https://cb1100forum.net/forum/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 08:23:58 +0000 MyBB https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14807 Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:00:46 +0000 emptysea]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14807
Cheryl and I would ride north to Baraboo, WI (just a 1/2 hour east of the 2026 Rally site) to pick up 2 of  group of 5 - Glen & Laura.  From Baraboo, the four of us would ride to Bayfield, WI on the shore of Lake Superior where we would meet rider #5 - Mike, who lives in "Upper Lower Michigan and who took the northern route to our rendezvous point.   I guess crossing the sometimes terrifying Mackinaw Bridge was more appealing to him than crossing the sometimes terrifying City of Chicago.

I did something on this trip that I've never done before.   I planned a full day with no riding (gasp!).  I learned on our Scotland motorcycle tour that a day of soaking up the local flavors with no place to be and no time to be there reinvigorated me. I lead a Boy Scout group on a kayak/camping trip to the Apostle Islands and had a wonderful time with my son and the other scouts and dads.  Mike was one of the dads on the trip so i thought it would be great if we all could see a bit of what Mike and I saw albeit from a tour boat and not a kayak.



Ready to go!


Tour of Honor - Beloit, WI



Tour of Honor Park Falls, WI


All arrived in Bayfield, WI


Cute little town -- reminiscent of an east coast fishing town.













]]>
Cheryl and I would ride north to Baraboo, WI (just a 1/2 hour east of the 2026 Rally site) to pick up 2 of  group of 5 - Glen & Laura.  From Baraboo, the four of us would ride to Bayfield, WI on the shore of Lake Superior where we would meet rider #5 - Mike, who lives in "Upper Lower Michigan and who took the northern route to our rendezvous point.   I guess crossing the sometimes terrifying Mackinaw Bridge was more appealing to him than crossing the sometimes terrifying City of Chicago.

I did something on this trip that I've never done before.   I planned a full day with no riding (gasp!).  I learned on our Scotland motorcycle tour that a day of soaking up the local flavors with no place to be and no time to be there reinvigorated me. I lead a Boy Scout group on a kayak/camping trip to the Apostle Islands and had a wonderful time with my son and the other scouts and dads.  Mike was one of the dads on the trip so i thought it would be great if we all could see a bit of what Mike and I saw albeit from a tour boat and not a kayak.



Ready to go!


Tour of Honor - Beloit, WI



Tour of Honor Park Falls, WI


All arrived in Bayfield, WI


Cute little town -- reminiscent of an east coast fishing town.













]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14813 Sun, 28 Jun 2026 21:24:51 +0000 JRD]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14813 Spending a week cruising up north, visiting some friends, feeling mixed feelings about America, and riding back.

Highlights to include cruising up hw1, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, detouring down The Lost Coast to Shelter Cove, and carving through The Avenue of the Giants.

My longest ride since getting the CB about 6 months ago. I’m expecting about 800 miles and 13 hours in the saddle, just getting there and back. Probably a bunch more in day rides while I’m up there. 

The CB is kitted for touring with its windscreen in place, rear rack and saddle bags loaded, highway pegs installed, and GoPro mounted. Ready eat up some miles!

I’ll be back with some updates and photos throughout and after the trip!]]> Spending a week cruising up north, visiting some friends, feeling mixed feelings about America, and riding back.

Highlights to include cruising up hw1, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, detouring down The Lost Coast to Shelter Cove, and carving through The Avenue of the Giants.

My longest ride since getting the CB about 6 months ago. I’m expecting about 800 miles and 13 hours in the saddle, just getting there and back. Probably a bunch more in day rides while I’m up there. 

The CB is kitted for touring with its windscreen in place, rear rack and saddle bags loaded, highway pegs installed, and GoPro mounted. Ready eat up some miles!

I’ll be back with some updates and photos throughout and after the trip!]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14796 Sun, 07 Jun 2026 04:06:12 +0000 rdprdp01]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14796 Briones Regional Park has a rich history, with twists and turns as magnificent as the views. In 1829, Felipe Briones built a home on land he did not own. The Indians he displaced did not attempt to reclaim it. Native Americans understood they could not win a war because the Mexicans were better armed. Instead, they waged guerrilla warfare, allowing Briones to raise cattle and horses, which they often stole with great enthusiasm. They knew the rugged terrain and staged raids with great success. In a fit of desperation, Felipe pursued a group of raiders into the hills to retrieve his stolen animals. The natives seized the moment and killed him. What no one imagined was how formidable his grieving widow, Maria, could be. Within two years of his death, she secured a deed from the Mexican government for the ranch, had that deed validated by the United States Supreme Court in 1860, when California became a state, and found an unspoken détente with the Native Americans that enabled her family to prosper while the Native Americans navigated the complexities of the Mission System, riding "her" horses and eating "her" cattle.

Briones Regional Park is a great motorcycle destination, offering what I consider the best views of the East Bay. You can see incredible 360-degree panoramic views deep into the Sacramento Delta and out to the North Bay. On an exceptionally clear day, the vistas can even extend all the way across the Central Valley to the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains. In the spring, the grasslands are adorned with yellow, purple, and orange wildflowers. Sadly, I am plant-challenged and can’t tell you their names, but I can tell you they are breathtakingly beautiful. Hawks and eagles also make appearances in the early morning and early evening. The land is pristine every day of the year.

There are no pubs or coffee shops or places to eat. If you want to eat, bring snacks. But Briones Regional Park offers walkable trails and fantastic facilities for hikers. The various summits rise 1,000 ft above where you park your motorcycle. Most grades are under 8%, though a few are steeper for brief stretches. The paths twist and turn like the road that leads you there. Essential facilities are clean and functional. In my long history in the East Bay, I have never seen bad behavior from the ranchers, cyclists, hikers, motorcyclists, researchers, and nature lovers who visit regularly. While many people have lost faith in government agencies, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) commands the respect of the citizens it truly serves. It manages over 126,809 acres of parklands across 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and 1,330 miles of trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The district holds a pristine historical legacy as a pioneer in urban land preservation and maintains an exceptional public and financial reputation.

For those who just want a nice ride, there are two ways to reach Briones Regional Park: small country roads with little traffic, or I-680, a major thoroughfare with free express lanes for motorcyclists. Even at 65 MPH, the views are stunning. Your CB1100 will handle either route well. For those inclined to take the rural ride, I recommend resting your hand on the brake lever and keeping a slightly higher RPM than usual. You may need to stop or swerve quickly on narrow roads to accommodate cyclists, animals, and drivers entering the road. For those who prefer the Interstate, I strongly discourage lane splitting on I-680. The Interstate is well maintained, but heavy winds, big trucks, and distracted drivers are common.

I took the rural route to Briones Regional Park to get into the right mindset to experience nature. I returned via I-680 to share with you the Interstate experience and the ease of accessing the Park. As with all things in the East Bay, check your route before you leave. Accidents, crosswinds, heavy trucks, and maintenance can wreak havoc with the best-laid plan. I use 511 Traffic Alert to check current conditions and adjust as necessary.

For those who also want to hike, I have found motorcycle boots adequate because the paths are so well maintained. There are some climbs, but the ascents are less than 1,000 ft. After all, cattle still graze on the Briones Pasture, and true cowboys care for them now just like back in the day. Thankfully, the gunfights have given way to a sense of grandeur. Hope you enjoy the pictures. Ride safe and enjoy your weekend. David


Route




Rural Route









Briones Regional Park



















Park Facilities







I-680 Commute

]]> Briones Regional Park has a rich history, with twists and turns as magnificent as the views. In 1829, Felipe Briones built a home on land he did not own. The Indians he displaced did not attempt to reclaim it. Native Americans understood they could not win a war because the Mexicans were better armed. Instead, they waged guerrilla warfare, allowing Briones to raise cattle and horses, which they often stole with great enthusiasm. They knew the rugged terrain and staged raids with great success. In a fit of desperation, Felipe pursued a group of raiders into the hills to retrieve his stolen animals. The natives seized the moment and killed him. What no one imagined was how formidable his grieving widow, Maria, could be. Within two years of his death, she secured a deed from the Mexican government for the ranch, had that deed validated by the United States Supreme Court in 1860, when California became a state, and found an unspoken détente with the Native Americans that enabled her family to prosper while the Native Americans navigated the complexities of the Mission System, riding "her" horses and eating "her" cattle.

Briones Regional Park is a great motorcycle destination, offering what I consider the best views of the East Bay. You can see incredible 360-degree panoramic views deep into the Sacramento Delta and out to the North Bay. On an exceptionally clear day, the vistas can even extend all the way across the Central Valley to the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains. In the spring, the grasslands are adorned with yellow, purple, and orange wildflowers. Sadly, I am plant-challenged and can’t tell you their names, but I can tell you they are breathtakingly beautiful. Hawks and eagles also make appearances in the early morning and early evening. The land is pristine every day of the year.

There are no pubs or coffee shops or places to eat. If you want to eat, bring snacks. But Briones Regional Park offers walkable trails and fantastic facilities for hikers. The various summits rise 1,000 ft above where you park your motorcycle. Most grades are under 8%, though a few are steeper for brief stretches. The paths twist and turn like the road that leads you there. Essential facilities are clean and functional. In my long history in the East Bay, I have never seen bad behavior from the ranchers, cyclists, hikers, motorcyclists, researchers, and nature lovers who visit regularly. While many people have lost faith in government agencies, the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) commands the respect of the citizens it truly serves. It manages over 126,809 acres of parklands across 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and 1,330 miles of trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. The district holds a pristine historical legacy as a pioneer in urban land preservation and maintains an exceptional public and financial reputation.

