I'M GOING! (maybe...)

[Finewest]

I think I'm going to make it! :hotpepper

I've been thinking about doing a free-wheelin' ride starting in late July and making it to WestSTOC. I checked out all the info in the event forum, but couldn't find any alternative lodging from the high priced Marriot. Any cheap motels in the area? Could camp a night or two, but I'm going to need a shower and HBO! LOL.

I'll be registering in a few days. (maybe..., but it's looking good!)

[sherob]

Maybe it's a good thing I might miss this year :eek: LOL!!!

[Finewest]

Maybe it's a good thing I might miss this year :eek: LOL!!!

You and me both buddy. LOL. ;)

[Finewest]

Will be definitely doing the coast route!

[Finewest]

I emailed Adam (The Dis-Organizer) asking about cheaper accomedations in the area and he suggested a couple of places like Motel 6 and Days Inn which are running around $65-$75 a night. He did say he rather we all stay in one place at the Marriott, but man at around $120 a night that is going to bite my budget pretty hard. He did suggest that I check to see if anybody wants to share a room. Not a bad idea if you don't mind me smoking, running around naked and snoring loud enough to shatter glass! "No! It's my remote! MY REMOTE!!!" :eek: :rolleyes: :D

[sherob]

You sound like me except the running around naked and remote parts :rolleyes: The Mixon man is lucky cause I'm on a CPAP machine now... LOL!!!

[adamk]

He did say he rather we all stay in one place at the Marriott, but man at around $120 a night that is going to bite my budget pretty hard.

The rally fee ($70), doesn't pay for the banquet room, riders meeting room or any of the other facility costs, like the stage, sound system, AV equipment, etc. What does pay for this is my name on a contract promising we'll occupy over $25k worth of hotel rooms at our discounted rate. If you go to the Marriott site and try to book a room without the WeSTOC event code, rooms come up starting at $160/night.

We understand this hotel might not be in everyone's budget. We also know there will be attendees camping or staying at other facilities. Just keep in mind that if everyone decided to stay somehwere else, there would be no WeSTOC. Simple math, hotels don't give you this stuff for free.

[Finewest]

OK, I've registered, paid the fee. I'm on the Players list. Woo-hoo! I'll probably be riding up with Dana (dteel) and we're still trying to figure out local lodging. It would be great to stay in the hotel and split the cost if possible. I know Adam did a great job of getting us discounts for the rooms and grub. I am real excited and looking forward to riding up the West Coast of the United States! Some of the best scenery in the world! Taking my cameras of course!

I'm getting Veronica serviced and ready for the trip. 1500 miles! The longest ride ever on my baby!

[adamk]

Cool! See you there Fred!

[dmulk]

:)!!!!!

[clmixon]

You sound like me except the running around naked and remote parts :rolleyes: The Mixon man is lucky cause I'm on a CPAP machine now... LOL!!!

God Bless CPAP! :bow1: :bow1:

True story..this is no BS

Last year Bryan camped out in our room and I warned him that Rob was the champ at nocturnal partially obstructed airway breathing (so to speak) Bryan, not knowing me that well accused me of exaggerating (like that would ever happen)....

Well next morning, I had earplugs in and a pillow wrapped around my head and had actually slept pretty good, Bryan on the other hand has never ever accused me of exaggerating EVER again.

Chris :06biker:

BTW, how we gonna power that bad boy iffin we camp any on de way? Do goldwings have APU's

[AZST]

Rob snores....it's epic. That's all I'm sayin.

--Bryan
04ST1300A
:04biker:

[Finewest]

I bet I can out-snore the guy! My wife uses plugs and the cats howl!

Anybody at the rally going to the Olympic National Park for one of the day rides? I really want to go there. I've been in Seattle a few times, but never seen the park.

[adamk]

I bet I can out-snore the guy! My wife uses plugs and the cats howl!

Anybody at the rally going to the Olympic National Park for one of the day rides? I really want to go there. I've been in Seattle a few times, but never seen the park.

I'm sure there will be people going out there. The ride up to Hurricane Ridge is a nice one! The 112 alone the shore of the Straits of Juan de Fuca is a great road too! Plus, you've got the ferry ride back into downtown Seattle. The skyline of Seattle was actually ranked number 15 in the world recently.

Check out Peninsula-3 on these pages:
http://www.stocrallies.com/westoc12/RidesPeninsula.html
http://www.stocrallies.com/westoc12/RidesPeninsula/Peninsula-3.htm

I've been trying to figure out what rides to recommend to people at the riders meeting. I've been working on a PowerPoint presentation with maps and pictures of the sites on the various rides. Two days just isn't enough time to see everything. Between the North Cascades Highway, Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens and the Peninsula you pretty much have to plan on seeing some of it on the way in or out of the area. Hopefully you've seen some of it already??

The other issue is which day to do which ride. If you want to do some of the passes and the peninsula, I'd probably recommend doing the passes on Friday because the traffic will be lighter.

The ferry rides to the peninsula can be jambed on the weekends, but motorcycles get treated like royalty! You get to cut the ticket lines right at the ticket booth, then you get to ride to the front of the waiting area and you get first on, first off priviledges on the boat. There can be a 3 ferry wait for cars, but you get to hop the next boat. Can't beat it! :)

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

[sherob]

BTW, how we gonna power that bad boy iffin we camp any on de way? Do goldwings have APU's

I'll motel/hotel it while you guys rough it :) I like beds/hot coffee/ and hot showers in the morning :bow1:

[harleyeater]

I am a gm with Hilton Hotels, they will give meeting rooms free and discount av if there is enough food and beverage revenue and occupied rooms, next time try a Hilton family brand product ( embassey, Doubletree, Hilton).

[gnorts]

Hey Fred, Good 4 U! You will have a great trip up - remember, if you ride the coast highway, it's tourist season, and you should make motel reservations a day in advance as you move north. If you're camping, many of the state parks require reservations too.

If you're set on camping while at WeSToc, try Vasa Park at the south end of Lake Sammamish. It's not too far from Redmond, which is at the north end of the lake.

http://www.vasaparkresort.com/1525.html

[Finewest]

Thanks for the info Gnorts!

OK! I've registered and got a room at the Marriott for the three nights! Waa-hoo! King size bed, wireless Internet, and best of all a shower and TV! The only downer (if you can call it that) is the hotel is completely non-smoking! Yikes! I know I'm the only STOC member who smokes, but gee-wiz! OK, whine over...

I'll be leaving town on the 3rd of Aug. with Dana (Dteel). What we'll do with 7 days on the road is a mystery to me, but it should be interesting and fun. He wants to meet a friend north of San Francisco on the same day!!! That's a mean 550 mile run to do in one day! I want you guys to talk him out of it. Tell him that we'll miss all the great sights on PCH, like Big Sur, if we do that. PLEASE HELP! LOL.

[adamk]

I am a gm with Hilton Hotels, they will give meeting rooms free and discount av if there is enough food and beverage revenue and occupied rooms, next time try a Hilton family brand product ( embassey, Doubletree, Hilton).

The first place I tried was the local Embassy Suites. The lowest they would go was $145/night on rooms. Everything else was the same. Banquet rooms would be included, most of the AV too, but not the LCD projector just like the Marriott. In the end it would have been about $30/night more for the same thing.

The Hilton in downtown Bellevue was getting close to matching prices, but the location is downtown. It would be a walk to food. It's also along SR405 which is a ***** for traffic. The Redmond town center has multiple places to eat within a block or two and is a much nicer setting.

Believe me, I was negotiating with multiple properties. I'll be glad to just plan a route and ride to WeSTOC next year! :)

[dmulk]

I'll be leaving on the 4th.... maybe we'll bump into each other!!! :)

It will be nice to hang with you guys at WeSTOC!

Did Dana finally register "Officially"? At CreSTOC he was not sure if he was going to do the dinner / etc.

<D>

[gnorts]

... we'll miss all the great sights on PCH, like Big Sur, if we do that. PLEASE HELP! LOL.

Actually, the Big Sur stretch of the PCH can be a huge PITA in the tourist season, with way too many blind people driving huge RV's. And, at least last fall when I rode it, the pavement is in poor shape, with a lot of patches and a LOT of crap on the surface in the corners. 101 north is way faster, and the scenery ain't bad there either. If you do want a diversion on the way north, try Hwy 25 north from Hwy 198 through Hollister. It can be HOT out there, though. Good road, lots of curves, very little traffic, and watch out for coyotes! You pick up 101 again just south of Gilroy.

The same goes for Hwy 1 north of SF. Beautiful coastline, really crooked road, and lots of tourists. 101 is mostly freeway for quite a way out of SF, and north of Ukiah it's good road, much of it is 4-lane, and the ride down the Eel River north of Laytonville is great, with lots of high-speed 4-lane sweepers, pretty good surface and a liberal sprinkling of CHP. Again, you can take diversions on sections of old road through the redwoods.

101 through N. CA, and OR, is beautiful, but again, vacation traffic can be a pain. There are numerous escape routes to I-5, however - 36 from Fortuna to Red Bluff (AMAZING road), 299 from Arcata to Redding, 96 up the Klamath River, 199 from Crescent City to Grants Pass, 42S (fun!) and 42 from Bandon to Winston, and 38 from Reedsport to Drain. Many more, too, that run iinland from Florence, Waldport, Newport, Lincoln City, Tillamook, Seaside and Astoria. So many roads, so little time...I've been driving and riding that coast since the early 60's and I never get tired of it.

[Mark]

I'll be glad to just plan a route and ride to WeSTOC next year! :)

I understand and :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: :bow1: to you.

Mark

[gnorts]

+1 on that! I've recently done the groundwork for an association meeting in Seattle, and it's a lot of effort to get it right!

[Finewest]

...I've been driving and riding that coast since the early 60's and I never get tired of it.

Me too, and a lot of hitch-hiking! But did you buy pot in the basement of the free clinic in Haight-Ashbury? Thought so! LOL. :eek: :D

[Finewest]

I'll be leaving on the 4th.... maybe we'll bump into each other!!! :)

It will be nice to hang with you guys at WeSTOC!

Did Dana finally register "Officially"? At CreSTOC he was not sure if he was going to do the dinner / etc.

<D>

Hey Dan! Darn! Leaving on the 4th? Maybe I can talk Dana into waiting one day? He did register. I agree! It'll be great to hang with folks you know. See you there.

Are you showing up next Sunday at my pad? I sent you a PM.

[dmulk]

Hey Dan! Darn! Leaving on the 4th? Maybe I can talk Dana into waiting one day? He did register. I agree! It'll be great to hang with folks you know. See you there.

Are you showing up next Sunday at my pad? I sent you a PM.

Even if you guys stick with the 3rd, I might catch you guys at some point (since you will be stopping in the bay area...).

I am planning to get my route figured out this weekend.

Unfortunately, I don't think I can make Sunday. I am going to try, though, because I REALLY want to see a valve check!

Anyway, the girls will be heading to Japan for 2 weeks and they will get back 2 days after I leave for WeSTOC for 10 days... I won't see them for close to a month, so I need to spend most of this last weekend with them before they leave. If I can show, it will be a cameo (again). I'm sure you understand. :)

I'll know more on Saturday.



<D>

[dmulk]

PS: What was that "cool vest" you were telling me about on the radio / ride home from TechSTOC?

I think I need to order one for my trip....

Cheers!

<D>

[Finewest]

Dan... Of course I understand. In fact you better spend some time with them or you'll never be forgiven! LOL.

Dana and my plans are as follows; we'll be leaving early Friday (the 3rd) and staying in San Simeon at the Motel 6 that night. Then get up have breakfast and do a slow crawl up PCH through Big Sur and hitting San Fran. sometime that day. Then hook up with his buddy there and continue on up PCH. I hope to spend some time in the Redwoods and visiting my brother in Coos Bay Oregon. I may split off from the guys and do some sight-seeing. Dana and his bud are heading to Redmond early, but I don't want to be sitting around waiting for Westoc to start. I would like to do some camping-out and maybe check out Crater Lake, or something. I'll give you my cellphone number in case you want to hookup somewhere on the route.

Here is a link that is all about cooling vests: http://motorcycleinfo.calsci.com/CoolAndHeat.html

[dmulk]

Sounds good, Fred. PM it over. I will probably also stop and see the Redwoods and want to hit 33 also? Gonna play with the route this weekend with the garmin tool.

Someone posted a nice route over in my WeSTOC thread for Oregon. Might do that one. I'll definitely be hitting Crater Lake.

Either way, if we don't hook up on the way, we'll hang at the event for a day or so. :)


Talk soon!

<D>

[Finewest]

Sounds good, Fred. PM it over. I will probably also stop and see the Redwoods and want to hit 33 also? Gonna play with the route this weekend with the garmin tool.

Someone posted a nice route over in my WeSTOC thread for Oregon. Might do that one. I'll definitely be hitting Crater Lake.

Either way, if we don't hook up on the way, we'll hang at the event for a day or so. :)


Talk soon!

<D>

Sounds good Dan. I PM'd ya my cell #.

[dmulk]

PS: Which vest did you get on that page?

[Finewest]

PS: Which vest did you get on that page?

I think I got this one: http://www.ridecool.com/sport.htm

[Finewest]

I've been getting stuff ready for Westoc and buying some farkles for the trip...

HP PDA with wireless Internet
Stebel Horn
Cordless Shaver
Nissan Thermos
New Alaska sheepskin buttpad (my old one is... well... old.)
Escort Solo radar detector (though I don't think I'll need it. They'll have to catch me first! LOL)
Large package of Big Red Gum

[sherob]

What was the teaser state sign that kept popping up duing the slide show last year at WeSTOC for this years meet :confused: Was it Nebraska :confused: Thanks Adam FOR everything you guys did :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

[dmulk]

looks good! Thanks!

