Preparing for WESTOC 2007

[clmixon]

Hi gang!

According to the stuff in the menu bar, I have not started a post since August of 06:eek: I think I had some before the "Great Server Crash" but it is entirely possible that I did not.

Due to my causing Katrina when I famously stated "hell or high water" would keep me from going to WESTOC 05, I will refrain from any uhh...DEFINATIVE statements about my intentions. But I have made reservations, paid registration and bought the obligatory tee shirts so you can see where I am trending, no definite plans :D , but a strong, strong lean in that direction.

Looking at Adam's stuff, it looks to be a great meet and I wanted to start getting the wisdom O' da board as I planned. Also, by communicating travel plans like this last year, I was able to meet up with folks on the way to Golden and had a great time doing that (except for Doobage and the heat thing, hey Doob, Rob, Bryan, Jim, Dave!)


Anyway, Looks like I will be pulling out on August 3th and leg one will all Interstate on 10 to Van Horn(edited to add, with a stop in Katie to get Rob aimed west) Day two on the 4th to Pheonix, and then hit the Ca. cost on the 5th at a spot that will give the best ride up PCH. 6 th, 7th and 8th are northbound through CA. and OR. and get into the Redmond area on the 9th. for WESTOC. Depart Redmond on the 12th heading East/ Southeast with the goal of getting to NATSTOC on the 17th. (yep, pretty vague right now on that eastbound stuff)

Looks like Bryan (AZST) is good to go and working on coordinating with him to meet up in AZ or CA depending on personal schedules. Rob is still on the fence (hint hint, nudge nudge) and there are NO registered TX players at the time of this missive.:eek:

So, lets see who we can flush out into the open, Comon guys, it's WESTOC! Time to commit (ask permission, whatever...)

Chris :06biker:

[sherob]

Look again BUCKOOOOOOOO! :D

[sherob]

Thanks for posting OUR ride plan... I'll need it when I go in and demand those days off :D

[clmixon]

Cool, Rob got permission :D (note my change to post one...:)

OK, Now,,,,here's what ya gotta do..... Grab Doobage and hold his arm out. I'll start the IV and we will refuse to remove it until he gets to WA:)

So now there is one Texan, can we get Two?

Great news!

Chris :06biker:

[sherob]

I don't think the Doob is going to go, if IIRC. To far :(

[clmixon]

Bryan is good to go too. He has another room reserved in Redmond. He wants to do some camping on the way up, maybe alternating nights with ye old motel 6 or sumpthing....

I have not done that before so I am game to try it a few nights as soon as we get to where it's a little cooler Not AZ or Southern CA!

I want to get across a lot O Texas on Day 1 but I also want to minimize night travel in west TX. cause I is afraid O' Bambi.... My day 1 looks like about 850 miles, Day two about 650 and day 3 about 570. After that, I want to slow down and sightsee, even though we will be in $$$$$ land!

Bryan wants to make sure we get in Ave of the Giants and I second that. What are your "Must See" points?

Chris

[sherob]

I want to see "You are now Leaving Texas" :bow1: Other than that, I'm open :D

[sherob]

What was the name of that motel we stayed at in Montrose? How much are the rooms?

[Putt]

Was planning on going to WeSToc, but since I could not get an appointment
at Russell till the 15th of August for a ride in, I am going to have to pass..
Will be in the area, just a week later... After getting the seat built, Judy and
I will be heading for the PNW, then taking a couple of weeks to meander
back to the mid-west.. Gotta break in the Russell ya know....

Putt..

[clmixon]

What was the name of that motel we stayed at in Montrose? How much are the rooms?


That was Canyon Trails Inn http://www.canyontrailsinn.com/about.htm

Summer Rates are on the page $from a single for $43/night to $75 for a King with Jacuzzi.

Why, wanna go back?

Chris :06biker:

[sherob]

Passing the info on :)

[George]

My plan is to draw a straight line between Kingman and Redmond and try to stay as close (paved) to the that line as possible. Might be a couple of gravel stretches in there, tho.

Then, do the same between Redmond and STecoah, N.C. Nearly a week to get from west coast to near east coast. It'll be a first for me. I've dipped my toe in both oceans but never that close together. Might have to run over to the right coast just to say I've done it.

Before that, tho, it's June AZ RTE this weekend and then 666 on 7/7/07 STOC. Sign up for either or both at the ST-Owners Home Page.

[adamk]

Was planning on going to WeSToc, but since I could not get an appointment
at Russell till the 15th of August for a ride in, I am going to have to pass..
Will be in the area, just a week later... After getting the seat built, Judy and
I will be heading for the PNW, then taking a couple of weeks to meander
back to the mid-west.. Gotta break in the Russell ya know....

Putt..

You could come to WeSTOC and have a seat made at Rich's in Seattle.

http://koczarski.com/Motorcycles/ST1300/Rich'sSeat/Seat.htm

http://koczarski.com/Koczarski/LinkPics/WeSTOC12.jpg

[Putt]

You could come to WeSTOC and have a seat made at Rich's in Seattle.

http://koczarski.com/Motorcycles/ST1300/Rich'sSeat/Seat.htm

http://koczarski.com/Koczarski/LinkPics/WeSTOC12.jpg

Russell, Rich... Russell, Rich....
Gotta go with the Russell.... :)

Putt...

[AZST]

That was Canyon Trails Inn http://www.canyontrailsinn.com/about.htm

Summer Rates are on the page $from a single for $43/night to $75 for a King with Jacuzzi.

Why, wanna go back?

Chris :06biker:

Canyon Trails most vivid memory:

(AZST) "How ya doin, I'm Bryan"

(Coop/Pooc) "My name is Coop. Say, those ST pipes are so shiney, don't you ever ride that thang"

(AZST) "What?" :confused:

Proposed route.

California: Since PCH (1) is a MUST, jump on this road someplace in the south and take it straight up as far as we want. 101 into Eureka/Arcata, 299 East, 96 North through Klamath National Forest, then jump on the 5 into Oregon.

Oregon: Stay on the 5 and make time....or...hit 62 into Crater Lake area (see what a lake looks like) and either jump on 138 west back to the 5 or 97 north and take our pick of 58, 20, 22, 26 or just stay north on 97 into Washington.

