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| When we approached the Cajone Pass, which is the spot where Interstate 5 begins its climb up the Angeles Mountain Range, it was already dark. I looked far ahead and I saw a long line of lights as the vehicles going up the pass formed a �line� that snaked up the 5 up and over the mountains. It was an interesting view.
Russ broke off and headed home soon after that, while Ken and I continued along the 210 Freeway heading east towards home. Ken broke off and headed home around the 605 Freeway and I was left by myself for the last 60 miles. That last 60 miles seemed to last forever. I was moving at a fairly high rate of speed since the freeways were fairly empty since it was Sunday night passed 10 PM and everyone was home in bed for the Monday morning grind the following day. I arrived at my driveway at 10:30 PM. I was so tired, I could barely turn the bike up my street. Conclusion This was by far, the best motorcycle trip I had ever taken. I was able to ride through a place that I believe to be one of the most beautiful places in California. The weather, the scenery, and the people of Sport-Touring.net were all wonderful and I would treasure these memories forever. I found the people of Northern California to be very friendly and down to Earth. Even though sometimes, I felt like a fish out of water wearing my colorful Joe Rocket suit. Every place we went we met people who were curious, but friendly and always ready with a smile and a warm hello. Of course, the roads were incredible. Always twisty. Always scenic. Always well paved (except in a couple of places along Highway 1 and of course, Mattole Road!). |
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| My 2001 VFR800 Interceptor
This was the first long distance trip I had ever taken on my VFR. After which, I�ve come to the conclusion that this bike is THE motorcycle that successfully bridges the gap between a sportbike and a touring bike. In this age of specialization, when sportbikes have become race bikes with lights, and sport-touring bikes have become full dress tourers on steroids, the VFR800 (& Triump Sprint ST) stands alone as the bike that hasn�t forgotten to deliver sport performance along with touring capabilities. It is just the right size and power with sporty handling to make fast paced riding in the twisties very entertaining without forcing its rider to work hard due to size and weight common to touring bikes. It�s ergonomics are relaxed enough to make riding all day possible without too much discomfort. Yet, it offers amenities such as a gas gauge, centerstand, & bungee hooks standard to make it a practical street machine. In addition, its wind protection is top notch when compared to sportbikes, but still doesn�t manage to look like a barn door on wheels. It�s NOT a perfect motorcycle. But, it can do both sport riding and touring well with very few compromises. Things I wish my VFR had: Shaft drive, heated grips, cruise control, more comfy seat. |
| Left: Me on my VFR along Mattole Road. That's Becky to the right, Karl and Caroline to the left. I was very happy with my VFR800's performance during this trip. It gave me the balance of sport and comfort I was looking for. Thank to Chris for taking this photograph for me. Click image to enlarge me, as if I'm not big enough! |
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| Below: Me and Russ on Mattole Road. Hope you enjoyed reading the ride report. Photo courtesy of Caroline (Bluepoof.com) |