[adamk]

What was the teaser state sign that kept popping up duing the slide show last year at WeSTOC for this years meet :confused: Was it Nebraska :confused: Thanks Adam FOR everything you guys did :bow1: :bow1: :bow1:

Yup, Nebraska. :) Steve Kelley gave me the picture and the idea when he learned I had created a PowerPoint show for WeSTOC XII. The WeSTOC Emeritous Council always threatens to have WeSTOC in Nebraska if nobody steps forward with a proposal. Kind of an inside joke, but even funny for the people that weren't in on it. Mountains, lakes, ocean, Nebraska?, space needle, Mount Rainier, Nebraska? It was fun listening to the audiance when that was running. :) :)

[mpgar]

Hey Fred and Dan,
Man, you guys are bummin' me out! I have been following your plan to ride up the coast, and I would have loved to meet up and join you along the way, but I too have a brother in Oregon, and he hooked me into trailering up so that I can bring him some of his junk along the way. In exchange, I get a place to stay and a plenty good wine which is little compensation.
Anyway, I and my buddy from near Chico will definitely look forward to meeting you both in Redmond, so look for us there...me on my black '06, and my bud on his burgundy '00. This will be our first rally, so we hope to come away with some new friends.
Have either of you been thinking about which of the rides you will be taking once you get there? We're leaning toward the penninsula ride for one of the days.
BTW, thanks Fred for the link to the vest at ride cool. I've been riding in 104 degree heat here in the last week, and wishing I had one.

See you guys there,
Mike

[Finewest]

Hey Fred and Dan,
Man, you guys are bummin' me out! I have been following your plan to ride up the coast, and I would have loved to meet up and join you along the way, but I too have a brother in Oregon, and he hooked me into trailering up so that I can bring him some of his junk along the way. In exchange, I get a place to stay and a plenty good wine which is little compensation.
Anyway, I and my buddy from near Chico will definitely look forward to meeting you both in Redmond, so look for us there...me on my black '06, and my bud on his burgundy '00. This will be our first rally, so we hope to come away with some new friends.
Have either of you been thinking about which of the rides you will be taking once you get there? We're leaning toward the penninsula ride for one of the days.
BTW, thanks Fred for the link to the vest at ride cool. I've been riding in 104 degree heat here in the last week, and wishing I had one.

See you guys there,
Mike

You're welcome Mike! Looking forward to meeting ya! I am hoping to do the Olympic National Park ride too. See ya there!

[dmulk]

Hi Mike!

Looking forward to meeting up with you too.

This will also be my first WeSTOC.

Haven't given much thought to which rides to do...will probably just go with the flow... :)

I am going to order one of those vests on lunch today!

Cheers!

<D>


Hey Fred and Dan,
Man, you guys are bummin' me out! I have been following your plan to ride up the coast, and I would have loved to meet up and join you along the way, but I too have a brother in Oregon, and he hooked me into trailering up so that I can bring him some of his junk along the way. In exchange, I get a place to stay and a plenty good wine which is little compensation.
Anyway, I and my buddy from near Chico will definitely look forward to meeting you both in Redmond, so look for us there...me on my black '06, and my bud on his burgundy '00. This will be our first rally, so we hope to come away with some new friends.
Have either of you been thinking about which of the rides you will be taking once you get there? We're leaning toward the penninsula ride for one of the days.
BTW, thanks Fred for the link to the vest at ride cool. I've been riding in 104 degree heat here in the last week, and wishing I had one.

See you guys there,
Mike

[dteel]

I think as long as I keep the compass pointed north I'll be ok. I'm going to try to keep the water to my left. I'll eventually end up at WeSTOC. I think my route will look something like this (see attached MS Streets route).

I think the idea to get Hotel/Motel reservations make at least through the weekend is a good idea. I really need to find out if my other riding buddy is going to make it or not. It sure would be easier to plan this then. If I can't get accommodations, then I guess I'll just crash out on a park bench somewhere.

[Finewest]

I think as long as I keep the compass pointed north I'll be ok. I'm going to try to keep the water to my left. I'll eventually end up at WeSTOC. I think my route will look something like this (see attached MS Streets route).

I think the idea to get Hotel/Motel reservations make at least through the weekend is a good idea. I really need to find out if my other riding buddy is going to make it or not. It sure would be easier to plan this then. If I can't get accommodations, then I guess I'll just crash out on a park bench somewhere.

I have a extra sleeping bag and a Therm-A-Rest air pad Dana. It's not that hard to just flop down practically anywhere. Why, I can even boil water in the morning for instant coffee! It's a no-brainer! LOL. I made a motel reservation for San Simeon at the Motel 6 ($100 for two!!!) the first night, so we can have a nice leisurely ride through BIG SUR, I haven't made any others yet. Like you said, it depends on your buddy. I have a brother who lives in Coos Bay Oregon, about half way up the state. I hope to spend some time in the Redwoods National Park. I might even split off from you guys and go check out Crater Lake, etc. This is gonna to be fun! :hotpepper

[dmulk]

Fred,

Dependant on timing... I might meet up with you in Crater.

I plan to do Crater Lake. I also have a lot of family and friends in the Eugene to portland areas...probably meet up with some of them and crash at their places.

Either way, I am sure I will see you all at WeSTOC!! So looking forward to it!

<D>

[dteel]

Fred, I'm confused why you booked a room in San Simeon when San Luis Obispo is only 38 miles south? Seems that with the extra competition that SLO would be cheaper and is not really a factor distance wise. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining; I appreciate you taking the initiave, just curious. One other factor that you may not have been taking into accout, as the number of people in our group grows, it will be more and more difficult to find lodging for us all. Just a thought.

Oh, I wanted to point out that visiting your brother in Coos Bay isn't a problem for me. Heck it's right on the route I planned. Would be silly not to stop and visit.

[Finewest]

Fred, I'm confused why you booked a room in San Simeon when San Luis Obispo is only 38 miles south? Seems that with the extra competition that SLO would be cheaper and is not really a factor distance wise. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining; I appreciate you taking the initiave, just curious. One other factor that you may not have been taking into accout, as the number of people in our group grows, it will be more and more difficult to find lodging for us all. Just a thought.

Oh, I wanted to point out that visiting your brother in Coos Bay isn't a problem for me. Heck it's right on the route I planned. Would be silly not to stop and visit.

Good question Dana. My thought was to get as close to Big Sur as possible. I'm not sure that SLO would be any cheaper. This is the tourist season for the coast and all lodging prices are reflecting this.

As for lodging for the "group". Aren't we still waiting to hear from your friend if he is coming to San Fran.? I looked over your MS Maps route and see that there is some coastal towns north of Frisco that has motels, hotels, B&B (how romantic! LOL), etc. I need to discuss with you where you think best would be the second night for lodging. Keep in mind again that this the weekend and the season, so finding cheap and available lodging in this popular tourist area will be challenging to say the least. After the second night we should be reaching the Redwoods area and I am hoping to find camping sites to save on budget and spend some time there. I'm am not able to foot the entire bill for lodging and am expecting to split all costs. If you guys want to continue on that's fine with me, or find rooms there that's okie dokie too. We'll talk tomorrow.

[Finewest]

Fred,

Dependant on timing... I might meet up with you in Crater.

I plan to do Crater Lake. I also have a lot of family and friends in the Eugene to portland areas...probably meet up with some of them and crash at their places.

Either way, I am sure I will see you all at WeSTOC!! So looking forward to it!

<D>

We'll keep in touch.

[dmulk]

Ahhh...the Redwoods.... I would DEFINITELY want to see them on the way up....

If you make reservations at a camp site, let me know what day (sounds like the 6th?) and I should be able to meet you and split the cost of the site.

(I'm going out to the park today to do a test run on all my gear), not sleep in it, but figure out the best way to setup and tear down. :)

Anyway, let me know what you figure out.....the tall trees are calling me!! :)

<D>



Good question Dana. My thought was to get as close to Big Sur as possible. I'm not sure that SLO would be any cheaper. This is the tourist season for the coast and all lodging prices are reflecting this.

As for lodging for the "group". Aren't we still waiting to hear from your friend if he is coming to San Fran.? I looked over your MS Maps route and see that there is some coastal towns north of Frisco that has motels, hotels, B&B (how romantic! LOL), etc. I need to discuss with you where you think best would be the second night for lodging. Keep in mind again that this the weekend and the season, so finding cheap and available lodging in this popular tourist area will be challenging to say the least. After the second night we should be reaching the Redwoods area and I am hoping to find camping sites to save on budget and spend some time there. I'm am not able to foot the entire bill for lodging and am expecting to split all costs. If you guys want to continue on that's fine with me, or find rooms there that's okie dokie too. We'll talk tomorrow.

[ST_Jim]

Good question Dana. My thought was to get as close to Big Sur as possible. I'm not sure that SLO would be any cheaper. This is the tourist season for the coast and all lodging prices are reflecting this. Yup. A Friday or Saturday night around SLO or Morro Bay gets pricey. I've already been looking online. Better Sunday - Thursday. I'm now toying with the idea of leaving on Sunday and running all the way up to 'Frisco for Sunday night.

The other thing I discovered is there must be some kind of event going on along the Columbia River for Wednesday night the 8th. Most of the places are already booked up - if I'm in that area looks like I'll have to stay around Portland. The 7th or the 9th are OK.

So I'm looking at 'Frisco Sunday, Eureka or Crescent City on Monday, Crater Lake to Bend on Tuesday, Three Sisters to Portland on Wednesday. And I'm looking at Mt St. Helens and Mt Ranier on the run to Redmond on Thursday.

The trip back so far I'm keeping pretty open, except I'll visit my cousin in Port Townsend on Sunday, and loop around the peninsula on Monday. Otherwise that week is free to catch up on what I missed on the trip up! Maybe the Washington & Oregon coast.

You guys have fun camping. I'm not game enough for trying to load camping gear on top of everything else for a 2 week trip.;-)

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

...You guys have fun camping. I'm not game enough for trying to load camping gear on top of everything else for a 2 week trip.;-)

- Jim :04biker:

Packing for two weeks is easy Jim... One pair of jeans, one tee-shirt, one pair of socks, one pair underwear. :eek: :crackup

Keeping the camp gear light and small is the key, and don't bring the kitchen sink! LOL.

[dteel]

Ok, went to Big 5 Sporting goods and bought an air matress and tent. I'm set for camping now. As long as Fred has the morning coffee made, I'll be good to go. I figure it like this, if I use them just once they will save me money.

[dteel]

Fred, are you bringing your laptop?

[Finewest]

Fred, are you bringing your laptop?

No. Too heavy and fragile. I did buy a HP Ipaq PDA with wifi though. That'll do it!

[Finewest]

Ok, went to Big 5 Sporting goods and bought an air matress and tent. I'm set for camping now. As long as Fred has the morning coffee made, I'll be good to go. I figure it like this, if I use them just once they will save me money.

Awww... You shouldn't of done that Dana. I got an extra sleeping bag and a very nice and soft Therm-A-Rest you can borrow. And you don't need a tent dude. I'll be sleeping under the stars!

[dmulk]

Ok, went to Big 5 Sporting goods and bought an air matress and tent. I'm set for camping now. As long as Fred has the morning coffee made, I'll be good to go. I figure it like this, if I use them just once they will save me money.


Dana, Which tent and bag did you go with?

Cheers,

<D>

[dteel]

I bought the Hi-Tech 8X8 4 person tent for $29. I was sold on it's four bedroom, two bath, extended porch, family room and 2 bike garage option. It didn't come furnished so I had to buy a full sized air mattress for the master bedroom for $19, piratically doubled the cost! I didn't get a sleeping bag as I already have one. It's only 30 years old and I'm sure good as new. Truthfully, unless it drops below 60 degrees, all I need is a blanket, I have lots of built in insulation (think polar bear or walrus).

[ST_Jim]

FYI. The evening lows in Eureka and Crescent City CA are running in the low 50's. Camping on the coast can be slightly chilly, with maybe some fog, or maybe even a little rain?

- Jim :04biker:

[dmulk]

I set mine up today....for a $19 walmart special... I am impressed....It should last a season and at that price, I can afford to chuck it.

For fun, I'll just see how long it will last.

The guys at Fred's were making fun of me for getting a 0F down mummy bag....said I would be boiling....but I have an air matress and a 50F coleman bag also and I think between the two, I should be able to find a happy medium. I know if it is in the 50's, that will mean it will FEEL like it is colder...and I know from camping as a kid, there is nothing worse than being cold all night....


We'll see.... Only time will tell.

<D>

[Finewest]

I set mine up today....for a $19 walmart special... I am impressed....It should last a season and at that price, I can afford to chuck it.

For fun, I'll just see how long it will last.

The guys at Fred's were making fun of me for getting a 0F down mummy bag....said I would be boiling....but I have an air matress and a 50F coleman bag also and I think between the two, I should be able to find a happy medium. I know if it is in the 50's, that will mean it will FEEL like it is colder...and I know from camping as a kid, there is nothing worse than being cold all night....


We'll see.... Only time will tell.

<D>

You're right Dan. The true secret to having a fun camping experience is getting a good night sleep. I've been around enough grumpy girlfriends in the morning to know that! LOL. A good down sleeping bag rated to 25 degrees is what I have and it packs down to a very small size and is very lightweight. Check North Face bags; the best!

[nm6r]

I'll be leaving town on the 3rd of Aug. with Dana (Dteel). What we'll do with 7 days on the road is a mystery to me, but it should be interesting and fun. He wants to meet a friend north of San Francisco on the same day!!! That's a mean 550 mile run to do in one day! I want you guys to talk him out of it. Tell him that we'll miss all the great sights on PCH, like Big Sur, if we do that. PLEASE HELP! LOL.