Washington: If we stay on 97 thru OR, hehehe, this dumps into the 14/Columbia River thingy talked about in the June edition of "Rider". Head west on this gem...do KlickityKlat (sp?) 142/141 into Carson then north on 25, (page 56 of Rider) past Mt. St Helen Volc Monument, hit 123 north past Mt. Ranier National Park....410, 169 and then Redmond.

On the other side of WESTOC....I am thinking east to Yellowstone and that's as far as I got.

Nothing set in stone....just thinking out loud. :D

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[BigTom]

Hey, Chris

I know it's a little bit out of your way, but if you could see your way clear to come through Yuma (I-8), we could really use the rain.:) I'd even ride to Julian in the rain for pie. Heck, I'd even spring for the pie.

[AzDesertRider]

Bryan,

Great route! :bow1: Thanks for "thinking out loud" I remember seeing quite a few kewl looking camp grounds on the 62 by Crater Lake.

Ann & I will be taking similar route north. No camping though :D

[AZST]

Camping is not a "must-do" for me....just bringing the gear in case.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[clmixon]

:D Bryan,

I want to fit Avenue of the Giants south to North in there if we can and I also would not mind getting to see the Golden Gate even if it means some "urban" riding.

I actually am looking forward to trying some motocamping. Sorta fired up about that. With Rob coming, we have a truc...uhhh...wing to carry the campins uhhhh stuff, yeah, stuff :D

Does pulling out on the 5th work for you and Rob or do we need to IBA a section and start later?

Chris:06biker:

FYI, For anyone else who is heading our way, chime in.

Tom, Since I am not "Positivly" going, all of this is theoretical and there is "No" chance of a big storm "following" me. Wink , Wink, Nudge , Nudge.;)

All of the planning, reservations and such, putting new tires on the bike, taking vacation from work and all the rest is purely an "intellectual" exercise.

[sherob]

Whenever works for me... I'm just the pack mule :D

[Mark]

I had a schedule change: YES!!!
Any room for another traveler?

Chris doesn't know if she can make it at all so I am planning for just me and if she can she will come with too.

Mark

[adamk]

My plan is to draw a straight line between Kingman and Redmond

I <thought> you said you were going to ride Rattlesnake Pass??

http://koczarski.com/Koczarski/LinkPics/WeSTOC12.jpg

[Putt]

:D Bryan,

I want to fit Avenue of the Giants south to North in there if we can and I also would not mind getting to see the Golden Gate even if it means some "urban" riding.
-----------------------------------snip--------------------

I

You pick up 1 South of San Francisco, and stay on 1 till you get to
"The Avenue of The Giants" you will go over the Golden Gate bridge..

Putt..

[AZST]

I had a schedule change: YES!!!
Any room for another traveler?

Chris doesn't know if she can make it at all so I am planning for just me and if she can she will come with too.

Mark

ROOMIE !!!! Same as last year??

This year I promise to give 30 minute prior "notice" to bathroom usage AND light a candle after. :eek: :rolleyes:

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[AZST]

:D Bryan,

I want to fit Avenue of the Giants south to North in there if we can and I also would not mind getting to see the Golden Gate even if it means some "urban" riding.

I actually am looking forward to trying some motocamping. Sorta fired up about that. With Rob coming, we have a truc...uhhh...wing to carry the campins uhhhh stuff, yeah, stuff :D

Does pulling out on the 5th work for you and Rob or do we need to IBA a section and start later?

No IBA necessary, 5th works fine. I allowed for 2 weeks this year...should be plenty of time to get it all done. My question to you would be your California plans. Will you be visiting family in San Diego or do you want to hit PCH above L.A.? Either way, doesn't matter to me.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[Mark]

Cool!

Candles are good... :D I have a res; but, I don't remember if it is for 2 queens... I thought Chris was going to make it when I made the reservation. I'll find out.

Here is a suggested route from Ojai to Eureka that includes Avenue of the Giants (just get off 101 and ride it.. it is the old 101 near Garberville).

Hwy 1 North of Eureka is okay; but not as pretty as between Moro Bay and Eureka.

Chris and I did Milpitias to Eureka in one day... It was a long day but as Brian will attest; once Chris is riding she is hard to STop...

Camping will be great (anywhere other than the desert).
I'm sure we can find either a campground (KOA or STate) if you want to camp any where along the coast (or just a bit inland).

Mark

[sherob]

I have a res; but, I don't remember if it is for 2 queens...

:eek:

[Mark]

:eek:

Out of the gutter boy...

[clmixon]

:06biker: Great Mark!

OK, this is starting to come together. Bryan, dad was here 2 months ago and had a Stroke last month and is rehabbing (doing fine, no lasting effects). I think I am going to meet y'all and skip San Diego this year since he and his wife have a lot going on.

Chris:06biker:

[Mark]

Here is a thought... it gets us off a busy section of 101 and you guys will see a really nice piece of hwy 33.

Mark

[sherob]

I'm just a pack mule... I'll just follow Chris ( let Chris think he is leading me while I just kick back in my recliner, cruise control set, SATV going, playing Donkey Kong ) :D

[Mark]

I'm just a pack mule... I'll just follow Chris ( let Chris think he is leading me while I just kick back in my recliner, cruise control set, SATV going, playing Donkey Kong ) :D

note to self... video cam looking backwards on hwy33 will get pic of sherob airborne... :eek:!

[clmixon]

I heard a rumor that Rob was going to program that wing to follow us on Le Grand Aventure while he drove his Tahoe up to Redmond....:D

Mark,

If we pull out of AZ on the 5th and hit the start of your CA north to Or route on the 6th, wouldn't that put us in Wa on the 7th?

Do we split the ride northbound over two days or three in order to get the best experience? Hit Redmond a day early? Inquiring minds want to know?

Chris:06biker:

[Mark]

That was more of a route than a schedule.

There are a couple of great roads that we could ride east and then back weST and then continue back north... I don't mind riding the same route eaST and weST because they feel different when taken in opposite directions...

I didn't include a run to Crater Lake or up and down the WeST side of Mt ST Helens either...

In other words... I don't mind if we get there early or on time...

Mark

[sherob]

I'll pull a trailer before I pay for the gas to drive the Tahoe :bow1: It's still under $3 here, but I've seen the prices out there :eek:

BTW... I'm packed and ready to go :D

[AZST]

....hmmm, looks like Bingham signed up for Redmond.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[ST_Jim]

Here is a thought... it gets us off a busy section of 101 and you guys will see a really nice piece of hwy 33.

