random video clips from the boys... Randy will update the blog entry later.
Bishop is a neat little town- "The gateway to Death Valley and Yosemite." Terri, the desk clerk at the Rodeway Inn, is a hoot!
We rode out of Bishop up to Yosemite across Tioga Pass. It is absolutely stunning up there- Ansel Adams really was onto something. The forests, meadows and rocks are great, but what impresses me the most about the area is the amount of water. We'd be at 5-6000 feet, and there are running streams and lakes- all crystal clear (and cold!). We first went down to the valley floor where Yosemite Village is located, and checked out the Ansel Adams gallery, the Yosemite museum, and the daily lunch special at the grill- sloppy joe with fries. We then rode up to Glacier Point for a "top view" of the place. Glacier Point is my favorite spot in the park so far- incredible views of Half Dome, waterfalls, sheer rock faces and some nice hiking.
After soaking in all we could stand at Yosemite, we set the GPS's to "Jim & Joy" and off we rode down 41 to Clovis, arriving about 7:00 that evening. Hank, Jim and I immediately set out (in a car- air conditioning while you travel! What a concept!) to find some food. Jim took us to a great Mexican place where we swapped stories and closed the place down, whic sounds really cool, but it was Sunay in Clovis, which means we stayed there 'til all of 9:00...
Then home to Jim & Joys for a bit of conversation and bed.
Bishop is a neat little town- "The gateway to Death Valley and Yosemite." Terri, the desk clerk at the Rodeway Inn, is a hoot!
We rode out of Bishop up to Yosemite across Tioga Pass. It is absolutely stunning up there- Ansel Adams really was onto something. The forests, meadows and rocks are great, but what impresses me the most about the area is the amount of water. We'd be at 5-6000 feet, and there are running streams and lakes- all crystal clear (and cold!). We first went down to the valley floor where Yosemite Village is located, and checked out the Ansel Adams gallery, the Yosemite museum, and the daily lunch special at the grill- sloppy joe with fries. We then rode up to Glacier Point for a "top view" of the place. Glacier Point is my favorite spot in the park so far- incredible views of Half Dome, waterfalls, sheer rock faces and some nice hiking.
After soaking in all we could stand at Yosemite, we set the GPS's to "Jim & Joy" and off we rode down 41 to Clovis, arriving about 7:00 that evening. Hank, Jim and I immediately set out (in a car- air conditioning while you travel! What a concept!) to find some food. Jim took us to a great Mexican place where we swapped stories and closed the place down, whic sounds really cool, but it was Sunay in Clovis, which means we stayed there 'til all of 9:00...
Then home to Jim & Joys for a bit of conversation and bed.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Day 11- Zion to Bishop, Ca.
Note to self #1- When the sign says "No gas next 150 miles", they mean it.
Note to self #2- 105 degrees is never a good temperature for a motorcycle ride.
Note to self #3- Stay away from Tonopha, Nv. They KNOW they've got you.
We knew today was going to be a long day, it wound up being about 460 miles and HOT! Whoda thunk it- The desert in June...
Anyhow, we headed out of Zion, North up to Cedar City, Utah then West across Nevada Hwy, 375, which skirts the northern border of the military base that doesn't exist, Area 51. Not too many interesting pictures today, as it was the desert most of the way. The highlights:
Lunch in Rachel, Nevada at the Little Ale'inn. We recommend the alien burger with cole slaw! Not sure what the "alien sauce" is, or which part of the alien it's made from, but it sure is tasty.
Not filling our gas tanks at every possble opportunity. Who ever heard of a 150 mile stretch of road with absolutely no gas stations on it in the good ol' U.S. of A?
We found it.
We became very familiar with it as we travelled the last 70 or so miles at about 45 M.P.H., all tucked in behind our windshields in a valiant effort to make what little gas we had last. hanks fuel light came on about 50 miles out. Not a good thing on a BMW. It usually means you have about 40 miles left. Mine came on about 40 miles out. Long story short, we made it by the skin of our teeth, rolling into Tonopha (and the most expensive gas I've ever seen, but was incredibly glad to see it) on fumes and a prayer. 105 degrees in Tonopha, and they have a Clown Motel. I'm not exactly sure what a Clown Motel is, but I sure wasn't going to stick around to find out. Most of you know how I feel about clowns.
