Lone Star Rider

2011 Summer Trip Day 01

2011-07-25T23:11:00.001-07:00

Started the trip late, I left out of Houston Texas around 1:00 PM after finishing my to do's.

Ran straight down Highway I-10 to Beaumont, Texas and hopped on Highway 287 to US 96 and over to Louisiana on Highway 363/190.

Stopped for Lunch In Deridder Louisiana at Cecil's Cafe and had a great burger.

I continued on Highway 112 and after Sugartown Louisiana the road was closed and I had to detour around to Elizabeth Louisiana and Jumpped on Highway 10 to Oakdale Louisiana, Then headed North on Highway 165 to Alexandria Louisiana where I found a local hotel and called it a night.

I had a few light shower, but no reason to put on the rain gear. It was a good ride today.

Photos • Video • Route • Spot

2011 Summer Trip Part 3 & 4

2011-07-20T00:47:00.000-07:00

Part 3 & 4 are general area I want to go and see.

2011 Planned Summer Trip Part 3 at EveryTrail

2011 Planned Summer Trip Part 4 at EveryTrail

Planning 2011 Summer Trip: Routes 1 & 2

2011-07-13T01:11:00.000-07:00

Been getting things together for my summer trip coming up in a couple weeks. Here are a couple of routes for the first and second part of my trip.

2011 Planned Summer Trip Part 1 at EveryTrail

2011 Planned Summer Trip Part 2 at EveryTrail

A Bloggers Centerline Day Challenge

2011-05-01T20:51:00.000-07:00

Do you know how hard it is to find a road with a center line in Houston Texas with little or no traffic? Well I found one near Cullen and Belt way 8 South, late in the evening. I had to move four times just to get this photo.

Thanks Gary for the challenge it was fun to do!

You can see more about the challenge By Clicking Here.

Here are a few others I took.

My Bandera Trip Day 4

2011-05-01T17:00:00.000-07:00

We headed out of Bandera and stopped at Pipe Creek Texas and had breakfast at a Mexican Restaurant, which I can not remember the name, but the food was good and cheap.

We ( Me, Sherri, and Bobbie ) took a straight shot back to Houston on Highway I-10.

It was a great time and I wished we had the rest of this week to spend in the Texas Hill Country.

May 1, 2011 • Photos • Spot

My Bandera Trip Day 3

2011-04-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

We ( Randy & Te-Ann, Bobbie and Sherri ) had breakfast at the River Oaks Inn & Restaurant. Our Breakfast yesterday at OST Restaurant was much better than today, but it was good.

We headed North out of Bandera on Highway 173 to Elm Pass. Elm Pass is a great road to Center Point Texas.

Our first stop was Dave's Place ( Map ) in Center Point Texas. This is a must stop, just to kick back and soak in the river view and look around at some of the amazing stuff there. I heard they had some pretty good food, but it was to early for that while we were there.

We jumped on to highway 27 and headed East from Center Point. At Comfort Texas, we turned Right on Ranch Road 472 and continued on to Old Highway 9.

On the map Old Highway 9 also show it as Old San Antonio Road, I do not think it is the same highway as "El Camino Real" or "Kings Highway", seem a little confusing. It also showed it as Old Fred Road, and I'm sure it got that name because it takes you towards Fredericksburg, Texas. Anyway, Old Highway 9 is a great ride and since you are on it don't miss the Bat Tunnel and Alamo Springs Cafe, we stopped at both places.

After a long wait for our burgers at Alamo Springs Cafe ( Which were great ) we headed over to Luckenbach, Texas using Grape Town Road. By the way, Waylon and Willie were not there.

We had a short stay in Luckenbach and jumped on Ranch Road 1376 to Highway 290 through Fredericksburg, Texas and turned South on Highway 16.

Just South of Fredericksburg We turned left on Ranch Road 2093, when we reached Ranch Road 783 we turned left and headed South. Ranch Road 783 was well worth the time.

We stopped in Kerrville, Texas for a quick break and to discuss if we were going down to the Apple Store on Highway 16 before they closed at 5:00 PM or take the roads South of Ingram, Texas. The Apple Store won!

I love Highway 16 in between Fredericksburg and Medina Texas, it's a great ride with some great switchback.

We made it to the Apple Store with five minutes to spare for some Apple Ice Cream and Apple Turnovers. We continued on Highway 16 to Mansfield Park in Bandera. We spent the rest of the evening there for the Twist Off.