MarkI've already got that route loaded into Streets & Trips. But be aware that the area around 33 & 166 in the Cuyama Valley can be really hot in August. Depending on the time of day & weather you might want to stick closer to the coast.

I'm debating whether to continue north from Eureka to Redwoods National Park & inland via 199 to Grants Pass and Crater Lake, or just cut inland via 299 & 96 to visit Crater Lake. 96 is supposed to be a nice road.

After the California Coast, the Oregon Coast didn't impress me as much - so I don't mind heading inland through Oregon.

- Jim :04biker:

[Mark]

I've already got that route loaded into Streets & Trips. But be aware that the area around 33 & 166 in the Cuyama Valley can be really hot in August. Depending on the time of day & weather you might want to stick closer to the coast.

I'm debating whether to continue north from Eureka to Redwoods National Park & inland via 199 to Grants Pass and Crater Lake, or just cut inland via 299 & 96 to visit Crater Lake. 96 is supposed to be a nice road.

After the California Coast, the Oregon Coast didn't impress me as much - so I don't mind heading inland through Oregon.

- Jim :04biker:

Ahhhh.... have you noticed where Bryan and I are from?
I know the guy from TX will say something like "what this hot... why in Texas we..." :-)
And the guy from LA eats HOT LINKS! :D

I agree the sand dunes of OR are not that exciting... But the brewery in the harbor and Newport! With the rooms upstairs (http://www.rogue.com/locations-bednbeer.html)!!! :D :bow1:

[sherob]

Hot... what's hot? :D

[clmixon]

So when he says "Hot" is Jim referring to a "dry" Az heat, a "wet" LA/ East Tx. heat or that namby, pamby Cali heat?

True story, was in LA for a conference with some folks from work, we all went out by the pool at the end of the day and laid out, drinking beer and swapping lies. Couldn't figure out why we had the pool to ourselves in such great weather, temps in the high 90's and low (for us) humidity, Found out later that this was considered a heat wave and they had a heat emergency warning going on:eek: . We thought it was one of the nicest summer afternoons we had ever had....

Chris :06biker:

[sherob]

Along the same lines...

Was in PHX to install a regional office during the summer one year back in the 90's... my tennis shoes were sticking to the blacktop looking for my car in the parking lot at the airport. I was cruising to the hotel in Camelback with the windows rolled down around 14:00... people were looking at me like I was insane... but it was a DRY heat :)

I basically had the pool and free drinks to myself (Embassy Suites)... :)

[Mark]

Along the same lines...

I basically had the pool and free drinks to myself (Embassy Suites)... :)

Score!!!
:cool:

[George]

So when he says "Hot" is Jim referring to a "dry" Az heat, a "wet" LA/ East Tx. heat or that namby, pamby Cali heat?

True story, was in LA for a conference with some folks from work, we all went out by the pool at the end of the day and laid out, drinking beer and swapping lies. Couldn't figure out why we had the pool to ourselves in such great weather, temps in the high 90's and low (for us) humidity, Found out later that this was considered a heat wave and they had a heat emergency warning going on:eek: . We thought it was one of the nicest summer afternoons we had ever had....

Chris :06biker:

Been there. In 84, running the Olympic Torch down I-15 in the desert to San Diego then back up PCH to the LA Coliseum, those of us from the midwest and east were cracking up over the "High Humidity (15/20%) weather reports. We all thought it was wonderful weather.

[Mark]

Jim,

I want to say thanks for the warning. We will be moving through the hot areas north of Ojai pretty quickly by going to Santa Maria and then North.

I know we are having fun with your post; but, heat is a *very* serious environmental factor that I always take into consideration. The desert will kill you if you do not plan for it.

I remember 80F was punishing in Santa Barbara when I grew up.
The heat of SoCal has more humidity that I'm used to now so it 'feels' a bit hotter than I'm used to at the same temp. I think that is called the 'heat misery' index.
Now in S.B. I have to wear long pants and a long shirt even in the summer.
And at 80F here we make sure we have a towel available when we get out of the pool or the humidity will dry us so fast we get goose bumps. :)

Thanks again,
Mark

[AZST]

Along the same lines...
Was in PHX to install a regional office during the summer one year back in the 90's... my tennis shoes were sticking to the blacktop looking for my car in the parking lot at the airport.

I think you may have stepped in gum.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[ST_Jim]

I knew I shouldn't have mentioned the heat to guys from Arizona and Texas! :flame

I just have vivid memories of dragging my butt into New Cuyama on 166, in the afternoon, standing in front of the refrigerator in their one gas station, and scarfing down several drinks. I can't remember exactly how warm it was - probably about 115-120. My buddies and I made the mistake of thinking we'd be cooler by taking off jackets and letting the hot air blast us. Stupid huh?

So is that a 1 day route from Ventura to Eureka? I personally like to stop & take pictures along the way, so I might not make it that far. Still trying to find the right traveling companion...

- Jim :04biker:

[Mark]

That is a *route* suggestion... not a distance suggestion!

I think that most of us know that if we don't hydrate we don't do well...
Maybe that is why the HD crowd only goes 80m before they stop off at a 'watering hole'? naw... couldn't be... :D

Mark

[clmixon]

Since the west coast is all new to me, the digitizing of the ride will be pretty constant. I will probably end up stopping every 50 feet...:eek:

With the current start timing, we will not be in any hurry, I would not even mind doubling back some if we missed something really cool while heading north up the coast.

I will be heading out east bound for Nort Carolina when Westoc ends so I want to maximize my west side time vs. scenery/ roads ratio.

We have 3 days to get to Redmond once we hit the coast on this time budget and I like how Mark is thinking.

Jim, Do you want to meet up and play native guide?

Chris

[ST_Jim]

We have 3 days to get to Redmond once we hit the coast on this time budget and I like how Mark is thinking.

Jim, Do you want to meet up and play native guide?

ChrisWell, let's see how things play out before I commit to meeting up. I might want to take another day or two and site see more on the trip up. S&T says it's 1500 miles via the route I've got so far, which is 3 500 mile days - certainly doable, but not as much photo time. Or I can visit more places on the way back the week after.

Native guide? Maybe :) I've been on Highway 1 several times from here up to Monterey, but I've only been north of Monterey once on a bike and only made it to Hwy 128 just south of Fort Bragg before we ran out of time. Kinda want to visit the Redwoods this trip.