We crossed into California, our 15th state on the trip, and have bedded down in Bishop, gateway to Death Valley and Yosemite, for the night. Tomorrow we head up to Yosemite, then down to Fresno/Clovis to visit Jim and Joy!
Thanks for reading.
Note to self #2- 105 degrees is never a good temperature for a motorcycle ride.
Note to self #3- Stay away from Tonopha, Nv. They KNOW they've got you.
We knew today was going to be a long day, it wound up being about 460 miles and HOT! Whoda thunk it- The desert in June...
Anyhow, we headed out of Zion, North up to Cedar City, Utah then West across Nevada Hwy, 375, which skirts the northern border of the military base that doesn't exist, Area 51. Not too many interesting pictures today, as it was the desert most of the way. The highlights:
Lunch in Rachel, Nevada at the Little Ale'inn. We recommend the alien burger with cole slaw! Not sure what the "alien sauce" is, or which part of the alien it's made from, but it sure is tasty.
Not filling our gas tanks at every possble opportunity. Who ever heard of a 150 mile stretch of road with absolutely no gas stations on it in the good ol' U.S. of A?
We found it.
We became very familiar with it as we travelled the last 70 or so miles at about 45 M.P.H., all tucked in behind our windshields in a valiant effort to make what little gas we had last. hanks fuel light came on about 50 miles out. Not a good thing on a BMW. It usually means you have about 40 miles left. Mine came on about 40 miles out. Long story short, we made it by the skin of our teeth, rolling into Tonopha (and the most expensive gas I've ever seen, but was incredibly glad to see it) on fumes and a prayer. 105 degrees in Tonopha, and they have a Clown Motel. I'm not exactly sure what a Clown Motel is, but I sure wasn't going to stick around to find out. Most of you know how I feel about clowns.
We crossed into California, our 15th state on the trip, and have bedded down in Bishop, gateway to Death Valley and Yosemite, for the night. Tomorrow we head up to Yosemite, then down to Fresno/Clovis to visit Jim and Joy!
Thanks for reading.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Day 10- Zion
So we headed out of Fredonia, Az. and did a short (60 or so miles) ride up to Zion N.P. in Utah. I think that out of all the natl. parks I've visited, Zion is my favorite. The scenery, lack of cars (you take a great shuttle bus inside the park), the critters, and most of all the hike up the virgin river. You hike a riverside trail about a mile, then swap hiking boots for Tevas and jump in the ankle to waist deep COLD river and hike upstream. The walls get closer together, the crowds thin out, and you realize you're someplace special. Then you have to take goofy pics in the freezing water. hank says we look like those macacque monkeys in the hot springs in China.
When we got back to town, we found that all the power was out in SW Utah. When it came back on several hours later, no restaurants were open, but the local grocery store was. We (along with all the other savvy tourists) loaded up on sandwich fixin's and other goodies and had quite the picnic at the motel room.
At this point, we realized that the next door neighbors had a very cool rock formation in their backyard, so we went over to check it out. They weren't home, so we explored to our hearts content, then hit the hay, knowing we had a long day ahead of us.
Oh, yeah- the squirrels in Zion let you pet them IF you have mad squirrel whispering skillz.
Thanks for reading.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Day 9-Moab to Fredonia
We awoke to another perfect high desert southwest day! After sleeping very soundly due to yesterday's hike, we loaded up the bikes and had a pancake or two at the Moab Diner. Good stuff! We headed South out of town toward our first planned stop: Lunch in Mexican Hat, Utah at the Swingin' Steak (as seen in Feasting on Asphalt)
Closed.
$@#^%$">!$@#^%$
Open at six....