What a great day! Some great roads, riding, food, and friends. A Perfect Day!

April 30, 2011 • Photos • Route • Spot

My Bandera Trip Day 2

2011-04-29T00:59:00.000-07:00

Randy & Te-Ann came in late last night and they are stayed in the cabin across from us. It was good to see them this morning, it's been a while.

We ( Randy & Te-Ann, and Sherri ) had Breakfast at the OST Restaurant (A Must Stop for Breakfast).

After a great breakfast we checked in at the Twist Off and picked up our packages and said hello to everybody.

It was time to do some riding so we headed East on Highway 16 and Turned South on Park Road, which took us by Medina Lake to County Road 271. County Road 271 had in one section of gravel road about a mile long. County Road 271 was wonderful and the highlight of todays route. County Road 271 ended at FM 471, We turned right and continued South and stopped in Castroville, Texas for a break.

After our break we headed North back up FM 471 to Highway 271 and continued North to Highway 16 back through Bandera and rode over to Medina Texas to The Apple Store ( A Must Stop & It's Not Apple Computer ) for some Apple Turnovers and a cup of Apple Ice Cream, Damn Good.

We bumped in to our room mate, Bobbie as we were leaving and headed back to our cabin, It was good to see Bobbie again!

After cleaning up and resting we went over to the Twist Off and enjoyed the party for the evening.

After hanging out at the Twist Off we grabbed some dinner at Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant, yes again.

April 29, 2011 • Photos • Route • Spot

My Bandera Trip Day 1

2011-04-28T23:29:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, April 28, 2011, Sherri And I headed to Bandera Texas for the San Antonio Southern Cruisers Annual Twist Off. We left Houston Texas around 1:00 PM and did a straight shot on Highway I-10 To San Antonio, Texas and loop around North on Loop 1604 to Highway FM 16 To Bandera Texas.

We arrived in Bandera Texas and went straight to our cabin at Bandera Resort And Sports Park. I would not say our cabin was in a "Resort" but they were great and a great price.

After we settled in and cleaned up, we rode in to town to the local Market for some snacks and to the liquor store for some margaritas and wine for our weekend.

It was past time for dinner and most restaurants close early in Bandera. We pulled in at Mi Pueblo Mexican Restaurant. Sherri and I had the Barbacoa and it was very good.

After stuffing ourselves we headed over to Mansfield Park where the Twist Off was being held and check to see who was around.

There were a few people who arrived to day, we said our hello's and called it a day and headed back to our cabin.

April 28, 2011 • Photos • Spot

Southern Cruisers Galveston Ride

2011-04-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

Rode with Houston Southern Cruisers to Galveston. We started out In Sugar Land at 8:30 AM, John Butler led the ride with me & Sherri, on my Bike and Jodie Orlando rode Tail Gunner.

It was a great day for a ride except for the wind, the wind blew us all over the place and when we got near the coast we were getting sand blasted all the way to our destination.

Our destination was Casey Seafood on the sea wall in Galveston Texas. We met up with a group from the Chisholm Trail Southern Cruisers for lunch.

After lunch Sherri and I tagged along Chisholm Trail Southern Cruisers to see some Tree Sculptures in Galveston.

Sherri & I headed home around 1:00 PM. Thanks to John for leading a great ride and thanks to the Chisholm Trail Southern Cruisers for letting us tag along with them.

The map above was done with a new App (Trip Journal) I was testing out on my iPhone. So far I kinda like it, it did a great job tracking me, but the interface was a little confusing at first for adding and tagging your locations. I will be testing it out more on future rides.

Photos • Route • Spot

ABCD - Will You Take Part?

2011-04-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

Gary France over at USA Tour on a Harley - Davidson came up with this idea.

A Bloggers Centerline Day, or ABCD, will take place on Sunday 1st May 2011.

The plan is to inspire as many bloggers as possible to go outside and take a photograph of themselves on this day, wherever they are in the world. The photo can be creative, arty, contain more than one person, be in any type of location and can contain anything else you like. It must however contain the centerline of a road and at least part of you, the blogger.

There are 5 rules....

Rule 1 - the picture must be taken on 1st May 2011.

Rule 2 - the picture must be of yourself, and you must be a person that publishes a blog. You can include whatever else you like in the picture, including other people if you wish.

Rule 3 - the picture must include the centerline of a road.

Rule 4 – you should publish the picture on your blog on 1st May 2011, along with a few words about the picture and why you chose that location or pose.

