Riding into the Future
We had plans. You had plans. So many plans left twisting in the sands of time.
But optimism is starting to seep in and we are dreaming of starting to plan again. We're starting to flip through old photos, stare at google maps and dream of open roads, filled with twisties, far from where we sit.
And we thought, what better way to prime this pump then to share the roads we hope to roll on the other side of this pandemic. We've even thrown in some accommodation recommendations and musical musing.
Where do you dream of taking your two-wheeled wonder when the opportunity presents itself.
San Francisco's Must Ride Route.
This is the ride I recommend for when people visit from out of town. This ride is especially scenic. From oceans to mountains, it’s like riding in Scotland without the long flight. It is open year round except when there is the occasional mudslide or fire depending on the season and is all paved but heads up, it can be a rough road and there is limited cell service most of the way. This ride has lots of places to stop and explore with lots of options for side excursions. When preparing for this epic ride make sure to bring cool weather gear, because even in the summer months, the coast can get chilly (60s). I recommend listening to Enya, Dead Can Dance, Lorena McKinnet or Emancipator… you won’t regret it.
SoCal Soujourn.
Before you roll out I highly recommend you load your Ennio Morricone for the proper sound mix. This ride has majestic views that cannot really be captured. There are big fast open stretches and is passable most of the year. Be aware, it gets blazing hot in the summer, so it is always a good idea to pack some food and water. It is also very remote with limited to no cell service in places. Some great music choices are: Doors, Cult, America, Daft Punk, and Morrocan Spirit.
The Great Lakes Hot Lap.
This route starts and ends in Duluth so riders can get their farkle fix at Aerostitch. A coastal ride through the middle of America and Canada, definitely one to mention… You can ride across the Richard I. Bong “Bong” lift bridge for a scenic start. Rainsuits or gore tex liners are a necessity, visit Aerostitch get your suit measured and farkles loaded up for the trip. Another cool aspect of this trip are the two very cool ferry crossings you can see near The Slash and Ludington. You should consider rocking out to Last of the Mohicans, Styx, The Clash or ELO. Oh and don’t forget your passport.
The Old West Movie Ride.
This romp with take you all the way from Ariona to Billings, Montana. The route gets its name due to the fact all those awesome old school westerns were filmed in this valley. I recommend staying one night in Kanab so you can stay in the Jack Palance room or other famous western star rooms at the Parry Lodge. Make sure to pack cold weather gear even in mid summer, because you just might run into hail and snow in July. Yellowstone looks like it is closed due to winter closures, but a hidden gem that you can’t miss is the Beartooth Highway out of the Silver Gate into Billing, it’s the highest highway in the USA reaching fourteen thousand feet in places.There is always packs of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled, especially after dark. The Bison don’t have lights. And don't forget to get your playlist dialed with some on-point music for one of the most epic routes in the world. Think anything from the Bonaza theme to Lord of the Rings soundtrack.