We didn't wait around, and got back on the road and the ever increasing heat. More on the heat later. We had miles to ride today. We planned about 400 or so. As we entered the northern part of Monument Valley, we saw a car go by in the opposite direction with a big weird thing on it's roof. It was followed by a guy on a bicycle and an RV. Pretty soon, same thing all over again. This time, I slowed to read the signs. It was the Race Across America! This insane bicycle race/exercise in sleep deprivation happens every Summer. This year, the competitors started in Oceanside, Ca. and will finish up in Atlantic City, N.J. We stopped to cheer 'em on and marvel at the athleticism. Insane folks! I thought what we were doing was tough until I started thinking about these guys and girls. Hardcore.
Monument Valley was breathtaking, and we didn't take nearly enough pictures as we pressed on toward our destination of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Our route took us through Page, Az. where we searched for something to eat-even Subway was closed- and finally went to the Chinese buffet.
Note to self: Never, never eat Chinese buffet for lunch when doing a long motorcycle ride in 100+ degree temps.
It was hot. I don't know exactly how hot, I didn't want to know. The good news is that a cooling vest works as advertised in a dry, hot climate. It was a lifesaver. Hank had the neck wrap equivalent, so he was okay, too. We made it out to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon for late afternoon and headed out just before sunset. The drive into the park was quite different than the last time I was here, as a big fire has taken many of the mature trees in the Kaibab Natl. forest. Still very pretty, though. The scary part was all of the deer feeding in the meadows next to the road on the way out. We must have seen over 100, with at least 10 of 'em really close to the road, and bolting whe we got close. We didn't hit any, however, and decided to try to head up to Fredonia to find a motel for the night. We found a good'un, with a great restaurant next door, ate too much, cleaned the bikes, and now I'm sitting on the front porch of our room while Hank snoozes inside. Tomorrow we hope to arrive early at Zion Natl. Park and do some hiking.
Thanks for reading.
Closed.
$@#^%$">!$@#^%$
Open at six....
We didn't wait around, and got back on the road and the ever increasing heat. More on the heat later. We had miles to ride today. We planned about 400 or so. As we entered the northern part of Monument Valley, we saw a car go by in the opposite direction with a big weird thing on it's roof. It was followed by a guy on a bicycle and an RV. Pretty soon, same thing all over again. This time, I slowed to read the signs. It was the Race Across America! This insane bicycle race/exercise in sleep deprivation happens every Summer. This year, the competitors started in Oceanside, Ca. and will finish up in Atlantic City, N.J. We stopped to cheer 'em on and marvel at the athleticism. Insane folks! I thought what we were doing was tough until I started thinking about these guys and girls. Hardcore.
Monument Valley was breathtaking, and we didn't take nearly enough pictures as we pressed on toward our destination of the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Our route took us through Page, Az. where we searched for something to eat-even Subway was closed- and finally went to the Chinese buffet.
Note to self: Never, never eat Chinese buffet for lunch when doing a long motorcycle ride in 100+ degree temps.
It was hot. I don't know exactly how hot, I didn't want to know. The good news is that a cooling vest works as advertised in a dry, hot climate. It was a lifesaver. Hank had the neck wrap equivalent, so he was okay, too. We made it out to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon for late afternoon and headed out just before sunset. The drive into the park was quite different than the last time I was here, as a big fire has taken many of the mature trees in the Kaibab Natl. forest. Still very pretty, though. The scary part was all of the deer feeding in the meadows next to the road on the way out. We must have seen over 100, with at least 10 of 'em really close to the road, and bolting whe we got close. We didn't hit any, however, and decided to try to head up to Fredonia to find a motel for the night. We found a good'un, with a great restaurant next door, ate too much, cleaned the bikes, and now I'm sitting on the front porch of our room while Hank snoozes inside. Tomorrow we hope to arrive early at Zion Natl. Park and do some hiking.
Thanks for reading.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Day 8- Montrose to Moab
In Colorado, Starvin' Arvin's is the only place you need to know about for breakfast.
'Nuff said.
We got on the road at a respectable hour and headed North out of montrose up Hwy. 50 to Grand Junction, and picked up I-70 into Utah. Utah was named for it's early inhabitants, the Ute indians. This trip is fun AND educational. We took (I believe) Utah Hwy. 128 into Moab. 128 is a scenic road that follows the Colorado river, and is bordered by huge sandstone cliffs, mesas, whatever you call them. All told, it's tough to keep your eyes on the road when there's so much to look at. hank found prarie dogs, but they weren't as friendly as yesterday's marmot, and kept their distance.
