Chapter Overnighter - Colorado

Its dark at 3:45am – especially when you are hooking up a trailer to your bike. But, we were all packed and ready for the trip ahead. We made our way to the Chevron at Green River to meet the group. Everyone was excited and ready to roll. We started with 23 riders on 17 bikes with 7 trailers, so we broke into two groups, led by myself and Scott Hamilton.

Off we started down the 91 headed into the sunrise. Our first stop was gas in Newberry Springs where we were joined by Bob Barbano – who was there waiting for us. On the move again we made our way to Needles. The sun was completely up by now and the temperatures were raising well into the high 90’s as we began our ride through the desert and into Arizona. The funny part was that we were so excited to get to Colorado that the first day went rather quickly.

We weren’t sure if we were going to have lunch in Needles as we knew it would be really hot, but by then everyone was really hungry and we decided to eat anyway. The plan was to try to move quickly through each stop without a lot of lolly-gagging, it appears that Denny’s wasn’t on board with our plan and chose to keep a few of our riders a little longer then necessary. It was at this point in the trip that the horn honking started. From this point on when all but a couple of riders were ready to go and waiting for any amount of time, all the bike horns would sound, just like when you were a kid at a drive-in and the movie was stalled. I am sure the patrons of the Denny’s were not amused, but we were.

We gassed up in Needles and headed on to Kingman stopping at the same Chevron we always stop at right down the street from the Days Inn where we stay during the Laughlin River Run. Then we continued on to Williams to gas up, and then our last leg of the first day into Flagstaff. The hotel in Flagstaff was a cute, single story motel in a U shape. Everyone pulled in and picked a parking spot close to where they guessed their room might be – no one guessed well. Scott Hamilton was one of the first to check in, and the one that made all of the arrangements at the hotel for us – and of course his reservation was missing….thank goodness they had an open room.

Shortly after we arrived we were joined by Rick Sherrill who would be riding with us the remainder of the trip. Its always good to see Rick – he was our Lead Shepherd for a long time. For dinner there were a couple of choices, some chose to go to Bun Huggers Tavern right across the street from the hotel, and some of us walked down the street to Oregano’s Pizza Bistro. Both choices seemed to be good for all. After dinner we all sat outside and chatted about the day. Apparently while we were all out to dinner, Joe Magdaleno did a little reconnaissance and obtained a card and gift for Richard “Taz” Green for his birthday. One by one each person was called into Rick and Scott’s room to sign the card. Once everyone had signed the card, Joe presented it to Taz and we all sang a rousing Happy Birthday! The evening was really nice. We all sat together and discussed the next day’s plan and then it was off to bed to prepare for the ride to Durango.

Everyone was on their own for breakfast – choices were Dunkin Doughnuts and McDonalds, all within walking distance. I ambled down to Dunkin Doughnuts and while I was considering all of my choices my phone rang, it had begun! Richard Von Luft had chosen to stay at a hotel down the street (something about points). He had gotten ready to come and meet us but his bike would not start. Dead battery number 1. We arranged for Chuck Giambitti to go down to help him out, but luckily he was able to get the bike started and make his way down to our hotel. Amazingly there was a O’Reilly’s auto parts store right across the street from the hotel, so he popped in there and purchased a new battery to keep as a back up in case it didn’t start again. We all lined up to leave for Durango when dead battery number 2 reared its ugly head. Joe Magdelano could not start his bike! Keith Limbach and Scott were able to jump-start Joe’s bike. We were finally on our way.

Outside of Flagstaff we turned off onto Loop Road, which took us past the Sunset Crater. Black soil and large chucks of lava rock were everywhere. We then continued up the Navajo Trail to the Wupatki ruins. We stopped here to view the pueblos and take a few photos. This was really incredible.

We continued north and headed up through the Navajo Territory to Tuba City. After gassing up it was decided that we would stop for lunch. There were several choices, some went to Sonic, some to Subway, and some went I don’t know where. It was already starting to get really hot, so the priority was hydration. After lunch we all met at the parking lot next to the Shell station – know known as the Joe Magdelano Shell. Off we went on our way and everything seemed fine, then Joe tapped out. Bob stopped with him and shortly let us know that Joe had a flat. Scott turned back (he had a patch kit) in case he could help. The group continued on. I got a call on my phone that it was a broken valve stem and that they would have to get the bike towed back to Tuba city and get it repaired, Scott would ride out to meet up with us eventually.

Monument Valley is amazing. There isn’t anything else that can be said. It looks like it was created by Disney.

Because of the heat, the group stopped in Kayenta, Az to gas up, but mostly to hydrate and re-wet cool vests. The day had already been really long and we had many more miles to ride. It was here that Scott rejoined us.

All along the roadsides there were little stalls with Indians selling Navajo jewelry, beadwork and rugs. Finally, we left Arizona and rode into Utah, stopping in Mexican Hat for gas and then on to Cortez, CO. We arrived at the gas stop in Cortez exhausted. There along side of us at the gas pumps was a pickup truck with two sheep in it – to weird. We were all tired and hot and it was late. It was around 5pm and we still had the last 50 miles into Durango.