Rule 5 - when you have posted the picture on your own blog, put a comment on http://garysusatour.blogspot.com/2011/04/abcd-will-you-take-part.html and include in that comment the address of your own blog post containing your own picture.

Gary France will then pick his favourite photos and publish these as being the winners. There will be a prize of $100 awarded to the overall single winner, as chosen by Gary.
In order to get this event known as widely as possible, please copy and paste this posting onto your own blog, including the title. Please do that today!
As a reminder to yourself to take the photo and post it, put an entry into your diary for 1st May 2011.
Let’s see if we can get as any people to join in as possible.

Southern Cruisers Bluebonnet Ride

2011-04-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

Not very many Bluebonnets, but had a great ride with some good friends.

We started out on Highway 6 near bear Creek Park, and headed west on the back roads , stopped in Sealy for a break. Then we rode North through Industry Brenham and ended our ride at Chappel Chill in Washington, Texas.

The only bluebonnets we saw were near Washington, Texas at the end of the ride.

Photos • Route

Victory Motorcycle Club Texas Meet - Day 3

2010-10-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

I pretty much took a straight shot home to Houston, TX on Highway 71 to Highway I-10, stopping for lunch near Bastrop, TX at Cindy's Gone Hogs Wild.

I arrived in Houston, TX around 4PM.

I had a great weekend of weather, riding, and friends.

Photo • Route • Spot

10-10-2010 • Houston, Texas

Victory Motorcycle Club Texas Meet - Day 2

2010-10-09T15:16:00.000-07:00

Last night I stayed a the local Best Western, no room for me tonight, I'll have to find another place to stay.

After breakfast in the Victory Tent at The Johnson City Pig Roast, we headed out for our ride and our first stop was at the Old Tunnel. The Old Tunnel was very cool to see, but it would have been nice to be there in the evening to see the bat flying. Around the corner from the Old Tunnel we had lunch at the Alamo Springs Cafe. The burgers are great!

After stuffing our bellies we ran up to Luckenbach, TX. It was my first time time to see a cowboy riding on a longhorn. Only in Texas!

We headed over to Albert, TX, it was my first time to be in Albert, TX. it a nice place to relax and have a drink. The dance hall is huge, and the total size of the town is 15 acres.

After a couple drinks we headed back to the rally in Johnson City, Texas.

I spent the rest of the evening at the rally, after 11 PM I headed over to Austin, TX and grabbed a hotel.

I have could not asked for better weather today, blue skies with mid 70 weather and a great time riding with friends.

Photo • Route • Spot

10-09-2010 • Austin, Texas

Victory Motorcycle Club Texas Meet - Day 1

2010-10-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

Rode with Noemtz, Ronway, Commish, & Sweet Baby (Bayou City Victory Riders) to the 6th Annual Victory Motorcycle Club Texas Meet At The Johnson City Pig Roast, in Johnson City, Texas.

Had a great day riding to Johnson City, Texas and enjoyed meeting up with a bunch of Victory riders.

Photo • Route • Spot

10-08-2010 • Johnson City, Texas

DevCon Day 24

2010-09-02T23:50:00.000-07:00

Just out side of Park City, UT is Olympic Park, we stopped to check it out and found a few people practicing ski jumping without snow. They were wearing wet suits skiing down the jump in to a pool of water. Very cool!

Most of our route was on Highway 40 heading West. When we were riding near the Cedar Mountain area (Map), we saw a sign showing this way to Strawberry Pinnacles.

Strawberry Pinnacles near Duchesne, UT was a great unexpected 18 mile detour we chose to take, even though most of the road was gravel and dirt. If you are ever in this area be sure to take this detour and enjoy the view.

We found a Springfield Suite Marriot in Vernal, UT and took an early break and stayed here for the rest of the day.

I cleaned up the bike at the local carwash and got my hair & beard trim at a local supercuts.

We had dinner next to the hotel at Cafe Rio to keep from riding anywhere and Cafe Rio turn out to be darn good. I had one of there Burrito "enchilada style".

By the way, the hot tub felt great!

A nice easy day with a great find!

Photos • Route • Spot

September 2, 2010 • Vernal, UT

DevCon Day 23

2010-09-01T23:43:00.000-07:00

Headed South on Highway 26 out of Jackson, WY, at Alpine, WY we hopped on highway 89, 30 & 16 and rode South along the state line in and out of in and out of Wyoming and Idaho still we reached Evanston, WY. Before Cokeville, WY we saw the aftermath of an accident of a cattle truck that they were cleaning up. It looked like a few cattle were injured, not sure about the drivers. Sad!