For those who just want a nice ride, there are two ways to reach Briones Regional Park: small country roads with little traffic, or I-680, a major thoroughfare with free express lanes for motorcyclists. Even at 65 MPH, the views are stunning. Your CB1100 will handle either route well. For those inclined to take the rural ride, I recommend resting your hand on the brake lever and keeping a slightly higher RPM than usual. You may need to stop or swerve quickly on narrow roads to accommodate cyclists, animals, and drivers entering the road. For those who prefer the Interstate, I strongly discourage lane splitting on I-680. The Interstate is well maintained, but heavy winds, big trucks, and distracted drivers are common.

I took the rural route to Briones Regional Park to get into the right mindset to experience nature. I returned via I-680 to share with you the Interstate experience and the ease of accessing the Park. As with all things in the East Bay, check your route before you leave. Accidents, crosswinds, heavy trucks, and maintenance can wreak havoc with the best-laid plan. I use 511 Traffic Alert to check current conditions and adjust as necessary.

For those who also want to hike, I have found motorcycle boots adequate because the paths are so well maintained. There are some climbs, but the ascents are less than 1,000 ft. After all, cattle still graze on the Briones Pasture, and true cowboys care for them now just like back in the day. Thankfully, the gunfights have given way to a sense of grandeur. Hope you enjoy the pictures. Ride safe and enjoy your weekend. David


Route




Rural Route









Briones Regional Park



















Park Facilities







I-680 Commute

]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14782 Fri, 22 May 2026 01:22:33 +0000 rdprdp01]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14782
Calaveras Road is popular with cyclists and motorcyclists. These two tribes have learned from the past and show mutual respect and consideration for one another. When I ride Calaveras on a road bike or motorcycle, I find myself completely in the moment. As the road winds, it often narrows to a single lane. Most of the road has no shoulder, and even fewer fences. It winds, twists, climbs, and descends as it always has. During the week, cars occasionally use the road when Interstate 680 becomes congested. But during the weekend, the road belongs to those on two wheels. See a few pictures I recently captured and a highlight video my new camera created using its AI Director. If you find yourself in the East Bay on a motorcycle, Calaveras Road is 12 miles worth traversing. Have a great Memorial Day Weekend. David















AI Generated Foolishness
]]>
Calaveras Road is popular with cyclists and motorcyclists. These two tribes have learned from the past and show mutual respect and consideration for one another. When I ride Calaveras on a road bike or motorcycle, I find myself completely in the moment. As the road winds, it often narrows to a single lane. Most of the road has no shoulder, and even fewer fences. It winds, twists, climbs, and descends as it always has. During the week, cars occasionally use the road when Interstate 680 becomes congested. But during the weekend, the road belongs to those on two wheels. See a few pictures I recently captured and a highlight video my new camera created using its AI Director. If you find yourself in the East Bay on a motorcycle, Calaveras Road is 12 miles worth traversing. Have a great Memorial Day Weekend. David















AI Generated Foolishness
]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14754 Tue, 05 May 2026 15:45:12 +0000 Django]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14754
I’m very happy to announce another road trip to North America—this time to Canada.

The idea actually came from Peter Baron after I mentioned some concerns about visiting the U.S. at the moment (reasons beyond the scope of this forum). He kindly invited me to join him on a road trip from Toronto to the Atlantic Ocean—just think about that! It’s amazing how this forum connects real people in real life. You really do meet the nicest people on a Honda!
After a bit of planning, we found a two-week window at the end of June. 

So far, I’ve:

• applied for an eTA
  
• booked my flight from Germany to Toronto
  
• put down a deposit on a rental bike in Toronto—a BMW F750GS
  

With the little Beemer, I hope I can keep up with Peter ?

Since we have so many friends here on the forum, we thought it would be great to share our adventure with you and let you come along for the ride.
We’re planning a mix of day trips and one longer ride out to the Atlantic coast—details are still coming together.

Many thanks to Peter for making this possible!

Looking forward to sharing this adventure with you.]]>
I’m very happy to announce another road trip to North America—this time to Canada.

The idea actually came from Peter Baron after I mentioned some concerns about visiting the U.S. at the moment (reasons beyond the scope of this forum). He kindly invited me to join him on a road trip from Toronto to the Atlantic Ocean—just think about that! It’s amazing how this forum connects real people in real life. You really do meet the nicest people on a Honda!
After a bit of planning, we found a two-week window at the end of June. 

So far, I’ve:

• applied for an eTA
  
• booked my flight from Germany to Toronto
  
• put down a deposit on a rental bike in Toronto—a BMW F750GS
  

With the little Beemer, I hope I can keep up with Peter ?

Since we have so many friends here on the forum, we thought it would be great to share our adventure with you and let you come along for the ride.
We’re planning a mix of day trips and one longer ride out to the Atlantic coast—details are still coming together.

Many thanks to Peter for making this possible!

Looking forward to sharing this adventure with you.]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14686 Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:14:52 +0000 emptysea]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14686
I have a nasty head cold and cannot ride.  

That is all.]]>
I have a nasty head cold and cannot ride.  

That is all.]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14679 Sat, 07 Feb 2026 05:23:48 +0000 JRD]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14679
Meet you at Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline at 3:00pm? We’ll get a beer and kick the tires before looping back to our respective home bases.]]>
Meet you at Alice’s Restaurant on Skyline at 3:00pm? We’ll get a beer and kick the tires before looping back to our respective home bases.]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14675 Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:12:59 +0000 Cormanus]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14675
Day 1
Brisbane to Walcha

Click on the image for a scrollable map

While I had a constant battle with the onsie in 2025, and even though he had to don wet weather gear once, AussieFlyer apparently enjoyed himself and was keen to ride again. And so, late in 2025, I made a vague attempt to gather a modest group of CB1100 riders: AussieFlyer, Pterodactyl, noroomtomove.

The plan was for Pterodactyl and AussieFlyer to meet in Omeo in mid January and ride north together. I'd ride south and we'd meet somewhere around Walcha and ride the Oxley Highway, before continuing south. Pterodactyl would peel off to Sydney while AussieFlyer and I would keep going to ride some mountain country in New South Wales and Victoria, hooking up with noroomtomove somewhere along the way.

Did it work? Of course not.

Ridiculous heat and bushfires in northern Victoria combined with a family matter prevented AussieFlyer and Pterodactyl meeting. Rain in Queensland and into New South Wales, combined with a general reluctance to have to have a constant battle with the onsie, delayed my start.

Pterodactyl had a pleasant solo ride and teased us with occasional vignettes and pictures.

Five days later than planned, I headed south, planning to meet AussieFlyer in Boorowa at the end of my day 3.

I left early and, nastily perhaps, enjoyed the view of the commuter traffic heading the opposite way.


What to do? I could take the New England Highway, although I knew there were extensive roadworks over Cunninghams Gap which I was keen to avoid. Or I could take the road oft travelled over the border to Kyogle, along the Summerland Way to the delightful Grafton-Armidale Road.

I did none of those. Instead, I took the uninspiring Ipswich Motorway, turned onto the Warrego Highway and rode to Gatton where I filled the tank and set off on a lovely ride through Ma Ma Creek, West Haldon and Pilton which, from a very flat start, turns into a pleasant climb onto the Downs. Now I think about it, I rode home that way after the great onsie ride.

Leaving Gatton

A cutting on the way up the hill

Another part of the ride

Up on the Downs

Thence around Warwick to Stanthorpe where I had coffee and filled the fuel tank before setting off on the ride to Texas which I always find entertaining. It didn't disappoint.

On the road to Texas

Then a new road: to Inverell via Ashford. Not so many twists and turns, but very little traffic which is always a winner with me. I stopped for more fuel, coffee and a bite to eat in Inverell before heading south with a plan to ride to Bendemeer and then Tamworth where I'd stop for the night.

Taking a break at Inverell

I've often described Thunderbolts Way from Walcha to Gloucester. It's a favourite ride with a fast northern section leading through farm and forestry land to a steep and entertaining descent into Gloucester. However, Thunderbolts Way continues north west to Inverell and I headed out along the start of the section to Uralla before leaving it at Bundarra. It was lots of fun: quick with long sweeping corners. I'll go back and ride the rest of it to Uralla sometime in the future.

I rode through the tiny hamlet of Kingston and was almost immediately confronted by a dirt road.

The start of the dirt at Kingston

Ever since an adventure in 2024 (see this report) I've been very leery of dirt roads, particularly on my own. Indeed, as I sat looking at it, I decided it was the other end of a dirt road that Pterodactyl and I baulked at on an earlier ride — see Day 2 of this report.

So, slightly reluctantly, I turned around and made my way along a sealed road to Uralla. Somewhere along the way I decided that Walcha meant little time on the highway so I rode there and checked into the Apsley Arms Hotel. Lucky, too, as the huge, annual country music festival was on in Tamworth and I'd've been bunking down in a stable somewhere. If I was lucky.

---

21 January 2026

Day 2
Walcha to Rylstone

Click on the image for a scrollable map

Even in summer, riding in New England is decidedly cool in the morning and I was pleased I'd packed my warm gear. I set off south along Thunderbolts Way. The road's in good condition and undulates a little as it passes through cleared farming land. It's a quick ride with little traffic to worry about.

I fully intended to turn off onto the Topdale Road and head down off the range towards Dungowan. My plan was to ride sou-sou-west to the Bylong Valley via some back roads alongside the New England Highway.