We rolled into Durango just as the sun was starting to set. Barb and Rick Sanecki (who had left a couple of days earlier than we did) were waiting for us at the hotel. We all unloaded and then looked for food. A few of us walked right next door to Zia Taqueria, which was a lot like a Chipotle so Evan felt right at home. Some others went down the street to another Mexican restaurant, and the others were on their own. We all turned in pretty early that night. Bob and Joe finally arrived about 9:30. Turns out Joe had a broken valve stem – but unfortunately he broke down in Navajo territory. AAA does not service Navajo territory, so he had to rely upon the local towing service. He was towed back to the Chevron in Tuba city where the nice Indian charged him $300 for a $2 part – and Joe and Bob had to do all the labor. They also tried to sell him a helmet equipped with some great Steer horns; he passed on the helmet. We did see another sucker on the road on our way home wearing the helmet though lol.

The next morning we were awoken by Scott, Terry, Luiz, and Minita pulling out at 6am to ride the long route through Silverton for breakfast, and out over 400 miles. We said goodbye to Rick and Barb Sanecki who were taking the train into Silverton. We watched the Battery Boys, Richard and Joe take off to the Honda/Yamaha dealer in town to get new batteries and get Joe’s tire checked. The rest of us saddled up and started a great journey. We rode up the Million Dollar Highway (550) to Silverton stopping a couple of times for some photos. A few times we were stuck behind some slow moving trucks, but that just allowed us to sight see a little more. It was on our way to Silverton where a 100 pound jack rabbit tried to kill me. The group was making its way up a hill when a large rabbit ran out into the road right in front of me, did a 360, stopped 3 inches from my front tire, then off up the hillside. I thought I was done for. I slammed on my brakes, forcing the whole group to stop quickly. Luckily no one was hurt and I am sure the rabbit was waving bye and laughing as we continued on.

The only word to describe the entire ride was Wow. There is too much to describe here, you just need to look at the pictures the other riders took and then go there yourself. Really amazing. We rode into Silverton and had breakfast at the Brown Bear Café. We walked in and learned that they had been warned that we were coming from the first group. Breakfast was really great; great service, neat restaurant, and great food. We then took a couple of hours to tour and shop. Clouds were starting to roll in and it was time to get moving and hopefully avoid the rain. (Note: Scott, Terry, Luiz, and Minita got poured on – have Scott show you his video.)

We started onour way to Telluride when the sky really got looking dark and like it would pour at any moment. We stopped so some of the group could put on some rain gear – this was insurance that it wouldn’t rain on us – and it worked. We only experienced a little drizzle. We rode through Telluride and out until the road ended. At the end of the road is a mountain with several waterfalls and a house built just off to the right of the start of one. I understand there is a service road that goes to this house, but I don’t see how they built it there. Another Kodak moment.

A couple of people were hungry, so we tried to find somewhere to stop in Telluride, but could not find any parking, so we stopped at the Conoco for gas, and ate a little there. Real fine dining lol. From Telluride we made our way around the mountain aiming for Cortez. Bob’s GPS suggested a quicker route back to Durango, by making a left turn up a ways. We tried to tell him it was probably a dirt road but his curiosity was too strong and he shot off past us in search of a short cut. A sort time later we met up with him along the roadside where he admitted it was a dirt road and that he would be rejoining the group. Lesson learned, don’t follow Bob if he thinks he has a short cut! We continued through Dolores, and Mancos into Durango. The first group arrived shortly after and all were back safe and sound.

We decided to all make our way up the street to the Serious Texas Barbeque. It didn’t seem that far up the road when we road past it that morning but it was a long walk up hill after a long day. The food was ok, nothing earth shattering, but then again it was barbeque. Lucky for us the walk back was down hill. We all gathered out on the patio (what I think might have once been a pool but was now grass) after diner and enjoyed the cool breeze. A small group of people walked up to the fence and asked if we were Star. It was a group from the Flagstaff chapter who were on a short overnighter through the area. They had seen one of our vests and decided to walk down the street and say hi. I guess Star is everywhere lol. We talked to them for a bit and then one by one we all turned in.

We rode out of Durango and stopped in Cortez for gas and then breakfast – Denny’s is right next door to a Shell station. We all attempted to get breakfast and gas within an hour and we came close. From Cortez we rode down to Four Corners (the place where Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico all meet). All around the monument there are booths where the local Indians sell their jewelry, t-shirts, etc. A few purchases and a few photos and we were off. Back through Kayenta, Az and then back to the scene of the crime – Tuba City. We all had an early lunch and then we were back on the bikes and headed for the Grand Canyon.