We continue from Evanston, WY on Highway 80 in to Utah to Highway 40, then to Park City, UT, where we stayed the night in one of the Marriot resort hotels, in this beautiful town.

Crystal & I walked up and down Main street shopping and looked around for a place to eat. We ended up at the Bandits' Bar & Grill. Which I though was an excellent choice, even though we were getting some pretty good Texas BBQ in Utah. I bought a friend of mine (Jeff) a bottle of the BBQ Sauce. The margarita's were pretty good too.

Some great roads, riding, weather, and food!

Photos • Route • Spot

September 1, 2010 • UT

DevCon Day 22

2010-08-31T23:42:00.000-07:00

Breakfast at the hotel in Rexburg, ID, continued North on Highway 20 in to West Yellowstone, MT. Crystal and I got some hot coco and then did some shopping before we headed in to Yellowstone National Park.

In Yellowstone National Park we stopped to see the Firehole Falls, Fountains Painted Pots, Old Faithful, Old Faithful Inn (We Had Lunch There), and the Continental Divide (Elevation 8391 FT). You need at least a week here to really enjoy the park and some hiking would be nice.

If you go to Yellowstone National Park you should make time to see the Teton Mountains National Park. For some reason I'm drawn to this place, especially Oxbow bend on the Snake River. I have taken many photos of the Teton Mountains here every time I visit the Teton Mountains National Park area. This is my fourth time here.

It was getting late so we headed to Jackson, WY and checked in to our hotel. The Motel 6 here in Jackson, WY is a great place to stay, it is one of the best Motel 6 I have ever visited.

We had dinner at the Lotus Cafe, Crystal found this place on Yelp.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 31, 2010 • OR

DevCon Day 21

2010-08-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

Breakfast at the Homestead Cafe in Weiser, ID before we headed South on Highway 95. In Payette, ID we continued Southwest on Highway 52.

In Emmett, ID I had to take another route (Back on to Highway 52) because we could not continue down Frozen Dog Road. At Horseshoe Bend, ID we turned South on to Highway 55 and in Meridian, ID We continued West on Highway 84 and stopped for Lunch at the Smoky Mountain Pizzeria Grill in Mountain Home, ID.

After lunch we found the Sun Valley Highway (Highway 20) and rode through the Soldier Mountain Game Preserve.

We stopped at Moon Crater National Park, they say it looks like the moon here. Met John Rodman here at the park, he has a great blog John's USA Motorcycle Odyssey, check out his weblog.

We stopped for the day in Rexburg, ID

Crystal turn down the Taqueria El Rancho Bus and we had dinner downtown at Original Thai Restaurant, Crystal like it a lot and I thought it was OK.

It was a nice easy day and we kept dodging the rain all day.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 30, 2010 • Rexburg, ID

DevCon Day 20

2010-08-29T23:40:00.000-07:00

Headed West out of Sumpter, OR on Highway 410 after having a great night sleep and a awesome breakfast from our hosts Barb & Jay Phillips the owners of the Sumpter Bed and Breakfast. We Continued West on Highway 7 through Baker City, OR, The headed North East on Highway 86 To Oxbow, OR in the Hells Canyon area.

Before heading up Hells Canyon along the Snake River, we grabs some lunch at Hells Canyon Inn & Cafe. Lunch was good but nothing to brag about.

We cross the state line in to Idaho and headed north on Hell's Canyon Rd along the Snake River to the point of no return at the Hell's Canyon Dam. This was a great ride!

After checking out the Hell's Canyon Dam area, we headed South back down Hell's Canyon Rd and hopped on the Brownlee-Oxbow Highway near Oxbow, OR and continued South along the Oregon state line and the beautiful Snake River. ,

When we reached the Brownlee Dam we crossed the state line in to Idaho, waving good bye to Oregon. Highway 71 took us away from the Snake River Further in to Idaho.

Somewhere in between the Brownlee Dam and Cambridge, ID at the Summers S7 Ranch we were held up with a delightful road crossing of cattle, Crystal mooed the cattle on by and we were on our way after a short break.

Highway 71 took us us to Cambridge, ID, By the way, Highway 71 was a very scenic route, one not to miss. We made our way South on Highway 95 to our Destination for the night in Weiser, ID.