550 miles in one day? going up the coast on an ST1300? I don't see the problem. :confused:

We just rode down the coast 2-up, 736 miles round trip to meet the southern CA guys in Santa Maria for lunch.

Ray

[Finewest]

550 miles in one day? going up the coast on an ST1300? I don't see the problem. :confused:

We just rode down the coast 2-up, 736 miles round trip to meet the southern CA guys in Santa Maria for lunch.

Ray

You're not helpin' Ray! LOL.

[dteel]

Ray, I think Fred is trying to say that he wants me to stop and smell the roses, experiance the Big Sur to the fullest, stop and take pictures every 1/4 mile, that kind of stuff. I agree, 550 miles is a tough order if you're doing that.

[dteel]

Fred, I've come up with a new route based on suggestions by clang. Would be a shame to ignore such good advice. When I tried to load my previous route, I found that it was corrupt and wouldn't load. Are you having the same problem? Anyway, here is my revised route. Let me know what you think, it added almost 500 miles to the original plan.

[Finewest]

That looks good Dana. We get to visit Crater Lake. That would be cool!

No, your original route map didn't corrupt on me. But I like this one. I'll start researching camping/lodging in or around the park.

[adamk]

I'd head up to Bremerton and take the Ferry into Seattle. You can't beat the view. Worth the extra 's and being on a bike you get to cut the ticket line, cut to the front of the vehicle line, first on and first off the boat. Plus, There's some major construction slated for I-5 in Seattle just south of I-90. They're predicting the traffic could back up to Tacoma! :eek:

[Finewest]

I'd head up to Bremerton and take the Ferry into Seattle. You can't beat the view. Worth the extra 's and being on a bike you get to cut the ticket line, cut to the front of the vehicle line, first on and first off the boat. Plus, There's some major construction slated for I-5 in Seattle just south of I-90. They're predicting the traffic could back up to Tacoma! :eek:

Excellent tip Adam. Thanks!

[dmulk]

What's the cost of the Ferry, Adam?

Thanks!

<D>

[adamk]

What's the cost of the Ferry, Adam?

Thanks!

<D>

$6.25. The Bremerton ferry is about a 40 minute ride. Boats leave at 9:00, 10:15, 11:30, 12:35, 3:00, 4:15, 5:30, 6:40. There are some earlier and later too. There will be a ferry schedule in your rally packet in case you do Peninsula rides.

Once you get to Seattle I recommend I-90 to the east side. Take exit 13 and get on West Lake Samamish Parkway heading north. Vasa is about a mile down the road on your right. WeSTOC is another 8 mile ride along the lake. (Right past my house too!) :)

[Finewest]

$6.25. The Bremerton ferry is about a 40 minute ride. Boats leave at 9:00, 10:15, 11:30, 12:35, 3:00, 4:15, 5:30, 6:40. There are some earlier and later too. There will be a ferry schedule in your rally packet in case you do Peninsula rides.

Once you get to Seattle I recommend I-90 to the east side. Take exit 13 and get on West Lake Samamish Parkway heading north. Vasa is about a mile down the road on your right. WeSTOC is another 8 mile ride along the lake. (Right past my house too!) :)

Rally Packet!? Oh boy! When? When? When? Cool! :hotpepper

[adamk]

Rally packets are handed out at check-in/registration. Includes Washington State maps, ferry schedules, nametag/wallets with STOC logo, full color Washington State visitor guides, and a coupon book from the Marriott with discounts for the local shops and food. WeSTOC XII gear gets handed out then too.

[Finewest]

Rally packets are handed out at check-in/registration. Includes Washington State maps, ferry schedules, nametag/wallets with STOC logo, full color Washington State visitor guides, and a coupon book from the Marriott with discounts for the local shops and food. WeSTOC XII gear gets handed out then too.

Hot dog! :hotpepper Worth the trip right there! :clap2:

[Finewest]

Dana: I've updated your MS Streets and Maps route. I was able to shave off a few hundred miles, and avoid the toll road you had in there.

Here it is... (Subject to change and arguments. LOL.)

I also made reservations for two at the Bodego Harbor Inn (http://www.bodegaharborinn.com/). North of San Francisco. After that it will be Sunday and we'll be on our own. Shouldn't be that hard to find places to crash seeing how it will be past the weekend.

[Finewest]

I just got off the phone with my brother in Coos Bay. It was a interesting call. My brother Larry is deaf and he uses the Relay Operator. He types in the message, the operator reads it to me, I talk and the operator types my message to him. It's slow, but fun!

Anyway, I am now planning on visiting him on either the 5th, or 6th or Aug. on the way up to WeSTOC and will probably be staying at his house for the night. He recently got married so I will be meeting his wife for the first time.

So Dana, you and your friend (if he joins us) can continue on and I'll catch up with you in Redmond, or sooner?

Here's my MS Streets and Maps route...

[STimpa]

I am new to the group... just bought my St in March, and registered in June. My ridin buddy and I had planned a ride over the North Cascades and down the peninsula.. maybe taking in Vancouver Island, before heading back over Stevens pass. We have had this planned from before I knew anything of ST-Owners.com or WeStOC. Imagine my delight in seeing that I was heading right over there the very same weekend. Visions of hundreds of other St's and riders who could give me some well seasoned advice on my bike were jumping around in my head:bow1:

Alas, my ridin buddy who does not own a ST (a nice FJR 1100 tho), couldn't see the same vision. So although he thot it would be cool to stop by the site and see what there is to see, registering for the event seems lost on him. I would still love to spend a few hours meetin some of you and pickin your respective brains about this incredible bike that I LOVE. We will be in the area Sat and Sun. Is there any chance that droppin by the site would be do-able, or am I gonna get turned around at the Lobby with a "no-thanks?"

I spose we could grab lunch in the site restaraunt, I just don't want to feel out of place... if I would be.

BTW, I just got my 2nd add-on... a new Corbin. I love it, had one on my Nighthawk, and after I got it broke in it was incredible for the long miles.

Best to ya' all

[dmulk]

Come on out. The only thing you won't be able to attend are the events (Banquette, etc). I think you will have a great time hanging (and probably riding) with some of us.

Just find a group that sounds like it will be fun to ride with and join in.

Don't think you are going to have any problems.... :)

<D>

[dteel]

Tim, +1 on what Dan said, other than the banquet I'm sure you will be more than welcome. Heck, we'll even be cordial to a FJR owner as long as you vouch for him (and he's had all his shots).


Oh, by the way, welcome to the site. Glad you found us! Lots of good stuff to be found here!

[STimpa]

I appreciate it...Maybe we can even tempt him to make the step up on his next bike, eh?

[George]

I just got off the phone with my brother in Coos Bay. It was a interesting call. My brother Larry is deaf and he uses the Relay Operator. He types in the message, the operator reads it to me, I talk and the operator types my message to him. It's slow, but fun!

<WeSTOC planning snippage>

Fred et al, just a little hiSTory side note, Derek (STOC 001) was a relay operator at Galudet University in DC when he was there in the army. As a volunteer, he was allowed to take college classes. At the time, he was the _only_ hearing student who wasn't on faculty at the school. His courses there transferred to Northern Illinois where he was also the "dorm mother" at the deaf students dorm.

He and friends had taught themselves sign language in the third/fourth grade so they could "pass notes" during class.

[Finewest]

...He and friends had taught themselves sign language in the third/fourth grade so they could "pass notes" during class.

Deaf people are sneaky! ;) :D

[STony G]

Welcome to the site.
We'll let anyone join us...even the FJR types. I'll be at weSToc with a buddy who rides a 650 Shadow. I did hear a rumor about the"non-ST :eek: " bikes will have a seperate parking area :) .

Hell of a group of guys and gals.

[adamk]

Welcome to the site.
We'll let anyone join us...even the FJR types. I'll be at weSToc with a buddy who rides a 650 Shadow. I did hear a rumor about the"non-ST :eek: " bikes will have a seperate parking area :) .

Out back next to the dumpster. ;)

[Finewest]

Out back next to the dumpster. ;)

I'm sure Adam meant to say Sportster... Right? Right? DOH! :eek: :crackup

[Finewest]

Here's my revised MS Streets and Maps route up the coast. I've added a lovely ride on Highway 1 through Lompoc, Guadalupe, and a lunch stop at one of the best Mexican restaurants in California: Old Juan's Cantina in Pismo Beach! Chile Verde! Oh my god! Yummy!

I've also added a much prettier ride through Humboldt County nearer to the coast and through vast groves of Redwoods south of Eureka. Only adds an extra 50 miles, but oh what miles they are! WORD UP!

[adamk]

I'm sure Adam meant to say Sportster... Right? Right? DOH! :eek: :crackup

Oh ya. Typo! :rolleyes:

[Finewest]

TWO WEEKS TILL BLAST OFF DUDES & DUDETTES!
Click --> Who's That Bunch? (http://members.cox.net/finewest/bunch.mp3)
:cool:

[dteel]

Good news my friend Ron from Shoreline, WA is a go for the first week of his vacation! Whoot!

I have yet to talk to him, but this is a good thing, trust me!

[Finewest]

Good news my friend Ron from Shoreline, WA is a go for the first week of his vacation! Whoot!

I have yet to talk to him, but this is a good thing, trust me!

That is good news. Looking forward to meeting him. :cool: :)

Dana... Have you checked out my revised MS Streets and Maps route? Have you noticed I posted I got us a room in a seashore motel north of 'Frisco on Sat. Aug. 4th? Hard to do this time of year, in-season and on a Sat.! It is a reservation for two with two beds. $125. I hope you buddy likes sleeping on the floor!? LOL. :eek: :D Also that I had contact with my brother in Coos Bay Oregon and I'll be staying there a night or two, so you guys can go on without me? What? Am I on you pay-no-mind-list? Speak up! Geez! :rolleyes: ;) :D

[dteel]

Sorry Fred, I didn't know it needed a reply. Really. I read all your posts. I'm still trying to get Ron to pitch in on this thread so we get more than just our jabber back and forth. So far no luck. I expect Ron and I will be splitting off on the route I planned out out to Crater Lake as you head straight north to Coos Bay.

Since Ron is planning on visiting friends and family in the Bay area I doubt a hotel room is in his plans. He was trying to see if we could crash with them but I don't know what the results of those plans are.

So you can see, my plans are...... I dont' know, I don't know and just to top it off, I dont' know.

I can assure you one thing though Fred. If you have a room I'll share it with you and split the cost. Do me a favor and PM me the details of the hotels please (both nights) so I can put their info into my GPS. Thanks.

[Finewest]

Thanks fro the heads-up Dana. Just wanted to sync... OK, it's pretty simple. The 3rd at Motel 6 in San Simeon, the 4th at http://www.bodegaharborinn.com/ at Bodega Harbor north of Frisco as I outlined in previous posts in this thread... :rolleyes: :D

$100 first night (3rd)
$125 second night (4th)

If you want to stay with your buddy on the 4th that's cool. I'll keep on going on. :)

Also, I just realized that you were up with Byron at Sabre's doing tire changes. I forgot. Thanks for getting back on this Dana.

[dteel]

Thanks Fred, guess San Simeon is small enough that that's all the description you need.

First day 359 miles from El Cajon to San Simeon.
Second day 278 miles from San Simeon to Bodega Bay.
Third day for you 457 miles from Bodega Bay to Coos Bay

I'm unsure where Ron is staying, but he said that Bodega Bay is only 10 miles from where he was going to be staying that night.

Just received another email from him, he's on the road now and mostly out of contact. He's already on vacation....the lucky devil. He said he'd give me a call when he gets to his destination tonight, probably around 7pm.

So it looks like our plans are pretty firm at this point. Fred, I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate you taking the lead on getting reservations. It takes a load off the planning for me.

Only one question remains, can you make 457 miles on day three to get to your brother's place?

[Finewest]

Thanks Fred, guess San Simeon is small enough that that's all the description you need.

First day 359 miles from El Cajon to San Simeon.
Second day 278 miles from San Simeon to Bodega Bay.
Third day for you 457 miles from Bodega Bay to Coos Bay

I'm unsure where Ron is staying, but he said that Bodega Bay is only 10 miles from where he was going to be staying that night.

Just received another email from him, he's on the road now and mostly out of contact. He's already on vacation....the lucky devil. He said he'd give me a call when he gets to his destination tonight, probably around 7pm.

So it looks like our plans are pretty firm at this point. Fred, I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate you taking the lead on getting reservations. It takes a load off the planning for me.

Only one question remains, can you make 457 miles on day three to get to your brother's place?

Thanks Dana. I appreciate you appreciation! LOL... If we shack up together in Bodega Bay then I assume your buddy can catch up with us in the morning and make the ride to the Redwoods! Oh Joy! Tall Trees in Summer Morning Mists! Clean the lens and load the mem card! As for making it to my brother's I do hope to spend some time in the Tall Trees, maybe a another night; probably camping and photographing. I have a idea for the STOC calendar. Sssshhh... It's a secret, but not bannable. LOL. Mystery Bike in Mystery Fog sort of thing.

You, Vicki, Terri and I should plan a dinner before we go. That would be nice. Keep me in the loop and talk-see you soon.

[Finewest]

I have just finished making reservations for a campground in the Redwoods! Boy! Was it tough too! I could only get one campsite on Sunday night, then we'll have to move to the next campsite on Moday night! If you plan on staying for two nights, as I am.

Anyway the campground is in Patrick's Point State Park about 25 miles north of Eureka, which is about 300 miles from our last motel stop in Bodego Bay. They are both tent sites. The park has bathrooms, coin-op showers, water, etc. Check it out on your MS Streets and Maps, or the Internet at PATRICK's POINT STATE PARK CAMPGROUND LINK (http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=417). Total camp sites cost is $55. There is a town nearby; about 5 miles.

