Well's Angels

There is snow on the ground!

2010-12-31T16:17:00.000-08:00

There is snow on the ground, that is obvious. My cycle is in the garage and has been for weeks, and will probably stay for more weeks. I am longing for a long ride. I have been looking at maps and web pages and maps and calendars and planning for next year, which is almost here. I have been concentrating on the west coast. I have been focusing on a little known road in California with a single digit number. Yep! You guessed it, hwy 1. Sometimes referred to as the Pacific Coast Highway or Cabrillo something, and even joins with 101 once in a while. You know what I'm talking about. Next year should be amazing.

This year was good. We went to Yellowstone, again. It was fun, and I don't want to be negative about it, it just wasn't the most fun ever. I know that not everything will be the most fun ever, I'm not Suzi. It was just lacking something.

I think it was riding time. We didn't ride our asses off. We stopped more than usual and I was sick, that didn't help.

I think the lack of miles was one thing that made me not have the best time ever. I think the size of the group was a deterrent as well. One day we split up and rode back to camp with smaller groups and it seemed as though each group had a better time small than we all did together.

I also think that the chase vehicle, while very handy, supportive, fun, convenient, friendly, great... It was just too much to try and coordinate and wait and watch for... Maybe it would be better if it were coordinated better, I don't know.

If our goal was to include everyone and to ensure that everyone had a good time, then mission accomplished.

If our goal was to ride and see America from the seat of our motorcycles, I might say we got a C+. Maybe a B-.

We did way more touristy type things on this trip than we ever have before. I felt like it was warranted, being in Yellowstone and all. Maybe Yellowstone will always be that illusive Great Ride. Maybe I will have to return again and again thirsting for that same feeling of mind blowing satisfaction, like the first time I was ever there.

Maybe I am just beyond satisfying and will find fault with whatever we do.

Overall it was a Great year for the Wells Angels. Everyone is alive and well. Families are well and flourishing and growing. Futures are getting brighter and smarter...

May 2011 bring us more two wheeled adventures, and may I be more satisfied, I do ride with some of the best guys around. Happy New Year!

I should just do what the shirt says. I plan on it!

Are We There Yet?

2010-07-05T12:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday America! I have the day off today in order to celebrate America. What a wonderful country it is. I love the contrasts of America: desert, mountains, plains, coasts, rivers lakes, basins, rocks, red states, blue states, red uniforms, blue uniforms, four wheeled machines, two wheeled machines... the list goes on and on. We all share many differences. We also share many similarities: love, life, and the pursuit of happiness. Sorry to wax philosophical, but I did see Toy Story 3 and am still feeling my emotions are close to the surface.

Here are some pics of Brighton in June. It was brisk in the canyon and the run off was near or beyond record levels. There was still an abundance of snow and Silver Lake was still frozen. I have not been up there since. It was just Luke and I.

The big ride is all but upon us. The time has passed swiftly and will continue to do so. You better get ready, it will be 6am Thursday morning, before you know it. I am looking forward to Yellowstone again. I am looking forward to bringing my son on his first Big Ride. I am looking forward to miles and miles each day and innumerable curves to challenge and devour. I am looking forward to Monte Christo Pass, Bear Lake, Red Baron Drive In, Palisades Reservoir, Victor, Id., Warm River, Mesa Falls, Macks Inn, Big Springs... and that is just the first day! Yellowstone will be amazing on the Motorcycle. Cody will be hospitable and welcoming for a good night's rest, The Bear Tooth Highway will be a fond spot in our memories for decades to come. Lets leave tomorrow morning!

Just over two weeks! We will be on the road! I hope we stay warm and dry! I hope we all ride safe and return with only the best of memories. I look forward to this each year!

Shut Up And Ride!

2010-04-14T20:41:00.000-07:00

First of all... This looks fun!

http://www.hellscanyonrally.com

Today was one of those days that will be remembered for a long time. They may even write tales of yore concerning this day. Have you ever had a day like that? I guess the whole day wasn't great, just two fun hours.

The day started pretty bad, actually. I must have turned the alarm clock off last night as I elegantly slipped into bed, I always slip like that. No alarm means too much sleep according to my job. I start work at 7 and did not awake until 6:45. I love that feeling in the morning when I realize I'm late... like a good scare.

Work was usual... I was fitting for Shep the welder and Josh was far away fire caulking, so it was sort of slow. We spent all day on two welds, tomorrow too. They just won't stop leaking. They are in the corner and impossible to get to.

I had my wheels and new tires in my truck: I had an appointment with the BMW place to get my new tires mounted and balanced for only $30! It would have been $50 if I hadn't taken them off. So while I was waiting for my tire, I (this is where it gets good) test rode a 2010 Triumph Tiger...

It was a very sweet ride. the motor was very smooth and willing. The ergos were comfy and natural. The brakes were outstanding. All in all it was a great bike to ride, I would love to get it up East Canyon and really try it out.

Next I test rode a 2010 R1200GS Adventure. It was very impressive. I could see riding it very far with ease. When I got on the freeway and punched it and shifted quickly I was surprised when the front wheel came off the ground. I was turned off by all the computerized junk. I could see it being useful, but what about down the road when it all goes awry? Surprisingly flickable.

I was then privileged to test the Triumph Street Triple. I have been a fan for some time and even more so after riding it. It was amazingly powerful and quick for a 675. It was quite small for my fat arse.

It was much different than the other two I had ridden and was great for the niche it fills. It would be painful to ride long distances on, but to race around on is a hoot.

There you have it. Two hours of blissful test riding. I highly recommend it.

The best part is that after ridding the best that Triumph and BMW have to offer, I was not that impressed that they were thousands of dollars better than my "Little Red Wee".

Shut up and ride!

First Spring Ride of 2010! It was COLD!

2010-03-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

At the end of the first week of spring it was quite chilly. I guess 80 mph can be pretty chilly at most temps. It was a lovely jaunt across the salt flats and into Wendover, Ut. The Oquirrhs are white and snowy. The Stansbury's are white and snowy, especially around Deseret Peak. The subsequent ranges were dusted on the tops, but nothing substantial. Pilot Peak was a standout fully white and beautiful, it is a 10,000 footer. The Toano Range just beyond Wendover was nicely painted white as well.

I was wrestling with the idea of trying for an IBA ride. I was too tired and with the cold, I thought better of a 24 hour ride. The 6 hours I spent today in the cold were delicious. I have been eyeballing this ride for some time.

The worst part of this ride is getting across the flats. I really had some convincing to do as I rode past many possible ride destinations, and kept droning west on I-80. The return trip seemed quite quick. I was playing a game with my GPS. It gives an approximate arrival time, so I would push consistently above the speed limit to see if I could hasten my arrival. I watched for the first change, then the second, and then I would try and calculate when the next minute would fall: about every 8 minutes I would loose a minute.