We found a Colonial Hotel, which Crystal dubbed as a X-Files Hotel. the Colonial Hotel was a great and inexpensive place to stay.

We started our laundry at a near by laundromat and grabbed us a late dinner at the Ridge Rock Eatery down the street. This was a good choice and our only choice for dinner.

Another great day!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 29, 2010 • OR

DevCon Day 19

2010-08-28T00:05:00.000-07:00

We met up with Larry Overman a friend of mine for breakfast at the Apple Peddler Restaurant. It was good to see Larry again and our goal today was to follow Larry to Sumpter, OR and check out his gold mine.

We headed West out of Prineville, OR on Highway 26 with some light rain. Our first stop, was for fuel In Mitchell, OR. We met Hugh Reed, a very interesting person, he talked about his properties, (Basically the whole town) & Henry The Bear. Henry was not there, but his cage was. If you are ever near Mitchell, OR, stop and have a chat with Hugh, you won't be disappointed. You may even get to meet Henry.

Highway 26 is a beautiful ride even in the rain. After twenty miles riding through Umatilla National Forest, we continued West on Highway 7 and five miles South of Sumpter, OR we turned North on Highway 410 and arrived to our days destination.

We had lunch at the Scoop-N-Steamer Restaurant, Larry said he eats here all the time. We met some other bikers there from Portland, OR that rode here just for lunch.

After a really good lunch, we wonder over to Sumpter Valley Dredge Heritage Area, I really like seeing things like this, I had a great time. It is amazing that they build big machine like this in 1935. This is a state park and it is closed in the winters.

We hopped in Larry's Jeep and he took us up to his gold mine, the only way to get there is in a 4x4. This was my first time to walk in a gold mine, and what a blast! This has to be one of the coolest things I have done this year.

The view up there was spectacular! Let it snow!

Larry put us up for the night (Thanks Larry!) at Sumpter Bed and Breakfast, and what a wonderful place! Crystal & I were the only guest for the night and Barb & Jay Phillips went out of their way to make us feel at home. Thank You Barb & Jay!

What a great day, and thanks to Larry for being a great host and guide. There have been may highlights for this trip and today was a great one.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 28, 2010 • Sumpter, OR

DevCon Day 18

2010-08-27T23:43:00.000-07:00

Crystal and I had breakfast at the hotel and headed out of town North on Highway 62. Highway 62 is a very scenic ride and will take you directly to Crater Lake National Park.

We stopped in Union Creek Resort where Sherri and I stayed last year after visiting Crater Lake National Park. I love this place.

Crater Lake National Park is a beautiful place to visit, if you never been here, make sure it is on your bucket list.

After our visit of the park, we headed North on Highway 97, we stopped in Crescent, OR for fuel, break, and a snack (We did not stop anywhere for lunch). We met three guys riding down from Canada, A father, son, and a friend. They promised to email the video they were taking. Nice guys I hope to hear from them.

We continued North on Highway 97 to Redmond, OR then headed East on Highway 126 to Prineville, OR, our stop for the day.

We found a Hotel, The Econ Lodge for a good rate and checked in for the night.

We had a great dinner at Mazatlan Mexican Restaurant.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 27, 2010 • Prineville, OR

DevCon Day 17

2010-08-26T23:37:00.000-07:00

Headed North on Highway 5 to make up some time to be able to pick up crystal at the airport in Medford, OR on time. Stop in Shasta Lake, CA for at quick breakfast and fuel. I saw The World's Largest Grindstone in front of the Valero gas station. I'm not sure if this is true, I seem to remember reading or seeing somewhere (Discovery or History Channel) in Michigan where they made these huge Grindstone during War World I.

I continued North on Highway 5 (Blue Star Memorial Highway), Highway 5 run through the Shasta National Forest and Despite the 18 wheelers I-5 is a very scenic ride,

I stopped for fuel in Weed, CA and you could see the Shasta Mountain area very good from there.

I continued North on Highway 5, I took the exit to Yreka, CA to follow the Historic Highway 99 for a short distance then I hopped back on Highway 5.

Just after the Oregon, California State Line I took the exit for Old Highway 99 S, it great ride and a great view.

I arrived early enough to check In to The Courtyard Marriott in Medford, OR next to Medford Airport and shortly Crystal arrived.

Later, Crystal and I had dinner at the 4 Daughters Irish Pub. It was a very good meal.