But, as with all Cormanus' plans, the cement failed to cure and I got to Topdale Road and stayed on Thunderbolts Way to Gloucester. Patches of forest — some natural, some planted — start to appear and the undulations increase.

Thunderbolts Way

On a section of the road known as the Mares Run is the Pioneer Lookout, where I stopped for a photo opportunity.




After that, there's a very steep descent with a lovely sign warning drivers of automatic vehicles that hot brakes fail. The road then flattens before running through bush along beside the Manning River and then through farmland for the final run into Gloucester.

I didn't need to stop for fuel so I kept going. At Dungog I had coffee and bought petrol. I'm happy to report that the road surface at the southern end of Thunderbolts Way, and for much of the road into Dungog is in much better condition than last time I rode them. Indeed, Dungog has always been my benchmark for just how bad a road surface can get!

The ride from Dungog to East Gresford to Singleton is wonderful. It starts with some hills and a pretty ride along a ridge, before descending into East Gresford and a plain which proves an entertaining run. I like these roads, not because they're full of endless twists and turns — they're not; or because the surface is brilliant so I can strap on the leather hemlet and goggles and ride like the boy racer — because it's not; but because they're scenic enough to be interesting, have enough turns and undulations (and bumps) to keep a bloke interested and awake and because there's very little traffic on them.

Between Dungog and Singleton

I paused briefly at Jerrys Plains to drink lots of water — it had become hot — and to recalculate my route to get off the highway. There's a much more agreeable back road through Doyles Creek and Bureen which got me to Denman where I paused for water, coffee, food and petrol for the bike.

The first time I went to Denman was in 2014 on my second or third serious ride on the CB1100. I rode to Sydney, joined Pterodactyl and Jalalski and we went to Phillip Island for the MotoGP. Sadly the pictures no longer appear, but the report is here. I mention it because there was dirt on the quickest route from Denman through Yarrawa to the Bylong Valley. I glossed over it at the time, but it was nasty, slippery dirt which took one over a not inconsequential hill, and I didn't like it at all. Happily, the road is now sealed and lovely. What a difference 12 years and some bitumen makes.

As for the Bylong Valley Way, what can I say? The surface is variable; it can be hot — as it was this day; but it's pretty, has variable scenery, two lovely hills and very little traffic. What's not to like?

After joining it, the road runs past small escarpments, but one reasonably quickly arrives at a hill which offers an interesting climb with a couple of very tight corners, before one descends into a steepish, bushy valley for a couple of kilometres. There's a similar hill at the other end of the valley, so it always feels to me like I've arrived in a sort of secret valley protected on all sides by hills. It reminds me of a 19th century Australian novel, Robbery Under Arms where Captain Starlight's gang took their stolen horses to a lush hidden valley. I gather from the Wikipedia article that the valley is thought to be based on a sunken valley further north in the Gwydir region of NSW, another favourite riding area.

Northern end of the Bylong Valley. The grass in the paddocks is in good conditions, but the hills are showing signs of recent fires

Start of the first hill climb

The copious quantities of water I'd consumed took their toll and I needed to stop in Bylong. I parked the bike in the shade outside the Bylong General Store. In the time before COVID, this was an excellent place to stop for a cup of tea and a tank of petrol, but no more. It's firmly closed. A great pity. There's an adjacent caravan park, facilities for a roadside stop and, apparently the locals like it. A woman giving her child a run in the playground told me the store had been bought by a mining company which wanted a 'too much' for the lease and was refusing to do much of the maintenance necessary to make the business viable.

Outside the Bylong General Store

A quality piece of agricultural equipment on display in the public space opposite the store

Biology and thirst both assuaged, I climbed aboard again for the final 51 kilometres to Rylstone. Happily, the second — and, in my view, better — of the hill passages required negotiation before I got there.

A good road surface can never be a bad thing and it's good to see money being spent on it

The surface used to be more like this

I like the escarpments that can be seen in the great Dividing Range west of Sydney

The approach to the hills at the southern end of the valley

Following a recommendation from Pterodactyl, I spent a comfortable night in the bike-friendly, Bowles-Inn Family Hotel in Rylstone. There was even a lock-up shed for the bike.]]>
Day 1
Brisbane to Walcha

Click on the image for a scrollable map

While I had a constant battle with the onsie in 2025, and even though he had to don wet weather gear once, AussieFlyer apparently enjoyed himself and was keen to ride again. And so, late in 2025, I made a vague attempt to gather a modest group of CB1100 riders: AussieFlyer, Pterodactyl, noroomtomove.

The plan was for Pterodactyl and AussieFlyer to meet in Omeo in mid January and ride north together. I'd ride south and we'd meet somewhere around Walcha and ride the Oxley Highway, before continuing south. Pterodactyl would peel off to Sydney while AussieFlyer and I would keep going to ride some mountain country in New South Wales and Victoria, hooking up with noroomtomove somewhere along the way.

Did it work? Of course not.

Ridiculous heat and bushfires in northern Victoria combined with a family matter prevented AussieFlyer and Pterodactyl meeting. Rain in Queensland and into New South Wales, combined with a general reluctance to have to have a constant battle with the onsie, delayed my start.

Pterodactyl had a pleasant solo ride and teased us with occasional vignettes and pictures.

Five days later than planned, I headed south, planning to meet AussieFlyer in Boorowa at the end of my day 3.

I left early and, nastily perhaps, enjoyed the view of the commuter traffic heading the opposite way.


What to do? I could take the New England Highway, although I knew there were extensive roadworks over Cunninghams Gap which I was keen to avoid. Or I could take the road oft travelled over the border to Kyogle, along the Summerland Way to the delightful Grafton-Armidale Road.

I did none of those. Instead, I took the uninspiring Ipswich Motorway, turned onto the Warrego Highway and rode to Gatton where I filled the tank and set off on a lovely ride through Ma Ma Creek, West Haldon and Pilton which, from a very flat start, turns into a pleasant climb onto the Downs. Now I think about it, I rode home that way after the great onsie ride.

Leaving Gatton

A cutting on the way up the hill

Another part of the ride

Up on the Downs

Thence around Warwick to Stanthorpe where I had coffee and filled the fuel tank before setting off on the ride to Texas which I always find entertaining. It didn't disappoint.

On the road to Texas

Then a new road: to Inverell via Ashford. Not so many twists and turns, but very little traffic which is always a winner with me. I stopped for more fuel, coffee and a bite to eat in Inverell before heading south with a plan to ride to Bendemeer and then Tamworth where I'd stop for the night.

Taking a break at Inverell

I've often described Thunderbolts Way from Walcha to Gloucester. It's a favourite ride with a fast northern section leading through farm and forestry land to a steep and entertaining descent into Gloucester. However, Thunderbolts Way continues north west to Inverell and I headed out along the start of the section to Uralla before leaving it at Bundarra. It was lots of fun: quick with long sweeping corners. I'll go back and ride the rest of it to Uralla sometime in the future.

I rode through the tiny hamlet of Kingston and was almost immediately confronted by a dirt road.

The start of the dirt at Kingston

Ever since an adventure in 2024 (see this report) I've been very leery of dirt roads, particularly on my own. Indeed, as I sat looking at it, I decided it was the other end of a dirt road that Pterodactyl and I baulked at on an earlier ride — see Day 2 of this report.

So, slightly reluctantly, I turned around and made my way along a sealed road to Uralla. Somewhere along the way I decided that Walcha meant little time on the highway so I rode there and checked into the Apsley Arms Hotel. Lucky, too, as the huge, annual country music festival was on in Tamworth and I'd've been bunking down in a stable somewhere. If I was lucky.

---

21 January 2026

Day 2
Walcha to Rylstone

Click on the image for a scrollable map

Even in summer, riding in New England is decidedly cool in the morning and I was pleased I'd packed my warm gear. I set off south along Thunderbolts Way. The road's in good condition and undulates a little as it passes through cleared farming land. It's a quick ride with little traffic to worry about.

I fully intended to turn off onto the Topdale Road and head down off the range towards Dungowan. My plan was to ride sou-sou-west to the Bylong Valley via some back roads alongside the New England Highway.

But, as with all Cormanus' plans, the cement failed to cure and I got to Topdale Road and stayed on Thunderbolts Way to Gloucester. Patches of forest — some natural, some planted — start to appear and the undulations increase.

Thunderbolts Way

On a section of the road known as the Mares Run is the Pioneer Lookout, where I stopped for a photo opportunity.




After that, there's a very steep descent with a lovely sign warning drivers of automatic vehicles that hot brakes fail. The road then flattens before running through bush along beside the Manning River and then through farmland for the final run into Gloucester.

I didn't need to stop for fuel so I kept going. At Dungog I had coffee and bought petrol. I'm happy to report that the road surface at the southern end of Thunderbolts Way, and for much of the road into Dungog is in much better condition than last time I rode them. Indeed, Dungog has always been my benchmark for just how bad a road surface can get!

The ride from Dungog to East Gresford to Singleton is wonderful. It starts with some hills and a pretty ride along a ridge, before descending into East Gresford and a plain which proves an entertaining run. I like these roads, not because they're full of endless twists and turns — they're not; or because the surface is brilliant so I can strap on the leather hemlet and goggles and ride like the boy racer — because it's not; but because they're scenic enough to be interesting, have enough turns and undulations (and bumps) to keep a bloke interested and awake and because there's very little traffic on them.

Between Dungog and Singleton

I paused briefly at Jerrys Plains to drink lots of water — it had become hot — and to recalculate my route to get off the highway. There's a much more agreeable back road through Doyles Creek and Bureen which got me to Denman where I paused for water, coffee, food and petrol for the bike.