- Jim :04biker:

[AZST]

Mark--- since S. Calif is your playground, what are your road preferences to get to PCH from AZ?

Thoughts please.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[Mark]

I'd say show Chris and Rob hwy 2 (angeles crest) and then decide the route through the mountains to hwy 58. There are 3 or 4 good routes.
Then over to the coast hitting hwy 1 at either moro bay or cambria.

Mark

[AZST]

I'd say show Chris and Rob hwy 2 (angeles crest) and then decide the route through the mountains to hwy 58. There are 3 or 4 good routes.
Then over to the coast hitting hwy 1 at either moro bay or cambria.

Mark

My thought: Angeles Crest Hwy (2), to (33), to (166) into SLO and then PCH.

So many good roads !!!

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[clmixon]

My thought: Angeles Crest Hwy (2), to (33), to (166) into SLO and then PCH.

So many good roads !!!

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

All I have plotted so far is west until I hit water....:rolleyes:

If y'all say this is da way to go, I am for it. I wanna see coastline, Golden gate and real big trees, Mountains, pretty girls and cool places are ok too :)

Chris :06biker:

[Mark]

Good plan Chris.

Ocean and mountains we can do...
And once you get near the ocean there will be surfer girls (just ask Bryan; better not... let's not get him STarted just yet :D)

'cool places' will STart after we get onto Hwy1.
As ST_Jim noted... until we get there we'll have hot separated by hotter areas.

Mark

[DAS]

My conflict with WeSTOC (Schutter Brothers Rally 2007) just fell through so I'm in for Westoc.

I'd like to try and meet up with some of you SW riders some where around San Franciso. Where do you think you'll be stopping on Tuesday August 7 and are you willing to have another rider horn in on your group? I'm always low budget so I'm also looking to either camp or double up if it has to be a motel. I'm planning to make the run south on I5 in a day or day and a half to meet you. I've done bits and pieces of the northern CA and OR coasts but never all at once. Cool - in more than one way. Are you planning on staying the night a Jedidiah Smith State Park? or just stop for some sight seeing? Should try to make reservations if you're staying the night - even for a Wednesday night in August.

[DAS]

Anyone planning to camp at Vasco Park and want to share a tent site?

[Mark]

I'll have to let the others voice their opinions on more riders... I horned in on the group too... :D

I would not miss the hwy 1 section up to S.F if I were you; IMHO it is the best of Hwy 1.

The run from SF to Paso Robles (and then over to Cambria) or down to SLO/Moro Bay adds less than 4 hours to your ride (maybe 3).

Mark

[STPilot]

I would not miss the hwy 1 section up to S.F if I were you; IMHO it is the best of Hwy 1.

The run from SF to Paso Robles (and then over to Cambria) or down to SLO/Moro Bay adds less than 4 hours to your ride (maybe 3).

Mark

+1 on that section of Hwy 1...

Then, after SF.... Stay on Hwy 101 til north of Santa Rosa, (Cloverdale I beleive) Pick up Hwy 128 West, will take you back to Hwy 1 and up thru the Legget section. REALLY nice roads to ride, and quite fun. You'll get a good mix of scenery and some twisties.

[DAS]

Are you guys from AZ doing the PCH on the front end or tail end of WeSTOC or both?

Where I try to meet up with you depends on how many days / nights you will be taking to get to Westoc. Do you know where you'll be stopping for the night Monday and Tuesday? My concern is lodging costs but I have friends that will put me up in class for a really good price in Medford OR and Dublin CA (SFO area) on the way down and that provides me with good scheduling flexability.

[Mark]

Front end don't know about the return trip.

Mark

[AZST]

As Mark states, PCH on the front end of WESTOC. After WESTOC I'm probably headed east into Montana.

I'm bringing camping stuff....just to be flexible and to maybe save a few sheckles. If we find cheap sleeps on the way up to Redmond and we can room share, that suits me fine too.

With regard to joining up, I have no objections. I suspect that we will be taking our time though on the way up the coast. So far, no set plans on how many miles per day or where we'll stay on the way up. Only must things are: PCH, Golden Gate (I'd like to explore Vista Point), Avenue of the Giants and maybe Crater Lake. I think the closer it gets to departure, we'll have a better idea of schedule. I have lots of time on both sides of WESTOC so it does not matter much to me.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[clmixon]

Ditto,

I like meeting new folks and riding new roads. I can adjust to get to AZ and then CA faster or slower, I just want to have fun. I have no need to add up big miles each day. If there is a cool National Park or we need to double back some to ride a great road, it's all good.

I have done a few miles with Bryan and Rob, They know I am not a fast rider and we all respect the Pace, Mark knows the area and is a great companion on a ride and at the camp site (buys beer) As always, if someone wants to ride along, cool, want to meet up each night along the way for dinner and BS, also cool. I ride my own speed and have no problem just arriging where to meet up at the end of a busy day.

No plans, no tight schedules, just good rides,

Chris

[Styles]

No plans, no tight schedules, just good rides,

Chris

I'll second that, and offer a tip for those riding up from the south. Although Washington's Cascades offer good approaches to Seattle, the city's best seen first from the water, not I-5. For that our coastal route might be best.

Besides the Oregon Coast, Washington's from Astoria north is decent. So if you've the time, take the mostly two-lane route to Bremerton -- maybe enjoying your first glimpse of our Emerald City from the ferry.

Admittedly, you'll have city streets and a bit of freeway to run, but the longer, often watery prospects en route might be worth your trouble.

So check maps and connect these places: Ilwaco, Seaview, South Bend, Raymond, Tokeland, Westport, Cosmopolis, Montesano, Elma, McCleary, Shelton, Allyn, Belfair, and Bremerton.

I think a few of you will say :woo

Styles

[clang]

Hey guys I've been reading your plan and would like to offer a suggestion if you are coming up the California coast into Oregon. Take hwy 199 out of Crescent City into Grants Pass, OR. (very twisty fun road) Loop back south towards Ashland on HWY 99 South. From Ashland take Dead Indian Memorial Raod to HWY 140. Loop behind Klamath lake to Crater Lake ( a must see while in Oregon). From there come out the North End of the park and head north on HWY 97 (straight and boring but not far to Bend) In Bend go west on HWY 20 to Sisters. At Sisters take HWY 242 ( one of the coolest roads in Oregon and only open about three months a year) Up on top stop and enjoy the view of the Mountain range as well as the lava field you are sitting on. Once off HWY 242. Head West back to the Ocean through Florence, OR and enjoy the very scenic Norther Oregon Coast....That is my suggestion as a local with some experiece riding this great STate. Email me with questions.