A great day and it was good to see Crystal!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 26, 2010 • Medford, OR

DevCon Day 16

2010-08-25T23:35:00.000-07:00

After Breakfast at the hotel I headed North on Highway 29 to Napa, CA and hopped on Highway 121 (Silverado Trail), I Turned Left on Highway 128. Highway 121 & Highway 128 are a great ride!

Somehow I missed my turn on Berryessa Knoxville Rd and rode on Highway 128 (Sage Canyon Road) towards St Helena, CA. I turned around in Rutherford, CA and headed back towards Lake Berryessa. Sage Canyon Road was a great ride, so I did not mind much missing my turn.

Berryessa Knoxville Road was very scenic and enjoyable ride, until I reached North of Lake Berryessa. Berryessa Knoxville Road became very rough and narrowed down to one lane, at one point part of the road was missing and I barely had enough room for my motorcycle to pass through. My average speed for that 30 miles stretch of road was about 30 mph. Even though the road was crapy the area was beautiful.

Once I got to Lower Lake, CA, I turned Right on to Highway 53 on much better road. I stopped for a break and some lunch in ClearLake, CA. I asked one of the local cops where the best place for lunch was and he pointed across the street to the Main Street Bar & Grill. He was right, the Main Street Bar & Grill was an excellent place to eat.

I headed back North on Highway 53, turned East on Highway 20 to Highway 5 and headed north to Redding, CA, where I stopped for the night and checked in to the Local Motel 6.

What a great day!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 25, 2010 • Redding, California

DevCon Day 15

2010-08-24T23:32:00.000-07:00

After Breakfast at the hotel, I headed North on Highway 99 and West on Highway 580 to Dublin, CA and stopped at the Arlen Ness Motorcycle Shop to check it out and to get a new front tire put on my motorcycle. If you are ever there check out the museum on the second floor, It's way cool! Another thing that was cool, is their service department was on the third floor. They have a big ramp in back that you ride your motorcycle up and down on to get your bike serviced.

After my tire change I headed North on Hwy 680. I paid the $5.00 toll to cross the Benicia-Martinez Bridge. I continued North On Highway 780 and Stopped for lunch in Vallejo, CA at Taco Jalisco. I would not recommend this place to anyone!

I headed North on Highway 29 and decided to make this a short day on the road and I stopped for the day in American Canyon, CA. I check in to the local Fairfield Marriott.

I took a short nap, then enjoyed the hot tub for the evening. I grab some dinner at Ristorante La Strada, I got a recommendation from one of the local. What a great meal! I highly recommend this place.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 24, 2010 • American Canyon, CA

DevCon Day 14

2010-08-23T23:24:00.000-07:00

Great night camping in King Canyon National Park. Headed out this morning, after having breakfast in Grant Grove Village. Rode out on Hwy 180, the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway. The Kings Canyon Scenic Byway is a great ride!

I turned North on to N. Academy Road In Fresno, CA and hopped on Hwy 168 after going through Prather, CA I turned on Auberry Rd. Hwy 168 and Auberry Rd were very enjoyable rides. In Auberry, CA I turned left a the Y, on to Power House Rd ( Route 222 ), This took me in to the Sierra National Forest, Route 222 is a great road, Don't miss this one!

Route 222 took me to North Fork, CA, just at the city limits entering North Fork the Welcome sign stated I was in the Exact Center of California. After checking this out on the web, I found out that there is some debate where the Exact Center of California really is, Bass Lake, CA also clams that they are in the Exact Center of California. North Fork, CA and Bass Lake, CA are about ten miles apart from each other. I don't know if I was really in the Exact Center of California, but I'm going to claim I was in the Exact Center of California anyway.

I continue North on Route 222 which did take me through Bass Lake, CA to Hwy 41, Hwy 41 is a very scenic road. At the time I did not know I was by passing the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, I'll have to catch that one next time I'm in this area.

Hwy 41 is a excellent road, don't miss it! Hwy 41 takes you to and through Yosemite National Park.

I stopped for lunch in Yosemite National Park in the main visitor area. Ater lunch and getting my National Park Passport stamped, I headed out on Hwy 140.

On my way out of Yosemite National Park on Hwy 140 I was delayed because of a landslide that happen in 2008. They have added two one lane bridges and two traffic light to let one way traffic go through. It was only a 20 minute delay. My photo of Landslide. Hwy 140 is a beautiful and scenic road.