The first time I went to Denman was in 2014 on my second or third serious ride on the CB1100. I rode to Sydney, joined Pterodactyl and Jalalski and we went to Phillip Island for the MotoGP. Sadly the pictures no longer appear, but the report is here. I mention it because there was dirt on the quickest route from Denman through Yarrawa to the Bylong Valley. I glossed over it at the time, but it was nasty, slippery dirt which took one over a not inconsequential hill, and I didn't like it at all. Happily, the road is now sealed and lovely. What a difference 12 years and some bitumen makes.

As for the Bylong Valley Way, what can I say? The surface is variable; it can be hot — as it was this day; but it's pretty, has variable scenery, two lovely hills and very little traffic. What's not to like?

After joining it, the road runs past small escarpments, but one reasonably quickly arrives at a hill which offers an interesting climb with a couple of very tight corners, before one descends into a steepish, bushy valley for a couple of kilometres. There's a similar hill at the other end of the valley, so it always feels to me like I've arrived in a sort of secret valley protected on all sides by hills. It reminds me of a 19th century Australian novel, Robbery Under Arms where Captain Starlight's gang took their stolen horses to a lush hidden valley. I gather from the Wikipedia article that the valley is thought to be based on a sunken valley further north in the Gwydir region of NSW, another favourite riding area.

Northern end of the Bylong Valley. The grass in the paddocks is in good conditions, but the hills are showing signs of recent fires

Start of the first hill climb

The copious quantities of water I'd consumed took their toll and I needed to stop in Bylong. I parked the bike in the shade outside the Bylong General Store. In the time before COVID, this was an excellent place to stop for a cup of tea and a tank of petrol, but no more. It's firmly closed. A great pity. There's an adjacent caravan park, facilities for a roadside stop and, apparently the locals like it. A woman giving her child a run in the playground told me the store had been bought by a mining company which wanted a 'too much' for the lease and was refusing to do much of the maintenance necessary to make the business viable.

Outside the Bylong General Store

A quality piece of agricultural equipment on display in the public space opposite the store

Biology and thirst both assuaged, I climbed aboard again for the final 51 kilometres to Rylstone. Happily, the second — and, in my view, better — of the hill passages required negotiation before I got there.

A good road surface can never be a bad thing and it's good to see money being spent on it

The surface used to be more like this

I like the escarpments that can be seen in the great Dividing Range west of Sydney

The approach to the hills at the southern end of the valley

Following a recommendation from Pterodactyl, I spent a comfortable night in the bike-friendly, Bowles-Inn Family Hotel in Rylstone. There was even a lock-up shed for the bike.]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14653 Wed, 14 Jan 2026 20:44:56 +0000 emptysea]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14653
I am organizing my little (3 couples/6 bikes) MC group's annual trip.   This year, I've decided on going north, through Wisconsin, west to Minnesota and north and east in Canada along the shores of Lake Superior.  We'd return through the UP of MI and then back south to Illinois.  

I have most of the Wisconsin routes all planned out, having ridden enough in the area.   I need a little help, though, with things to do (hiking, fly fishing, kayaking), places to see (lighthouses, other points of interest), good lodging, and great food once we cross into Canada.  As this is a special trip in celebration of Cheryl's 60th birthday, I'd like to include at least a few stays in what might be called deluxe accommodations and certainly want to avoid any of those places with buzzing fluorescent lights in the bathroom (you know the type of place).    Has anyone taken a trip along that section of Highway 17?  I would love any feedback, positive or otherwise.  

Also, The Ferret has connected me with some articles on the area from Roadrunner, so I'm good on that front.  

Thank you all in advance.

MTC]]>
I am organizing my little (3 couples/6 bikes) MC group's annual trip.   This year, I've decided on going north, through Wisconsin, west to Minnesota and north and east in Canada along the shores of Lake Superior.  We'd return through the UP of MI and then back south to Illinois.  

I have most of the Wisconsin routes all planned out, having ridden enough in the area.   I need a little help, though, with things to do (hiking, fly fishing, kayaking), places to see (lighthouses, other points of interest), good lodging, and great food once we cross into Canada.  As this is a special trip in celebration of Cheryl's 60th birthday, I'd like to include at least a few stays in what might be called deluxe accommodations and certainly want to avoid any of those places with buzzing fluorescent lights in the bathroom (you know the type of place).    Has anyone taken a trip along that section of Highway 17?  I would love any feedback, positive or otherwise.  

Also, The Ferret has connected me with some articles on the area from Roadrunner, so I'm good on that front.  

Thank you all in advance.

MTC]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14645 Sun, 04 Jan 2026 16:36:50 +0000 rdprdp01]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14645
The Summit Museum sits atop an ancient mountain that provides what I consider to be the most spectacular views in the East Bay.

A detailed history of Mount Diablo and the Protected Park which now surrounds has been published to YouTube:



I suspect I am the only old nerd on this Forum whereas the rest of you are the coolest motorcycle riders in the world,  who would invest the 25 minutes to watch it in its entirety. 

As it exists today, here is a quick snapshot:

• Mount Diablo is 3,800 ft high.
  
• It is nestled in a Protected Park and will be preserved forever.
  
• There are five entry ways into the Park which will ultimately reach the Visitor Center on the Mountain Summit. The North Gate is the most motorcycle friendly.
  
• Mount Diablo is a peaceful placed, shared by hikers, cyclists, motorcyclists, campers, equestrians, environmentalists, students, and the surviving wildlife.
  
• I have ridden my bicycle and motorcycle several times to the summit. Each time I returned slightly different and always in a better state of mind.
  

Here are a few pictures I took in 2025 when I visited last:







As it relates to motorcycling, the North Gate ascent is one of the greatest twisty rides which can be found in North America. Although far less known than the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina, the turns and views are similar. Alhtough I suspect it is local pride gone too far, some local motorcyclists claim that there are 365 turns from the base of the mountain to the summit, one for each day of the year.



The road is a two lane road which requires as much skill to go slow up a mountain as it does to carve up a canyon at speed. Here are a few pictures I took along the way:









Following the Spring Rain in April, I will ride Mount Diablo again. If you are the East Bay, you are welcomed to join me. I will publish a date on the calendar in March. For now, please consider the possibilities. Ride safe and find your special place. I have found mine. David]]>
The Summit Museum sits atop an ancient mountain that provides what I consider to be the most spectacular views in the East Bay.

A detailed history of Mount Diablo and the Protected Park which now surrounds has been published to YouTube:



I suspect I am the only old nerd on this Forum whereas the rest of you are the coolest motorcycle riders in the world,  who would invest the 25 minutes to watch it in its entirety. 

As it exists today, here is a quick snapshot:

• Mount Diablo is 3,800 ft high.
  
• It is nestled in a Protected Park and will be preserved forever.
  
• There are five entry ways into the Park which will ultimately reach the Visitor Center on the Mountain Summit. The North Gate is the most motorcycle friendly.
  
• Mount Diablo is a peaceful placed, shared by hikers, cyclists, motorcyclists, campers, equestrians, environmentalists, students, and the surviving wildlife.
  
• I have ridden my bicycle and motorcycle several times to the summit. Each time I returned slightly different and always in a better state of mind.
  

Here are a few pictures I took in 2025 when I visited last:







As it relates to motorcycling, the North Gate ascent is one of the greatest twisty rides which can be found in North America. Although far less known than the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina, the turns and views are similar. Alhtough I suspect it is local pride gone too far, some local motorcyclists claim that there are 365 turns from the base of the mountain to the summit, one for each day of the year.



The road is a two lane road which requires as much skill to go slow up a mountain as it does to carve up a canyon at speed. Here are a few pictures I took along the way:









Following the Spring Rain in April, I will ride Mount Diablo again. If you are the East Bay, you are welcomed to join me. I will publish a date on the calendar in March. For now, please consider the possibilities. Ride safe and find your special place. I have found mine. David]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14613 Fri, 28 Nov 2025 06:26:21 +0000 rdprdp01]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14613

Today, I set aside time to ride my CB1100 to the Niles Canyon Train Station in Sunol, CA.

Here is a brief history of the Niles Canyon Train Station:

• The first railroad construction through Niles Canyon was started by the Western Pacific Railroad Company in 1866.
  
• The Central Pacific completed the transcontinental link to the San Francisco Bay via the Canyon in September 1869.
  
• This line was the final segment connecting the San Francisco Bay Area to the rest of the United States and was considered a major engineering feat upon completion.
  
• The rail line running through Niles Canyon was the primary route for overland traffic to and from the San Francisco Bay.
  
• The decline in San Francisco's status as a port and the advent of Interstate highways left the railroad through Niles Canyon with little business.
  
• In 1984, Union Pacific deeded the remaining tracks, locomotive, rail cars, and depots to Alameda County. All had been neglected during the slow death of the railway.
  
• The Pacific Locomotive Association (PLA) leased the right of way from the County and began working to reconstruct the track in 1987 to build a "living" museum.
  
• All work is done by volunteers and funded through donations.
  
• Diesel and Steam Power Locomotives operate throughout the year, carrying passengers from Sunol to Fremont. PLA continues to work on restoration of the track with hopes of extending the line to Pleasanton.
  

From my home in California, it is 20 miles round trip to the Station:



I have ridden to the Train Station on my CB1100 and my Bianca Road Bike many times. With each mile logged, I travel back in time. The two-lane, twisty-road is smooth and has little traffic. The views are breathtaking:


















Wildlife magically appears no matter the season. Today, eagles greeted me at the Train Station:





And playful alpacas bid me farewell on my return home:







It was a wonderful ride. I hope this Thread does it justice. Enjoy your weekend. Happy Thanksgiving.]]>

Today, I set aside time to ride my CB1100 to the Niles Canyon Train Station in Sunol, CA.

