Roll with the changes

It seems like forever since I rode last or posted a blog for that matter. Truth is it's been only 3 weeks, so it is time to update the bike journal. The regular Sunday morning ride was a mixed bag of weather and routes. I awoke at 5:30 am determined to beat John to Von's gas station, our usual meeting place. He is always there before me but today I was earlier. Things were looking up and I was feeling rested and ready to head to the East county.

We barreled down the 52 in pre-dawn darkness. There would be no sunrise today since the clocks sprang forward.The group was going to be light with only 2 others joining us for a ride to Mt. Palomar. Instead of the usual breakfast stop in Ramona it was decided to try a place in Lake Wolford. We encountered light drizzle as we wound our way up to the Lake. I figured it would burn off and not hinder our plans for Mt Palomar. By the time we got outside of Rincon and to the base of the South grade it was obvious we would avoid the slippery conditions and head to Borrego instead. I struggled most of the day to stay on pace and focus on smooth riding. My new helmet was distracting me with excessive wind noise and a less than snug fit. Despite the wet conditions and distractions I was glad to see the familiar Borrego Valley again. The Desert is blooming and we could see fields of yellow on our way to Yaqui pass. Even with the less than ideal conditions I still felt a sense of accomplishment. I am looking forward to next Sunday!

From the Beach to Borrego and back

We changed our normal ride to Mt. Palomar are account of the bicycle race last Sunday. As much as I admire Lance Armstrong, avoiding the traffic snarl was more important. John and I left at 7 a.m. and planned on having breakfast at Potrero. Otay Lakes is a fun section and we enjoyed mild temps. in the 60's. After coffee and gigantic breakfast burritos we were back on the bikes and heading east on the 94. The ride through the Laguna mountains was refreshing. Still plenty of snow from the last storm. Moderate to heavy traffic coupled with debris in the corners slowed our pace as we wound our way to Julian. Pointing our bikes east on Hwy. 78 we headed down the Banner grade. This stretch of pavement is filled with sharp turns, ideal for sport bikes. Blasting through Ranchita in triple digits I was keeping fingers crossed we would not encounter the law.

Aw Ha, there it was! Montezuma grade. I was looking forward to attacking this twisty two lane all morning. John and I matched each other turn for turn and quickly arrived in Borrego Springs.

We took another route back to the beach. In Descanso we topped off the tanks and headed to Japatul road. Other than the annoyance of slow traffic, we enjoyed this Sunday ride.

Mid-week solo ride to the Desert

I needed to bid on painting project in the Coachella Valley today. Rather than be stuck in a "cage" for several hours, I decided to jump on the bike instead. The warm Santa Ana weather is a distant memory and has been replaced with more seasonal temps. Heading out at 8a.m. in low forty degree weather would require some layering. I broke out a mix of snowboard apparel and warm riding gear. I was surprisingly warm rolling up the Interstate 5. It felt good to sneak in a ride when normally I would be spreading paint on a Wednesday morning. Last weekend we got rained out on our usual jaunt to Mt.Palomar so I was eager to get in some saddle time. The freeway portion is monotonous but before I knew I was back on two lane pavement at Temecula. In the back of my mind I was a bit anxious knowing that it snowed several inches in the local mountains. I figured by 9:30 a.m. it would be warm enough to avoid icy conditions. Anza was blanketed with the white stuff and made for a picturesque view on both side of the road. The clean air, light traffic, and scenery was exactly what I needed to clear away the clutter in my mind. I stopped at the top of Hwy. 74 and snapped a quick shot before heading down to the Desert floor. After conducting my business I enjoyed the trip back to the beach. Having an alternative to driving a car will always be a good thing!

Product review: Hein Gericke Hiprotech gloves

Finding a premium racing glove under a hundred dollars can be next to impossible. I stumbled across a rare deal on these racing gloves last week. Browsing around the parts department at Quinsey Motorsports I spotted a few pairs of Hein Gericke gloves. Luckily one of the pairs was a medium.

Hein Gericke is a German company that has been manufacturing riding gear for over 30 years. I was impressed with the overall quality. Pre-curved fingers, carbon fiber knuckles, and dual wrist enclosures are some of the features found in these moto mitts. Break in time was almost non-existent.

The combination of kangaroo and cow hide allow for a supple, comfortable fit. After one 250 mile ride the finger and palm areas stretched into perfect form. Iam a fan of Hein Gericke. I feel like I got great deal on a serious racing glove.

Desert riding memories

The majority of my motorcycle riding experience has been of the off road variety. Living in the Coachella Valley for the past 8 years allowed for some epic desert riding. I quickly met several like minded desert rats. Most Sunday mornings we would gather at places with names like "The Shovel, Squid filter, and Long Canyon. In addition to the usual 30 mile local loop, we would often load up and head to Ocotillo Wells or Glamis. Traveling across the desert landscape with my riding buddies was never dull. We would take turns leading or find a fun track and start pounding out laps. The picture above was taken at S-22 portion of Ocotillo Wells. That particular day was simply outstanding. Our riding group was getting larger, probably 10 regular riders. One of the guys Dad came out and took some photos. We criss-crossed the off road park several times. Nothing compares to a full day riding under the warm desert sun. Right now I have dedicated myself to street riding, somehow I know my dirt days are not over.

Solo ride to the Desert

Every now and then I take a trip alone. I needed to meet with a client in the Coachella Valley today and decided to ride out on the bike. Southern California is still enjoying unseasonably warm temperatures, perfect for two wheel travel. With a fresh Michelin mounted on the rear wheel I rolled out of Pacific Beach at 8 a.m. After getting the freeway portion out of the way I headed East through Temecula. Fairly light traffic meant I was able to click off some fast miles on the 371. After a quick stop in Anza I was anticipating the ride down to Desert floor via Hwy. 74. This particular two lane is among the finest in So Cal for sport bikes. The pavement is uniform and twisties are abundant. With only a few cars to pass I enjoyed the road to myself.

Heading back I stopped at the Vista point to take in the view and chat with some fellow bikers. Absolutely stellar weather accompanied me throughout the day. I arrived home a bit stiff from 2 hours in the saddle. Closing the garage door, one word came to mind. Gratification.

On Sunday we ride

A strong Santa Ana condition created ideal weather for our regular ride to Palomar Mtn. I awoke at 5:30 am feeling well rested and anxious to hit the road. We headed for East County at 6:15. John set a spirited pace down the 52 east. I looked forward to getting to El Cajon and grabbing a cup of Joe while we wait for the usual suspects. On the dot at 7am with all who are going we head to Ramona for breakfast. Wildcat Canyon is the back route to Ramona and a good warm up ride. After my usual spinach omelet we are off to Palomar Mtn.

Feeling relaxed, warm and confident I enjoyed the first half of our trip. We arrive at the Cafe at the top around 9:30. Nick rode up from the desert and continued with our group to Crest, CA. I really love to ride with these guys. It is a no nonsense affair. They ride a a quick pace and I never get tired of watching the bikes in front of me tipping it into the corners.

Arriving back where we started around 1:00 pm just in time to watch the Chargers lose to Pittsburgh. 250 miles added to the odometer, another great Sunday ride.