Cameron

[clmixon]

Hey guys I've been reading your plan and would like to offer a suggestion if you are coming up the California coast into Oregon. Take hwy 199 out of Crescent City into Grants Pass, OR. (very twisty fun road) Loop back south towards Ashland on HWY 99 South. From Ashland take Dead Indian Memorial Raod to HWY 140. Loop behind Klamath lake to Crater Lake ( a must see while in Oregon). From there come out the North End of the park and head north on HWY 97 (straight and boring but not far to Bend) In Bend go west on HWY 20 to Sisters. At Sisters take HWY 242 ( one of the coolest roads in Oregon and only open about three months a year) Up on top stop and enjoy the view of the Mountain range as well as the lava field you are sitting on. Once off HWY 242. Head West back to the Ocean through Florence, OR and enjoy the very scenic Norther Oregon Coast....That is my suggestion as a local with some experiece riding this great STate. Email me with questions.



Cameron

Thanks Clang and Styles for the great suggestions. I'll have Sacajawea, uhh I mean Mark start analyzing the route.

Are you guys going to WESTOC?

Chris

[BigTom]

Quote by clang
Hey guys I've been reading your plan and would like to offer a suggestion if you are coming up the California coast into Oregon. Take hwy 199 out of Crescent City into Grants Pass, OR. (very twisty fun road) Loop back south towards Ashland on HWY 99 South. From Ashland take Dead Indian Memorial Raod to HWY 140. Loop behind Klamath lake to Crater Lake ( a must see while in Oregon). From there come out the North End of the park and head north on HWY 97 (straight and boring but not far to Bend) In Bend go west on HWY 20 to Sisters. At Sisters take HWY 242 ( one of the coolest roads in Oregon and only open about three months a year) Up on top stop and enjoy the view of the Mountain range as well as the lava field you are sitting on. Once off HWY 242. Head West back to the Ocean through Florence, OR and enjoy the very scenic Norther Oregon Coast....That is my suggestion as a local with some experiece riding this great STate. Email me with questions.

I am here to tell you guys that Cameron knows of which he speaks. Good camping in Florence, too.

I have never done that route as a loop, but I've done all the parts of it. Even my shaky memory remembers it ALL. Really cool loop, Cameron!

[sherob]

I also just put along and ride my own ride... I have Storm, Axe, and Malt...er Mark to plot and lead the way :cool:

[Styles]

Thanks Clang and Styles for the great suggestions. I'll have Sacajawea, uhh I mean Mark start analyzing the route.

Are you guys going to WESTOC?

Chris

My thanks; yes, I'm going. but I can't speak for Clang.

Styles

[DAS]

Your style sounds like something I would really enjoy but I hope I can keep up. I better plan on trying to meet up with you on Monday evening if you are going to hit all the suggested routes and loops. Humm, the Green Springs - never done it on a motorcycle but have in the car many times with the family - made them all sick every time. Please let me know your plan if you figure one out. CA is a big place to try and find a couple of STs without some specifics.

[clang]

I am a possibility for WESTOC. I am getting married the end of August and have made a commitment to try and keep August as open as I cain the event that I am needed for something by the future wife. However, I rule nothing out and would love to get there and meet you guys. If you end up coming through Eugene on your way, send me a PM and I will try to sneak away and ride with.

Cam

[sherob]

Ordered new tires for the trip... Avon Venom R's :cool: I have over 9k on the Flop's now... can't wait to get these on :)

[Mark]

Very good!

New front Avon STorm in the garage right now and will probably get put on after the 7-7-7 ride.
The rear Avon Azaro probably has 200m on it right now... (I secretly wish it had a *lot* more miles on it! :-) )

Mark

[sherob]

If these job weenies weren't being a bunch of... weenies... I might have ridden out for 777 :rolleyes: You don't hear anything for days, then... "Hi"... then days again... :mad:

[Mark]

So change your phone message to "I'll call as soon as I can after I get your message" and ride on out!
:-)

Mark

[DAS]

Back to dry hot vs. humid hot. I've never seen this before. Apparently in Montana when it's dry hot they derate the actual temperature. actual temp 98 feels like 93 ??

I wish it would get hot in Oregon. Need rain gear and the electric vest today.

[Mark]

National weather service for Tempe AZ (http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/forecast/MapClick.php?site=psr&smap=1&textField1=33.41472&textField2=-111.90861&mp=1)

Look at the 'current conditions' then look to the right for the 'heat index'; 110F feels like 103F when you have 7% humidity.

Now look at Redmond WA (http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/forecast/MapClick.php?site=sew&smap=1&textField1=47.67417&textField2=-122.12028) 66F feels like 77F when you have 55% humidity...

I'll take 'feels like 77F' thank you! (but can you hold the rain? :D).

Mark

[DAS]

Newberg, OR no heat index today - but wind chill is listed - 64, Dew point 59 and yes - it is raining but that's not to complain about becasue it is a slow day long drizzel so I'll turn off the lawn sprinklers for a few days :-) more $ for something else.

[Louie Louie]

Seems unlikely I will be able to make it. Too many things pending in early August. Will probably go to Colorado in September.

I have reservations at the Redmond Marriot from aug 9th to august 12. I will cancel them unless you guys tell me if someone wants the room and how to transfer it to you.

[adamk]

There are still rooms available for the Marriott. All of the suites at the Residence Inn are booked. If that's what you have I'm sure we can find somebody that will want to switch.

[Louie Louie]

There are still rooms available for the Marriott. All of the suites at the Residence Inn are booked. If that's what you have I'm sure we can find somebody that will want to switch.

I see.. My room is at the Redmond Marriot Town Center.

PS Adam, how can I get those brilliant "madmaps" of Colorado. I have unfinished business on my 07!

[AzDesertRider]

Louie, I have an extra copy of the paper "Madmaps" from Golden WeSToc. I would be glad to send you a copy.

[Louie Louie]

Thanks bro, I have the paper ones too. Was hoping to find the ones created for the GPS to download. I think we can still access them somewhere.