We rolled into Moab relatively early, found a motel, unloaded the bikes and headed up to Arches National Park for some hiking. We hiked the 3 mile round trip trail out to delicate arch. This is the arch on Utah's license plates, and is incredible. Pics do it no justice.
Hank attempted to befriend what we thought was a chipmunk, but later found out it is an antelope squirrel. He may have gotten a picture, I'm not sure. The hike was hot and tough, but well worth the effort. We're doing a load of laundry here at the motel, and then off to the Moab Brewing Co. for dinner. Tomorrow we have a long day planned, hopefully getting to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Thanks for reading.
'Nuff said.
We got on the road at a respectable hour and headed North out of montrose up Hwy. 50 to Grand Junction, and picked up I-70 into Utah. Utah was named for it's early inhabitants, the Ute indians. This trip is fun AND educational. We took (I believe) Utah Hwy. 128 into Moab. 128 is a scenic road that follows the Colorado river, and is bordered by huge sandstone cliffs, mesas, whatever you call them. All told, it's tough to keep your eyes on the road when there's so much to look at. hank found prarie dogs, but they weren't as friendly as yesterday's marmot, and kept their distance.
We rolled into Moab relatively early, found a motel, unloaded the bikes and headed up to Arches National Park for some hiking. We hiked the 3 mile round trip trail out to delicate arch. This is the arch on Utah's license plates, and is incredible. Pics do it no justice.
Hank attempted to befriend what we thought was a chipmunk, but later found out it is an antelope squirrel. He may have gotten a picture, I'm not sure. The hike was hot and tough, but well worth the effort. We're doing a load of laundry here at the motel, and then off to the Moab Brewing Co. for dinner. Tomorrow we have a long day planned, hopefully getting to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Thanks for reading.
Day 7- Pike's Peak and Colorado (June 12)
We awoke, broke camp and found some breakfast, then set to the task at hand- Go to the summit of Pike's Peak. The folks in the tent space nearest ours said we should take the cog railroad to the top, but we weren't having any of that. If Alton Brown could do it, so can we! Off we went. The first reality check was when the woman at the toll gate told us it was 23 degrees at the summit, and that it was very slushy, so we needed to be careful on "those motorcycles"!
We layered up, and off we went, with Hank in the lead. There is an annual race up Pike's Peak, where people use rally cars, motorcycles and other race vehicles and time trial up the alternating paved/dirt road. I can't imagine going any faster than we did. The views are magnificent (a common theme in Colorado, we found out) and the trip up the mountain should be done by anyone ever in the area.
The highlight of the ride up was when we rounded a corner and were challenged by someone in the middle of the road. I wondered what a beaver was doing up there, but Hank schooled me- it was a marmot. A marmot looking for a handout. Not a shy marmot, but a marmot used to getting his way. He ambled over to me, I poked at him with my boot while telling him what a good marmot he was. He grabbed my boot and sunk his teeth into it. It apparently didn't do anything for him, as he gave up on me and headed up to Hank, where he commenced chewing on Hank's valve cover. Hank took this opportunity to pet the marmot, who was none too pleased. Anyhow, the marmot took off and so did we.
The summit was as cold and windy as promised earlier, so we kept all of our gear on for warmth. We hiked around and took some pictures, but the rarefied air at 14,100 feet takes it's toll on you. I have no idea how people function on Mount Everest, twice as high. Anyhow, we got our pics, got snowed on, made a snowman, made fools of ourselves and generally had a great time up there.
The ride down was scenic, we went back to Alphonso's for lunch and then headed South on Co115 to U.S. Highway 50 West. It took us on an extremely beautiful journey across the Rockies, crossing at Monarch Pass, 11,000 or so feet- snow, extreme cold, but the views are worth it.
We rolled into Montrose, our destination for the night, and ordered pizza. Soon off to bed, hoping to make Moab, Utah tomorrow.
Thanks for reading.