Here is a brief history of the Niles Canyon Train Station:

• The first railroad construction through Niles Canyon was started by the Western Pacific Railroad Company in 1866.
  
• The Central Pacific completed the transcontinental link to the San Francisco Bay via the Canyon in September 1869.
  
• This line was the final segment connecting the San Francisco Bay Area to the rest of the United States and was considered a major engineering feat upon completion.
  
• The rail line running through Niles Canyon was the primary route for overland traffic to and from the San Francisco Bay.
  
• The decline in San Francisco's status as a port and the advent of Interstate highways left the railroad through Niles Canyon with little business.
  
• In 1984, Union Pacific deeded the remaining tracks, locomotive, rail cars, and depots to Alameda County. All had been neglected during the slow death of the railway.
  
• The Pacific Locomotive Association (PLA) leased the right of way from the County and began working to reconstruct the track in 1987 to build a "living" museum.
  
• All work is done by volunteers and funded through donations.
  
• Diesel and Steam Power Locomotives operate throughout the year, carrying passengers from Sunol to Fremont. PLA continues to work on restoration of the track with hopes of extending the line to Pleasanton.
  

From my home in California, it is 20 miles round trip to the Station:



I have ridden to the Train Station on my CB1100 and my Bianca Road Bike many times. With each mile logged, I travel back in time. The two-lane, twisty-road is smooth and has little traffic. The views are breathtaking:


















Wildlife magically appears no matter the season. Today, eagles greeted me at the Train Station:





And playful alpacas bid me farewell on my return home:







It was a wonderful ride. I hope this Thread does it justice. Enjoy your weekend. Happy Thanksgiving.]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14562 Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:59:40 +0000 Lunchbag]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14562
The morning star greeted me as I rolled east for a mile before turning Northwest.  It was a clear morning, and I didn't have to battle with a fogged visor.  After turning south on 301, I remembered to stop and get a photo with the T-rex, an opportunity I missed last time.  The other thing I remembered this time was my transponder, which was packed in my bag and would save me a buck fifty on the bridge if it worked.


  PXL_20251009_111852049.jpeg (Size: 988.31 KB / Downloads: 80)

I rolled over the bridge and the wind was no concern at all.  The sun was up now, and it reflected in the mirrors.  I was happy for the sunshine, as it was a cool morning.  I had extra layers on top and bottom.  I took the curvy road to Fredericksburg and stopped at the same bakery as last time.  After one savory and one sweet croissant, and a cup of coffee, I continued west.


  PXL_20251009_123900346.jpeg (Size: 1.09 MB / Downloads: 80)


  PXL_20251009_122333449.jpeg (Size: 1,001.78 KB / Downloads: 77)

This time I went through Culpepper, avoiding the main road by taking a parallel street.  I rolled through Sperryville and stopped for a break in Luray.  I bought a cup of coffee in a shop called Broad Porch.  It doesn't actually have a porch at all, but it has a small deck in the back overlooking the creek that runs through town.  I relaxed and took a long phone call.  That delayed my trip a bit, but the great thing about having no real destination or schedule is that you're never really lost or late.


  PXL_20251009_151621274.jpeg (Size: 1,016.78 KB / Downloads: 76)


  PXL_20251009_142818535-EDIT.jpeg (Size: 1.19 MB / Downloads: 76)

I took 675 out of town, keen to try a new route over the next two ridges.  The road condition was decent.  At the top of the first ridge there appeared to be a scenic view, but cars were parked too tightly to fit a motorcycle in between, so I rolled on.  I passed through Edinburg and found myself behind a truck full of USDA-approved cluckers stacked to thirteen-nine.  Fortunately this wasn't Wolf Creek Pass and the truck turned off without incident.

After the next ridge I cruised into Wardensville, taking a couple of minutes to check out the town before exiting westward.  An old man walking on the sidewalk gave me a thumbs up.  On 48 west of town, the road turned into a four-lane divided highway.  I stopped at a place labeled "scenic view," thinking I had not taken many photos so far.  But it was less scenic than everything else I had seen that day, so I departed without even putting my feet down.

I grabbed a milkshake in Moorefield and moved on through Parkersburg, where I had stayed overnight on a trip last March.  South on 28 past a bunch of cabins and lodges on a fly-fishing river, then right at Yokum's and on to Elkins via 33.  I stopped at Elkins to call a couple hotels in Sutton, because I did not want to venture that far and find nothing available.  Good thing I called, because nothing was available.


  PXL_20251009_182640236.jpeg (Size: 1.22 MB / Downloads: 76)

I decided Buckhannon, WV would be my destination and I rode 48 there.  I found myself somewhat unenthusiastic at the end of the day.  Perhaps finishing the ride on a long stretch of divided highway, and finding the hills dully colored in mid-October was not what I had envisioned.  I thought, what am I doing here?  Maybe I am just wasting my time.  But my attitude was remediated after I found a clean hotel, a tasty dinner, and a beer.  When the hotel clerk heard that I was motorcycling for no good reason, he recommended I take 20 south in the morning, which was already my plan.


  PXL_20251009_222310186.jpeg (Size: 1.39 MB / Downloads: 78)

In Buckhannon, the DQ is closed in October.


  PXL_20251009_222044052.jpeg (Size: 997.22 KB / Downloads: 77)

I woke early the next morning.  I realized I hadn't checked my tire pressures before the trip, so I went out and found them 4-5 psi low.  I wiped the dew off the bike and actually took the seat back into my room so it wouldn't get wet again while I suited up.  I aired up the tires before leaving town, paying for air for the first time in my life.

I was surprised to hit a little traffic leaving town, but I shouldn't have been.  I had forgotten that some people have to go to work and school on Friday.  I passed a place called the Clutter funeral home.  It struck me that funeral homes always have the oddest names, my personal favorite being the Nash and Slaw funeral home in VA.  South of town I saw a sign that said Adrian Water Board.  I don't normally go in for torture, so I continued south.


  PXL_20251010_120949142.jpeg (Size: 978.39 KB / Downloads: 84)

The traffic thinned and the road improved, just as the clerk had predicted.  Two or three times I caught up to a rig pulling a construction machine, and stopped for a minute to create some space between us.  It was a good morning.  It was very cool at only 43 deg F, but I was bundled up and riding a nice road.  When the sun broke through it was glorious, although I occasionally had to slow down due to the strobing of the sun through the trees.


  PXL_20251010_121242008.jpeg (Size: 1.13 MB / Downloads: 77)

After an hour and a half of enjoyable riding, I arrived at Webster Springs.  I parked at Vicki's (Vickie's?) and when I opened the door, every face turned toward me and every conversation stopped.  There was no "Please seat yourself" sign, but eventually I did so out of sheer awkwardness.  A woman eventually brought me a menu and I asked for coffee.  I had a breakfast of eggs, bacon, hash browns, and a large biscuit with butter and jam.  She refilled my mug two or three times with that weakish coffee that places used to serve.  My total bill with tax came to $9.01.  I paid in cash and she gave me the penny.  I checked the calendar on the way out to make sure it wasn't 1985.  I'll definitely be back.


  PXL_20251010_124800749.jpeg (Size: 501.54 KB / Downloads: 77)

Outside as I suited up, one of the locals recommended a particular route past Snowshoe, and it was the exact route I had in mind.  I zipped out 15, then 219, and 66.  The sun was shining, the roads were perfect, and I was enjoying the extra measure of confidence in the turns that I can never quite reach on the first day.  Whatever doubts I had the day before about wasting my time had long since vanished.  It was a beautiful morning in a great place, and I was riding.


  PXL_20251010_135338250.jpeg (Size: 390.11 KB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_135407212.jpeg (Size: 1.15 MB / Downloads: 77)

When I rode into Cass, I found an arrangement of old white wooden homes lining both sides of the street, all of them identical and joined by wooden sidewalks.


  PXL_20251010_145538009.jpeg (Size: 1.33 MB / Downloads: 77)

I saw plumes of black smoke ahead and wondered if someone was burning tires.  As I got closer, I was stunned to see that the smoke was coming from two steam engines preparing to leave a station.  I hopped off for a closer look just in time to watch them depart.

I'm not sure how to embed the videos, but here is a link:
https://imgur.com/a/kiFip4P

As I got back on the bike, the engines let out a prolonged whistle with full steam, a soul-stirring sound.  I continued north on 92 and spied a huge radio telescope of the Green Bank Observatory.


  PXL_20251010_151021448.jpeg (Size: 943.49 KB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_152601646.jpeg (Size: 1.05 MB / Downloads: 77)

Random WV question 1:  What is this?

  PXL_20251010_123525081.jpeg (Size: 1.04 MB / Downloads: 76)

Random WV question 2:  Why do so many folks have an IBC tote sitting by the road near their driveway?  Sometimes with the top cut off, sometimes not.  I must have passed over a hundred of them.

Back to our adventure: Then I took 28 north and 33 east.  I rested briefly at the Brandywine General Store and had a cup of coffee.  It was afternoon, but as on the previous day, I elected not to remove any layers.  I only switched out my cold weather gloves for regular gloves.  I continued east on 33 through Harrisonburg.


  PXL_20251010_155412332.jpeg (Size: 1.17 MB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_155542314.jpeg (Size: 1.23 MB / Downloads: 76)

Past Stanardsville I found a nice motorcycle road to avoid the highway.  It ran through Scuffletown and joined 20 west of Orange.