The Byway was great. The road was very nice, rough enough to have to pay attention, but never very menacing. There were a few sand sections that give a good pucker, but other than that is was gravel and dirt with a few smaller rocks. The scenery was beautiful and ever changing. There are quite a few smaller roads or trails that cut through the mountains that look very fun and challenging, I explored one but thought I should save that for a time when I wasn't solo. Get your bike Shawn! It is about a 60 mile loop from the Sinclair and back. It was a little sketchy finding the starting point. The road did not match the GPS, but they did have nice, new looking signs to help.

There is a little Mexican/American diner at the gas station, it was pretty good. I had the chile verde burrito, but the eggs and chorizo looked great! I will have to revisit and try them, maybe for Speed Week!

Take Exit 4 and head North... Get a Map!

Spring is coming...

2010-03-06T07:47:00.000-08:00

I look out the window and there is a lovely blanket of snow on the ground. Spring is coming. I have had to wear extra shirts at work on account of the cold, moist air. Spring is coming. I went for a ride and had to wear my insulated pant so I wouldn't freeze. Spring is coming. I saw the red, red, Robin bob, bob, bobbin, in a snowstorm. Spring is coming.

I love the fact that we have four distinct seasons here in Utah. I also enjoy the changing of the seasons. Right now we have winter hanging on for dear life as spring tries to take it's place. Sometimes I do think it would be nice to have San Diego weather all the time, but I think the specialness of a warm day in January or a snowstorm in June would be greatly missed.

So, Hooray for "Indian Summer"! My apologies to the indigenous. I guess that is St. Martin's day in Europe. That is nicer. it just makes fun of Catholics, which I can get behind.

What is it called when it is a really warm day in winter, or a really cold day in summer?

A WARM DAY IN WINTER

"Sunshine on de medders,
Greenness on de way;
Dat 's de blessed reason
I sing all de day."
Look hyeah! Whut you axin'?
Whut meks me so merry?
'Spect to see me sighin'
W'en hit's wa'm in Febawary?

'Long de stake an' rider
Seen a robin set;
W'y hit 'mence a-thawin',
Groun' is monst'ous wet.
Den you stan' dah wond'rin',
Lookin' skeert an' stary;
I's a right to caper
W'en hit's wa'm in Febawary.

Missis gone a-drivin',
Mastah gone to shoot;
Ev'ry da'ky lazin'
In de sun to boot.
Qua'tah 's moughty pleasant,
Hangin' 'roun' my Mary;
Cou'tin' boun' to prospah
W'en hit's wa'm in Febawary.

Cidah look so pu'ty
Po'in' f'om de jug—
Don' you see it's happy?
Hyeah it laffin'—glug?
Now's de time fu' people
Fu' to try an' bury
All dey grief an' sorrer,
W'en hit's wa'm in Febawary.

Spring is coming.

Shut up and ride!

Just because it's January....

2010-01-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

doesn't mean you can't ride your motorcycle.

It is cold, and riding takes a bit of extra precaution. I have lots of clothes that I wear to keep warm. I wish I could tell you all the best new age ridding apparel to buy and what is the best for cold, wet, or hot, I cannot. I can tell you what I wear and how little I paid and where you may pick something up so you can ride and not freeze too.

The most indispensable winter item I wear when I ride is my overalls. Nothing ruins a ride faster than frozen knees. It also make it hard to walk. The "bibs" I wear are about $50 at K-mart. They probably sell them at Wally world. (Don't know, don't care) Army navy surplus has many options for under $100. They have simple ski pants for $20 all the way up to snow mobile suits for around $70, on sale. I believe they do have some more expensive stuff as well, it is worth a look.

The next most important Item that can help you enjoy the winter riding is gloves. You may think they should be #1, but this is my blog, so eat worms. I have different gloves for different levels of chilly. The most protective I have are some mittens. They are very warm. It is not as easy to get cheap gloves. $20 is about what I paid for mine on-sale. That is much better than $100 that say "motorcycle". The mittens do take some getting used to. Army navy has some sweet leather mittens with wool liners for about $15 that I have been eyeballing. They look very good. I also have a pair of snowboarding gloves that are very rugged and warm, again in spring all things winter are on-sale. Grip warmers are great, not cheap, and grip guards help keep direct chill from fingers, they are more than good gloves.

Upper body protection is usually the easiest to provide. Any good coat will help you be warm. I don't like my leather jacket when it is very cold, on long rides. It seems to conduct the cold to my body after a while. I usually layer up with some warm fleece or hoody sweatshirts. The most helpful item is a good water resistant and wind proof shell. This will keep the wind out and is remarkably good at not transferring the chill.

Some sort of neck protection will make the difference between a painful experience and just being a bit chilled. A scarf works, bot can be cumbersome. I just bought a new fleece neck tube thing from IFA for under $10. It works very well on even the coldest ride.

Boots are expensive. Something water prof will save agony. I rode with some cheap-o timberlands in the snow and got really cold but they kept the wet out so I warmed up much faster than I could have dried. I have some Wolverine snow/hunting/work boots that do well. I think I paid $69 or so. I would just make sure they are not too big, you still have to shift you know.

I assume you will use a full face helmet. If you don't there are many ski accessories that can help keep your face warm and your wallet full.

I know nobody reads this. I just figured that if I could help someone ride more, be more comfortable, or at least, want to ride more, then my work is done.

One last thing... winter means ice. Be careful out there when the mercury is below freezing!

2009-12-02T16:33:00.000-08:00

A very nondenominational Happy Holidays to all!

On October 17th Jeff and I journeyed to Las Vegas to watch the U play UNLV. We started early and headed west to Wendover to play some cards, we thought it would be good to compare the two gaming places. Just kidding! We went through Wendover then south on HWY 93.

I really enjoyed 93. It wasn't curvy, or scenic, but it felt remote and far away. There was not much traffic and the towns were small and far apart. We ate lunch in Alamo, at the local pizza/sub/pasta joint. We each ordered a sandwich, I went with the turkey and Jeff went with the pasrami, after all, it is the most sensual of all the salted cured meats.

Instead of heading directly into Vegas and seeing as how we had reservations at a hotel in Henderson, we took the scenic route through Moapa Valley. I like to say that: Moapa. From 93 we did 168 t0 169 to 167 to 564 right smack dab into Henderson. That back road around by Lake Mead and near the Valley of Fire State Park was pretty impressive. It made me want to go back to Vegas to explore some more.

We rested-up, cleaned-up, and went to the game. We decided to eat somewhere good after the game. Believe it or not, most smaller dinning establishments close at 10pm in Vegas, I was not going to park and walk forever for some over hyped garbage buffet, so we went to Beto's on the strip. Good as ever!

I have not been riding much, the occasional jaunt to school.

Happy Holidays, ride safe.