We layered up, and off we went, with Hank in the lead. There is an annual race up Pike's Peak, where people use rally cars, motorcycles and other race vehicles and time trial up the alternating paved/dirt road. I can't imagine going any faster than we did. The views are magnificent (a common theme in Colorado, we found out) and the trip up the mountain should be done by anyone ever in the area.
The highlight of the ride up was when we rounded a corner and were challenged by someone in the middle of the road. I wondered what a beaver was doing up there, but Hank schooled me- it was a marmot. A marmot looking for a handout. Not a shy marmot, but a marmot used to getting his way. He ambled over to me, I poked at him with my boot while telling him what a good marmot he was. He grabbed my boot and sunk his teeth into it. It apparently didn't do anything for him, as he gave up on me and headed up to Hank, where he commenced chewing on Hank's valve cover. Hank took this opportunity to pet the marmot, who was none too pleased. Anyhow, the marmot took off and so did we.
The summit was as cold and windy as promised earlier, so we kept all of our gear on for warmth. We hiked around and took some pictures, but the rarefied air at 14,100 feet takes it's toll on you. I have no idea how people function on Mount Everest, twice as high. Anyhow, we got our pics, got snowed on, made a snowman, made fools of ourselves and generally had a great time up there.
The ride down was scenic, we went back to Alphonso's for lunch and then headed South on Co115 to U.S. Highway 50 West. It took us on an extremely beautiful journey across the Rockies, crossing at Monarch Pass, 11,000 or so feet- snow, extreme cold, but the views are worth it.
We rolled into Montrose, our destination for the night, and ordered pizza. Soon off to bed, hoping to make Moab, Utah tomorrow.
Thanks for reading.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Day 6- Out of Texas and into Colorado
We awoke refreshed and decided a return trip to the Waffle House was in order, hoping that wingding was still there, but no, it was not to be. The waffle was good, though. We cruised across town to our first stop, the Cadillac Ranch. 10 Cadillacs, concurrent year models, 50's or 60's, buried nose down in a wheat field on the side of Route 66. Americana at its best. We then headed North on a minor Texas highway through rolling hills, creosote bushes and the coolest thing of all- pronghorn antelope! Hank spotted the first herd of about 10, then they kept showing up on either side of us, off in the hills. Big ones, baby ones, lots of 'em. They're not too keen on posing for pictures, though.
Our route took us across the NE corner of New Mexico for 50 or so miles, where we ran into 3 older couples in 3 older cars out for a drive. The cars were immaculate and the people were nice. That was about it for New Mexico.
We crossed into Colorado on I-25 and skirted the East side of the Rockies up to Colorado Springs. We decided to camp out, so Mr. Garmin (the GPS) came to the rescue and steered us to the Garden of the Gods campground. Very nice, a site in the tents-only area next to the stream, we pitched the tent and set up camp, and then we headed for the weekly Monday night event, the watermelon feast. Hank and I did Florida proud. Represent! After we gorged ourselves on watermelon, we went to this place called seven falls. http://www.sevenfalls.com/ They light it up at night, which sounds hokey but is really beautiful. Afterwards, dinner at Alphonso's- a 24 hour mexican joint that was great. Back to the tent, awaiting the promised 40 degree lows. It got down into the 50's. Great camping weather. We were out quickly.
Our route took us across the NE corner of New Mexico for 50 or so miles, where we ran into 3 older couples in 3 older cars out for a drive. The cars were immaculate and the people were nice. That was about it for New Mexico.
We crossed into Colorado on I-25 and skirted the East side of the Rockies up to Colorado Springs. We decided to camp out, so Mr. Garmin (the GPS) came to the rescue and steered us to the Garden of the Gods campground. Very nice, a site in the tents-only area next to the stream, we pitched the tent and set up camp, and then we headed for the weekly Monday night event, the watermelon feast. Hank and I did Florida proud. Represent! After we gorged ourselves on watermelon, we went to this place called seven falls. http://www.sevenfalls.com/ They light it up at night, which sounds hokey but is really beautiful. Afterwards, dinner at Alphonso's- a 24 hour mexican joint that was great. Back to the tent, awaiting the promised 40 degree lows. It got down into the 50's. Great camping weather. We were out quickly.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Day 5-Oklahoma and Texas
Okay- been a couple of days since wifi access and all that. Yes, I know that you can go to any library, etc. etc., but I didn't. There isn't much time when you're a whirling dervish of motorcycle mayhem (Hank's term) crossing the continent. Anyhow...