[adamk]

Try here:

http://www.koczarski.com/Motorcycles/STOC/2006-XI/MadMapRides/MadMapRides.htm

[Louie Louie]

Try here:

http://www.koczarski.com/Motorcycles/STOC/2006-XI/MadMapRides/MadMapRides.htm

A
The very cool AdamK strikes again!!:bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

Thanks bro...

PS I STill want to visit your great state and destinations but will do so after everyone comes back and I can own the roads myself!

[ST_Jim]

:bump

Haven't seen any traffic on this thread in a while. How's it going?

I'm basically doing the motel thing this time. I don't really want to acquire new camp gear and shake it down on this long a trip. Anyway, my planned route:


Sunday: Simi Valley to San Francisco via Highway 1.
Monday: San Francisco to Eureka via Highway 1, with Avenue of the Giants detour, and a little site seeing (Pt. Arena lighthouse or ?).
Tuesday: Eureka to Bend via Hwy 1, 299, Crater Lake & 97. Maybe Dead Indian Rd instead of 62, or 96 instead of 299.
Wednesday: Bend to Sisters and 242, loop back to 97, then 26 past Mt Hood to Portland, and the Historic Columbia River Hwy. Photo opportunities at Vista House, Multnomah and Bridal Veil Falls.
Thursday: Windy Ridge of Mt. St. Helens, then Mt Ranier, and on to Redmond.


I haven't got as many firm plans for the trip back, other than Sunday going to visit my cousin in Port Townsend (and maybe Hurricane Ridge). Monday around the Peninsula, then south along the coast. Or maybe see Mt St Helens from the west, and maybe the Spruce Goose in McMinnville. Maybe cut over to Mt. Lassen to see what Mt. St. Helens will look like in a few more years!

- Jim :04biker:

[DAS]

Ya, what you guys been doing - riding or something??? Seriously, how much do you use bike to bike radios. I'm thinking about getting an autocom - and using a cobra that I already have - but would rather spend very limited funds on other stuff unless this would be really useful on the road with a group. I've not road much in a group and have never used bike to bike so have no idea if it's worth it. Would like your opinion.

[Killtimer]

The two situations I love bike to bike are these.

A smallish (up to 6 to 8 bike) group of like minded and equal ability riders riding at a spirited pace moving through traffic or unknown cities. It's also good to be able to slot a non radio equipped bike in the middle. That way the guy riding sweep can report any problems to the group. When this is most valuable is when the destination/stops are not pre-planned. When you're really concentrating on the ride you can miss the fact that the riders in front of you have already pulled in for a break.

The second instance I like radio is a group that has slightly different agendas and individual pace. It lets a rider notify everyone else that he's just got to pull over for whatever reason. This way the front running riders don't go through the 'Is he having trouble should we go back and look" debate when they decide to stop, and find the group has shrunk.

IMO, formation riding 'Wingers that never get out of visual contact do not need radios. :)

[clmixon]

OK,

D (departure) day for me is August 2nd. Going to be heading out of Lafayette with Al, Liz and the gang as they leave for a Hill Country ride and will split off from them the morning of August 4 and make a run to Tempe to meet Mark and Bryan. Was going to leave on the 3rd and meet Rob but his sudden employment makes his attendance iffy. Planning to be in Tempe evening of the 4th. Garmin shows this to be a 12 hour run so I will be oficially beat when I get to AZ.

Mark is route meister from this point to Redmond, so unless he gets a job in Albany, Bryan and I are in good shape here. If this falls through, my highly detailed paln is to ride west till I hit water and then keep it on my left side till I hear "eh" all the time.

I have a room at the Residence Inn (no roomate now that Rob is out), but I hold out hope that he will find a way to make it via shortest possible route.

Leaving on the 12th I am planning to head for the scenery across WA until I can catch Hiway 12 into Montana probably the Missoula area. The 13th looks like Yellowstone and then 14th and 15th are major slab time to Dayton Oh. 16th at the Air Force Museum and then start south to Robbinsville NC. Robbinsville for 17, 18, 19 and then westbound again for Lousiana to finish up.

I still need to make a rear tire change on the Bike before departure, gonna do this next weekend, I have about 6K on this 020 and even though I get about 12k per rear, I have decided to change it before I leave. I saw where Adam had tire changing set up at Westoc, but I don't want to spend any riding time waitin on a tire.

When I get back I will have two rears with about 6k each on them and a nose wheel tire with about 10k so my rotation schedule is gonna be a little buggy.

After all of the tent posts and Raven's feedback I bought me a Hennessy and it my limited backyard trials I like it a lot. Bryan wants to canp some on the way in and as long as nights are below 80 I may try another few nights on my eastbound leg.

I am meeting Bigdawg and Mac-JD in Robbinsville. Jay has set us up with cabins at the Ironhorse so Luxury again at the end.

Getting pretty excited, looking forward to seeing y'all again all over the U.S.

I know Mark has been researching and plotting to get us a great Cali, Oregon experience and that Adam has made sure we get a great meet in Redmond.

This is much better than that "Nebraska" thing :cool:

Chris :06biker:

[sherob]

I was looking forward to Redmond this year... but a job seems real good about now :rolleyes: I'll just take my lumps ridng the Rockies for a while :cool:

[Finewest]

I was looking forward to Redmond this year... but a job seems real good about now :rolleyes: I'll just take my lumps ridng the Rockies for a while :cool:

Oh, bummer! ;)

[Finewest]

OK, even though I got my own WeSTOC Plan Thread going I thought I'd post here also my route plans...

AUGUST 3rd to ?

3rd - Leave Oceanside, CA around 7am with Dana (Dteel) and reach San Simeon Motel 6 with a possible lunch stop (late?) at Old Juan's Cantina in Pismo Beach.
4th - Get up, have breakfast, and hit the road around 9am and ride the beautiful Highway 1 through God's Pad in Big Sur. Over the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to Bodega Bay Inn for the night on Highway 1.
5th & 6th - Get up, have breakfast, hit the road with Dana around 9am after Dana's buddy meets up with us. Drive to Eureka and Patrick's Point State Park Campground (http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=417) for the California Redwoods Parks.
7th & 8th - Head out of the Redwoods to my brother's house in Coos Bay, Oregon. Dana and his (our) buddy will split off to Crater Lake, Oregon on the 7th.
9th - Jam it up to Redmond, Washington and check in to the Marriot Hotel for the next three nights.
10th & 11th - ST1300 PARTY TILL I DROP!:hotpepper
12th to ? - Ride home.