2009-08-15T19:05:00.000-07:00

Wow! It is August already! It has been a wonderful summer. School starts again soon for kids and lucky adults alike. The big ride turned out super! Yellowstone was too cold and rainy. At the last minute we opted for Western Colorado and it was great. We had the biggest group ever, for us: 8 bikes, 1 Nissan, A dodge and a fifth wheel. Shawn and

Trevor were both two-up with spawn and Lloyd and Brad got out of Dodge with the fifth wheel. Jeff came along for the drive and I think he may have had fun.

Day 1: We headed out at 0600 and Shawn was one of the first ones there! Now that is note worthy. He must have been excited, seeing how he missed last year. We jumped onto I-80 and headed up Parley’s. It was super foggy by Jeremy Ranch and a bit nippy. We rolled to Hwy 40 and pressed on past Heber, Strawberry Res., And on into Duchesne. We stopped there for gas, and a bit to munch. It was a long stop cause everyone, but Jeff, was cold. We continued on 40 to Dinosaur and turned South to Rangely, and had another bite to eat at Betty’s in Rangely, CO. It was good eatin’.

South from Rangely on HWY 139 was ok until we hit Douglas Pass, then it was AWESOME! Sorry, I really think that word is overused. It was a great stretch of road. Just as we were nearing the pass that big butt rap song came on my Shuffle. What a poor soundtrack for such a sweet stretch of b road.

We eventually came down to civilization again and found LLOYD and BRAD waiting anxiously for us. We chatted momentarily and decided to camp at Colorado National Monument, that was a good decision. The roads in the monument are right out of a wet motorcycle dream. They are curvy and delicious. I even got so laid down that I touched my bags multiple times. The only downer is the low speed limit and the presence of the fuzz in white Explorers and p/u trucks. Otherwise a wonderful place to curve and lean.

Day One Summary: @325 miles all day

Day Two: We headed East on I-70 to Exit 49, hwy 65. There was some confusion getting on the on-ramp. A few went onto the frontage road and fell a bit behind. Long story short: Trevor got a bogus ticket from one of Colorado's finest. We followed 65 to the Grand Mesa National Forest. It was beautiful. We stopped on a high pass and marveled.

65 tees into 92, and after searching for an eatery, we went east on 92 to Hotchkiss, where we dined. It was some old diner right off the road. There were mixed reviews depending on the choice of cuisine. I thought it was OK.

North on 133 was next. It was another great stretch. We ended up in Glenwood Springs just in time for a wind storm. (133 to 82 N)

We returned going west on I-70. It was very windy and seemed to last until forever. We were tempted to detour at rifle and partake anew the Mexican food that wowed only two years prior. We decided to leave the memory and avoid disappointment.

For dinner we ate at a mexican place in Fruita. It was quite good. The queso dip was remarkable.

Day Two Summary: 279 miles

Day Three: Heading to Moab: After spending two nights in Colorado National Monument, it was time to move on. I was particularly excited for the roads for this day. I had been studying them and wanting to ride them for some time. We headed South on 50 to 141, another very nice stretch wit wonderful cliffs and sweeping turns. We stopped to wait for the 5th wheel in Naturita. Luke lost his glasses just outside of town. The next stretch led to Utah west on 90. It was straight for a while with some of the tightest curves on the trip close to the La Sal Mountains. It was another great road. We wasted time in Moab, ate lunch, and split-up. The majority of the group went to Green River State Park to set up camp, and had a close call with an idiot cager on the way. Jeff Zander and I wanted to go to Arches, so we did. We ended up in the Devil's Garden area, after stopping lots for Zander to take pics, he had not seen Arches since he was small. Needless to say he was impressed. We did the round trip hike, primitive loop included and were done about 10 pm. Yes, it was dark. We arrived at Green River about 11 or so and all went to sleep since nobody was awake to tell stories to.

Summary for day three: 194 miles

Day Four: Very blah, for some of us. The Arches three some plus Trevor and spawn took the fast boring way home; I had to prepare for Summer Camp with the Boy Scouts, every one else just wanted to get home. The others took a more scenic route that included Fairview Canyon. I have since been there and it is nice.

Summary??

I apologize for the lack of detail and for any discrepancies that exist compared to the memories of others. It wasn't Yellowstone, but it was wonderful roads, wonderful scenery and good buddies to ride with. Where are we gong next year?

2009-05-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

I was itching the other day, I still am.

I am itching to ride.

Every time I scratch I itch more.

I was looking at my maps, pondering a place to ride.

I look at my maps a lot, it is one of my favorite things.

I had never been north of the Great Salt Lake.

On the map it looks very desolate and flat.

It was actually quite green and pleasant, reminded me of pictures I've seen of Ireland.

I took I15 North to the 3rd Brigham City exit, well I actually exited the freeway and entered again several times trying to find a route that was moving.

I headed west through Corrine and continued west until I saw signs pointing to the Golden Spike Historical Site.

The road was very straight.

I didn't realize that ATK had such a large facility out in the middle of all that nothing.

There were several things that I wanted to see: The Golden Spike Museum, closed at 5pm and I was there after 6, There is an old railroad grade that is now a road that seems interesting, and there was Promontory Point, the bottom of a peninsula surrounded by the Great Salt Lake and very close to Freemont Island.

I chose the Promontory Point route.

It was nice and sloppily paved for most of the route southward.

It became gravel just before the Narrows section.

The gravel was nicely graded and was easy to ride on.

There were however, many cows that are seemingly not very smart.

Many calves would wait until I was right on top of them and then run parallel with me for a while.

This would happen mostly when I was going slowly.

If I was moving at a better clip, the cows would still wait until I was right there, but couldn't match my speed, and the encountered did not last as long.

I did see one calf run straight into a fence.

It was pretty pathetic.

No wonder we eat them and they eat grass.

The pic above is of Freemont Island.

There were many bugs, especially the later it got.

I don't believe I made it all the way to the Point.

I was running out of day and it was getting chilly.

Next time I want to try the railroad grades.

The big ride is a month away!

2009-04-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some links to maps for the Big Ride 2009!