Our first stop was at the Watchtower on the south rim of the Grand Canyon. We toured the tower and the viewing area. We then loaded up and moved a bit down the road to second viewing area and took a lot more pictures. One last gas stop in Tusayan – here it was obvious that we were all getting tired and ready to get to the hotel. The day was long and people were starting to drag.

Finally, we arrived in Williams. As we checked in and unloaded we saw a Venture in the parking lot that looked really familiar. Turns out that David Heise, the president of the Flagstaff chapter was passing through and happened to be there. He and Bob ran off and had dinner together. The decision was that were we going no where for dinner. Dinner had to come to us – so we ordered pizza. As usual the group took over the parking lot and sat in a big circle. It was a really great evening. At one point we insisted that Brian Hefter take a group shot of us in the parking lot. We told him he needed to climb up to the second floor to set up the shot, and then he would run down to be in the picture, then we made him do it several more times. Too funny. After a nice evening we all turned in to get ready for the last leg home.

We took off from the hotel at 6:30 and made the big three block ride down to breakfast at the Pine Country Inn. It was there that Joe Magdelano presented me with the Jackalope (you got to see the pictures or the video) for my near miss with the 200 pound jack rabbit on my way up to Silverton.

After gassing up in Williams, we made out way out to Kingman. It was in Kingman that several members decided that they wanted to take a different route home. So we ended up in three groups leaving Kingman – one group was taking the original route home via the 95 through Twenty-nine Palms, another group was taking the 15 through to the 91 and the third group was going through Amboy. Turns out that all three got home about the same time – go figure.

My group (the original route) rode out through Lake Havasu, into Parker were we gassed up. Then out through the oven and 109 degrees to Yucca Valley. Here we got gas and had lunch, then pressed on home. Aside from a few little mishaps, we were all home safe and sound and had a great trip! Can’t wait to go back to Colorado again.

June Chapter Ride - Mt Pinos

There is a lot of history for me in the Mt. Pinos ride. It was my first ride with the chapter and it was my first ride as a ride captain. Because of that I was really excited to go there again. This is not a ride for the casual rider. By the end of the day we would have ridden 385 miles plus over a lot of twisties.

Because of this we started the meeting a little early with lots of info on our ride to Colorado the following week. Three rockers were presented by Glenn Sandstrom: a long deserved Tail Gunner rocker for Ken Indorf, a well deserved Shepherd rocker for Richard Von Luft and an equally well deserved Tail Gunner rocker for Chuck Giambitti. Once the business was completed it was time for the raffle and 50/50. Raffle items were won by Paul McInerny, Glen Sandstrom, Patty Giambitti, Mike Fry, and Ken Indorf and the 50/50 was won by Paul McInerny! Congratulations to everyone!

We split into two groups of ten bikes each with a total of 23 riders. I led group 1 and Ken Indorf led group 2 (he’s training, go Ken). We started off down the 57 to the 22 and before we even got onto the on ramp we were stopped. There had been a truck meets wall issue on the on ramp so we worked to get over to the right hand lane and shortly we were passed the accident and it was smooth sailing. From the 22 we merged onto the 405 N and then up to the 10W and out to the beach. It was a little chilly for a June morning with some low clouds at the beach, but we would be soon moving inland so that was no worry. We followed the coast up to Malibu for our first gas stop, and then up through Ventura and into Oxnard where we merged onto the 33 and out through Ojai. Once we were off of the freeways we started our first set of twisties up through the mountains. Our second gas stop was a very small gas station so we did a gas and go to make room for group 2. We then continued up and over the mountains and finally arrived at Mike’s Pizza in Lake of the Woods.

Lunch was great. If you are ever in the Frazier Park area and want some great pizza, Mike’s is the place. Our group took over the entire restaurant. They were nice enough to send out some fries to each table while we waited and provided a ton of free refills! The pizza was really good – and I hear the salads and calzone were also amazing.

Once we were all fed, we saddled up and started our way up to Mt Pinos. The ride up this mountain is really great, lots of twists and turns and some really awesome views. At the top of the mountain is a big parking lot with a ranger station where we stopped and took a group picture. We then made our way down the mountain and out to Lebec for our last gas stop. We had noticed a little bit of ash from the fires on our bikes when we left the restaurant, but by the time we got to the gas station we were pretty coated. The air was really thick and the smoke was everywhere. The view out towards Lake Hughes was really sad – big orange smoke clouds rising above the mountains.

Mt Pinos is a long ride and makes for a long day. A decision was made to call the ride in Lebec, rather than make our way back to El Torito where we usually end up. This way we could all get home a little earlier. So it was at this time we all said our goodbyes and hugs all around. We stayed in our two groups and followed the 5 down towards the 210. It was really shocking to see the fire on the ridge above us, even saw a few flames. We continued down the 5 to the 210 and onto the 57. From this point members peeled off to make their way home. At the end there were only four of us in group one hitting the 405 north into the beach cities. Still one of my favorite rides!