And I'm telling you it wasn't easy! This area is very very popular at this time of year. So we were lucky! Like I said I couldn't get the same site for two nights. And all of Redwood National Park is booked! :eek:

So this takes care of all my up-route lodging. Woo Hoo! :hotpepper

Aerial Picture of the Park... Looks sucky, huh? LOL. Expect fog, then it'll clear to more fog. But don't worry, at night I understand there's more fog! :eek: :D

[Finewest]

UPDATED MS STREETS AND MAPS ROUTE WITH PATRICK'S POINT STATE PARK CAMPGROUND IN THE REDWOODS INCLUDED...

[dmulk]

Wow....that park looks absolutely wonderful!

I really hope they allow 4 bikes. I'd love to be able to camp there with you guys!

<D>

[Finewest]

Wow....that park looks absolutely wonderful!

I really hope they allow 4 bikes. I'd love to be able to camp there with you guys!

<D>

I'll call the park Dan and see what I can do. After all I hardly think they would consider our little-itty-bitty ST's full size vehicles! LOL. :bow1: :06biker:

UPDATE!

I just got off the phone with the park. My deep throated manly voice charmed Bonnie on the phone and we can have up to 4 bikes on the campsites in the campground. Woo Hoo! In fact she said they probably won't even charge a extra vehicle fee! Woo Hoo! So come on Dan!

Now remember, I could only reserve two campsites for each night there. So after the first night we'll have to move to the next site. A pain, but better then nothing! It's going to be a crowded and rockin' campground I think! That's cool! We'll just setup and ride back into the local town and get some dinner and bring back a couple of firelogs and crack some drinks and jokes! Should be fun and good photography!

Here are the Patrick's Point State Park campsite numbers: Sunday - Site # 014 (tent site), Monday - Site # 118 (standard site. Has paved parking on this one.) Check-in is at 2pm, check-out is 12pm. $55 for both nights. You guys figure out how to split it up.

[Finewest]

OH MY GOD! I just found a video of Patrick's Point State Park created by the California State Parks Agency. OH MY GOD! Check this place out!

WE SCORED!!!

PATRICK's POINT STATE PARK VIDEO! (http://www.parks.ca.gov/pages/417/video/patrickspoint4.asx)

[dmulk]

Fred,

(I haven't tried yet) Do you know if Garmin Mapsource can open that route file you posted?

I'll bring cash for my split. (Looks like 27.50 if 4 of us split it....) Is there a chance Dana's friend won't be camping with us?

Fred: Thanks again for making this happen. I was starting to think I was going to have to ride straight to my Dad's house in Cottage grove....but now I won't have to miss the Redwoods....which IMHO will be close to the best part of the trip!!

<D>

[Finewest]

Fred,

(I haven't tried yet) Do you know if Garmin Mapsource can open that route file you posted?

I'll bring cash for my split. (Looks like 27.50 if 4 of us split it....) Is there a chance Dana's friend won't be camping with us?

Fred: Thanks again for making this happen. I was starting to think I was going to have to ride straight to my Dad's house in Cottage grove....but now I won't have to miss the Redwoods....which IMHO will be close to the best part of the trip!!

<D>

I don't think so Dan, I think it will only work with Microsoft Streets and Maps 7.0.

Your split (4 ways) is $13.75 (for two nights). I put it on my credit card. This would only be if the other two guys stay for two nights. They may not. I haven't heard from Dana yet. Yes, Dana's buddy will be with him for Dana's entire trip up to Washington. His friend lives in Washington and Dana will be staying with him during WeSTOC. At the Oregon border they will be splitting off to go to Crater Lake. I'll be going on alone to my brother's house for a couple of days. Then on to WeSTOC.

You're welcome Dan! The Redwoods are at the top of my list too!

Anything else you want to know Curious George? LOL. ;) :D

[dteel]

No news in this case is good news.....hehe

[Finewest]

Boy! Getting ready for WeSTOC is a big deal! I just got back from getting a eye exam and updated my perscription sunglasses. I'm getting my teeth cleaned tomorrow in case any of you guys want to french. Clean my motorcycle bong. And I'll be getting a very very short haircut so I don't have to bother with it on the ride, besides, I like "butch"! :eek: LOL.

[dteel]

LMAO, Fred at this point I think everything you do is connected to WeSTOC! The excitement is contagious though, I'm pretty wound up myself.

I left a message on Ron's phone trying to get a clue what he'd like to do. Personally I think I'd like to join you for the first night of camping at Patrick's Point and then continue on towards Crater Lake. I have to touch bases with Ron though, so I'm going to hang loose on giving you a definitive answer Fred. If I’m going to lug around some camping gear I should get at least one use out of it.

You try not to break the sound barrier zooming around Fred, you’re likely to upset the neighbors….hehe

[dmulk]

Personally I think I'd like to join you for the first night of camping at Patrick's Point and then continue on towards Crater Lake.



Dana, I might join you for this. I need to see my dad and it looks like staying one night in the redwoods will allow me to hit Crater Lake and then my Dad's in Cottage Grove in the same day.

Fred: I'll still be picking up my share for two nights for the camp ground. I want to keep the options open, but I think staying on the move North is what I want to keep with.

Talk soon!

<D>

[Finewest]

LMAO, Fred at this point I think everything you do is connected to WeSTOC! The excitement is contagious though, I'm pretty wound up myself.

I left a message on Ron's phone trying to get a clue what he'd like to do. Personally I think I'd like to join you for the first night of camping at Patrick's Point and then continue on towards Crater Lake. I have to touch bases with Ron though, so I'm going to hang loose on giving you a definitive answer Fred. If I’m going to lug around some camping gear I should get at least one use out of it.

You try not to break the sound barrier zooming around Fred, you’re likely to upset the neighbors….hehe

Dana, I might join you for this. I need to see my dad and it looks like staying one night in the redwoods will allow me to hit Crater Lake and then my Dad's in Cottage Grove in the same day.

Fred: I'll still be picking up my share for two nights for the camp ground. I want to keep the options open, but I think staying on the move North is what I want to keep with.

Talk soon!

<D>

I know! It's getting really good now. I'm actually visualizing the ride, getting my list lined up, watching the forum around the clock... Aaagghh! I'm obsessing! HELP ME!!! LOL.

Well I am glad you guys are going to stay with me the first night, but being alone in the dark in the forest with families with kids running around in the dark just creeps the poop outta me! I might have to sleep with my Bersa .380! "Waa... WHAAAAT'S THAT!!?" BAM! ..."MOM!" Ooopppssss... DOH! :eek: ;) :D

No sweat guys. Do what you got to do. I'm hangin' out and getting some photos of the Redwoods in the fog and stuff. Some of the guys riding up contacted me about sharing the second night site and that'll be cool! Should be quite a scene! Keep me in the loop as I will you. :hotpepper

Dan... You stay one night, you pay one night. Word up! :)

[dmulk]

Dan... You stay one night, you pay one night. Word up! :)


Yeah, but I might not know if I am staying until that day.... I'd prefer to pay both nights just to have the option. :)



<D>

[Finewest]

Yeah, but I might not know if I am staying until that day.... I'd prefer to pay both nights just to have the option. :)

<D>

Oh. I getcha. Sure.

[dteel]

I finally was able to talk on the phone to Ron tonight also received an email. My guess that we would most likely spend only one night at Patrick's Point was correct. So Fred, looks like we will be parting paths temporarly until we get to Redmond.

I asked Ron if I could post his ride report that he sent me via email and he said, "sure go ahead, I don't mind." So here it is.


RONalog: an Asphalt Tango; Part 1



1st Stanza Shoreline, WA - Shasta Lake, CA

Statistics: traveled 584, time 8'40" (2+ hrs in construction zones) , moving ave 67.4

Highlights: just a day of eating asphalt, love my Russell Day Long saddle, will have to post a "thank you for the excellent saddle" on their website. While traveling in a herd of cages, I noticed some movement in the periphery of my vision, I looked and it's a pair of pigeons keeping pace with me. Holy ****, I'm only going 35!! Glancing at my speedometer, it's showing 65, HOLY **** a 65 MPH pair of pigeons, what till I inform the Guinness book of World Records. But, how do prove it....... Oh, well.



2nd Stanza Shasta Lake, CA - Fremont, CA

Statistics: traveled 489, time 9'23", moving ave 52.0

Highlights: I was just going to slab it to Fremont, but decided to do the coastal route. So it's I5 to 273 to 299 to 3 to 36 to 101 to 1 to 116 to Covey (lunch w/Linda at 2pm) to 116 to 1 to 101 to Geary Blvd to Great Hwy to 35 to 84 to 880 to Mowry to Blacow to Coco Palm & park. W/in 20 minutes of leaving the hotel, I've miss a turn and am lost. LOL Well, not really lost, I recognize the area, did test rides here, since this is where I went to get my saddle made. Ok, get situated & find the turn to get on 299. Nice country hwy winds through the Whiskey - Shasta - Trinity National Recreation Area. And than it changes to tight and twisties, like a freshly dug up worm dropped on hot pavement. Wooo Hooo time to dance on the Squirmy Wormy. The elation doesn't last long, we catch up to a silver cage, nice dirty blond hair, slender hands, no beauty ring on the plate, looks not lowered and stock tires & exhaust. And she like's to drive fast, ok, not so bad after all. And than you see it, coming at us, cruising like a dark shiny shark, Ford Mustang, black and white with pusher bar, mirrored aviator glasses, California Highway Patrol emblazoned on the door, & you wonder, is this CHiPpy going to pull a U'y. We may be under the national speed limit, but not by much. & sister in front hasn't missed a beat, she still dancing. May be this is normal for this road and I don't spend any more time glancing in the mirrors looking for the shark. We catch up to traffic, two cages behind a tractor trailer rig. Sigh, this tango just changed to a waltz. Some slow turns later, a Passing Lane 500ft sign shows up, wow, there a straight section on the squirmy wormy. Au contraire, mon frere, the squirmy wormy continues, but is temporally 3 lanes wide, Blondie knows this & slides into it and even through Stevie Ray Vaughn's licks you note the change in her exhaust tone, she passes cages & rig, I get by the cages. Hmmm maybe there'll be another passing lane soon. Sit back and go though the steps of the waltz, 1 2 3 ease back, 1 2 3 downshift, 1 2 3 brake, 1 2 3 gas..... AH, my turn, as we start passing, we notice the incline of the passing lane ends in a right turn & notice another tractor trailer rig is rounding said corner, ½ up the incline we find our self in a canyon of steel & rubber and think that 25' isn't all that big of a dance floor. As we exit the canyon & round the corner, we continue the tango, leaving the waltz behind. Waltz, Tango, Waltz, Tango. Now the squirmy relaxes to more of a blue racer going all out and after a while to a lazy python, a lazy python where the tango is comfortable at upper double digits. Blondie must be enjoying it too, I'm trying to keep 4-5 seconds between us, but find my self at times 2 seconds behind her. During a passing lane spell, she pulls over, hmmm, light tan, gold watch, dark glasses, cute nose, a shade of lipstick only a gay or metrosexual could name, in the red family I'm sure. And the dance beckons. Ya know, the mind is a wonderfully complex machine, part of it is enjoying the scenery, another part the music, other parts are calculating the dynamics of the dance, another is wondering are those chipmunks fighting or screwing in the other lane, another is wondering is this a decreasing radius turn, another is admiring that stand of trees nestled between the hills across the way, another is initiating a tighter lean, another is wondering if those chipmunks will become chipmunk burger and waste all that passion. And the dance beckons. After short stop for some gas & a Reese's peanutbutter cup, we continue on looking for the 3. Some miles down the road we turn onto the 3 and notice an immediate change of pavement quality, 299 is the favored son & 3 the red headed stepchild. The landscape has changed too, I don't understand the dynamics of it, but east facing slopes are covered in scrub oak, while the west facing slopes are grass covered, we're traveling through scrub oak. Still twistie, definitely not a waltz. A small wise voice pipes up wondering about deer, yes a wonderful place for bambis to grow up and play chicken with hurtling steel, rubber, plastic and meat. And there they are, restfully slumbering down amongst the scrub oak, just watching the world zoom by. Stay bambi, stay, good bambi. Some time later I come across CalTrans (California Transit) patching the road, thanks guys & gals, a slight delay & the dance continues. Changing the tempo of the tango to match the dance floor, we continue enjoying our dance. Till we come across the bane of twisty dance floors, no not Winnebagos, but cruiser motorcycles (hehe, OH, I can feel the glares already {I luv ya man, I'll still ride with ya}) LOL. After what feels like 30 minutes of feathering my clutch, they pull over and let me by. 3 blends into 35 and we continue on to 101. We start to see fog hovering over the hills & the temperature is dropping from the low 80s to mid 60's and the landscape changes from scrub oak & grass to conifers. We stop at a state park for a break & to layer on more. Brrrr I sure do appreciate my new Cortech GX Air jacket & Flex pants riding gear. From cold to hot, this gear converts from insulated wind & water proof to full mesh. Once on 101 the temp jumps back into the 80's, but I'm loath to stop & change, cause we're cutting over to the coast in 30 or so miles. I swap my gloves en route and feel much better, plus at 80 mph it won't be long till we cut over to 1, the Pacific Coast Highway. Once on 1 the temp drops down and my legs don't feel like they're in an EZ bake oven any more. Now a part of the wonderfully complex machine wonders if we can make that 2pm lunch date, 'cause we're back to waltz, tango, waltz, waltz, waltz, tango, waltz, tango, waltz, waltz, tango. And Verizon has crap for reception here, grrrrr. Waltz, tango, damn the coast is beautiful and smells great, waltz, when did they build all this, waltz, tango, wow I don't remember this great grove of conifers, tango, waltz, tango. Why is it getting hotter, I don't get it and why is the road called 128?? Where the hell am I!?!? I'll never make this lunch date. Boy, it's hot, 90+, down to mesh and we're back in scrub oak & now with vineyards. Start stabbing at buttons on the GPS to see how I lost the Pacific Coast Hwy. Gotta love a GPS, will always tell ya where ya are!! And a topo map isn't the best to figure out how to get somewhere. LOL I stick to 128 & bomb on down to 101, the temp tops out at 103, not too uncomfortable with a 75 mph wind chill. Hehehe. Finally make it to Forestville & Linda's, only two hours later than planned, guess I'm still on Island time, eh. A phone call to my dad, letting him know I'm still alive & will be there much later. Linda takes me to a café in Guerneville run by a Swedish couple and the help from the S. Americas. Good choice, hits the spot, I feel more human again. Hehehe I'm vacillating between continuing my run to Fremont via 1 or just slab it there. With Linda's advice (see, I do listen), I slab it to my dad's.