Jon P. Lingwall wrote
at 9:07pm on April 19th, 2009

Day 3 of 2009 Big Ride
Link:
<http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=US-89+S&daddr=44.949249,-109.495239+to:cody,+wy&hl=en&geocode=FeoitAIdhDVm-Q%3B%3B&mra=dpe&mrcr=0&mrsp=1&sz=9&via=1&sll=44.906469,-109.975891&sspn=1.069912,2.471924&ie=UTF8&ll=44.72332,-109.406319&spn=0.067082,0.154495&t=h&z=13>

Day 4 of 2009 Big Ride
Link:
<http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=cody,+wy&daddr=salt+lake+city,+ut&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=43.065625,-110.74794&sspn=8.827337,19.775391&ie=UTF8&t=h&z=7>

That should be fun to look at.
JP

Delete

Jon P. Lingwall wrote
at 9:05pm on April 19th, 2009

Here is a map of possible day 1 travel for the Big Ride!
<http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=SALT+LAKE+CITY,+UT&daddr=40.87718,-111.897812+to:I-15+N+to:W+1200+S%2FW+12th+St%2FUT-39+to:UT-39+to:UT-39+to:UT-30+to:ID-61%2FUS-89+to:ID-31%2FPine+Creek+Rd+to:ID-47+to:macks+inn,+id&hl=en&geocode=%3B%3BFWABdAIdjKVS-Q%3BFeBXdQIdCtJS-Q%3BFfbmdwIdYW1Z-Q%3BFZCbeQIdhJtf-Q%3BFW-9fQIdkcBe-Q%3BFeVyhgIdNHxh-Q%3BFaaKmAIdW8Jd-Q%3BFQNZogIdqFtd-Q%3B&mra=dme&mrcr=0&mrsp=1&sz=11&via=1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9&sll=40.809132,-111.63002&sspn=0.285844,0.617981&ie=UTF8&ll=41.347948,-111.853867&spn=0.28351,0.617981&t=h&z=11>

Day 2
Day 2 of 2009 Big Ride
Link:
<http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=macks+inn+id&daddr=Grand+Loop+Rd%2FUS-191%2FUS-20%2FUS-287%2FUS-89+to:Grand+Loop+Rd+to:Grand+Loop+Rd%2FUS-89+to:Grand+Loop+Rd+to:Grand+Loop+Rd%2FUS-89+to:45.379161,-110.731201&hl=en&geocode=%3BFavBpQIdSnto-Q%3BFaxDqQIdsoVq-Q%3BFUhIqQIdtLFk-Q%3BFWwXrAIdPbtq-Q%3BFS7ZqgIdqIlm-Q%3B&mra=dme&mrcr=0&mrsp=6

Delete

Happy Easter!

2009-04-15T19:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter! How did you spend the day? I took a ride to Zion National Park, again.

I left Friday night after school, about 8:00 pm. I scurried south to Fillmore and stayed in a motel that smelled kinda funny. The weather looked scary before I left, but was pretty clear. I got wet from the rain on the road, but none fell. I was going to tent it for the night, glad I didn't.

When I woke up it was raining pretty good. I got my stuff together and eventually headed out. The rain wasn't bad at all. The road was very wet. The semi vapor trails were pretty impressive. It was all good until just before Beaver, I was in the clouds. It was very foggy. It eventually cleared up and the I15 Corridor looked really clear, so I took SR 20 from 15 to 89. It was a poor decision, if I wanted to have an easy, incident free ride. About a mile in there was snow on the road. It went from bad to worse and eventually I didn't have any clean tracks to follow. It was much more memorable than a sunny, calm jaunt down 15. After splashing snow all over my boots they were frozen solid.

I stopped in Panguitch for a bite. The only place I found was a cafe that was connected to a gas station/motel. The food was decent. I had the full order of Biscuits and gravy with an egg, over easy, on the side, with a hot chocolate to drink. It was two big biscuits cut in half with some mediocre gravy with some left over sausage chunks. The egg was good and the hash browns were good. I would go there again. The damage came to $10.18 with a tip. The cook used to cook for several different national parks... 'nuff said.

I left "big fish" and headed south down 89. I passed HWY 12. I didn't want to, but I kept on to the south. The weather was cold and I recall a few flurries. Snow was plentiful on the shoulders, no that isn't code for dandruff or dry scalp. The cook from the cafe said they were hammered with snow at about 6 am. Glad I didn't camp. I motored south to Mt. Carmel Junction: HWY 9 joins with 89 and connects to Zion NP. I gassed up and started looking for Trent.

Trent was the reason for the trip. He is a buddy of mine from Georgia whom I had not seen for some time. He was spending quality time with his daughters and girlfriend. We had a good time hiking around rain storms and observing nature. For more on hiking check out my hiking blog. For more on catching up with old friends, check out my reunited blog. This is a motorcycle blog. I don't want a pickle, I just want to ride my motorsickle.

I spent the night in a Best Western at Mt Carmel JCT. It was a hotel. My room was right on the third hole, a dogleg left par four. It was weird.

I left around 10:00 am from the hotel. I headed north on 89 and was pleased by the lack of clouds. It looked very nice, but it was still cold and very windy. I headed to the natural beauty and curvy wonders of HWY 12. It was better than I remembered. Red Canyon! Bryce Canyon! Tropic! Escalante! Calf Creek! That one part when the shoulders on both sides of the road disappear! Boulder! Turns, curves, turns, curves! The Alpine section just before Torrey and junction with 24! I love 12!

There is a road east out of Boulder called Burr Trail. I have read about it and have always wanted to try it. It is paved to the Capitol Reef NP border. It was really cool. The pic above with the big orange cliff is Burr Trail. It was breathtaking. There are cliffs on both sides of the road. The scenery changes constantly. I didn't even make it to the NP. I want to go back and ride all 75 miles.

I rode 12. Then 24 to blah blah blah. The rest of the way home was blah. I sped when I could. The wind was bad. I got home about 5:30. I did about 800 miles and change. It was a cold fun trip. I highly recommend 12 to all forms of transportation. I didn't really do it justice , geologically speaking. For more on that check out my geology blog.

Shut up and Ride!

Regret and Remorse...

2009-03-03T22:25:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to ride to Southern Utah this past weekend. It was a bit cold, but overall it was very pleasant considering the time of year. I motored south and ate lunch in Fillmore. On the return trip I stopped in Fillmore once again to gas up and dine. Here is where the regret comes in. Remember the old days when nothing really mattered. It didn't matter where I shopped. Politics were of no concern. I was just worried about me and my little sphere. I returned to that sphere on I-15, but now I am not so blissfully ignorant. On both occasions in Fillmore I dined at mega-chain restaurants and did not venture off the beaten path to promote Mom and Pop friendly dinning. It may sound silly to the "screw everyone else, I got my discount" Wal-Mart crowd. It is a small ideal, but an ideal none the less. I feel very ashamed and humbled by my lack of action.

I reflect on the possible factors that played part in making me forget my morals. I was indeed preoccupied with the prospect of "making good time". I have been contemplating and planning and scheming and researching long distance routes to pound out in relatively short periods of time, ie endurance rides. In doing so I have left behind what makes Motorcycling so enjoyable... the escape. I don't know if that is the right word. It is about going the long way 'round just because. It is about learning about other places and other peoples and especially other roads. It is very difficult to do when eating at restaurants that are "safe", or "no surprises". Isn't that what makes life life, the surprises.

It was a good ride. Pretty much all interstate. I did have a small opportunity to smell some flowers and so I did. I went through Kolob canyon on the way home. I also ventured into Fillmore to look at the would be Utah State Capitol.

In all fairness, it was a business trip. I went to help my better half with a scrapbook thing. It did serve as a reminder of what is valuable in my journeys. It was a surprise and I learned from it, and that is life.