May Chapter Ride - Tehachapi Loop

The entire week had been exceptionally hot and there were brush fires all over the Southern California area, so I had been concerned that we were in for one long day. But when I got up the temperatures had dropped, none of the fires were in the areas that we would be riding, and it looked like the weather was going to be with us. We arrived at the Starbucks parking lot to find a nice group gathering with 45 people waiting. I was so happy to see Larry Barton there and see that he was doing well. For those of you who don’t know, Larry had a slight issue with a curve to the left and his eyes to the right and his bike found a ditch. Larry was lucky to walk away with no broken bones, just a lot of soreness. During our meeting he kindly stepped up as the poster-child for keeping your eyes on the road! Thank you Larry!

Everyone gathered for the meeting. Discussion on upcoming rides, next month’s ride to Mt Pinos (bring your own lunch), and of course birthdays. The raffle was held and five great raffle prizes were won by Patty, Paul… The 50/50 was again won by Richard “Taz” Green (unbelievable). Taz was nice enough to donate a good portion of his winnings back to the chapter. After the meeting we split up into three groups of 10 riders with myself, Scott, and Terry leading.

Off we went up the 57 to the 210 to our first gas stop in La Canada. Everyone gassed up and then parked under the No Parking sign. Unfortunately it was a one stall restroom, so it took a little time to get everyone in and out of the restroom, but soon enough we were on our way. We made a left and then up through Angeles Crest highway and onto Angeles Forest highway. A nice stretch of twisties to start off the morning. We made it out to the 14 to the 58 and then up to Tehachapi.

Lunch was incredible and I can’t thank the guys at Red Barn BBQ enough for the great deal they gave us. We arrived pretty much all at the same time - 45 people and as we ordered we learned that they were giving us a 10% discount along with an additional 3% if you paid cash! And if that wasn’t enough they brought the food out so fast that they were following people to their seat. As always the BBQ was great and if you ever have a chance, get the mac and cheese – it’s really amazing. Most of the group found seating out on the back patio where the breeze was blowing and the temp was just perfect.

After our lunch we took off for the Tehachapi Loop. We made our way up the mountain through some really nice twists and turns. We parked along the roadside by the two markers and all jumped off and waited for the train.Was one going to show?? We were thrilled when we saw a train making its way into the loop. The engineer was nice enough to blow the horn for us – we all cheered! The loop is a stretch of railroad track that is allows the trains to ascend or descend a rather steep grade in a shorter distance. On the loop the track passes over itself, lessening the grade. The loop gains 77 feet in elevation as the track climbs at a steady 2% grade. A train more than 4,000 feet (1,200 m) long will pass over itself going around the loop. We all grouped together and got a great photo that you can see on our Facebook page and on the front page of the chapter website. Once the train was passed, we all jumped back on our bikes and went back into Tehachapi for gas.

Once we were all filled up we started back down the 58 to the 14 and into Palmdale. Now here is the fun part (not really). We turned onto Avenue D and were hit with incredibly bad winds. If that wasn’t enough we hit a stretch of about 2 miles where dust was included in that wind. One member, without sleeves on, commented that he just got a free dermabrasion. Lol I had to remember to keep my mouth closed or I would be eating a lot of dirt. Thank goodness we made a turn and we were out of the wind and the dust.

We started down Elizabeth Lake Road making our way to Bouquet Canyon. On the pre-ride we had decided to bypass a turn on Fransisquito and down Spunky Canyon road, but I had not updated my GPS. So Group 1 got a little extra ride and it was worth it! We will have to include this road when we ride Bouquet Canyon again in a couple of months. It’s a great set of twisties with a view of the lake that is really spectacular.

We exited back onto Bouquet Canyon road, and were back on track making it past the site of Larry’s little incident and down to the last gas stop. We arrived certain that our little detour had put us way behind the other groups. When we got to the Chevron it was empty so we were certain they had left us. But lo and behold a few moments later both group 2 and 3 arrived and it turned out we had still beaten them there!

We jumped onto the 14 to the 210, the 2, the 134, and back on the 210 to the 57 and back to El Torito. We arrived to see that the Cinco de Quatro party was winding up and after a brief meeting on the Colorado Trip we all got out of there and headed home. Great day – never got above 80 degrees and aside from the little bit of wind and sand was a great success.

Laughlin River Run 2013

Thursday morning started early with all of us meeting at Starbucks about 7am. We started out with 11 bikes and 4 trailers.  After some coffee and discussion we headed off in two groups down the 57 with Scott Hamilton leading group 1 and Dan Dobler leading group 2.  It was a little chilly and cloudy – OK by the time we got onto the 91 out to the 10 it was downright freezing.  We arrived at the Farmhouse for breakfast along with Chapter 500 who had joined us on the freeway just at the exit.  Everyone rushed to get into the building and try to warm up a little.  As always they were really great to us at the Farmhouse; setting us up in the back room and working really hard to get us all served.  Once we all warmed up it was time to get back on the road. 