--To be continued-



What will the 3rd stanza Bodega Bay, CA -- ?? bring, more waltzing (hope not), maybe a Samba, or a POLKA!!



L8RG8Rs `rh

[Finewest]

I finally was able to talk on the phone to Ron tonight also received an email. My guess that we would most likely spend only one night at Patrick's Point was correct. So Fred, looks like we will be parting paths temporarly until we get to Redmond.


Okie dokie Dana.

Note to Mods: I had nothing to do with that insane ramblin' no paragraph breaks ride report! :rolleyes: ;) :D

[dteel]

Note to Mods: I had nothing to do with that insane ramblin' no paragraph breaks ride report! :rolleyes: ;) :D

Now that you mention it, I know that Ron has a college degree. I was going to ask him if they waived the requirement for English 101 at Cal State Polly, but I didn't want to be rude. I chalked it up to him being in the throws of artistic creation and he probably couldn't be bothered with the finer rules of punctuation and what not.

Besides Fred, you should be nice, even though Ron's not posting here, he's reading your stuff. Try to make a nice impression....eh. (<--practicing for when I get way north) :D

[Finewest]

...but I didn't want to be rude.

Besides Fred, you should be nice, even though Ron's not posting here, he's reading your stuff. Try to make a nice impression....eh. (<--practicing for when I get way north) :D

You can leave that up to me, THE ARIES!!! LOL. I knew that would stick in your craw! LOL. :crackup

You know better than anyone Dana the toughest part of postiing is not seeing the face... Or... Is that a good thing? :)

[Finewest]

I just took advantage of those Merriot Residence Inn cancellations and grabbed one of the suites! Woo Hoo! They've got seperate bedrooms, breakfast buffet, FIREPLACE!, and dig this! Best of all A KITCHEN! Yep! Ol' Finewest can now cook his own meals! OH BOY! YUMMY! In fact I am inviting the first 3-4 folks to respond to a Dinner in my PAD with FIREPLACE! The menu will be... TAA DAA :hotpepper

:bow1: Finewest's Famous Italian Chicken Pasta Salad!
Garlic Bread!
Bring your own wine, or whatever!

Dance to the smooth rythmns of ROCK AND ROLL in the Finewest Lounge and Restaurant! No cover charge. LOL...:D

KEWL!

[dmulk]

Duh! - I'll be there. :)

[ST_Jim]

I'm in the Residence Inn also, but I don't cook. At least, you don't want me to try! :eek: I figure that free breakfast and internet made up for the price difference compared to the Mariott.

I've got Thurs, Fri, Sat nights - but I'm toying with extending it to Sunday night. I wonder if they're still allowing the extention for the same price...

If someone is REALLY desparate, they could crash on the sofa bed - but I SNORE something fierce!

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

Change in room at Residence Inn. I just found out there is no fireplace in the room! Aaaaggghhh!!! ...sniff ...snort... Bummer! Dinner is still being offered.

[AzDesertRider]

I'm in the Residence Inn also, but I don't cook. At least, you don't want me to try! :eek: I figure that free breakfast and INTERNET made up for the price difference compared to the Marriott.

I've got Thurs, Fri, Sat nights - but I'm toying with extending it to Sunday night. I wonder if they're still allowing the extention for the same price...

If someone is REALLY desparate, they could crash on the sofa bed - but I SNORE something fierce!

- Jim :04biker:

No internet in the Marriott?? :eek: :eek:

[Finewest]

No internet in the Marriott?? :eek: :eek:

There's Internet in the Marriot Hotel; WIFI in fact. Now the real bummer is there is no WIFI in the rooms at the Residence Inn. Just wired connection! There is WIFI in the "public areas"; whatever that means?

[clmixon]

Well it may be wired but its also complementary, last year at Golden, there was a charge per day for Internet that was not minor. I am aware that nothing is free, just happily ignorant when the charge is folded into my room rate. Besides, I am hoping to be PC free for my VACATION!

Wed Night chat can be in the lobby or on the roof of the garage, much better that way.....Now if we can only figure out a way for Brfl and Squid to attend?

Chris :06biker:

[adamk]

There's Internet in the Marriot Hotel; WIFI in fact. Now the real bummer is there is no WIFI in the rooms at the Residence Inn. Just wired connection! There is WIFI in the "public areas"; whatever that means?

The free WiFi at the Residence Inn is in the lobby area and where they serve breakfast. We can do what I did last year in Golden. I brought my portable WiFi router and plugged it into my room. It was visable two floor up or down and in the parking lot when located by my window. We can do that again with someone centerally located in the hotel. Actually, we should be doing this at the Marriott since it costs money for the Internet feed. This way we can create our own hot spot and only pay for one connection per day. :) Maybe somene with a view of the parking area will allow us to position the router so it our hot spot will extend to the pool and parking areas. :)

[Finewest]

The free WiFi at the Residence Inn is in the lobby area and where they serve breakfast. We can do what I did last year in Golden. I brought my portable WiFi router and plugged it into my room. It was visable two floor up or down and in the parking lot when located by my window. We can do that again with someone centerally located in the hotel. Actually, we should be doing this at the Marriott since it costs money for the Internet feed. This way we can create our own hot spot and only pay for one connection per day. :) Maybe somene with a view of the parking area will allow us to position the router so it our hot spot will extend to the pool and parking areas. :)

Great idea Adam! :clap2:

[Finewest]

Well it looks like everybody is blowing out on me for the Monday night in Patrick's Point State Park campground. That means I will be sleeping with one eye open with my loaded gun that night in case any kids try to walk by my tent! (Just kiddin'). But what it really means is that I will have tons of room for anybody else needing a place to crash that night in that area. Let me know.

Also Dan will be sharing my room at the Marriot Residence Inn. Guess he gets to eat for free! LOL. But... THE REMOTE IS MINE! MINE! MINE! :rolleyes: :D

[Finewest]

Here's a example of the Finewest's Famous Italian Chicken Pasta Salad (the wife and I had it tonight) that I may, may, be making Friday night in my Marriot kitchen room... Get in your orders! 2-3 openings left!

[ST_Jim]

Hmmm - at Linky (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/seard-residence-inn-seattle-east-redmond/) the Residence Inn says guest rooms have both wired and wireless connectivity. Guess they mean the few rooms with a view of the public areas are wireless, otherwise you have to plug in! ;)

The Marriott charges $9.95/day for internet and unlimited local and long distance calls. Linky2 (http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/seamc-redmond-marriott-town-center/) and scroll down.

My thinking at the time I made reservations was that the extra $5/night for the Residence Inn (with free buffet breakfast, internet, and a kitchen/refrig) compared to the Marriott price was worth it. But I guess that depends on how big a party goes on and how far the walk is back to my room!!!:capwin:

[adamk]

My thinking at the time I made reservations was that the extra $5/night for the Residence Inn (with free buffet breakfast, internet, and a kitchen/refrig) compared to the Marriott price was worth it. But I guess that depends on how big a party goes on and how far the walk is back to my room!!!:capwin:

Which is perfectly fine. We picked the Marriott because it's a good location and has the meeting and banquet facilities required for an event this size. The Residence Inn has no facilities. Because the Residence Inn is right next door and has some rooms we thought would be desirable we asked if we could have <some> discounted rooms there. They changed the original block of 80 rooms at the Marriott down to 55 and made 25 rooms available at the Residence Inn. They worked out some kind of revenue sharing to make this work.

Now we have 32 rooms booked at the Residence Inn and we are cutting it pretty close at the Marriott. They are both Marriott's, so they can work together to a degree, but they would not accept everyone being at the Residence Inn and providing all the facilites for the event at the Marriott. They wouldn't get enough revenue at the Marriott to justify the free banquet room, meeting rooms, and parking space. They actually use that garage for the vallet at the Marriott which runs $16/night. At first they wanted to chanrge each attendee $8/night for parking too!

So in a nut shell this is the situation. :)

[Finewest]

Aaawww Adam. You don't need to defend to the Whiny Few the great job you did in organizing this massive and extremely detailed rally for us on your own free time, energy and not to mention your own money!:clap2: You won't be able to make everybody happy. And some of us (not me!) are like the seven drawfs, except all of them are Grumpy!:rolleyes: LOL. I am vey happy with my hotel setup and all of what you have done FOR US! :bow1: YOU ROCK DUDE! And to show my appreciation when I get there I'll show you my very best secret polaroids first before I show them to Joe!:eek: BIG KISS & HUGS FOR ADAM!!!;) WOO HOO!:hotpepper :clap2:

[ST_Jim]

Aaawww Adam. You don't need to defend to the Whiny Few the great job you did in organizing this massive and extremely detailed rally for us on your own free time, energy and not to mention your own money!:clap2: I wasn't whining! I wasn't! I wasn't! I WASN"T!:crackup

Seriously Adam - I've only been going to WeSTOC since Minden. But each year the event just keeps getting better and better. I was just printing out your .pdf's last night and can't believe all the ride options, and the "Roads to WeSTOC" page. Keep up the good work!

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

I wasn't whining! I wasn't! I wasn't! I WASN"T!:crackup

Seriously Adam - I've only been going to WeSTOC since Minden. But each year the event just keeps getting better and better. I was just printing out your .pdf's last night and can't believe all the ride options, and the "Roads to WeSTOC" page. Keep up the good work!

- Jim :04biker:

Who said it was you whining Jim? I meant the "other" guys! ;) :D

[adamk]

I wasn't whining! I wasn't! I wasn't! I WASN"T!:crackup

Seriously Adam - I've only been going to WeSTOC since Minden. But each year the event just keeps getting better and better. I was just printing out your .pdf's last night and can't believe all the ride options, and the "Roads to WeSTOC" page. Keep up the good work!

- Jim :04biker:
Thanks Jim! I was checking out the FJR event site and they don't even have any routes?? Just pictures of "stuff" to see. When I go to weSTOC I like to have some local knowledge to help me decide where to go and what to see.

The problem around here is there's stuff to see in just about every direction! The Peninsula to the west with the Olympic mountanis, the passes through the Cascades over to eastern Washington. Mount Rainier, Mount Baker, Mount St Helens. Then the local sites in Seattle and in the Cascade foothills. Then there's the climates. We're pretty temperate in the Puget Sound area. It's generally cooler on the Peninsula. If you like it hot Eastern Washington is basically a desert with sites of it's own. Two days really isn't enough time!

So I just broke everything up into regions so people could <try> and chose what interests them most. We chose Redmond over locations to the north, south or east so all the different areas would be in play.

I'll have my Laptop with Mapsource so if anyone wants to "do their own thing" I'd be glad to whip up and load a custom route too!

[adamk]

Here's a example of the Finewest's Famous Italian Chicken Pasta Salad (the wife and I had it tonight) that I may, may, be making Friday night in my Marriot kitchen room... Get in your orders! 2-3 openings left!

2 or 3 more?!? :confused: How about 165 on Friday! :eek: Come on man! Step up to the plate!! :chef2:

[Finewest]

2 or 3 more?!? :confused: How about 165 on Friday! :eek: Come on man! Step up to the plate!! :chef2:

I'd be glad to do it Adam! Where do I send the catering bill? :eek: ;) :D

[adamk]

I'd be glad to do it Adam! Where do I send the catering bill? :eek: ;) :D

What's your room number again?? ;)

[Finewest]

What's your room number again?? ;)

Oh! I see! DOH! :rolleyes: :D

[AzDesertRider]

Aaawww Adam. You don't need to defend to the Whiny Few the great job you did in organizing this massive and extremely detailed rally for us on your own free time, energy and not to mention your own money!:clap2: You won't be able to make everybody happy. And some of us (not me!) are like the seven drawfs, except all of them are Grumpy!:rolleyes: LOL. I am vey happy with my hotel setup and all of what you have done FOR US! :bow1: YOU ROCK DUDE! And to show my appreciation when I get there I'll show you my very best secret polaroids first before I show them to Joe!:eek: BIG KISS & HUGS FOR ADAM!!!;) WOO HOO!:hotpepper :clap2:


I's sticking with my room at the Marriott... $10.00 a day for Internet does not seem too bad at all, when you look at the big picture. Man, we're getting close to take off... I can't hardly sit still these days.

:bow1: Adam. Thank you for everything!

[adamk]

I's sticking with my room at the Marriott... $10.00 a day for Internet does not seem too bad at all, when you look at the big picture. Man, we're getting close to take off... I can't hardly sit still these days.

:bow1: Adam. Thank you for everything!

Especially if we split it between a 100 people! ;)

You're welcome!!

[Finewest]

...Man, we're getting close to take off... I can't hardly sit still these days!

You too!? Man! I thought I had ants in my pants, but... wait for it, wait for it... I DON'T WEAR PANTS!!! :eek: ;) :D

[adamk]

I'm only going 5 miles :( And I'll probably have to take the car most days. :(

[Finewest]

One week to go! One week to go! Woo Hoo!:hotpepper :06biker:

[SupraSabre]

One week to go! One week to go! Woo Hoo!:hotpepper :06biker:

Fred,

keep your pants on!