Fun Solo Ride To Stansbury Island

2009-02-07T18:16:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, the weather being a bit warmer than usual, I decided to go for a ride on my V Strom. The only problem with this time of year in Utah is that if you gain too much elevation the weather will be totally different. I weighed my options and decided on Stansbury Island. I have been there many times. I purchase permits from the BLM to gather rocks for my landscaping. I also used to "four wheel" out there when I had a beater truck to... beat. Anyway, the location was not new, however the mode of transport was. I had never been out there on a bike, let alone in January.

The trip there was nice. It was a bit cold doing 80 mph when it was just above 40 degrees F. I don't know the wind chill... maybe a wind chill chart would be useful here, like the one above.

40 degrees at 80 mph is 23 degrees. COLD enough. Becase of the cold and the length of the journey, about 45 minutes, I never really warmed back up.

I exited the freeway, I-80 West, at the second Grantsville exit, it is right before the freeway passes the Stansbury Mountains. The island is part of the range even though there is quite a gap between said range and the island. After exiting the interstate, I followed the frontage road and the clearly marked signs to the Island. It hasn't really been an island since the eighties, when the Great Salt Lake was at record levels and was flooding all over the place. I continued on the frontage road due west until the road heads north and segments some salt evaporation ponds. The island approaches amazingly quickly, maybe because I was quite preoccupied by the gravel surface of the road. The road was quite nice the whole way in. It was a bit muddy in spots, but gets enough traffic to not be too squishy.

The road crosses some private property, and it is well posted. The road ends about 10 or so miles from the interstate. There are some information boards there that talk about the history of the lake and the surrounding area. There is also a trail head that looked promising for a future family excursion. About a mile past the big quarry there is another trail head that is said to be a fun mountain bike trail. Whether or not this trail and the one at the end of the road meet I do not know.

It was a bit warmer on the way home. I saw another Stromtrooper out and about. I made the obligatory stop in Magna to pay homage to Feg's nonexistent house, a salute to Biggus and a stroll down memory lane where impersonating an invalid is a crime.

All in all it was a fun time and it only took a few minutes to wash my bike. I love the lack of chrome.

The big ride is coming. I found some very cheap and even free camping. It is going to be fun.

JUNE 12, 13, 14, 15 THE BIG RIDE COMETH!

2009-01-15T18:26:00.000-08:00

BACK TO YELLOWSTONE!

That is correct, we are heading back to Yellowstone National Park for this year's Big Ride.

This year we are starting the compass points anew.

North is the direction and the mother of all National Parks is the destination.

The reasoning behind this is simple: everyone is poor and we were rained out up north last time. If I am incorrect in my first assumption, we, as a group, are humble and teachable and would revere an individual whose generous gift might make our trip more memorable.

The big days are the 12th 13th 14th(flag day) and 15th of June.

Start looking ahead now.

Time will surely pass quickly.

By the way, we are going "nomadic style".

No, that isn't something illegal in Utah, it means we are not staying in the same place all three nights. We will be camping!

Tents and sleeping bags... instant oatmeal and hot chocolate... bears and racoons... Luke and Yuki.

It is going to be the best BIG RIDE yet.

The first Entry for the new year!

2009-01-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

The Utah football this year was definitely a highlight. I do enjoy every season, and I remember when there were a lot of empty seats at old Rice Stadium. Those days seem to be history. The weather is very fair and the fans are coming out of the woodwork. Yay, we are all winners!

My friend Jeff drove down to New Orleans to view Utah's biggest bowl game matchup ever. I would have loved to have been there. I could have added two more states to my 23, not to mention the Superdome and Alabama in person. Oh, I wanted to go.

I spent the New Year in Southern Utah with my family. How does any of this relate to motorcycles? Shut your beak and I'll tie it in, very vaguely, but in. It was a good old time. We stayed in Hurricane, which is fun to say in Utahn. One cannot say it correctly without sounding like they were raised in Toquerville.

We spent a day in Zion National Park. Do not call it Zion's, the Toquerville locals get a little edgy. Zion's is one of those places that cannot be described, it must be experienced. I just wish they didn't have all their environmentalist stuff all mixed in with the rocks, people can teach their own children.

We spent a day exploring the wonderful history of Utah's Dixie, I guess they call it that because they grew cotton for a minute. I don't understand it, they hold on to it with both hands. I guess it is better than "Utah's College of Fire and Brimstone". I suppose "Hell State University" lacks some appeal as well. (It gets very hot in the summer.)

We also spent the better part of a day exploring Snow Canyon State Park. It was very cool, and very close to suburbia...

We did a southern expedition about three years ago with the Wells Angels. Snow Canyon was a few minutes from the nearest building, now there is a bicycle path running through it for the sprawlers. I guess a lot can change in a few years. I wonder if Veyo has a Wal-Mart yet.

It was cool to be driving with the family and recollect places that we rode the last time I had a chance to visit the land of cotton. It brought back many memories, like when I was stung by something, or when the biker gang beat us up in front of the small town diner... sorry, that was a movie I saw. Seriously, sometimes I wonder if how we pound out mileage and just skim the surface of what is out there is doing any good. This trip shows me that it was a great introduction to a wonderful place. I was lucky enough to spend some time with my family there, making new memories as well as sparking the forgotten.

As far as Ute Football goes, I still didn't miss a home game this year. I will make it the next time they are National Champs.

"There's a new girl in town and she's looking good" Theme song to Rhoda

2008-12-11T19:42:00.000-08:00

Some things in life are amazingly certain: Sunrise, full moons, Msg's. It is usually just a matter of time until some things happen. Cue the Ferris Bueller music with the bom bom oh yeah. With a voice over: The 2009 Suzuki V Strom 650. "Riding it is so choice... I highly recommend it.

Yes!! I finally have another Motorcycle! I know! I was talking about hibernating. Our ducks just got into a row much faster than we thought possible. So what is more fun than messing up your ducks. Right on! I have around 160 miles on it. I have ridden to work and around town mostly. I am trying to be good for the break in period. Dude!

This is a Photo of My brothers and Me!

We were all together for Thanksgiving. It was a Kodak moment.

Isn't it funny... I faint sometimes. My mind imagines the worst case scenarios and then shuts down. I had an episode last week. The details are unimportant and unimpressive, suffice it to say, I face planted on the carpet. My Dad heard about it, through the grapevine, and thought it was motorcycle related, or so it seemed. I know my whole life would be better if it revolved around motorcycles.

This is my new motorcycle! It is orange, you like orange. I was thinking of starting a new riding group of all orange bikes from Utah. We would call ourselves the OrangUtahns. The coolest would be if Suzie was our leader, besides the obvious draw backs, her orange hair flapping furiously in the wind as she speeds on her orange Vespa, no, something chinese... Her orange Vento.