From the Farmhouse we continued down the 10 to the 62 toward Twenty-nine Palms.  The wind was really blowing at us on our way out past all of the windmills.  I swear I could see my trailer out to the side and we were leaning way over to compensate for the gusts.  It finally calmed down a bit when we got into Yucca Valley.  We made our first gas stop in Twenty-nine Palms and everyone was ready to remove at least one layer.  The cold that we had experienced in the morning was gone and it was warming up nicely. Once we were gassed up and everyone got to the restroom, we were on our way out through Amboy and up onto the National Trails Highway.  

Our last gas stop on the way out was in Needles where we said goodbye to Keith and Stacy Limbach who were headed to their house on the river – we would see them again on Friday morning.  


We pulled into our hotel in Kingman and were greeted by several members who had ridden in earlier in the day.  It’s always good to get to the Days Inn in Kingman.  We are always in the same rooms and same parking spots lol.  Trailers and bikes were unpacked and chairs were setup in the Handicap spot – just as they always are every year.  We all rested and relaxed and rehydrated (at least that’s what I am calling it).  



After a little rest we all made our way down to Dambar & Steakhouse for dinner.  There we were met by Alan and Ginger Cease – nice surprise!  And we were joined by Bob Barbano’s sister Gina (she drove in from Bullhead City) and members from Chapter 500 and 434.  Dambar’s is a rustic place with lots of charm and good food.  We stuffed ourselves with lots of ribs and steak and salads and biscuits.  Once we were full we returned to the Days Inn and to our chairs still in the parking lot, lol.  Alan and Ginger came back to the hotel with us and had so much fun they decided they should join us – they changed hotels!  It was a nice warm evening and everyone hung out and chatted. 



Friday morning we all gathered at 6:30 am for the ride into Laughlin.  If you don’t know, every year Star/Yamaha puts on a breakfast for us, and we ride together into Laughlin in one large group - it is really amazing to see.  As is tradition, we rode up to the top level of the Aquarius Hotel and Casino parking garage.  We were met by Keith and Stacy who had come in for the day.  The breakfast was very nice and there were many raffle prizes won by our group.  Myself, Susan Palaoro, Richard Von Luft, Paul McInerny, Dan Dobler, Howard Montgomery, and Ken Indorf won some great Star stuff (hats, patches, skull caps, etc.).  Paul McInerny was the big winner though – he won the Invicta Reserve watch and case.  Congrats! 

 

After breakfast everyone split up and walked Laughlin looking for deals.  It wasn’t too warm (it was under 100) so it was a nice day to walk.  T-Shirts and bike parts were purchased by various members.  Mostly I think we all go for the people watching which was great as always.  I know we walked to the Pioneer and then took the water taxi back to the Aquarius – if you have done this you should.  $4 each for the ride and it’s worth every penny.  The river is incredible and the view is great.  



Everyone eventually made their way back to the Days Inn.  We setup our chairs and broke out the cold beverages.  Pizza was ordered and delivered right to our parking space.  Later on someone went to Basha’s for ice cream (thanks Bob!).  Another great night sitting with great friends.
  


Saturday the group went over to Cracker Barrel for breakfast before our ride out to the Grand Canyon Caverns and Seligman.  The weather was perfect (in the mid to high 80s).  We rode out the 40 east.  Lots of scenery  - wild horses, cattle, and snakes.   We stopped at our traditional bathroom stop, the Hualapai Information Center, then back on the road to the Caverns.  A few who had been to the Caverns before waited for those of us “brave” enough to take the tour.  A group of us climbed into the small elevator and rode the 200 feet down into the  Caverns.  If you haven’t been there, you really should go.  It’s a very large dry cavern with absolutely no humidity.  Its air comes in from the Grand Canyon, 40 miles away.  You can actually sleep there overnight.  The only thing to note is that there are a lot of steep inclines and stairs, we were all wheezing a little. 


After our tour, we grouped up and continued on to Seligman where we had lunch at Westside Lilo’s.  Really great food in the middle of nowhere.  A few walked across the street to the Road Kill Café to see if they had t-shirts.  After lunch we were back on the road to Kingman.  



After a little rest and hydration, a group gathered to take the annual ride up to the Hualapai Lodge for dinner.  The Hualapai lodge is at the top of the mountain, with a rough parking lot and lots of trees.  Out the back of the restaurant there is a large glass window where you can sometimes see the Elk graze – really cool.  We started out from the hotel up Andy Devine Ave and right on Hualapai Mountain Road.  The road has a lot of nice twists and turns and a lot of wildlife.  As we approached one section of the road we saw several cows and calves along the roadside – this was tricky as at any time one or more of them could bolt across the road….lucky for us this did not happen.  They just stared at us.  We arrived at the restaurant right before sunset.  We were seated in a large room off the side of the restaurant with great views all around.  Several deer were spotted while we waited for our meal.  Dinner was great as always.  While we were eating the sun set, and the sky got dark.  After dinner we made our way through the parking lot in the dark thanks to the light of a few cell phones, we saddled up and started down the mountain.  The best thing about this ride is when you come up over the rise and out of the dark see the lights of Kingman in front of you.  Really great ride. 