We headed out of Little Rock with the now named "Toenail of Destiny" securely zip tied to my right turn signal. It is the official trip talisman from here on out. We crossed out of Arkansas and into Oklahoma on I-40 with little fanfare. Oklahoma's new slogan is "experience the excellence". More on that later, with no disrespect to any of you with ties to the sooner state. Had lunch at the Hungry Traveller restaurant. NO SWEETTEA! I would've lost money on that bet. Okay- back to the "excellence". If by excellence they mean poorly patched, motorcycle eating potholes on the interstate, and rest areas that are nonexistent and far from restful, then yes, we experienced the excellence. Seriously- the rest areas across the entire state had no buildings, no facilities (one had a picnic table) and no upkeep. Hank found a sweet pair of sunglasses in a trash can, though.
We did stop by the Oklahoma City bombing memorial, though. Powerful. No more to say about that except that it boggles my mind that some folks are capable of an act like that.
After Oklahoma City, we continued on I-40, but jumped on and off Route 66 where it still exists. Saw some really neat old buildings and towns. If you haven't seen the movie "Cars", you should. It pretty much sums up what I-40 did to the towns on 66. Anyhow, we crossed into Texas on 66, even rode a dirt section! Eventually we got back up on the interstate and rode into Amarillo. Had a lovely dinner at the Waffle House in front of the motel, where we were entertained by "WingDing" (Hank's name) the resident waffle house crazy. He played some songs on the jukebox and had a one-man pose-off competition, throwing blue steel around the place. We couldn't stop laughing. Eventually we made it back to the room and passed out.
We headed out of Little Rock with the now named "Toenail of Destiny" securely zip tied to my right turn signal. It is the official trip talisman from here on out. We crossed out of Arkansas and into Oklahoma on I-40 with little fanfare. Oklahoma's new slogan is "experience the excellence". More on that later, with no disrespect to any of you with ties to the sooner state. Had lunch at the Hungry Traveller restaurant. NO SWEETTEA! I would've lost money on that bet. Okay- back to the "excellence". If by excellence they mean poorly patched, motorcycle eating potholes on the interstate, and rest areas that are nonexistent and far from restful, then yes, we experienced the excellence. Seriously- the rest areas across the entire state had no buildings, no facilities (one had a picnic table) and no upkeep. Hank found a sweet pair of sunglasses in a trash can, though.
We did stop by the Oklahoma City bombing memorial, though. Powerful. No more to say about that except that it boggles my mind that some folks are capable of an act like that.
After Oklahoma City, we continued on I-40, but jumped on and off Route 66 where it still exists. Saw some really neat old buildings and towns. If you haven't seen the movie "Cars", you should. It pretty much sums up what I-40 did to the towns on 66. Anyhow, we crossed into Texas on 66, even rode a dirt section! Eventually we got back up on the interstate and rode into Amarillo. Had a lovely dinner at the Waffle House in front of the motel, where we were entertained by "WingDing" (Hank's name) the resident waffle house crazy. He played some songs on the jukebox and had a one-man pose-off competition, throwing blue steel around the place. We couldn't stop laughing. Eventually we made it back to the room and passed out.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Day 4- Barber Motorcycle Museum
We awoke this morning to a beautiful day, and rode the 30 or so miles to the Barber Motorsports museum and racetrack outside Birmingham, Alabama. www.barbermuseum.org
Amazing place. I'll let the pictures try to convey how impressive it is, but if you like bikes, you need to go. We spent a ton of time there. The museum overlooks the racetrack, and there was a track day going on today, so Hank was jonesing to be out there. It didn't happen.