On a more productive note: The Big Ride is in it's planning stages. Yellowstone National Park seems to be the preliminary destination. I want to go in June. The date is not yet certain. We need to have a meeting to come to a decision. I am pushing for a more nomadic feel versus the standard spoke wheel deal. Money is usually the biggest obstacle for us poor folk, so I may give in to the wagon wheel to save dough.

I have a new motorcycle,

A Swing and a Miss!

2008-11-05T17:58:00.000-08:00

October 27, 2008:

The day I sold my motorcycle and didn't have another in mind, or in the garage or in "Limbo", or waiting to be picked up, or just around the corner, or hidden in a secret garden, or waiting to be discovered if you can unscramble the archaic scroll-like artifact, or at the end of a neat, old treasure map.

I feel most unworthy writing this post. I am now a perpetual cager with no real escape. I almost bought a bike. Yeah... I almost bought a cherry 2004 VTX 1800C with charcoal paint and tribal flames. I rode it. Pretty sweet. A little too cruiser. I think I could live with the 120 ft-lb of torque and @ 100 horses. That may have been enough to keep my attention for a while. However, the time was not right. I (my me

dia-naranja) thought that the economy is too scary right now and that she, we, should focus on tying up some loose ends.

I have trouble concentrating. I feel like I am in a constant Fog, a funk, if you will. I find myself wanting to give all of my most prized possessions away to people I barely know. I drive slowly by the Harley store, wrenching my neck for just a glimpse of tire or chrome. I have reassured myself: "1100 cc is plenty. No one needs more than 1100 cc." I even gave a scooter a second look and thought I might look cool in the saddle, like a big hairy Sandy.

All is not lost. I find consolation in talking to others about their bikes. Vicariously feeling the wind in my hair, bugs in my teeth, and Subarus running me off the road in four wheeled stupor.

I will own a bike again. I will rise where I have once fallen. I will find affordable lodging for the next big ride... That reminds me. Gotta go.

Withdrawls....

2008-10-01T19:27:00.000-07:00

My Concours is still in the shop.

I did have it back for a week.

It was overheating, so I took it back and it has been there forever.

The parts were supposed to be in today.

I hope I get it back before there is snow on the ground.

I am very emotional at this time.

If I can't ride, I don't want to do anything.

Utah has a big game coming up tomorrow night.

I just want to ride.

I have homework to do. I don't want to do it.

I just want to ride. I want to ride long and hard.

I want to join the Iron Butt Association.

I want to do a 48-10. (48 states in 10 days)

I want to run a 50 CC. (Coast to Coast in 50 hours)

Hell, I would even settle for a Saddle Sore or a Bunburner. (1000 miles in under 24/1500 in under 3600)

I guess I will have to settle for work and a football game. I am blessed.

The Purple Camel Rides Again!

2008-09-09T20:55:00.000-07:00

Yes! My beautiful 1999 Kawa zg1000 a14 is out of the shop and running better than ever... just in time for it to rain. It used to have a weird rattle. I guess it was the water pump, cause now it is smoother and funner and faster and tourer.

It is for sale at present, although I don't want to sell it now, I just want to ride and ride and ride and ride. Maybe I should just through it all away and hit the road for a month or two. I hear Chile is nice this time of year.

I got a new computer.

2008-08-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

"Congratulate me boys, I'm Engaged!", cried Paul's clean Grandfather on Hard Days Night.

I bought a Mac. It is pretty cool. I think it will enhance my blogging prowess and make my blogs better too.

My Concours is in the shop. I feel like such a weenie. The Barney flavored Concours was leaking some antifreeze. I tore off the tank and fairings and read about what else had to be done and I chickened out. It is sitting at its new home for the next three weeks, Plaza Cycle. In the old days I would have fixed it myself. Since I have started plumbing, I don't want to wrench on anything. Maybe I'm too upper-class, like a blue collar yuppie. I will buy a brand new BMW with a pipe rack, and a big scabbard for a pipe wrench.

I haven't heard much from anyone about riding. Tyler stopped by for some advice about his noisy crooked chain, but other than that, it has been really quiet. I have talked to other angels, just not about ridding. Maybe we have lost the zeal... we are going to be like an old piece of exercise equipment, like a failed fad diet, like boxing every week, like doing push-ups and sit-ups every morning, like training for the Turkey Bowl.

I do not have pictures on my new computer, yet. I will post some when I get some you impatient fools!

Tooth brushes are easily replaced...

2008-07-31T19:50:00.001-07:00

My computer broke.

I had lots of pictures on it.

I had all my music backed up on it.

Now it is dead.

I am using my wife's fancy Apple. Yes it is fancy. I just mentioned it is. It is however, not mine. It is like using someone Else's toothbrush, something I like to do whenever convenient; It gets the job done and tastes a little strange. I guess it could be like riding Trevor's 1980 XS850. It has weird brakes and turns funny, it is tricky to start and looks old school, 'cause it is. Trevor doesn't feel that way. It is his motorcycle. I do not enjoy riding other's motorcycles. I don't wan to break them. Toothbrushes are easily replaced.

I rode to Bear lake a couple of weeks ago. It was a very nice ride. The Mrs. and the children went North to visit family, so I seized the opportunity and went for a long ride. I took the long way of course. I started up Emigration Canyon over to East Canyon to Morgan (some great twisties just before East Canyon Dam) and then over Trapper's Loop to Huntsville. From there I continued to Monte Cristo pass (a great series of turns guaranteed to delight, don't worry about speed, all these turns are big), through Randolph and Woodruff (not necessarily in that order) then north to Bear Lake (the canyon just before the lake is a hoot with some 20 mph curves). It was 160 miles and took 3 hours even. I dined in stile on a picnic table behind LeBeau's: Decent grub, burger fries and alleged Bear Lake Raspberry shakes.

I went home through Logan Canyon (one of the finest rides around). It was getting dark quickly, but I had enough light to see all the rock formations, the creek and a moose. It took two hours to return to Salt Lake.

I highly recommend this ride.

The Big Ride is Over

2008-07-01T19:22:00.001-07:00

Yes, the big ride is over. It was very intense and anything but restful. We pounded out miles on some of the most beautiful roads in the country, let alone California.

We left at 6:00 am on Tuesday the 17th. We rode across Nevada on hwy 50, "Americas Loneliest Highway". We got our Highway 50 Passports stamped along the way. The majority of the drive was straight. There was a lot to look at though. I was never bored. There were some fun stretches: in and out of Austin, and a cool sequence of valleys right before Nevada. Tahoe was very fun to ride around. It was quite cool in the evening as well. We froze a couple of nights. We ate at a little bar and grill by the condo. They had some delicious buffalo/chipotle wings.

