Another romp in east county

[ampm7_imp]

Just did another 145 miles going on 76 to 79 to S2 through the valley and then a right turn at the "T" going up Banner grade (7 miles and 80+ turns) through Julian and back down 67 to Rancho Bernardo and up 15 to Deer Springs road back to Vista. The bike runs great but my hip and back don't. The Guzzi is more comfortable for longer distance. There is nothing wrong with the bike, it is a very good ride, and the stock suspension is not bad considering the terrible roads here in SoCal. Fuel mileage about 43 that is, twisties including straightaways to 4,000ft. A guy that looked like an older Harley guy in his 60's (like me) complemented me on the bike. He may have had a CB750...

[LongRanger_imp]

Sounds like a great ride. I love S-2. Next time you’re out there, try Japatul Valley Road to Japatul Road (I-8 / Cuyamaca area). It’s great riding and not too far out of your way.

[ampm7_imp]

I've been down that Japatul rd several times in the past with a riding buddy who now resides in Colorado. Out to old "80" and either direction is cool. One ride that I haven't done in a while is through Shelter Valley to Ocotillo. But it is a very scenic ride. I guess the best thing would be to fuel up in Julian then go down Banner Grade taking the right to Shelter Valley and re-fueling at the Chevron station in Ocotillo. Then go to Pine Valley and up to Cuyamaca or over the Sunrise Hwy back to Julian.

[LongRanger_imp]

I don’t know if it’s still there (I left SD in 2002), but the small blue-roofed cafe adjacent to the Chevron station served awesome Mexican food, and it was really reasonable. We’d ride to Ocotillo just for that, and then enjoy S2 and Montezuma Grade. Lots of great riding in East County!

[ampm7_imp]

I second that! Some good roads and not a lot of traffic...