[dteel]

I've noticed a lot of riders are basically planning on the, "west until I hit water, turn right go until I'm in Seattle."

A basically sound plan, one that I couldn't have improved on even given a lot of time.

The good news is with the density of STeeds along the route, I'm seriously hoping on seeing some of you guys on the road. Let's all make sure we stop and swap some stories along the way.

I too am getting a bit charged up and looking forward to seeing a lot of new faces.

[DAS]

Rob, too bad your out but most of us know the "gota work to play' issue all too well.

[DAS]

Mark, I know you gusy are going to be on vacation and hangin loose on the schedule BUT do you have an idea where you will be Tuesday (8/7/2007) night? I go free tickets to Street of Dreams, including food, for Monday Aug 6 and promised to take my wife so won't head out til Tues morning.

[clmixon]

Mark, I know you gusy are going to be on vacation and hangin loose on the schedule BUT do you have an idea where you will be Tuesday (8/7/2007) night? I go free tickets to Street of Dreams, including food, for Monday Aug 6 and promised to take my wife so won't head out til Tues morning.

Dan,

I am in the RAN List but I just PM'ed you with my Cell and I am sure Mark will chime in as soon as he finishes "admining"


Chris :06biker:

[Finewest]

IDEA FOR DURING TRAVELING: Find, cut out and bring restaurant coupons for the trip up. Even though the coupon may say only at participating restaurants, I bet a donut you'll be able to charm the restaurant into honoring it. I have so far found:


DENNY'S - $5 off any check of $15 or more. 20% off entire check. Buy one burger get one free (w/purchase of two drinks)
CARROW's - 3 coupons of 50% off check with two purchases of either breakfast, lunch, or dinner. (This one is a no-brainer!)
COCO's - 50% OFF (buy one entree get one free - breakfast, lunch, or dinner.) Free slice of pie with purchase any entree after 11am. Another no-brainer - PIE! :hotpepper

[adamk]

Your rally packet has a Remond Town Center coupon book from the Marriott. There are many resteraunts nearby. Claim Jumpers, Desert Fire, Red Robin, Ruby's Dinner, Thai Ginger...etc. I'll be going over the list at the riders meeting. :) There are also some coupons for some of the stores at the mall too.

[ST_Jim]

I've noticed a lot of riders are basically planning on the, "west until I hit water, turn right go until I'm in Seattle." I think I'll make a figure 8 out of it. Up the California coast, then cut over to Crater Lake, & work my way up past Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Rainer. Then come back via the Olympic Peninsula and the coast. Depending on how hot the weather is then I may jump back over & south via the Sierras.

Any votes as to whether I can toast a brand new set of Avon Storms in one trip? :twisted:

- Jim :04biker:

[AZST]

Just got back from San Diego with wife and kids....now I can focus entirely on WESTOC.

Looks like I'm meeting up with Mixon and Mark on the 5th to depart the heat and head west. (Must remember to watch my language now around Mark...would hate to be banned in person.)

Find our way to Redmond. Bringing camp stuff in case we do.

On the other side of WESTOC, head west into Montana and then drop down into Yellowstone. Beartooth is on the menu and will likely be camping either in Yellowstone or Grand Teton. Planning on taking my time as much as possible. From there, I head further south into Utah-- probably headed to Zion/Bryce area but not for certain.

Not sure which days will include what....just taking my time.

021's are on the bike, oil/filter changed. Been packed for about a month now. :rolleyes:

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[STony G]

I was looking forward to Redmond this year... but a job seems real good about now :rolleyes: I'll just take my lumps ridng the Rockies for a while :cool:

I feel for you!

[dmulk]

My plans:

8/3 - Leave Anaheim up the coast (probably riding with DTeel and Finewest) to San Simeon (Motel)
8/4 - Ride Big Sur to Bodega Bay (Motel)
8/5 - Ride to Patrick's Point State park and see some big trees (Camping)
8/6 - Ride to Crater Lake and on to Cottage Grove (Stay with Dad)
8/7- 8/8 - Visit friend's in Oregon
8/9 - 8/11 - on to Redmond WeSTOC (Camping)
8/12-8/13 - Slab it home

Cheers!

<D>

[STony G]

Dan,
I'm not sure what time I'll be at the camp grounds, probably around mid afternoon.

PM me your cell number.

[Finewest]

Dana and I will be leaving Oceanside around 9am after having breakfast at the Ihop. We'll be taking the 405 freeway up and then cutting across to Santa Monica, then up the coast highway to Oxnard and then catching the 101 highway up to Lompoc on Highway 1. Then stopping at Old Juan's Cantina in Pismo Beach for late lunch. Then on to San Simeon Motel 6. The next day on to San Francisco through Big Sur saying hello to God!

[George]

Chri, Rob, I'll be following basically your same route (minus the TX and NM and AZ parts.) I'm leaving Kingman on 8-2, spend a couple days in Simi Valley, then north on PCH to Monterey, SF, Redwoods, etc. Meeting my nephew up there somewhere on (prolly) 8-5. Might hit the Crater Lake on the way to Portland.

Prolly spend a day there at my brother's place then on toward Redmond. Plan to arrive on the ninth. Might see some of youse on the road.

[Finewest]

I'll be in Patrick's Point State Park campgrounds on the 5th and 6th near Redwoods National Park in case anybody's in that area and needs a space to flop.

[clmixon]

OK,

Heading out this Morning into the Sun.....(or reasonable facsimile thereof)

Leaving for WESTOC and then NatSTOC, See y'all there or in a couple of weeks/

Chris

[Mellow]

Ride safe... I'll see you next Fri or Sat.

[Finewest]

God speed Chris!

[George]

Heading into the setting moon this morning. Chinese for lunch in 29 Palms. Hope to see a bunch of ya on the road Satruday thru Wednesday and at WeSTOC Thursday to Sunday.

[Finewest]

God speed George!

[Mellow]

Have a great trip George, I'll see you next week sometime.

[DAS]

Isn't Chris heading the wrong way if he is heading "into the sun" this morning??? And "see you all there in a couple of weeks'??? hope he is referring to NatSTOC becasue if he gets to Redmond in a couple of weeks - well, all he'll find is a memory of great times.