The second morning we made a Safeway run. We bought 50.00 worth of breakfast stuff. Our mistake was going hungry, we bought way too much. We didn't start riding until about 10 am. The first little while we made good time. Paul's bike started having trouble in Bridgeport, CA. His headlight stopped working and his bike wouldn't start with the starter. Paul turned around in Lee vinning and headed back to Carson to see if he could find a fix it. We pressed on the 120 into the Yosemite National Park. Instantly we were greeted with boulders and cliffs and trees. We even saw some tetons on the way into the park. Sorry, I did not get a picture. Yosemite was slow go. We only did 400 miles or so that day, but it took forever. We stopped in Sonora, Ca on the way home and had some very decent Mexican at El Jardin on the main drag there in old town. The frijoles there were amazing!! We came home on the 108. It was great at night. The road condition was remarkable and it was freezing over the super 9000 foot pass of Sonora. We got home after midnight.

The third day was supposed to start early. Yuki wouldn't get up, so we did not get started until well into the morning. Luke and Paul worked on his bike and found the problem. We made excellent time once we got on the freeway. We took 50 out of Tahoe and joined I-80 at Sacramento. 50 was great until we got into town. 80 is interstate. My bike fizzled in Vacaville. Luckily we were close to a very helpful dealership who found a coil for my Kawa at a nearby boneyard. 20 bucks and about 1 1/2 hours later (the entire stop took that long) we were on our way to San Fran! We did the touristy Warf and went to China Town to eat, nothing special, then rode across the Golden Gate. We went up hwy 1 to Muir beach and played until dark. We decided to go north to 580 then across the bridge to 80 again and go north to Truckee and then south around Tahoe back to the condo. It took forever. I had to stop somewhere out there. I think it was near dutch flat. I was falling asleep and pounded a Dew and a candy bar, also some beef jerky. I took some M&Ms for the rode, I think I dropped more than I ate, it is hard to eat them with one hand and a full face helmet. We got home about 3 am.

We left about 11:00 to head home. I stopped to take a pic on a cool turn overlook, then everyone left. I missunderstood where we were gassing up. By the time I got to gas I was in Carson with no sign of anyone. I just wanted to get home. Patty had a family thing that I was going to try and make, but our late night before made the cances slim. I still saw a glimmer of hope so I took off. I filled up in Reno, then again in Winnemucca, and again in Wendover. I made it home at 8:30. I tried to go back and find the group with some water and stories. They passed me in Delle and I did not catch them until Tooele exit. We arrived home at 11:30 pm approximately.

It was a lot of fun. I learned a lot. I know more about how I want to ride on the Big Ride 2009. Get ready, the countdown has already started.

Holy Smokes, Only 10 Days!

2008-06-07T20:43:00.000-07:00

I know no body reads this, no I am not commenting on the lack of identity of my potential readers. I am saying that I have no potential readers. Well, I have millions of potential,but no actual readers. Maybe I should include words that are searched for often. Sex, vibraphone, Wankel Rotary Engine... There, now my blog may be read by some music afficionados, some model airplane junkies, and some perverts. Repent Perverts!

Enough drama, The Big Ride For 2008 is just around the corner. I am so excited! I need to pee! That's better. 10 days from now we will be riding to Tahoe and riding and riding...

The bad news is that Shawn will not be accompanying us to Cali. He has a family thing. The good news is that we have a new recruit comming along this year. I don't know his name, he works with Luke. Trevor is still in and Luke and Yuki and new guy and me.

The first day we will go to Tahoe. The second, we will be touring Yosemite National Park, and surrounding area. Thursday we trek to San Francisco and possibly hwy 1. Friday we come back home. I estimate around 2000 miles. 650 days one and four, and around 500 for the other two. We could end up with 2500 if we are not careful.

I better get to bed.

Links are cool...

2008-04-20T20:53:00.000-07:00

I just put a link on this blog to my wife's blog. It is her business blog. She was hesitant to let me link her blog because she thought it would put a link from her blog to this piece of crap. That's business, I guess.

You should be ashamed...

of this blog.

Fifty Eight Days...or something like that.

2008-04-20T20:22:00.000-07:00

I got a new bike last month! It is a Kawasaki Concourse, a ZG1000 to be precise. It is a 1999 and it is purple, a little too "formerly known as Prince", but, what are you going to do? It has a huge gas tank, 7.5 gallons. I have only put about 400 miles on it so far, and am still getting accustomed to it.

It handles very well and takes even tight corners with ease. It is a bit on the buzzy side and I am trying to work on that with a balancing shaft adjustment. I tried it once and will try it again to try and eliminate some buzz.

Below 4000 rpm it is fairly smooth. but as the revs go up so does the buzz. At 80 mph it is hard to handle the vibration for an extended period. I love the saddle bags, I can fit a whole helmet into each one.

It may have a slight oil leak somewhere. I have noticed some smoke coming off the block when the engine warms up.

I just noticed that these pics are saddle bag less. They are big and square, they remind me of old briefcases.

I will miss the old cb1100f. It was an honor and a privilege to own such a part of motorcycle history.

Less than 58 days until the big ride to nevada and california and yosemite and san francisco and so many other places in between. Everyone is excited and getting tune-ups and trying to harden the old backside in preparation.

I will set some dates for some preliminary greasy spoon rides.

trailers are for yuppies

Big Ride Is Closer Than Ever!

2008-04-06T12:00:00.000-07:00

Hey! I need to work in Phoenix. Wanna "ride" down with me? Sure, your truck big enough?

72 days until we leave on the Big Ride for 2008.
Trevor is very excited: He just got his bike worked on and ironed a few things out on the old XS850. It is running better than ever and he is itching to put some miles on the WW.
Luke took his bike to Phoenix for a week of riding to and from work in the heat. I haven;t heard how the weather treated him yet.
Shawn was supposed to go and meet Luke down south and ride back...Looks like there was a change of plans.
I don't think I've written about my latest transaction. I sold the CB1100F and picked up a 1999 ZG1000 Concours made by Kawasaki. I just put a new tire on and and hoping to put some serious test miles on before June. With a 7.5 gallon tank, I am thinking about calling it the Camel or Kamel, not that naming bikes is my thing.
Jim, the '72 Guzzi rider is not accompanying us on this trip. He may be excecuting another Yellowstone trip with a certain stereotypic Harley rider that isn' pack friendly. They are made for each other.
I haven't heard from Tyler. He is interested in a wash and ride to get and share tips on washing and waxing.
The family and I took the cafe around the Oquirrs today and back around through Eureka. I think that will be an excellent first leg for the Big Ride. I am so excited!

I read an article in a motorcycle magazine that made me reflect on life and the joys and dangers of motorcycling. I would just reiterate:

Be smart, Be Safe, Be Around.

I look forward to warmer weather, to Greasy Spoon Rides, to 7 Dam Rides, to full moon Paul Revere Rides... and more.

Another Potential Member to Ignore this blog...