Anyhow, we got back on the road and followed the GPS West. It took us across Alabama, Mississippi and part of Arkansas completely on back roads. Really good back roads. We had a bit of a moment when a local sheriff heading the other way hit his lights as we passed him at a "spirited" pace, but he kept going his way, and we ours, though a bit more slowly. We finally hopped up on I-40 about 40 miles East of Little Rock, Arkansas and headed West. Interstates have no soul. Back roads have soul. They have small towns, grain elevators, combines working the fields, and a freaky Norman Rockwellesque quality that just works. Today was a good day.
Until the motel.
Actually, the motel is okay, but when we got into the room, there was a little surprise. Not in a corner, not hidden up against the wall, but on the floor BETWEEN THE BEDS!!! Check out the pictures, but if you can't (or don't want to) tell what it is.....
yes, it's a toenail. a painted, full toenail. someone else's toenail. toenail, toenail, toenail.
Goodnight from HoJo's! Tomorrow we ride part of old Route 66 and hopefully dine at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo.
Thanks for reading!
Amazing place. I'll let the pictures try to convey how impressive it is, but if you like bikes, you need to go. We spent a ton of time there. The museum overlooks the racetrack, and there was a track day going on today, so Hank was jonesing to be out there. It didn't happen.
Anyhow, we got back on the road and followed the GPS West. It took us across Alabama, Mississippi and part of Arkansas completely on back roads. Really good back roads. We had a bit of a moment when a local sheriff heading the other way hit his lights as we passed him at a "spirited" pace, but he kept going his way, and we ours, though a bit more slowly. We finally hopped up on I-40 about 40 miles East of Little Rock, Arkansas and headed West. Interstates have no soul. Back roads have soul. They have small towns, grain elevators, combines working the fields, and a freaky Norman Rockwellesque quality that just works. Today was a good day.
Until the motel.
Actually, the motel is okay, but when we got into the room, there was a little surprise. Not in a corner, not hidden up against the wall, but on the floor BETWEEN THE BEDS!!! Check out the pictures, but if you can't (or don't want to) tell what it is.....
yes, it's a toenail. a painted, full toenail. someone else's toenail. toenail, toenail, toenail.
Goodnight from HoJo's! Tomorrow we ride part of old Route 66 and hopefully dine at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo.
Thanks for reading!
Friday, June 8, 2007
Day 3- Cherohala, Lookout and RAIN!!!
From Randy: We got up today, had breakfast at the Stecoah Diner (really nice folks) and headed back over to the Dragon. Ran it a few more times, more people out- I can only imagine what a madhouse it is on sat. and Sun. We then headed over to the Cherohala Skyway, a more scenic road (on a good day) but some rain and much fog marred the views from over 5000' elevation. Still a nice ride. Then rode down to Chattanooga and Lookout Mountain Flight Park and talked hang gliding with some nice folks. Nice folks abound around here- Hank and I marvel at just how pleasant they all are. We're waiting to see geographically where they start to get snotty, just as we're waiting to see what state won't have "sweettea". yes, all one word, that magic elixer. Our money is on Colorado.
Anyhow, we bolted out of Chatanooga quickly, trying to outrun the rain.
Nope.
Deluge doesn't begin to describe it. We rode through it. Lots of rain. Lets just say we were very wet, but we made it through unscathed. We did have a discussion over dinner about just how much of a crosswind blast it wouldtake to actually blow a 550 lb. motorcycle out from under you. Whatever that # is, we were damn close to it at one point. Anyhow, we made it to a motel (with cell service AND wifi!! WooHoo!!) and are currently drying our gear out and relaxing a bit- Hank is swimming laps in the pool as I type this. Tomorrow is the Barber Museum and points West.
Anyhow, we bolted out of Chatanooga quickly, trying to outrun the rain.
Nope.
Deluge doesn't begin to describe it. We rode through it. Lots of rain. Lets just say we were very wet, but we made it through unscathed. We did have a discussion over dinner about just how much of a crosswind blast it wouldtake to actually blow a 550 lb. motorcycle out from under you. Whatever that # is, we were damn close to it at one point. Anyhow, we made it to a motel (with cell service AND wifi!! WooHoo!!) and are currently drying our gear out and relaxing a bit- Hank is swimming laps in the pool as I type this. Tomorrow is the Barber Museum and points West.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