:crackup :crackup :crackup

[Finewest]

Fred,

keep your pants on!

:crackup :crackup :crackup

If I owned any I would Bob! :eek: :D

[Finewest]

6 days to go, and I'm starting to pack. Well, practice pack anyway. To see what fits, what doesn't, etc.

[Scooter]

I'm only going 5 miles :( And I'll probably have to take the car most days. :(

Adam,

I know you know all of these roads by heart but it would be a shame if you couldn't make it out for some riding! :(

Maybe I missed it in a previous post, but of all of the routes that you have posted on the site, which is your favorite?

[adamk]

Adam,

I know you know all of these roads by heart but it would be a shame if you couldn't make it out for some riding! :(

Maybe I missed it in a previous post, but of all of the routes that you have posted on the site, which is your favorite?

We'll see. If everything goes smoothly I'll get out for <some> riding.

As for my favorites, that's a VERY difficult call. I’ll go over much of this at the riders meeting. One thing we have here is a great variety of places to ride with a wide range of scenery and climate. It kind of depends what you want to see, how far you want to go, how technical you want the roads to be and what temperature range you’re interested in riding in. Two riding days really isn’t enough time.

The first I would recommend is trying to do some planning before you come. The reason I say this is so you can try and hit some of the roads on your way into, or out of the area leaving your riding days here to cover the others.

First there’s the weather. Around here it’s a quite complicated system. East of the Cascade Mountains we basically have a desert. The mountains passes are around 4000 to 5500 feet, so it <can> be cool up there. The Puget Sound area (Redmond), is fairly temperate. With an on shore wind flow the Olympic Peninsula can be quite pleasant when it’s warm everywhere else.
As you’ve probably seen on the WeSTOC XII web site, I’ve divided the routes into four groups. Peninsula, mountain, Eastern Washington and local rides.

The Peninsula rides, like up to Hurricane Ridge have a lot going for them. The road up to Hurricane Ridge is a fun twisty up and back route. The ferry ride to and from the Peninsula is a nice break in a ride day. Plus, the views of Seattle and Mount Rainier from the ferry coming into downtown has been ranked number 15 in the most beautiful city skylines in the world! Plus, on a motorcycle, you get to cut the ticket lines and get priority loading on and off the boats. Even when there’s a multiple boat wait for cars, motorcycles get right on to the front. Personally I’d do one of these routes early on Saturday because even with the long ferry lines on weekends, you get out there in quickly bypassing the lines.

I would have to say the mountain routes are my favorite. The North Cascades Highway (HWY 20), is the #1 rated road in the State. Then there’s Mount Rainier and St. Helens. The two roads up to St. Helens are #2 and #3 in the State. Of course the North Cascades Highway and the two mountains are pretty far apart. It’s a ‘Big Dog’ ride to hit them both in one day.
Eastern Washington has the open spaces and less traffic. Of course it’s 10 to 15 degrees warmer there for the most part. You can ride out to Lake Chelan or Grand Coulee Dam on a big loop.

Locally there’s Snoqualmie Falls which is quite close and a nice ride in the local country.

I don’t envy you guys trying to make your decision. I’ll be glad to answer any question here or at WeSTOC.

[Finewest]

I've spent time in dim distant past in Seattle and Portland. What a beautiful place to be in the Summer! I've been up the Columbia Gorge, and backpacked in that area also! Wow! I've done the coast ride from Seattle to Los Angeles in a cage. One unforgettable trip! I have never been to the Olympic Rain Forest and always wanted to. So that's where I'll be heading on either Friday, or Sat. Thanks Adam for laying out the routes to the Peninsula! That's going help a lot! I'm droolin'! LOL.

[adamk]

I've spent time in dim distant past in Seattle and Portland. What a beautiful place to be in the Summer! I've been up the Columbia Gorge, and backpacked in that area also! Wow! I've done the coast ride from Seattle to Los Angeles in a cage. One unforgettable trip! I have never been to the Olympic Rain Forest and always wanted to. So that's where I'll be heading on either Friday, or Sat. Thanks Adam for laying out the routes to the Peninsula! That's going help a lot! I'm droolin'! LOL.

Oh ya. Another reason to do the Peninsula on Saturday is you can avoid the Friday morning traffic around Seattle. Once you get off the ferry in Kingston it's only 80 miles to the top of Hurricane Ridge.

[ST_Jim]

6 days to go, and I'm starting to pack. Well, practice pack anyway. To see what fits, what doesn't, etc.I'm not packing yet but I did just install some MCL Highway Blades and Bar Risers. Does that count??? ;)

I have a set of Steed Sticks, but I always managed to loosen up the left one while on the road. I got tired of fiddling with it.

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

I'm not packing yet but I did just install some MCL Highway Blades and Bar Risers. Does that count??? ;)

I have a set of Steed Sticks, but I always managed to loosen up the left one while on the road. I got tired of fiddling with it.

- Jim :04biker:

It sure does Jim! Hope we hook up on the road! Otherwise see ya at the Residence Inn. Are you in for dinner Friday night in my pad? I'll reserve ya a table! ;)

[Finewest]

Adam: My only confusion right now is once we check in on Thursday in the Residence Inn, do we (I) walk over to the Marriot Hotel and check in with you?

[dmulk]

I'm not packing yet but I did just install some MCL Highway Blades and Bar Risers. Does that count??? ;)

I have a set of Steed Sticks, but I always managed to loosen up the left one while on the road. I got tired of fiddling with it.

- Jim :04biker:

You'll like the wings.... quality product that I don't think I can ride without at this point (as my knee packs up - I am thinking it's my knee armor....gonna do a test on the trip...)

See you soon, Jim!

<D>

[adamk]

Adam: My only confusion right now is once we check in on Thursday in the Residence Inn, do we (I) walk over to the Marriot Hotel and check in with you?

The schedule of events is on the WeSTOC web site under 'event'. You'll get another copy in your rally packet.

To answer your question, registration will be Thursday from 1PM to 7PM followed by the riders meeting at 7PM. Registration will be in a board meeting room just down the hall from the Marriott front desk. My wife and her sister will be handling the registration, along with the help of the rest of my team as required. We'll also be handing out the shirts to those that ordered them.

The riders meeting is currently scheduled to be in a meeting room near the registration location, but will be moved to a larger salon as long as one is available. We'll have a screen and LCD projector so we can go over hotel info and such, and the route info. The route maps will also be on display.

Other than registration and the riders meeting, Thursday is for seeing old friends and meeting new ones in the parking area! :) That's a good time to find people interested in the same rides you are and form your riding groups.

[Finewest]

Thanks Adam. I did read the web's rally timeline. I guess my confusion (and it's small) is about proximity of the two hotels? Walking distance, and parking. Do I still park in the rally's designated parking? Really small questions as I am sure once I get there all will be apparent.

[adamk]

The two hotels are side by side. There is a small drive between them which leads to the Residence Inn parking, and also to the parking garage enternace we will be using. The Marriott is an 'L' shaped building, and the pool and parking garage are on the inside of the 'L'. That side of the Marriott faces the Residence Inn. The enterance to the parking garage faces the Residence Inn. You can see pictures of the garage on the Roads to WeSTOC site. This includes a shot of the Residence Inn from the parking deck.

http://koczarski.com/Roads2WeSTOC/Parking/Pics.htm

The two hotels couldn't be any closer unless they were attached. :) You won't feel any further from the action than people staying at the Marriott!

[Finewest]

Wonderful Adam. That answers all my questions and puts to rest any residual confusions. Pant... pant... Can't wait! 5 days to take off!

[Finewest]

Had Dana (dteel) and his wife Vicki over for dinner tonight (tacos). We plan on meeting for breakfast at the Ihop in Oceanside on Friday around 8am before heading out. The Ihop is on Oceanside Blvd. just east of the 5 freeway. Hope to hit the road around 9am. Night stop for the day will be San Simeon Motel 6. Next day we go to meet God in Big Sur.

[Finewest]

COUNTDOWN!

4 DAYS TO GO!

:policeST: ... . . :03biker: :04biker: :biker: :06biker: :07biker:

:STOC:

[Finewest]

I packed up the bike this morning to do a shake-down run with a fully loaded bike to see how it feels on the road. It feels heavy! LOL. I had to push up the pre-load, but she's run straight and true. Getting my leg over the large waterproof bag with my bedroom stuff (tent, sleeping bag, pad) in it on the rear seat is something I am going to have to be aware of at all times. It's a stretch. All and all it feels good and ready to go.

[dmulk]

Pics of the packed bike?

[adamk]

Pics of the packed bike?

With you jumping up and down next to it saying, "I can't wait! I can't wait!!" :)

[Finewest]

Nah. No pics yet. I already parked her at home and took off the stuff. Now got to wash her, check air, oil and all vitals. But I was (am) jumpin' up and down going "WOO HOO!". :hotpepper

[Finewest]

Wait! I did find a pic of the bike packed for a earlier trip I took. Just move the yellow waterproof bag to the rear seat and the roll bag to the rear rack and this is it! But with a lot more gadget farkles on the handlebars like GPS, sat. radio, 2-way radio, cellphone, radar detector, and whatever else I can fit on there that is totally useless! Oh, don't forget the tankbag too! :rolleyes: ;) :D

[Finewest]

OK Dan. I just talked to Dana and we decided that meeting you at a agreed location on our route will be more convenient for us all. It is at a Chevron gas station on Artesia Blvd. (Hwy 91) and the 405 Freeway in Torrance. I have included in this post a Microsoft Streets and Maps and a Goggle Earth images. Let's meet at 10am - 10:30am. If you are going to be late give us a call please. Thanks!

Also included in this post my updated Microsoft Streets and Maps route to WeSTOC including meeting Dana for breakfast on Friday (Aug. 3rd) at 8am at the Ihop in Oceanside (Stop #2), and the meeting place for Dan on Friday (Aug. 3rd) at 10-10:30am at the Chevron Gas Station on Artesia Blvd. (Hwy 91) and the 405 Freeway in Torrance (Stop #5).

[dmulk]

OK Dan. I just talked to Dana and we decided that meeting you at a agreed location on our route will be more convenient for us all. It is at a Chevron gas station on Artesia Blvd. (Hwy 91) and the 405 Freeway in Torrance. I have included in this post a Microsoft Streets and Maps and a Goggle Earth images. Let's meet at 10am - 10:30am. If you are going to be late give us a call please. Thanks!


Looks good. (If I don't meet you in Oceanside for Breakfast - assuming I don't go to Anaheim Thursday night.)

<D>

[ST_Jim]

I packed up the bike this morning to do a shake-down run with a fully loaded bike to see how it feels on the road. It feels heavy! LOL. I had to push up the pre-load, but she's run straight and true. Getting my leg over the large waterproof bag with my bedroom stuff (tent, sleeping bag, pad) in it on the rear seat is something I am going to have to be aware of at all times. It's a stretch. All and all it feels good and ready to go.Fred - be careful!

Last year on WeSTOC departure day I twisted my left knee dismounting, and ended up popping Advil the whole trip. I had forgotten about the rear cargo, and stumbled when my right leg didn't clear the passenger seat mounted pack. Although I suppose I should consider myself fortunate I didn't get to test my Shoei on my concrete driveway. Fortunately no pictures exist... ;)

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

Fred - be careful!

Last year on WeSTOC departure day I twisted my left knee dismounting, and ended up popping Advil the whole trip. I had forgotten about the rear cargo, and stumbled when my right leg didn't clear the passenger seat mounted pack. Although I suppose I should consider myself fortunate I didn't get to test my Shoei on my concrete driveway. Fortunately no pictures exist... ;)

- Jim :04biker:

I hear ya Jim! I dumped my Nighthawk once doing just that same thing! I'm going to have to think out every move I make when the bike is all packed up for sure!

[ST_Jim]

Remember to pack your rain gear!

Look at the 10 day forecasts on Adam's Roads2WeSTOC (http://koczarski.com/Roads2WeSTOC/) page!

- Jim :04biker:

[dmulk]

Remember to pack your rain gear!

Look at the 10 day forecasts on Adam's Roads2WeSTOC (http://koczarski.com/Roads2WeSTOC/) page!

- Jim :04biker:


Guess where I won't be if it starts raining.....? :mad:


<D>

[dteel]

Mother nature has already provided me with the best rainsuit I'll ever need. I just need to make sure my gear stays dry. I will dry when the rain stops.

[Finewest]

THREE DAYS TO GO!

:( What's all this talk about rain!? Oh man! I hate riding in the rain. I'll go, but riding in the rain SUCKS! I've got great rain gear, covers for the tankbag, rollbag, but I'll have to put away all my electronics. This could put a kaboosh on the Oylmpic Penn. ride... Bummer! OK Fred, take it easy... Things could change... Don't blow a fuse... Stay cool... "Got a rocket in your pocket, stay cool boy." (West Side Story)

[dmulk]

THREE DAYS TO GO!


:( What's all this talk about rain!? Oh man! I hate riding in the rain. I'll go, but riding in the rain SUCKS! I've got great rain gear, covers for the tankbag, rollbag, but I'll have to put away all my electronics. This could put a kaboosh on the Oylmpic Penn. ride... Bummer! OK Fred, take it easy... Things could change... Don't blow a fuse... Stay cool... "Got a rocket in your pocket, stay cool boy." (West Side Story)


Yup, I hate it too. I'll try and adjust my course to avoid it. I truly hate riding in the rain. I did it for 4 years when I lived in Oregon and I don't plan to do it again....call me a wuss...but I bought the ST for fun....and riding on-road, in the rain is not fun. :)

....now....get me on a KLR off-road and that is a different story.... :)

<D>

[AzDesertRider]

I take full blame for the rain.... Should have never washed & waxed that bike.