2008-03-01T20:25:00.000-08:00

That's right! Tyler W. (I am not going to spell it) got a bike just this week. He picked up a cherry late '90s Honda vlx600. I saw it in the dark so I cannot say what color exactly but it's dark and shiny and Tyler seemed pretty "stoked". It sounded like a good deal to boot. So when you see him walking around with an extra spring in his step and bugs in his teeth you will know why. I told him about the big ride and about possible "Greasy Spoon" outings, he was interested.
Trevor ordered some bars that weren't what he expected.
The CB has some new parts: Bars, grips, mirrors, Hopefully a Speedometer soon.
Yuki got a new/used helmet.
Shawn has an Intruder.
Luke has a Shadow.
I know where you can get a Virago real cheap!
Pat has a Vespa and has yet to ride with us.
Roundy even rides an ecoscooter and she comes out.
Maybe if Pat can get Jim's Guzzi he will ride with us... He will probably find some Eurotrash to ride with.
I only have 3 bikes at the moment and I feel kind of light.
Fletcher...
JonE is trying to get walking normal before he gets a bike.
It is March! Only three months until the big ride to California. I hope we can get pumped up by the gubernator.
I am dreaming of seven damns and the spring chicken inn, Jeremiahs, Morgan, East Canyon, Hennefer, Echo, Paul Revere, Alpine Loop, Duchesne.... Can't wait!!!

JP

Big Ride Lodging!!!

2008-02-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

Yes, we have lodging reserved for the big ride! It is a condo in Tahoe Summit Village. We have a two bedroom with a loft. It sleeps up to 8. There are two twin beds, two queen beds and a sofa sleeper. I believe that roll-aways are also available. Check it out for yourself at http://www.tahoesummitvillage.com/

I am very excited for this year's ride. I hope you are too.

JP

The Big Ride 2008

2008-02-11T20:17:00.000-08:00

We are planning the next big motorcycle trip this summer. The date that looks the best is the 17 thru the 20 of June. This is a Tuesday thru Friday. That is the only four days that everyone could go in June. If we wait until August we will be rained on again, and July is just too damn busy, So if you don't like the dates, I'm sorry. Why don't you go and plan something that everyone will be happy with... sheesh!

Sorry, I got a bit carried away just then. As if anyone reads this anyway. I could probably get away with saying all sorts of false statements like: My sister is married to Bigfoot and he does have a Bible name... Tune in next time to find out what it is.

Big ride! Going to South Lake Tahoe, Yosemite National Park, San Francisco, California, and everywhere in between. We are looking at some lodging in So. Tahoe that looks pretty cheap. As always, the more the merrier. If you are interested in attending the Big Ride or one of the Gresy Spoons, let us know and come ride.

Rocky Mountain National Park in August

2007-11-24T21:11:00.000-08:00

We left around the tenth of August. It was a beautiful, hot summer day. The first day we rode around 500 miles. We made good time over Wolf Creek Pass, awesome road. We continued mostly on 40 with a small southern detour through Meeker and eventually back up to Craig and Steamboat. We crashed all three nights in Winter Park. The Viking Inn if I recall correctly. It was a nice lodgy feeling place. Plenty of room, great price/value.

There were six bikes and riders. The Leavitts: Yuki on a 1982 CB450 and Luke on a cherry 1994? Honda Shadow 1100. Shawn Foster was there on his Suzuki Intruder, yes the 1400. Jim Fisher brought up the rear on his 1972 Moto Guzzi El Dorado. Trevor Lowry pushed his 1980 xs850 to the limit. I rode a CB1100F, 1983 of course.

The trip was very succesful overall. I did lay mine down on day three and Yuki followed suit and dropped the old Nighthawk on its lights. We had to "jerry Rig" a shifter pedal for the 1100F to continue our Sunday ride to Central City and Blackhawk.

Saturday night was a treat with Lil Brian and the Travellers in one of the local Pubs. Zydeco was just what we needed. Ask Trevor about the delicious Dr Pepper they serve.

We lost Jim on the way home. We went north at Rifle and he went to Grand Junction and beat us home. Rifle had great Mexican food, but the constuction to get back to Meeker was horrible.

It was a great ride with good food, good friens and fun. We also got our share of rain. I guess that is what happens on August rides.

UP NEXT: YOSEMITE!

CB1100F

2007-05-20T19:33:00.000-07:00

I didn't wait long. I had my eye on a ZRX1200R in Phoenix. I thought it was a groovy cooincidence because of the new Harry Potter movie comming this summer. I sold the VSTAR and emailed the guy in AZ and told him I had the money. He never responded. Last summer a neighbor let me ride his 1983 CB1100F. I couldn't stop thinking about it for weeks. It was a hoot to ride. After mr ZRX flaked I thought again about the CB. I did a little homework and liked what I found. So, I took $2000 over to Sean and asked how much for that doggy in the window? And he said $2000. So I gave him the money and have the bike. It has been fun to ride. It handles the freeway with ease. It is quite quick and very manuverable. I have put over 300 miles on it so far, and it has been very enjoyable.

I will post some pics very soon.
August is comming!

Goodbye 04 VStar!

2007-05-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

It was the best 12000+ miles of my motorcycling life thus far. I will never forget the blue on blue. It was a very loyal bike. Always started, and ran smooth. Even with the screw I ran over, and frying the battery, It still would run. It wasn't the fastest, most powerful, or most impressive ride. It did the job. Even when I tipped the scales at near 300, and carrying stuff for the Leavitts, It pressed on and went there and back. Truly, I will miss the old XVS650. I never named it. That's just dumb. I will always remember the approximate 3 years and over 12000 miles on the 2004 VSTAR 650 Classic.

More Riding!

2007-04-21T20:43:00.000-07:00

More riding is what we are going to do. It is almost time to go over the passes and eat at small, local establishments, while racking up mileage on the old two wheelers. Here are some "Angels" updates: As mentioned in the last post, Luke has a new bike. Yuki is planning on riding "Old Faithful" (the cb450) to Colorado. Trevor purchased his own set of wheels (1980's XS850 Special), thereby, securing a definite place for himself on the road to Colorado. Martin will hopefully be around for the trip. He is trying to fix his Savage 650 with a new muffler. Haven't heard much new from Foster. Darrin is more interested in air soft than Motorcycles. Jim sounds like he will be riding some more. Arrington went away and has since returned...no commitment for the trip as of yet. Fletcher is possibly borrowing a bike and riding with us. He sold his Aprilia last year. I got all but one of Tony's bikes so he moved to Tooele. He is doing well. I don't think he has a working bike yet.

Here are some pics of the southern Utah ride last year...

JP

Greasy Spoon Rides

2007-04-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Spring is here again! Get your bike out and get ready to ride!
Last year was a great year for the "Angels". We did several Greasy spoon rides and the southern Utah trip was much fun.
It is time again to start riding and planning and planning to ride. This year the big ride is going to be to Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. Luke has a new bike this year(1990's Shadow 1100, Very nice) and has been busy starting to plan this years long one. So far we are looking at 4 days and @ 1200 miles or so. If you have any imput please respond.

I gotta go,
JP