Once we all made it back to the hotel it was time to start packing up and getting ready to start home in the morning.  Trailers were hitched and filled. 

Sunday morning we apparently slept through a member of a bike club who was staying on the back of the hotel get arrested for breaking into the hotel office and stealing the monitor from the desk – he also broke a bunch of furniture in his room too.  Who knew! 

Breakfast was again at the Cracker Barrel.  Once we were all fed, we were back to the hotel and finished packing.  Several members had departed the day before or early Sunday morning so we were one group going home with Scott leading.  Thanks Scott!  We started our way down the 40 to the 62, around Lake Havasu and stopped for gas in Parker.  From there it just got hotter and I think hit about 99 to 105 degrees by the time we made our way through Twenty-nine Palms.  We stopped in Yucca Valley for gas and lunch at Carl’s Junior.  Then it was off down the 62 and through the wind again.  We merged onto the 10 to the 91 and then everyone broke off on their way home.  Another successful Chapter overnighter!!!

April Chapter Ride - Joshua Tree/Box Canyon

A perfect day was had by all.  That sums it up. It seems that everyone is getting there earlier and earlier.  Maybe they were really looking forward to the ride – I know I was, the pre-ride was great so I knew it would be a great ride.  It was great to see two new riders (Duane Margut and Steve Dalbey) and Socorro Sandstrum, who was riding with Glenn Sandstrom – oh and Mike Valentine who we haven’t seen for a little while.  All totaled 35 showed up just for the meeting.  

A quick meeting with lots of news.  Chuck Giambitti has stepped down as Chapter Vice-President and Scott Hamilton has graciously stepped in to the position and replacing Scott as Treasurer is Rick Sanecki.  Scott and Rick performed some sort of bump transfer with each other (you had to be there) and all was set.  Evan Brown was presented by Glenn Sandstrom with a long deserved rocker as a Tailgunner.  Congrats everyone on their new positions!  Amazingly, there were no Birthdays this month that anyone would admit to, so we didn’t have to hear ourselves sing.  Lots of news about how we have so many people going on our overnighters that the hotels are selling out.  Going to be great fun.  

A great raffle and 50/50 with Glenn Sandstrom, Mike Fry, Linda Montgomery, Paul McInerny and Richard “Taz” Green winning some really nice raffle gifts. Tod Withey won $49.00 in the 50/50. Congrats!

After a second headcount we broke our 32 riders and 26 bikes into three groups with myself, Scott Hamilton and Dan Dobler leading.  There was some joking that my group was going to Death Valley – wonder if that’s why I had the best group lol.  

We pulled out and headed up the 57 to the 91 and out to the 10 through Banning, then out to the 62 with our first gas stop in Yucca Valley.  When we started out it was a cool 68 degrees, by Yucca Valley it was in the 80’s.  Lots of layers were shed at this gas stop.  We continued down through Yucca Valley, 29 Palms and into Joshua Tree were we stopped at Santana’s Mexican restaurant for lunch.  

I was amazed at how well they handled all of our orders with little issue other than where were the napkins.  The food there is really great.  Mostly though our group was more than entertained by the gumball and goodie machines – many Our Lady of Guadalupe jewelry, temporary tattoos and of course the fake mustaches were purchased.  Now here is where our chapter proves just how much fun we can have.  Both Rick Sanecki and Glenn Sandstrom were brave enough to model the fake mustaches – Rick sporting a short gray mustache which aged him about 30 years and Glenn who put on a black handlebar mustache and added two short black mustaches as eyebrows.  He looked like Super Mario lol.  I haven’t laughed that hard in a really long time.  You need to check out the Facebook page and look at the pictures.  

Now if you rode with us to Vegas for the StarBQ or if you were on the pre-ride you know about the guy in the purple convertible that we always see around Yucca Valley.  Of course we saw him  - actually more of him than we wanted as he decided to strip down to his shorts in the parking lot of the restaurant while we were saddling up.  

Once we were all together we started out into Joshua Tree.  The toll is supposed to be $5 per bike, but they obviously liked the fact that we had several National Park passes in our group and the let us in for $5 total.  We rode about 10 miles into the park and found a great place to stop, park and take pictures.  Could not have asked for a more beautiful day.  Got a great group shot of everyone!  

We continued on through the park and for the most part the road was really great, unfortunately they are doing some road repair and for a good 10-15 miles we were offroading a bit.  Everyone made it through without any issues.  We continued on through the park and then through Box Canyon.  We stopped in Mecca for gas and to see if Glen still had his mustache on – it had melted off since the temps had risen to around 90 degrees.  

Back on the bikes and down the 10 to the 60 to the 57 and back to El Torito!  A little bit of conversation and then the ride was called.   Next stop – Laughlin!!!