[Mellow]

I like riding in the rain... especially in August... keep the mesh gear on and make sure your wallet is in the bike... Nice and cool.... of course, then it stops and the sauna effect comes out... oh well, it's still better than being at work.

[Finewest]

Yup, I hate it too. I'll try and adjust my course to avoid it. I truly hate riding in the rain. I did it for 4 years when I lived in Oregon and I don't plan to do it again....call me a wuss...but I bought the ST for fun....and riding on-road, in the rain is not fun. :)

....now....get me on a KLR off-road and that is a different story.... :)

<D>

WUSS! LOL... Nah. I'm with ya. It won't change my route, but it'll change my technique; camping, riding, sleeping, etc. There is only one thing worse than rain: WIND! Now that would be a real bummer! Riding in the wind, camping in the wind. Now that SUCKS!:(

[Mellow]

I'm with you on that... I hate riding in the wind... Camping in the wind isn't so bad, I camped with Motomac at Guadalupe Nat'l Park in Texas this year on the way to DesertSTOC and it was pretty windy.... but, for me, it's got a nice way of putting you to sleep... kinda like waves crashing on the shore...

[adamk]

Don't put too much trust in the 10 day forecats for this area. The Puget Sound area is one of the hardest area in the country to forcast the weather. We've got two mountain ranges and the Pacific ocean influencing the system.

The 10 forecasts on weather.com are always way off. The local weather forecasters don't even really like to do more than 5 days. A day on weather.com that say showers <can> be cloudy in the morning, maybe with some drizzle, and then be 80 degrees and sunny in the afternoon.

In the event there really is rain, it's a 45 minute ride over the pass from Redmond to Eastern Washington where the chances are it's 90F and sunny. :)

[Finewest]

I'm with you on that... I hate riding in the wind... Camping in the wind isn't so bad, I camped with Motomac at Guadalupe Nat'l Park in Texas this year on the way to DesertSTOC and it was pretty windy.... but, for me, it's got a nice way of putting you to sleep... kinda like waves crashing on the shore...

I would agree with some of that Joe. Only some! LOL. Setting up a tent in the wind is challenging to say the least, and cooking in the wind is just down right awful! I've been in high winds in the tent with it shaking like a banshee! Wake up in the morning and find yourself in your sleeping bag covered in a inch of dust and sand; IN THE TENT! I hate wind! I rather put up with rain than wind any day!

[Mellow]

Wow... I guess I just don't camp in a desert area often as I've never had that happen - dust all over. That would be a drag. I would think a good tent would keep that from happening but since I don't have experience in that situation I can't say my tent would keep that from occurring.

I'm okay with camping in the rain.. it's just when it's hot and raining that sux... never seems to cool off the tent.

If it's anything like around here, a 10-day forecast is pretty much useless.

[Finewest]

Wow... I guess I just don't camp in a desert area often as I've never had that happen - dust all over. That would be a drag. I would think a good tent would keep that from happening but since I don't have experience in that situation I can't say my tent would keep that from occurring.

I'm okay with camping in the rain.. it's just when it's hot and raining that sux... never seems to cool off the tent.

If it's anything like around here, a 10-day forecast is pretty much useless.

We are talking about two different climes for sure. That bad windy day I spoke of only happened once. It was something else! Most times wind is just a drag to do anything in; cooking being the worse. With rain at least you can get under cover, but wind is pervasive; it gets into everything! I been camping/backpacking since a child and I've been in some storms that would blow your mind! I remember a backpacking once in the mountains, by myself, and being caught in a localized intense lighting storm! Oh wee! That was a hair-raiser! But fun! LOL. Snow is not to great either. I once went to sleep out in the open, nice and clear skies, then woke up with a couple of inches of snow covering me and my sleeping bag. That was a cold morning, let me tell you! :eek: LOL.

I agree about the ten day forcast. It could go either way. We'll see...

[Mellow]

Yeah, I was in the Big Bend area camping at the Davis Mtns State Park and it's always cooler there but had been there several times during the same period with no weather at all to speak of....

Started out looking like this...

http://mellow.smugmug.com/photos/58250587-M.jpg

But, ended up looking like this:

http://blink.smugmug.com/photos/16686306-M.jpg

Here's me throwing a snowball

http://blink.smugmug.com/photos/16686319-M.jpg

http://blink.smugmug.com/photos/16686295-M.jpg

[Finewest]

Yeah, I was in the Big Bend area camping at the Davis Mtns State Park and it's always cooler there but had been there several times during the same period with no weather at all to speak of....

Started out looking like this...



But, ended up looking like this:



Here's me throwing a snowball



http://blink.smugmug.com/photos/16686295-M.jpg

Well at least you look like you are taking it in stride and having fun with it. I've never ridden in snow on a bike. What's that like? :22yikes:

HEY! WAIT JUST A DARN MINUTE!!! IS THAT A ST1300 I SEE THERE!? WTH!? :rolleyes: :D

[Mellow]

Well, actually, the temps were in the 70's the day before and even though there was about 3 inches on the ground by 10am we still headed out... we walked the road and it wasn't any more slippery than if it was raining.. the ground was just too warm so it was melting fast... we road about 10 miles out of the area before it was just drizzle.

The loadl weather reports said chance of snow, but like I said, we've been there before and it's a desert like climate.. if it does rain, it's usually short-lived. We've seen 'chance of snow' warnings before but nothing ever happened, some frost would usually be it...

If I had known it was going to snow, I wouldn't have showed up however, it was one of the best trips I've had BECAUSE of the snow... remember, it's not the destination it's the journey, and this was just another adventure in that journey.

[Styles]

. . . I've never ridden in snow on a bike. What's that like? :22yikes: . . .



I see a "cool" conversation topic emerging at WeSTOC. :D

Styles

[STony G]

Remember to pack your rain gear!

Look at the 10 day forecasts on Adam's Roads2WeSTOC (http://koczarski.com/Roads2WeSTOC/) page!

- Jim :04biker:

http://www.weather.com/weather/local/98052

Says on 20% chance Thursday & Friday. I like those odds better :) . I'm just not sure about the camping part :confused: ...the H$ll with it...lets camp, maybe :confused: .

[dmulk]

http://www.weather.com/weather/local/98052

Says on 20% chance Thursday & Friday. I like those odds better :) . I'm just not sure about the camping part :confused: ...the H$ll with it...lets camp, maybe :confused: .

Hi Tony,

I was thinking the same thing.

I have a "backup option" if it rains hard and I am sure some of the other riders with hotel's would led floor space or a couch if it turns into an insane storm....

...right now though, I say we camp...

if we get there day one and it looks like it's going to be "stupid" to camp right at the beginning, I am going with my backup plan. :)

Either way, hope to split a road with you soon. :cool:


<D>

[adamk]

Hi Tony,

I have a "backup option" if it rains hard and I am sure some of the other riders with hotel's would led floor space or a couch if it turns into an insane storm....

<D>

I'm sure we can figure out <something> for you guys. I live right between Vasa and Redmond. You can set up your tent in my garage. ;)

[dteel]

I once went to sleep out in the open, nice and clear skies, then woke up with a couple of inches of snow covering me and my sleeping bag. That was a cold morning, let me tell you! :eek: LOL.

Fred, I'll bet you wish you were wearing clothes when that happened!

[dteel]

Yeah, I was in the Big Bend area camping at the Davis Mtns State Park and it's always cooler there but had been there several times during the same period with no weather at all to speak of....


Great pics Joe. Glad you got some!

[Finewest]

Fred, I'll bet you wish you were wearing clothes when that happened!

You betcha! But if it rains on our trip I'm not going to wear any clothes. Hey! A free shower! It's a no-brainer! :eek: ;) :D

[ST_Jim]

You betcha! But if it rains on our trip I'm not going to wear any clothes. Hey! A free shower! It's a no-brainer! :eek: ;) :DNow you really made me sorry I even brought the subject up! :oops: Maybe you should keep the clothes on and do free laundry instead.

I caught a little rain coming back from Golden last year in Montrose, and over the Million$ Highway. It could have been sunshine, but what the heck!

BTW Fred, you haven't been around here long enough to remember when Mellow defected to the dark side of the force. He really did have an ST1300 once! If you do a lot of two-up riding it makes sense.

- Jim :04biker:

[Finewest]

...BTW Fred, you haven't been around here long enough to remember when Mellow defected to the dark side of the force. He really did have an ST1300 once! If you do a lot of two-up riding it makes sense.

- Jim :04biker:

I've been a paying member for a year and one month Jim, and I knew Joe had a '03 before he got too old and bought a Wing. I was messin' with 'em. Now I'm mad! Try to keep up will ya. Hurmph! (arms crossed, back turned, nose in air...) :rolleyes: ;) :D

[Finewest]

2 DAYS TO GO!!!
:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper

Today I wash Veronica, put air in the tires and check all her vitals. I've got all the bags packed and just biting nails till TAKE-OFF Friday! :rolleyes: :D

[clmixon]

2 DAYS TO GO!!!

:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper


Today I wash Veronica, put air in the tires and check all her vitals. I've got all the bags packed and just biting nails till TAKE-OFF Friday! :rolleyes: :D



NOOOOOOOO :eek: Don't wash just before a big event, wash it at the event, avoid the BAD JUJU of washing a bike.... Just ask SHEROB!:rolleyes:

Chris

(See y'all soon)

[Finewest]

NOOOOOOOO :eek: Don't wash just before a big event, wash it at the event, avoid the BAD JUJU of washing a bike.... Just ask SHEROB!:rolleyes:

Chris

(See y'all soon)

What do you think this is; Haiti!? I ain't got no voo-doo! We live in a modern society you know. So I got my rabbit's foot and crossed my fingers! ;) :D

[adamk]

2 DAYS TO GO!!!
:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper

Today I wash Veronica, put air in the tires and check all her vitals. I've got all the bags packed and just biting nails till TAKE-OFF Friday! :rolleyes: :D

The weather is actually starting to look up! :) The local weather people are predicting mid to high 70's now. Still a little too early to get too excited....

As for putting air in your tires, do you only do that for WeSTOC!?! Seems you should always have air in your tires!! :eek:

[Finewest]

...As for putting air in your tires, do you only do that for WeSTOC!?! Seems you should always have air in your tires!! :eek:

You'd think! But then again this is special! ;) :D

[adamk]

You'd think! But then again this is special! ;) :D

Well then, maybe an air change is in order! Make sure you wash inside your tires if you expect to win the 'cleanest bike at WeSTOC XII' award. Our judges are VERY sharp!

[Finewest]

Well then, maybe an air change is in order! Make sure you wash inside your tires if you expect to win the 'cleanest bike at WeSTOC XII' award. Our judges are VERY sharp!

Already done! I strained out the oil a couple of times, and put Ajax in the gas tank to clean it out. Glossed my tires, brake rotors, foot pegs, and seat with Armour-All! :eek:

She's all washed now and drying in the driveway. Woo hoo! :hotpepper

[adamk]

I don't see Kenny Battle's name on the roster yet, so you <might> stand a chance. If he does show, good luck to you! In fact, if he was on the roster I would have already printed his name on the certificate!! ;)

[Finewest]

I don't see Kenny Battle's name on the roster yet, so you <might> stand a chance. If he does show, good luck to you! In fact, if he was on the roster I would have already printed his name on the certificate!! ;)

Now I am vexed! A pox on Kenny! A POX! ;) :D

[adamk]

He's hard to beat. His black 1100 has had every exposed part chromed, including the wheels. Just before the Minden WeSTOC his bike was ripped off. They found it trashed in a ditch. He showed up at the show, and even though he hadn't finished restoring it, I still think he won. Last year the bike looked better than ever! The only thing the judges could find was that one of his highway wings wasn't completely folded in. ;)

[Finewest]

Air topped off, bike washed and polished. Added Sea Foam to gas tank. Oil looks good as so does the coolant level. Now I'm charging my cameras batteries.

[Mellow]

Don't forget foot powder in your boots.. LOL

[dmulk]

Air topped off, bike washed and polished. Added Sea Foam to gas tank. Oil looks good as so does the coolant level. Now I'm charging my cameras batteries.


Hmm... I am thinking that the poor saps (like me) that have to work now need a "finewest Cam"...something like what NASA has....we can then just watch Fred all day working on his ST.... :)

<D>

[Finewest]

Don't forget foot powder in your boots.. LOL

What!!? The powder goes in my boots!!? Oh no!!! I have to go to the bathroom now! ...Be right back... :eek:

[Mellow]

:puk1:

[adamk]

What!!? The powder goes in my boots!!? Oh no!!! I have to go to the bathroom now! ...Be right back... :eek:

Did you put the Butt Paste in your boots again!! :eek: :)

[Finewest]

Did you put the Butt Paste in your boots again!! :eek: :)

Well yeah! I thought the powder said Butt Powder and the paste said Boot Paste! Oh man! I'm screwed! :22yikes: ;)

And did you guys know that you not suppose to use WD-40 to clean your brake rotors!? Thanks for not telling me! :eek: :(

[dteel]

You haven't seen glossblk06's bike, he'd give anyone a run for their money in a cleanliness contest. I threatened to park my bike in his garage for a week, I just know he wouldn't be able to stand it and after a week it would have a very thorough deep cleaning. I don't see his name on the players list so there is a chance someone else can claim the prize.

[Finewest]

Yeah! George is a great example of positive complusive behaviour! LOL.

BTW Dana: Dan will be meeting us at the Ihop Friday morning for breakfast before we hit the road. So we are good to go! Woo hoo!

[dteel]

Oh, just to mention that George's bike (glossblk06) the wheels shine like they've been chromed, but they aren't he just sanded the paint off, smoothed out the metal with some 6 billion grit sand paper and polished the heck out of them. That included the bolt heads that hold the rotor in place too. It's absolutely disgusting. My bike looks like last weeks left over road kill next to his bike. When ever we ride together the rest of us make him park on the other side of the parking lot, we all suffer in any kind of comparison.