  PXL_20251010_185710366.jpeg (Size: 1.29 MB / Downloads: 77)

East of Orange I took a road which bypassed Wilderness, but it was afternoon and traffic turned out bad.  I ended up in crawling traffic with no room to pass on either side.  I turned the motor off on the downhill part.  Traffic cleared finally after I passed a four-way stop.

The rest of the trip was uneventful, and I arrived home an hour after sunset.  The two-day trip was over 700 miles, and the bike was flawless.  I'm eager to go again, but I think my next multi-day trip will probably not happen until the spring.  Thanks for reading, you've been very patient if you made it this far!]]>
The morning star greeted me as I rolled east for a mile before turning Northwest.  It was a clear morning, and I didn't have to battle with a fogged visor.  After turning south on 301, I remembered to stop and get a photo with the T-rex, an opportunity I missed last time.  The other thing I remembered this time was my transponder, which was packed in my bag and would save me a buck fifty on the bridge if it worked.


  PXL_20251009_111852049.jpeg (Size: 988.31 KB / Downloads: 80)

I rolled over the bridge and the wind was no concern at all.  The sun was up now, and it reflected in the mirrors.  I was happy for the sunshine, as it was a cool morning.  I had extra layers on top and bottom.  I took the curvy road to Fredericksburg and stopped at the same bakery as last time.  After one savory and one sweet croissant, and a cup of coffee, I continued west.


  PXL_20251009_123900346.jpeg (Size: 1.09 MB / Downloads: 80)


  PXL_20251009_122333449.jpeg (Size: 1,001.78 KB / Downloads: 77)

This time I went through Culpepper, avoiding the main road by taking a parallel street.  I rolled through Sperryville and stopped for a break in Luray.  I bought a cup of coffee in a shop called Broad Porch.  It doesn't actually have a porch at all, but it has a small deck in the back overlooking the creek that runs through town.  I relaxed and took a long phone call.  That delayed my trip a bit, but the great thing about having no real destination or schedule is that you're never really lost or late.


  PXL_20251009_151621274.jpeg (Size: 1,016.78 KB / Downloads: 76)


  PXL_20251009_142818535-EDIT.jpeg (Size: 1.19 MB / Downloads: 76)

I took 675 out of town, keen to try a new route over the next two ridges.  The road condition was decent.  At the top of the first ridge there appeared to be a scenic view, but cars were parked too tightly to fit a motorcycle in between, so I rolled on.  I passed through Edinburg and found myself behind a truck full of USDA-approved cluckers stacked to thirteen-nine.  Fortunately this wasn't Wolf Creek Pass and the truck turned off without incident.

After the next ridge I cruised into Wardensville, taking a couple of minutes to check out the town before exiting westward.  An old man walking on the sidewalk gave me a thumbs up.  On 48 west of town, the road turned into a four-lane divided highway.  I stopped at a place labeled "scenic view," thinking I had not taken many photos so far.  But it was less scenic than everything else I had seen that day, so I departed without even putting my feet down.

I grabbed a milkshake in Moorefield and moved on through Parkersburg, where I had stayed overnight on a trip last March.  South on 28 past a bunch of cabins and lodges on a fly-fishing river, then right at Yokum's and on to Elkins via 33.  I stopped at Elkins to call a couple hotels in Sutton, because I did not want to venture that far and find nothing available.  Good thing I called, because nothing was available.


  PXL_20251009_182640236.jpeg (Size: 1.22 MB / Downloads: 76)

I decided Buckhannon, WV would be my destination and I rode 48 there.  I found myself somewhat unenthusiastic at the end of the day.  Perhaps finishing the ride on a long stretch of divided highway, and finding the hills dully colored in mid-October was not what I had envisioned.  I thought, what am I doing here?  Maybe I am just wasting my time.  But my attitude was remediated after I found a clean hotel, a tasty dinner, and a beer.  When the hotel clerk heard that I was motorcycling for no good reason, he recommended I take 20 south in the morning, which was already my plan.


  PXL_20251009_222310186.jpeg (Size: 1.39 MB / Downloads: 78)

In Buckhannon, the DQ is closed in October.


  PXL_20251009_222044052.jpeg (Size: 997.22 KB / Downloads: 77)

I woke early the next morning.  I realized I hadn't checked my tire pressures before the trip, so I went out and found them 4-5 psi low.  I wiped the dew off the bike and actually took the seat back into my room so it wouldn't get wet again while I suited up.  I aired up the tires before leaving town, paying for air for the first time in my life.

I was surprised to hit a little traffic leaving town, but I shouldn't have been.  I had forgotten that some people have to go to work and school on Friday.  I passed a place called the Clutter funeral home.  It struck me that funeral homes always have the oddest names, my personal favorite being the Nash and Slaw funeral home in VA.  South of town I saw a sign that said Adrian Water Board.  I don't normally go in for torture, so I continued south.


  PXL_20251010_120949142.jpeg (Size: 978.39 KB / Downloads: 84)

The traffic thinned and the road improved, just as the clerk had predicted.  Two or three times I caught up to a rig pulling a construction machine, and stopped for a minute to create some space between us.  It was a good morning.  It was very cool at only 43 deg F, but I was bundled up and riding a nice road.  When the sun broke through it was glorious, although I occasionally had to slow down due to the strobing of the sun through the trees.


  PXL_20251010_121242008.jpeg (Size: 1.13 MB / Downloads: 77)

After an hour and a half of enjoyable riding, I arrived at Webster Springs.  I parked at Vicki's (Vickie's?) and when I opened the door, every face turned toward me and every conversation stopped.  There was no "Please seat yourself" sign, but eventually I did so out of sheer awkwardness.  A woman eventually brought me a menu and I asked for coffee.  I had a breakfast of eggs, bacon, hash browns, and a large biscuit with butter and jam.  She refilled my mug two or three times with that weakish coffee that places used to serve.  My total bill with tax came to $9.01.  I paid in cash and she gave me the penny.  I checked the calendar on the way out to make sure it wasn't 1985.  I'll definitely be back.


  PXL_20251010_124800749.jpeg (Size: 501.54 KB / Downloads: 77)

Outside as I suited up, one of the locals recommended a particular route past Snowshoe, and it was the exact route I had in mind.  I zipped out 15, then 219, and 66.  The sun was shining, the roads were perfect, and I was enjoying the extra measure of confidence in the turns that I can never quite reach on the first day.  Whatever doubts I had the day before about wasting my time had long since vanished.  It was a beautiful morning in a great place, and I was riding.


  PXL_20251010_135338250.jpeg (Size: 390.11 KB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_135407212.jpeg (Size: 1.15 MB / Downloads: 77)

When I rode into Cass, I found an arrangement of old white wooden homes lining both sides of the street, all of them identical and joined by wooden sidewalks.


  PXL_20251010_145538009.jpeg (Size: 1.33 MB / Downloads: 77)

I saw plumes of black smoke ahead and wondered if someone was burning tires.  As I got closer, I was stunned to see that the smoke was coming from two steam engines preparing to leave a station.  I hopped off for a closer look just in time to watch them depart.

I'm not sure how to embed the videos, but here is a link:
https://imgur.com/a/kiFip4P

As I got back on the bike, the engines let out a prolonged whistle with full steam, a soul-stirring sound.  I continued north on 92 and spied a huge radio telescope of the Green Bank Observatory.


  PXL_20251010_151021448.jpeg (Size: 943.49 KB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_152601646.jpeg (Size: 1.05 MB / Downloads: 77)

Random WV question 1:  What is this?

  PXL_20251010_123525081.jpeg (Size: 1.04 MB / Downloads: 76)

Random WV question 2:  Why do so many folks have an IBC tote sitting by the road near their driveway?  Sometimes with the top cut off, sometimes not.  I must have passed over a hundred of them.

Back to our adventure: Then I took 28 north and 33 east.  I rested briefly at the Brandywine General Store and had a cup of coffee.  It was afternoon, but as on the previous day, I elected not to remove any layers.  I only switched out my cold weather gloves for regular gloves.  I continued east on 33 through Harrisonburg.


  PXL_20251010_155412332.jpeg (Size: 1.17 MB / Downloads: 77)


  PXL_20251010_155542314.jpeg (Size: 1.23 MB / Downloads: 76)

Past Stanardsville I found a nice motorcycle road to avoid the highway.  It ran through Scuffletown and joined 20 west of Orange.


  PXL_20251010_185710366.jpeg (Size: 1.29 MB / Downloads: 77)

East of Orange I took a road which bypassed Wilderness, but it was afternoon and traffic turned out bad.  I ended up in crawling traffic with no room to pass on either side.  I turned the motor off on the downhill part.  Traffic cleared finally after I passed a four-way stop.

The rest of the trip was uneventful, and I arrived home an hour after sunset.  The two-day trip was over 700 miles, and the bike was flawless.  I'm eager to go again, but I think my next multi-day trip will probably not happen until the spring.  Thanks for reading, you've been very patient if you made it this far!]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14559 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 18:50:27 +0000 emptysea]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14559
Rain was forecast for early afternoon, motivating me to get up early with Cheryl who did not have Columbus Day off.   Since I'd be riding alone, I brought a cigar along and tossed the Monday Wall Street Journal in my bag with a bottle of water.  My mission was to explore various lakefront parks/beaches where i could comfortably, if not legally, conduct my morning routine of reading the paper while enjoying a cigar, usually conducted on my back deck.  Not as adventurous as Sig. Colombo to be sure, but at least my motives were pure.  