March Chapter Ride - Anza Borrego

You all are aware by now that I had my second knee replacement done last week, so obviously I wasn’t riding today’s chapter ride on my bike.  But – I really wanted to… so I decided to follow the group in my truck on the ride, so I didn’t miss anything.  

We could not have asked for a better day, sunshine and a cool breeze.  I arrived early before most anyone else had arrived and was amazed how quickly the Starbuck’s parking lot filled up with riders ready for Anza Borrego.  By the time the meeting had started we had almost 35 bikes and by the end of the meeting the number had risen to 50.  Great turn out for the meeting.

We started the meeting with some business and then welcomed a new rider, Sheila Rae Johnson.  Sheila has been riding for most of her life and after meeting her I am sure she will be a great addition to our group.  We continued with our short meeting announcing upcoming rides and events and some new business.

A great raffle and 50/50 with Patty Giambitti, Barb Sanecki, Luiz Vasquez, Larry Yang, and Doc Thomas winning some really nice raffle gifts. Brian Hefter won $84.00 in the 50/50. Congrats!

After a head count of 47 riders on 39 bikes we decided to break into four groups with Scott Hamilton, Terry Bishop, Dan Dobler, and Richard “Taz” Green as ride captains.  We started out the 57 to the 91 and the 15 south to our first gas stop in Temecula.  From Temecula the group rode down the 15 then out the 79 through Anza Borrego, with one quick gas stop then on to Santa Ysabel for lunch.  

This is the second time we have stopped at the Santa Ysabel Casino for lunch and I can’t say enough about how well we were taken care of there.  They again seated us out on the patio. Great view of Lake Henshaw and Mount Palomar.  The food and service were great too!  To think they seated and served almost 50 of us and we were out of there in an hour.  

From Santa Ysabel the group rode out through Julian and Ramona on the 78.  Then all the way down the 78 to the 5 with a gas stop in Carlsbad.  (I will admit that as I was in the car I did bypass the last gas stop and opted to arrive early at El Torito so I could take pictures of all the groups arriving.) After the gas stop the groups shot right up the 5 to the 57 then back to El Torito.  It was when we got to El Torito that we noticed group 1 was missing a few members.  It appears the Paul McInnerny had a clutch problem and Mike Fry accompanied him to the Harley dealership where he was able to get his bike fixed.  Mike made sure Paul made it to the dealership and was able to fix the bike before he headed up to meet us – great job Mike!  Paul was able to fix his bike with a minor part and all is now good. 

The remaining groups all arrived safely and we started our short post ride meeting.  We again thanked Sheila for joining us and hoped that she will join us again.  We voted in several new members, Joe Magdelano, Frank Alvarez, Jim and Diane Holland, Peter Casey, Fred Lara, and Larry Yang.  Welcome to the chapter guys!

After a brief overview of the upcoming events, the ride was called!  Next – StarBQ!

February Chapter Ride - Mt Helix

Throughout the week I had read all the posts from other chapters (most back east) complaining on the cold and the snow and all the bad weather that was preventing them from getting out on their bikes and taking a great ride.  I am so glad that I live in southern California where even on a bad day we are in warm sunny weather (well usually).  Today’s ride was no exception, the sky was clear with just a few wispy clouds and it was well on its way to being a nice warm day. 

We arrived at our usual Starbucks to already find a group gathered around Rick and Barb Sanecki’s new Victory Vision.  It is a beauty of a bike and I know that by the end of the day we will have helped Rick break that thing in good.  But not only had one member gotten a new ride, but shortly after Mark Pinkney showed up with his new Victory Cross Country (is this a trend?).  Everyone there had to check out every square inch of both bikes  - all jealous and itching to get a new bike too.

Eventually we gathered and had our short meeting, announcing upcoming rides and events, and of course all of our overnighters.  Rockers were presented to Rick and Barb Sanecki as our official Raffle Master and Raffle Ms and a rocker was presented to Scott Hamilton as our new Lead Road Captain.  Also, a Past Officer rocker was presented to Johny Harper as past Sergeant at Arms.  Congrats guys!

A great raffle and 50/50 with Luiz Vazquez, Bob Barbano, Brian Hefter, Patty Giambitti and Angela Brown winning some really nice raffle gifts. Don “Doc” Thomas also won $75.00 in the 50/50.  Again, Congrats!

After a head count of 32 riders on 26 bikes we decided to break into three groups with myself, Scott Hamilton, and Dan Dobler as ride captains.  We started down the 5 freeway, stopping at our favorite rest stop by Camp Pendelton, then on to the 78 and out to Hidden Valley Parkway.  This is a great road with some really nice twisties and some great little drop offs.  Aside from the bicyclists on the road this was a great stretch.  We continued down and then through Wildcat canyon and past the Barona Hotel and Casino (ask me about the Steakhouse there – it’s the greatest). 