[Mark]

Dan,

You might not have noticed that he is starting from LA.
You have to make some allowances because they don't see the sun often enough to know which way the planet spins...
:)

Mark

[Mellow]

Also, it is Chris "Hurricane" Mixon... so, he'll always have the weather at his back... and bring it to the event... therefore, where the sun is doesn't mean much to him.. he's riding to the clear bright spot in the sky that will soon be darkened after his arrival..

At least, that's how it usually happens.:twist1: :wind1:

[sherob]

I'm hitting the road for Denver to find an apartment tomorrow... so if you see a black Kia Spectra with a little blonde girl passed out in the passenger seat, wave :) Don't be shocked if I pull up next to ya and wave :hat1:

[Mark]

Also, it is Chris "Hurricane" Mixon... so, he'll always have the weather at his back... and bring it to the event... therefore, where the sun is doesn't mean much to him.. he's riding to the clear bright spot in the sky that will soon be darkened after his arrival..

At least, that's how it usually happens.:twist1: :wind1:

Yeah... I'm worried about all of AZ on Saturday due to his arrival...
:-)

[sherob]

Yeah... I'm worried about all of AZ on Saturday due to his arrival...
:-)

Start making sandbags... LOL!

[George]

The weather is already here!!

[dmulk]

Heading into the setting moon this morning. Chinese for lunch in 29 Palms. Hope to see a bunch of ya on the road Satruday thru Wednesday and at WeSTOC Thursday to Sunday.


See you in a few!

<D>

[dteel]

You mean to tell me that you guy didn't tell Chris that the WeSTOC event was in South Dakota this year?

[DAS]

Silly me, I thought he was leaving form Lafayette, LA (I spent a month there one day back is 82 or 3).

[Mark]

Silly me, I thought he was leaving form Lafayette, LA (I spent a month there one day back is 82 or 3).

I did that same year one month in Mobile AL... Sure glad I ended up here!

Mark

[clmixon]

Nobody likes heart anymore huh

Chris

[Mark]

Nobody likes heart anymore huh

Chris

Why Chris whatever do you mean?

We *luv* ya man! :-)

Mark
P.S.
Good ride so far?

[sherob]

War ya et Boudreaux?

[Mark]

Just got a call from Chris.
He is at the Texas, New Mexico border.
He's making great time and ought to be to Tempe in about 7 hours...

Early takeoff for CA is now a go!!!
:cool:

Mark

[Mark]

Chris got in at about 6:30, the rain started sometime after that... :)

We're all set to get out of town before 5am; so, I'll see you on the road or at WeSTOC...

Mark

[Don-STOC237]

Cindy and I are leaving first thing Monday morning. Our adult son is staying at our house and taking care of our animals.

We'll be riding mostly CA89 through Lassen NP, staying Monday night at Mt Shasta, then riding mostly US97 up to US2 and over to the Seattle area.

Side trips to Crater Lake and a couple other sites on the way.

I'll be riding the VSTrom 1000 (Blue) and Cindy is riding her black PC800, both of us in screaming yellow Darien jackets.

Wave if you see us, or we'll stop and talk!

See you at the show!

[adamk]

We'll be riding mostly CA89 through Lassen NP, staying Monday night at Mt Shasta, then riding mostly US97 up to US2 and over to the Seattle area.



There's about 8 milrs of resurfacing going on on highway 2. They've already finished about 5 miles and are supose to be done on the 14th. You might hit a bit of traffic.

The best way into Redmond from 2 is to head south to Duvall when you hit Monroe. Then take Novelty Hill road over to Redmond.

[Coop]

With Mr Weather Modifier Mixon going to WeSTOC has there been any kind of panic on the west coast yet? I could tell when Chris came through Texas because it rained all day and washed the dust off the Buddy Holley mural on the furniture store. LOL!!

[clmixon]

I am home safe, no problems on the road, just ran out of steam. Complicating this was the fact that a new storm wqas due in the Gulf right as i would have been traveling from N.C. home so I called jay to make sure Terry and MacJD would be going cause the cbin wuz on Jay's card and then I pointed the ST south rather than east.


I have to thank Mark, Bryan, Byron, Dan and everyone else who guided me up the California Coast, that was a ride of a lifetime for me!

Yes Coop, it rained on us as we left Pheonix and then I did not see any rain again for the whole trip. It even was Sunny and Clear when I rode the Northern Casacades.

I will post some pics and info after I recover from the REDMOND-MISSOULA-Yellowstone-Laramie-Kansas City-LAfayette leg.

I regret in some ways not pushing on to NATSTOC but as I sit here at home, I am thinking I made the right choice. My fun meter is pegged and it is time to slow down for a little while.

CHris

[Mellow]

Glad you're home.. that last leg had to be tough.

[Mark]

Hey, that is excellent news!
You're home and had no problems!
A shorter trip doesn't make a failed trip!!!

Good time here too,
Mark

[DAS]

Good to hear you are home. I'm still jelous evenif you cut it a bit short. I wish my trip would have been longer but their is always next year. I warned you that I'd tell this story on you. I met clmixon coming out of the fog on 101 south of Crescent City. Then I had to blame him for bring sunshine to Oregon. He thought that he brought wind to Hood River but what he actually brought was a bit of calm. Chris, you are definately welcome to bring "bad" weather to Oregon any time you wnat. One thing I won't wish on you or anyone else is the Oregon gas station experience. Thank you letting we ride along with you for a few days - may there be many more in years to come.

[AZST]

Glad to hear you landed back in the bayou Chris.

Don't feel bad about cutting things short. I did the same thing and skipped Bryce and Zion. Just too pooped to sight see anymore and made the last day 765 mile beeline for Casa de AZST.

Big thanks to Mark, Mixon, DAS, Dan (Mark's Bro-in-law) and Eric (Mark's nephew) Great safe riding every single day. :yes:

I'll try and get pics in the gallery shortly.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[MNwing]

Chris, glad to hear your home, your not the only one who ran out of steam. Thanks for leading the ride last Sat. Hope your GPS is working better than it did then. Good to see you again.

[Scooterb]

Chris,

Glad to see you back home! I don't blame you one bit... you had a lot stacked on your plate (no pun intended! :D )

I ended up skipping the Northern Cascades route and Glacier NP because of time constraints but I was able to sneak in a ride through the north side of Yellowstone and Beartooth Pass on the way back home.

Enjoy the rest of your time off of work!

Scott

[sherob]

Glad your home Chris... glad to see the weather is greeting you too... LOL! :)