[dteel]

Ok, just so you guys know that I'm all excited about leaving Friday for WeSTOC, I just checked my air pressure. There, whew, glad that's done! One less thing right?

Excellent, glad Dan can join us. Now, isn't there some rule that says that the last guy to confirm for breakfast buys?

[Finewest]

Ok, just so you guys know that I'm all excited about leaving Friday for WeSTOC, I just checked my air pressure. There, whew, glad that's done! One less thing right?

Excellent, glad Dan can join us. Now, isn't there some rule that says that the last guy to confirm for breakfast buys?

Yeah! I think you're right about that! And the youngest one too! LOL.

[Mellow]

Ah.. Dana, it's just Thursday... don't forget to check it again Friday before you leave.. he he he....

Who wants to lay odds on what he'll be thinking about tomorrow morning?

[Finewest]

ONE DAY TO GO!
:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper

[dmulk]

Excellent, glad Dan can join us. Now, isn't there some rule that says that the last guy to confirm for breakfast buys?

I already owe you for being late to the last RTE.... does this mean I have to buy 2 times?....well....I guess that is ok as you will be stuck with me for about that long on the way up.... :)

<D>

[Finewest]

I already owe you for being late to the last RTE.... does this mean I have to buy 2 times?....well....I guess that is ok as you will be stuck with me for about that long on the way up.... :)

<D>

See Dana! I told you he was a good kid! ;) :D

[adamk]

ONE DAY TO GO!
:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper

On a completely different topic. You know, those dancing peppers crack me up every time I see them! I don't know if it's because they look a little like a dancing tampon, or because they remind me of this little guy I saw on another site once.

[Finewest]

On a completely different topic. You know, those dancing peppers crack me up every time I see them! I don't know if it's because they look a little like a dancing tampon, or because they remind me of this little guy I saw on another site once.



I always saw them as dancing hot dogs, even though they are labeled peppers. It's like "Hot Dog!" "Hot Dog!" Whooopieee!

[adamk]

I thought they were hotdogs too until I saw the green <thing> on top. Then I checked the filename. Here's another well done avitar made fom the famous Tom Cruise - Opra interview. :)

http://koczarski.com/Koczarski/LinkPics/TomCruiseBig.gif

[Mellow]

Sorry Adam, you know I couldn't let those bananas stay on the site.. LOL

[adamk]

Sorry Adam, you know I couldn't let those bananas stay on the site.. LOL

"I've been repressed!!" :)

[Mellow]

"I've been repressed!!" :)

LOL.. I'll be selling those hats soon... :hat1:

[Finewest]

"I've been repressed!!" :)

Join the club! :rolleyes:

[SupraSabre]

"I've been repressed!!"


Join the club! :rolleyes:

Fred,

He said "rePressed", NOT "reDressed"!

:crackup

[Finewest]

Fred,

He said "rePressed", NOT "reDressed"!

:crackup

Same thing on this forum Bob! :D

OK, going out for a last shakedown ride and get some cash for the trip.

[adamk]

Same thing on this forum Bob! :D

OK, going out for a last shakedown ride and get some cash for the trip.

You need to get a job!! :)

[dmulk]

You need to get a job!! :)


ATTENTION MODS: Adam doesn't know the gravity of what he just posted....please delete this before Fred gets back from his ride!!!! :)


<D>

[Finewest]

You need to get a job!! :)

Robbing a bank for cash for WeSTOC is completely acceptable! No jury (of my peers) would convict me! :eek: ;) :D

Bike is completely loaded and rode straight and true, even with my hands off! :eek: Filled with gas. I'm ready! :hotpepper

[Finewest]

Is it tomorrow yet!!? Geez!

[Sink]

For the sake of your sanity Fred... LEAVE ALREADY!

[dmulk]

Is it tomorrow yet!!? Geez!

We could always leave SD tonight and crash at my cabin, have some pancakes in the morning at the Loose Caboose and roll out from there. SHouldn't add much to the trip....

[Finewest]

We could always leave SD tonight and crash at my cabin, have some pancakes in the morning at the Loose Caboose and roll out from there. SHouldn't add much to the trip....

Nice idea Dan and thank you for the offer. I'm sticking with the Dana's plan.

[AzDesertRider]

Leave tonight? you guys are killing me. 1.5 More work days to go before we go. :( But, I'm all packed & ready to ride... Wife's not, she likes to "last min pack" like Dana. :)

[dteel]

Oh, this is not the time to be making changes to the plan. Besides I left all the packing and things to do for tonight! So far all I've done is check my air pressure in my tires, now Mellow tells me I have to do it agian before I leave!

[Finewest]

Oh, this is not the time to be making changes to the plan. Besides I left all the packing and things to do for tonight! So far all I've done is check my air pressure in my tires, now Mellow tells me I have to do it agian before I leave!

Big stack 'o p'cakes at Ihop in O'side! Woo hoo! :hotpepper

[dmulk]

Nice idea Dan and thank you for the offer. I'm sticking with the Dana's plan.

Wait a second... this was YOUR plan and now you are blaming Dana for not being able to roll out tonight? :rolleyes:


hehe.

No worries, see youse guys in the morning at IHOP!

<D>

[Finewest]

Wait a second... this was YOUR plan and now you are blaming Dana for not being able to roll out tonight? :rolleyes:


hehe.

No worries, see youse guys in the morning at IHOP!

<D>

Leaving Friday morning and the route is all Dana's. This is not Fred, nor Dan World. I am hitchin' my star to Dana's ride. He's was kind enough to let me come with him, and kind enough to allow some latitude in his plans for my desires. You're a Johnny-Come-Lately. OK bud, now you did it! You're buying lunch too! :rolleyes: ;) :D

[dmulk]

Leaving Friday morning and the route is all Dana's. This is not Fred, nor Dan World. I am hitchin' my star to Dana's ride. He's was kind enough to let me come with him, and kind enough to allow some latitude in his plans for my desires. You're a Johnny-Come-Lately. OK bud, now you did it! You're buying lunch too! :rolleyes: ;) :D


Get a job Fred... :rolleyes:



<D>

[Finewest]

Get a job Fred... :rolleyes:

<D>

I got one. Babysitting... :crackup

[SupraSabre]

I got one. Babysitting... :crackup

Yeah, obviously Babysitting Veronica! :crackup

[Finewest]

Yeah, obviously Babysitting Veronica! :crackup

She's my baby! ;)

[dmulk]

:)

I am so excited to get this show on the road!! Gonna head out a bit early and do the test run bit. Wonder how she will feel...I know she is heavy. Never ridden her this packed before... :/

Fred, how did V feel when you did the shake down?

<D>

[Finewest]

Felt heavy. I pushed the shock up to almost total. She's riding very smooth and I even put on the throttle-lock and removed my hands and she stayed straight and true. Be sure your air pressure is on the button also. Shouldn't be a problem. Keep in mind the brakes are going to bite a bit slower with all the weight, so be prepared for that.

[dmulk]

Noted. Post back in a few hours with the results.... :)

<D>

[Finewest]

Ok guys, I'm bikeless right now and you're torturing me here. Either knock it off and get on the road or power off your pc's. You're killing me, dudes.

I've caught myself reading the classifieds looking for used ST's. I even looked at Honda's web site to just look at one again.

<heavy sigh>

Z

Get on it Z and we'll see you up there! :)

All I've got left to do is ice up my soft-pack cooler with drinks and snacks. Oh yeah, and take the wife out to dinner tonight and pay special attention to her. Longest I have ever been out without her. Sniff...

[Mellow]

I wasn't aware you'd gotten rid of the Wing.

[dmulk]

Ok guys, I'm bikeless right now and you're torturing me here. Either knock it off and get on the road or power off your pc's. You're killing me, dudes.

I've caught myself reading the classifieds looking for used ST's. I even looked at Honda's web site to just look at one again.

<heavy sigh>

Z


See you at WeSTOC, Z! :)

<D>

[Mark]

Ok guys, I'm bikeless right now and you're torturing me here. Either knock it off and get on the road or power off your pc's. You're killing me, dudes.

I've caught myself reading the classifieds looking for used ST's. I even looked at Honda's web site to just look at one again.

<heavy sigh>

Z

Bill Pratt is selling his... I think it is a '97... :)

Sorry Joe, I couldn't resist...

Mark

[dteel]

Ok, I'm almost ready to pack, printed two of my lists, all the things to do are marked off. Why two lists? The first is my pack list, the second is on the bike list. So when I pack it in what ever container it is checked off the fist list. When I put whatever container on the bike the second list is checked. That's my process and I'm sticking to it.

I just got off the phone with Fred. Just wanted to make sure he checked Veronica's air pressure again.

[Finewest]

Veronica is loaded and ready to roll!

[dteel]

Ok, I'm mostly packed 95% or so now. Good news Fred, Vicki says she may join us for breakfast. That sure would be great. I haven't had a chance to spend much time with her this week and I sure would like to before we leave.

[Finewest]

Oh! That is very good news Dana! Terri and I had a nice dinner tonight. I just got in the mail from MCL the between-the-handlebars-plate-with-ramball for my GPS. Much nicer looking and in line-in-sight. Cool! So I am fully farkled and ready! Woo hoo! See you tomorrow for breakfast. Then we hit the road at 9am and go to Irvine up the 405 to the Santa Monica Freeway to the Coast Highway in Santa Monica and through Malibu (the snobs! LOL) and on to Oxnard to the 101 Highway through Ventura to and past Santa Barbara and on to Highway 1 through Lompoc to Pismo Beach for our yummy late lunch/early dinner at Old Juan's Cantina, then back on the 101 Highway to San Luis Obispo and Highway 1 through Morro Bay to San Simeon and check in at the Motel 6. Maybe have time for the rest of the day to do some sight-seeing. Oh man! I am so jazzed! Won't be able to sleep tonight! Like Christmas! The longest trip ever on a motorcycle!

[AzDesertRider]

Hey, You guys ride safe & have a blast! We'll be two days behind you on the same basic route. See ya in Redmond.

Dana, tell Vicky hi for me.

Bob...

[Finewest]

Hey, You guys ride safe & have a blast! We'll be two days behind you on the same basic route. See ya in Redmond.

Dana, tell Vicky hi for me.

Bob...

You might catch up with us Bob. We'll be camping in the Redwoods in Northern California at Patrick's Point State Park near the town of Trinidad on the 5th and 6th. Hope to see ya maybe! You have a fun and safe ride too.

Here's my cellphone number... I'll be monitoring it fairly regularly: 760-420-5921.

[Finewest]

12 HOURS TO GO!
:hotpepper :STOC: :hotpepper

[RonH.R12GSA]

Interlude: Fremont, CA – Forestville, CA
Statistics: traveled, aways
Highlights: 880s – 101s – 152w – 1n – 116e

Urban life blood
Bright spirits captured in iron cages
Caught in the urban heart beat, pulsing, surging, diverging
Spirits delivered to industry hives
The asphalt waltz

Leaving behind 880 & 101, two of the many arteries & veins of the Bay Area. I get to explore 152, a nice curvy road with decent asphalt. Leaving the Gilroy agricultural basin. 152 winds into the hills and drops us off in Watsonville, another agricultural area. The drive through Watsonville surprises me, I see a well kept old church surrounded by a cemetery, with large ornate headstones & an area with lots of crypts. Downtown Watsonville is old, but very well kept up, pride showed in this down town. A quick stop at the Santa Cruz County Beemer shop (need a tool, always need tools right??) and we join the Pacific Coast Highway, also known as hwy 1. This is still a major artery, 2 lanes moving quite smartly till Santa Cruz, now we’re making our way through Santa Cruz city, of course I get off track and mosey about till I find the PCH again, LOL. A ways out of Santa Cruz, I pick up a tail, no shiny black shark this time, but a familiar shape, another R12GS. At a stop light he lets me know he needs gas, and there we introduce our selves. Brad is from Missouri and rides the same year & model GS as I do. He’s on his way to Seattle, go figure, LOL. He mentions redwoods & I mention Ave of the Giants. And inform him that staying on 1 and 101 will allow him to see many conifers. We enjoy the coastal route, go through SF, stop on the north side of the Golden Gate for pictures and almost watch our bikes get blown over, and it’s FOGGY!! LOL, just another summer day in SF. We shoot back to the coast over the Marin peninsula, through Tamalpais valley, it’s windy, foggy, cold and twistie!! Hehehe, a new twist to the Tango. Hwy 1 goes from curvy to twisty, back and forth for miles and miles and miles. We meander through coastal towns, Stinson beach, Dogtown, Olema, just to name a few. Through Point Reyes station, we see the Tomales Bay. And I pull into a drive way to snap a picture of the fog rolling over the hills, as it happens Nature made it’s call too, so Brad’s off taking care of nature just behind the bushes in the drive way. And wouldn’t you know it, here comes a black SUV from the house on the hill. A young lady & her two toddlers stops, and of course asks me if she can be of assistance. I let her know that we stopped to capture the beauty of the fog coming over the hills, she glances over to Brad, and turns back to me. You do realize you are on PRIVATE property, well yes and what a pretty entry way it is, I ask does she live here, she replies that it’s her parents ranch and she’s going to pretend she never saw us & wishes us a good day. And drives off. We laugh, she probably gave us a break cause we have such good taste in motorcycles. LOL A few towns and miles later, Brad & I pull to the side say our goodbyes & well wishes for the miles ahead. I head inland on 116 and arrive in a short while at Linda’s. A few day stay here & than I hook up with my Navy buddy Dana & two others (Fred & Dan) and we start our coastal journey back to Seattle.

-- to be continued --

hey Mods this is all me, Fred has nothing to do with my fine ramblings :)