The route then took us past Lake Jennings and looped around up to the 8 freeway west.  Just a few miles down and we exited and stopped for Gas.  By the gas stop it had warmed up really nice and our first priority was loosing some layers.  After the gas stop we continued on down Jamacha Road and up to Avocado Boulevard and then Fuerte Drive up to Mt Helix.  The view from the top of the mountain is spectacular.  You are able to see a 360 degree view of all of San Diego.  Unfortunately there is only a little parking lot with a real sharp slope to it so we could only stop for a brief moment for a picture and off we went (didn’t even get off the bikes). 

We made our way back down the mountain and back up Fuerte Drive to the 8 freeway west again.  Finally making our way to lunch at Chili’s in La Mesa.  I have to tell you that I can’t thank Chili’s enough – this one particular Chili’s but also all the Chili’s we have stopped at.  They are always so willing to accommodate us and make sure we are served quickly and even split checks however we need them.  It made for a great lunch experience. 

Once we had all eaten it was time to jump on the bikes and make our way home.  Down the 8 to the 805 north to the 5 north and one last gas stop in San Clemente.  In San Clemente we shared our gas stop with several of the Mongols – ok three.  The look on their faces when 20 plus bikes pulled it was priceless.  They nicely moved their bikes away from the pumps so we could all gas up.  Then it was off up the 5 to the 57 and then to El Torito.

Not until the last leg of the trip did the clouds roll in and we got a little sprinkle – although that could have been someone’s windshield washers, not sure.

We finished up the day by voting in three new members Gary Wiles, Paul McInerny, and Pat Jacques. Congrats to all of you and welcome to Chapter 230. 

And then the ride was called!

January Chapter Ride - USS Iowa

At 6:10 am Saturday morning, Patty Giambitti texted me to tell me it was 39 degrees at her house.  I then looked at my phone and saw it was 37 at my house – this was going to be a really cold morning.  The group at Starbucks was all bundled up in their warmest riding gear ready for the ride.  Since this was the first meeting of the year we had some business to take care of, ride waivers for all and the reading of the Charter.  This was a major feat as we had 49 members attending our meeting – all needing to show proof of insurance, their licenses and registration.  Luckily we were ready and it went pretty smoothly. Thanks to Larry Barton, Chuck Giambitti, and Taz Green for getting all the paperwork done.

We started the year out with a great raffle and 50/50 with Rac Cossart winning the 50/50 and Cindy Reeves, Carol Wolfe, Pattie Giambitti, Glenn Sandstom and Mike Fry taking home the raffle prizes.  Also, thanks to Cindy Reeves for again bringing cookies to the meeting – they were great!

After the meeting we were 37 riders on 32 bikes all eager to go to the USS Iowa so we broke out into three groups with myself, Dan Dobler and Brian Hefter leading three groups.  

The ride was really great.  The day was clear and the views from the Palos Verdes Peninsula were spectacular.  We rode out the 22 to the 405 to the 110 to Pacific Coast Highway and out to the top of the peninsula where we started our way around.  The homes in this area are amazing and the views they have are stunning.  Of course then there was Portuguese Bend – this is an area where the hillside is constantly moving and the road is never the same each time you ride it.  We had fun going up and over the dips and bends.  We then completed our way around the point ending at the Korean Friendship Bell.  This bell was a gift from the sister city of San Pedro following the end of the Korean War.  It sits at the tip of Point Fermin right near the Fort MacArthur Air Force Base.  If you ever want to see a great view of Catalina– this is the place to be.  

From the Korean Bell we continued on to the USS Iowa.  The USS Iowa is a 900-foot, 45,000-ton battleship which served our county for over 50 years.  It has been commissioned and decommissioned three times and can, if needed, be re-commissioned again.  Several of our members served on this ship or one of its sister ships.  The tour included six rather steep stairs – well really ladders which wore everyone out.  

This was a wonderful tour and I am guessing several will return to see more.

We left the USS Iowa which required each bike to go through the gate and pay the parking fee – 32 bikes each stopping to hand the girl $2 – it actually went faster then I thought it would.  Then we were off to lunch.  This required us to travel over the Vincent Thomas bridge (oh I hate bridges) and the Gerald Desmond bridge into Long Beach.  We stopped for Lunch in Shoreline Village at Famous Dave’s.  If you have ever been down there you will know that the only parking is valet – we made a great deal with the parking lot there as they let us park in all the loading ramps for free.  This meant that we were able to park 24 bikes for free and only needed to extra parking spaces for another 8 bikes.  So great.  Famous Dave’s was really great to us accommodating over 30 of our riders with awesome service – we were in and out in a little over an hour.  Great barbeque too!

We left lunch and headed back to El Torito.  Today we were lucky enough to vote in our first Star Kid, Matthew Clark.  Matthew has ridden with us (with his dad Ed Clark) on and off over the last couple of years and we were so happy to vote him in.  Matthew is a great kid – congratulations!  

With the business concluded the ride was called – next month Mt. Helix.