First Stop:  Lloyd Beach, Winnetka, IL
A lovely beach, really a boat launch area, with several small picnic tables that would have suited my needs perfectly except that they were fairly exposed and I was looking for something a bit more sheltered in case of rain.   Still, I may have stopped here were it not for the prominent "No Smoking" signs directly between where I would be sitting and the Winnetka Police officer who was seated in his vehicle in the parking lot.  Maybe on some other ride, I will take a chance on having my cigar here; it's a quiet spot with great views of Chicago's skyline and I like that I can pose my bike so close to the water here.  Side note:  the building in the background of the third picture below is the Village of Winnetka Power Station -- My bike was in the shop or this would have been my Sept, 2025 entry for the Photo Challenge..    Although, these were suitable accommodations, it being the first stop and under the surveillance of local law enforcement, it was time to carry on the voyage.  







Second Stop:  Glencoe Beach, Glencoe, IL
The park area for this beach is on top of a bluff with a reasonably treacherous ride down to the waters edge - damp sand on a steep single-lane road with 3 switchbacks.  There's a"landing" before the last switchback from which I could survey the beach.  I did not see any seating in close proximity to where I could park and, lacking any real incentive to continue downward, I turned around on the landing and headed up to a shelter that is probably 20' below the top of the bluff and 100' above the beach.   The shelter would provide the cover that I was still seeking and it was remote enough so as to not bother any other park-goers.  What it lacked, though is anything remotely resembling comfortable seating and a reasonably unobstructed view of Lake Michigan.  I was able to get a decent picture for the Oct, 2025 Photo Challenge.  I continued northward on my expedition along the winding part of Sheridan Road, stopping briefly at Rosewood Beach in Highland Park (no photo) which has lovely views, but any possible seating area was a decent walk from the parking area and I was looking for a spot in short distance from my bike. 







Stops/Drive-bys north of Glencoe Beach:
In addition to Rosewood in Highland Park, I hit Moraine Park, which had plenty of seating, but no view at all of the water.  I also tried the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve (no seating near parking) and Fort Sheridan National Cemetery (only seating was in the memorial area and it would be disrespectful to listen to music and smoke a cigar there).  I continued the quest on into Lake Forest.

Third (depending on how you) Stop:  Forest Park Beach, Lake Forest, IL 

I had never stopped at this beach despite having ridden past it dozens if not hundreds of times.  Like most beaches on Lake Michigan north of Chicago, Forest Park Beach sits at the base of a high bluff.   The road down to the shore was wide, paved, and gradual, unlike Glencoe Beach. They obviously did or redid the hardscapes here within the last few years; everything was clean and looked new.  I did not see any picnic benches, but there were dozens of park benches along the meandering paved walking path which is 20 yards from the water.  Not a perfect spot, but the only people around were doing a photo shoot of a Porsche and they put their vehicle right on the walking path so I figured I'd do the same.   Parked my bike next to a park bench; got out my water, paper, cigar, and cutter; put on a Herbie Hancock album on Spotify; and settled in for a relaxing hour or so.  One passerby asked me about the bike - he was in his early 60s and told me he had KZ440 in college that he rode from Colorado to Illinois in one day.  It's interesting to me how people start up conversations with me when I'm on a ride who would never talk to me if I was just a guy sitting on a bench with a cigar -- except that might stop to tell me that its a no-smoking area.  I saw 4 different people go for a swim in Lake Michigan.  The weather's been unusually warm here, but the water temp is pretty chilly.  Good for them, I say.









Finished my cigar, my Herbie album, my news paper, my conversation with my KZ440 guy, and hopped on my bike for the return to my homeland (or just home...but trying to keep the Columbus connection here).   As I was riding back toward home, I began contemplating lunch as people of a certain age tend to do.   There's a great taqueria in Highwood that turned out to be closed because it was Monday, but just a couple hundred feet south from there is The Mean Wiener, which obviously is a hot dog stand.  Perfect stop for me.   Turns out that Mean Wiener expanded their menu, maybe many years ago to include a variety of Mexican fare AND their Monday special is a $5 burrito with one's choice of taco meat inside -- I went el pastor for this mine.  As I was leaving, a mom and a little girl, maybe 4 years old and in her PJs were walking out of the restaurant.  The girl, her name was Lucy, I think, was staring at my bike and talking to her mom.  I gathered that she has one of those little electric "motorcycles" at home and was fascinated by bikes.   I let her sit on the CB1100 on the side stand and she was frustrated that she could reach the right handle bar.  I told her that she was "a natural" and should learn to ride motorcycles as soon as possible, mainly just to get a reaction from her mom, which it did.  Anyway, my hands were full holding Lucy on my bike so I didn't get a photo.   They didn't walk away when I helped her off and started to get geared up.   Lucy wanted to see me ride away, which was adorable and disconcerting at the same time -- the last thing I needed if i dropped it on some gravel in the parking lot was judgy looks from Lucy.   






The rest of the return trip was uneventful and, while it had rained at home, I never felt a drop on the road.   My search for a sheltered spot was not only in vain, but unnecessary.   I was able to find a new (to me) "land" in the form of Forest Park Beach, engaged with the native peoples, and charted a course for future journeys to and from "The East".]]>
Rain was forecast for early afternoon, motivating me to get up early with Cheryl who did not have Columbus Day off.   Since I'd be riding alone, I brought a cigar along and tossed the Monday Wall Street Journal in my bag with a bottle of water.  My mission was to explore various lakefront parks/beaches where i could comfortably, if not legally, conduct my morning routine of reading the paper while enjoying a cigar, usually conducted on my back deck.  Not as adventurous as Sig. Colombo to be sure, but at least my motives were pure.  

First Stop:  Lloyd Beach, Winnetka, IL
A lovely beach, really a boat launch area, with several small picnic tables that would have suited my needs perfectly except that they were fairly exposed and I was looking for something a bit more sheltered in case of rain.   Still, I may have stopped here were it not for the prominent "No Smoking" signs directly between where I would be sitting and the Winnetka Police officer who was seated in his vehicle in the parking lot.  Maybe on some other ride, I will take a chance on having my cigar here; it's a quiet spot with great views of Chicago's skyline and I like that I can pose my bike so close to the water here.  Side note:  the building in the background of the third picture below is the Village of Winnetka Power Station -- My bike was in the shop or this would have been my Sept, 2025 entry for the Photo Challenge..    Although, these were suitable accommodations, it being the first stop and under the surveillance of local law enforcement, it was time to carry on the voyage.  







Second Stop:  Glencoe Beach, Glencoe, IL
The park area for this beach is on top of a bluff with a reasonably treacherous ride down to the waters edge - damp sand on a steep single-lane road with 3 switchbacks.  There's a"landing" before the last switchback from which I could survey the beach.  I did not see any seating in close proximity to where I could park and, lacking any real incentive to continue downward, I turned around on the landing and headed up to a shelter that is probably 20' below the top of the bluff and 100' above the beach.   The shelter would provide the cover that I was still seeking and it was remote enough so as to not bother any other park-goers.  What it lacked, though is anything remotely resembling comfortable seating and a reasonably unobstructed view of Lake Michigan.  I was able to get a decent picture for the Oct, 2025 Photo Challenge.  I continued northward on my expedition along the winding part of Sheridan Road, stopping briefly at Rosewood Beach in Highland Park (no photo) which has lovely views, but any possible seating area was a decent walk from the parking area and I was looking for a spot in short distance from my bike. 







Stops/Drive-bys north of Glencoe Beach:
In addition to Rosewood in Highland Park, I hit Moraine Park, which had plenty of seating, but no view at all of the water.  I also tried the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve (no seating near parking) and Fort Sheridan National Cemetery (only seating was in the memorial area and it would be disrespectful to listen to music and smoke a cigar there).  I continued the quest on into Lake Forest.

Third (depending on how you) Stop:  Forest Park Beach, Lake Forest, IL 

I had never stopped at this beach despite having ridden past it dozens if not hundreds of times.  Like most beaches on Lake Michigan north of Chicago, Forest Park Beach sits at the base of a high bluff.   The road down to the shore was wide, paved, and gradual, unlike Glencoe Beach. They obviously did or redid the hardscapes here within the last few years; everything was clean and looked new.  I did not see any picnic benches, but there were dozens of park benches along the meandering paved walking path which is 20 yards from the water.  Not a perfect spot, but the only people around were doing a photo shoot of a Porsche and they put their vehicle right on the walking path so I figured I'd do the same.   Parked my bike next to a park bench; got out my water, paper, cigar, and cutter; put on a Herbie Hancock album on Spotify; and settled in for a relaxing hour or so.  One passerby asked me about the bike - he was in his early 60s and told me he had KZ440 in college that he rode from Colorado to Illinois in one day.  It's interesting to me how people start up conversations with me when I'm on a ride who would never talk to me if I was just a guy sitting on a bench with a cigar -- except that might stop to tell me that its a no-smoking area.  I saw 4 different people go for a swim in Lake Michigan.  The weather's been unusually warm here, but the water temp is pretty chilly.  Good for them, I say.









Finished my cigar, my Herbie album, my news paper, my conversation with my KZ440 guy, and hopped on my bike for the return to my homeland (or just home...but trying to keep the Columbus connection here).   As I was riding back toward home, I began contemplating lunch as people of a certain age tend to do.   There's a great taqueria in Highwood that turned out to be closed because it was Monday, but just a couple hundred feet south from there is The Mean Wiener, which obviously is a hot dog stand.  Perfect stop for me.   Turns out that Mean Wiener expanded their menu, maybe many years ago to include a variety of Mexican fare AND their Monday special is a $5 burrito with one's choice of taco meat inside -- I went el pastor for this mine.  As I was leaving, a mom and a little girl, maybe 4 years old and in her PJs were walking out of the restaurant.  The girl, her name was Lucy, I think, was staring at my bike and talking to her mom.  I gathered that she has one of those little electric "motorcycles" at home and was fascinated by bikes.   I let her sit on the CB1100 on the side stand and she was frustrated that she could reach the right handle bar.  I told her that she was "a natural" and should learn to ride motorcycles as soon as possible, mainly just to get a reaction from her mom, which it did.  Anyway, my hands were full holding Lucy on my bike so I didn't get a photo.   They didn't walk away when I helped her off and started to get geared up.   Lucy wanted to see me ride away, which was adorable and disconcerting at the same time -- the last thing I needed if i dropped it on some gravel in the parking lot was judgy looks from Lucy.   






The rest of the return trip was uneventful and, while it had rained at home, I never felt a drop on the road.   My search for a sheltered spot was not only in vain, but unnecessary.   I was able to find a new (to me) "land" in the form of Forest Park Beach, engaged with the native peoples, and charted a course for future journeys to and from "The East".]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14544 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 07:18:49 +0000 rdprdp01]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14544


I decided to drive across the San Francisco Peninsula and visit Alice's Restaurant, a pub famous for a twisty road leading to it, redwoods, motorcycles, classic cars, tasty food, good music, and a relaxed vibe.

Check Out Alice's Restaurant

I completed my pre-ride check. The motorcycle was ready. I spent a little extra time focusing on tires and brakes. The road ahead had an interesting combination of highways, rural roads, high winds, and the San-Meteo Bridge, the longest fixed link bridge in California. It is a 50 mile drive (one way) from my California home. The bridge is beautiful:











I crossed the Peninsula without incident even with winds gusting over 25 MPH. I was delighted to have the weight of the CB1100EX.

With a gentle turn I left the highway behind and entered into an old growth forrest of redwoods. The road leading to Alice's Restaurant is two lanes with only a few turnouts. I stopped along the way to take a few pictures. It was breathtakingly serene:









Alice's Restaurant has been operating since the 1940s, a rarity in the United States. Because of its relatively remote location, it has become a destination for cyclists, motorcyclists, environmentalists, hippies, and  music lovers. It is impossible to just happen upon Alice's Restaurant--you have to make the effort. When I arrived, it made an incredible first impression:



There was a lot of people there, but the operations was clearly dialed in. There was seating inside and outside. The servers were organized, cheerful, relaxed, and remarkably fast. They graciously modified an offering for me to suit my dietary restrictions. The egg-white, potato Benedict's was delicious:



The restaurant has a long history of catering to motorcyclists. The wall art reflects that, but perhaps even more impressive is the gas station station and air pumps.







I parked my motorcycle in one of the designated areas. There was an interesting combination of Harley's, tourers, sport bikes, and adventure bikes. All the tribes appeared to get along with one another. When I returned after eating my brunch, some motorcyclists were standing by the CB1100EX. They wanted to learn more about the motorcycle and what it was like to ride. The marveled at the quality of materials, classic lines, and general appearance. One of the guys noted that he was behind me and had a much more difficult time navigating many of the turns. I told him that there are times when an upright riding position with a perfectly balanced motorcycle made for counter steering has some advantages.

An owner of a CBR asked me if he could take a video of my motorcycle so that he could share it on his Forum. I told him of course and that the CB1100, all vintages, represent the very best Honda has to offer:





I returned home. I spent 2 hours commuting and an hour talking shop with motorcyclists of all persuasions. Life is good on a CB1100. Enjoy your weekend. David]]>


I decided to drive across the San Francisco Peninsula and visit Alice's Restaurant, a pub famous for a twisty road leading to it, redwoods, motorcycles, classic cars, tasty food, good music, and a relaxed vibe.

Check Out Alice's Restaurant

I completed my pre-ride check. The motorcycle was ready. I spent a little extra time focusing on tires and brakes. The road ahead had an interesting combination of highways, rural roads, high winds, and the San-Meteo Bridge, the longest fixed link bridge in California. It is a 50 mile drive (one way) from my California home. The bridge is beautiful:











I crossed the Peninsula without incident even with winds gusting over 25 MPH. I was delighted to have the weight of the CB1100EX.

With a gentle turn I left the highway behind and entered into an old growth forrest of redwoods. The road leading to Alice's Restaurant is two lanes with only a few turnouts. I stopped along the way to take a few pictures. It was breathtakingly serene:









Alice's Restaurant has been operating since the 1940s, a rarity in the United States. Because of its relatively remote location, it has become a destination for cyclists, motorcyclists, environmentalists, hippies, and  music lovers. It is impossible to just happen upon Alice's Restaurant--you have to make the effort. When I arrived, it made an incredible first impression:



There was a lot of people there, but the operations was clearly dialed in. There was seating inside and outside. The servers were organized, cheerful, relaxed, and remarkably fast. They graciously modified an offering for me to suit my dietary restrictions. The egg-white, potato Benedict's was delicious:



The restaurant has a long history of catering to motorcyclists. The wall art reflects that, but perhaps even more impressive is the gas station station and air pumps.







I parked my motorcycle in one of the designated areas. There was an interesting combination of Harley's, tourers, sport bikes, and adventure bikes. All the tribes appeared to get along with one another. When I returned after eating my brunch, some motorcyclists were standing by the CB1100EX. They wanted to learn more about the motorcycle and what it was like to ride. The marveled at the quality of materials, classic lines, and general appearance. One of the guys noted that he was behind me and had a much more difficult time navigating many of the turns. I told him that there are times when an upright riding position with a perfectly balanced motorcycle made for counter steering has some advantages.

An owner of a CBR asked me if he could take a video of my motorcycle so that he could share it on his Forum. I told him of course and that the CB1100, all vintages, represent the very best Honda has to offer:





I returned home. I spent 2 hours commuting and an hour talking shop with motorcyclists of all persuasions. Life is good on a CB1100. Enjoy your weekend. David]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14543 Sun, 28 Sep 2025 02:00:01 +0000 tdbru]]> https://cb1100forum.net/forum/showthread.php?tid=14543 The rode into Timber is very curvy and totally canopied.  very scenic.  the very tight switchbacks with big elevation change happen right outside of Timber as the highway climbs onto a big plateau.  the road was closed for several years as a landslide took the highway down the side of the plateau.  It's now open again, fun as ever, and smooth pavement.  the tight switchbacks need some attention because gravel trucks usually lose some of their load in the hairpins.   

and there are switch backs going down the other side of the plateau too, just as intense, but in the shade as there is a tall canopy on each side of the road coming off the plateau and heading toward hwy 26.  Hwy 26 was busy with 50K vehicles headed back from the coast to the metro area.  few breaks in traffic.  Fortunately the CB1100 doesn't need a large break in traffic to merge.  

---

well, the captions didn't come through on the photos. oh well.
-tdbru

  timber_hairpin_small.jpg (Size: 1.12 MB / Downloads: 23)

  timber_tight_curves_elevation_small.jpg (Size: 1.23 MB / Downloads: 23)

  timber_PO_small.jpg (Size: 924.14 KB / Downloads: 24)

  tmbr_hwy_canopy_small.jpg (Size: 1.16 MB / Downloads: 23)

  begin_timber_hwy_small.jpg (Size: 1.2 MB / Downloads: 23)

  w_of_GC_hwy8_small.jpg (Size: 803.59 KB / Downloads: 23)

  w_of_FG_hwy8_2_small.jpg (Size: 794.65 KB / Downloads: 23)

  W_of_FG_hwy8_Artist_touch_small.jpg (Size: 907.87 KB / Downloads: 23)

  stringtown_rd_small.jpg (Size: 922.17 KB / Downloads: 23) ]]> The rode into Timber is very curvy and totally canopied.  very scenic.  the very tight switchbacks with big elevation change happen right outside of Timber as the highway climbs onto a big plateau.  the road was closed for several years as a landslide took the highway down the side of the plateau.  It's now open again, fun as ever, and smooth pavement.  the tight switchbacks need some attention because gravel trucks usually lose some of their load in the hairpins.   

and there are switch backs going down the other side of the plateau too, just as intense, but in the shade as there is a tall canopy on each side of the road coming off the plateau and heading toward hwy 26.  Hwy 26 was busy with 50K vehicles headed back from the coast to the metro area.  few breaks in traffic.  Fortunately the CB1100 doesn't need a large break in traffic to merge.  

---

well, the captions didn't come through on the photos. oh well.
-tdbru

  timber_hairpin_small.jpg (Size: 1.12 MB / Downloads: 23)

  timber_tight_curves_elevation_small.jpg (Size: 1.23 MB / Downloads: 23)

  timber_PO_small.jpg (Size: 924.14 KB / Downloads: 24)

  tmbr_hwy_canopy_small.jpg (Size: 1.16 MB / Downloads: 23)

  begin_timber_hwy_small.jpg (Size: 1.2 MB / Downloads: 23)

  w_of_GC_hwy8_small.jpg (Size: 803.59 KB / Downloads: 23)

  w_of_FG_hwy8_2_small.jpg (Size: 794.65 KB / Downloads: 23)

  W_of_FG_hwy8_Artist_touch_small.jpg (Size: 907.87 KB / Downloads: 23)

  stringtown_rd_small.jpg (Size: 922.17 KB / Downloads: 23) ]]>