I hopped on Hwy 99 in Merced, CA and headed to Turlock, CA and checked in at the Fairfield Marriott for the night. It was great to get a shower, there were no showers at the campsite last night.

An awesome day today!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 23, 2010 • Turlock, California

DevCon Day 13

2010-08-22T22:27:00.000-07:00

My goal today is to end up camping in King Canyon National Park. Left out of my hotel in Bakersfield, California and headed towards the Sequoia National Forest and the Sequoia National Park.

On Hwy 178 was grassy plains with mountains in the background, I stopped fuel in Lake Isabella, CA and topped off my tank. I turned North on Hwy 155 and rode along Lake Isabell into the Sequoia National Forest.

I turned Left on the Kern River Hwy, the Kern river runs along the Kern River Hwy, there are rock mountain on both side shooting up to the skies and it is a great ride!

I stopped for lunch at the Brewer's Ponderosa Lodge (Photo Above) in Ponderosa, CA. I had the Bacon Ortega Burger and it was good! I met some new friends, Star Riders from Fresno, Ca and Kevin & Denise, it was a pleasure to meet all of you.

I continued North and had to exit out of the Sequoia National Forest Through Springville, CA on Hwy 190 to Hwy 65 and back to the Sequoia National Forest on Hwy 198.

I enter the Sequoia National Park after 30 min., The Sequoia National Park and King Canyon National Park is in the middle of the Sequoia National Forest.

On my way to King Canyon National Park there was road work that held me up for 30 min. After my wait I continued North to King Canyon National Park.

I stopped for Dinner at Wuksachi Lodge in Sequoia National Park. It was a good break and a great dinner.

I made it to King Canyon National Park at sunset, I found a near by camping site, put up my hammock in the dark and went to bed.

What a great day!

Photos • Route • Spot • Video

August 22, 2010 • King Canyon National Park

DevCon Day 12

2010-08-21T21:38:00.000-07:00

My goal today is to end up camping in Sequoia National Forest.

Headed North on Hwy 33, as I was riding through Ojai, CA I saw a sign that said Car & Bike Show, so I stopped and checked it out. Ojai Car & Bike Show Map was really cool, I had a great time checking out the cars, bikes and watching the motorcycle stunt show. Also the Blue Vice Band was great.

After spending a almost two hours at the Ojai Car & Bike Show I continue North on Hwy 33, I did not get far when I decided to stop for lunch at the Deer Lodge. I had the three tip BBQ sandwhich, which was great. While I was eating Jonathan McEuen was singing on the patio, wow! He is good and I hope to get to hear more of him.

I finally got to the Los Padres National Forest it is great ride, be sure to catch this ride on Hwy 33 if you are ever in this area.

On Hwy 166 I turned to check out the Carrizo Plain National Monument, I did not check out the Monument, but I was able to ride about ten mile of the Carrizo Plain. I turned around when the road became gravel.

I stopped for the day in Bakersfield, CA to check out Valley Cycle & Motorsports and bought some new gloves.

Had dinner at Hooters and check in to a hotel for the night.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 21, 2010 Bakersfield, CA

DevCon Day 11

2010-08-21T02:53:00.000-07:00

I was able to book a boat to Channel Islands National Park at Island Packers for noon today. I also extended my stay at the Motel 6 for another night.

I grab breakfast at the local Denny's and headed over to the Channel Islands National Park visitors center to get my National Park pass stamped.

I boarded the boat at 12:45 PM and we were on our way to Santa Cruz Island, the largest out of the five islands.

On arrival, kathryn (Park Ranger) gave us the rules. I had my choice to wonder around on my own or hike with kathryn on a four mile guided tour. I chose to hang with kathryn. She did a great job, I learned a lot about the history of the island & it was a wonderful & scenic hike.

As I sit here on the boat taking me back to Ventura Harbor and enjoying the ocean view. I was thinking it would be very cool to spend a few days there camping, hiking, and kayaking.

Ate dinner at Denny's across the street from the hotel.

What a great day!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 20, 2010 Ventura, CA

DevCon Day 10

2010-08-19T02:39:00.000-07:00

Woke up next to the ocean in San Elijo State Beach, a great way to wake up and the Hammock worked great.

Had breakfast at Pipes Cafe in Cardiff, CA, I recommend the sausage scramble, it was great.

I continued North on Hwy 1 and stopped at the Post Office in Encinitas, CA to lighten my load, and sent home some DevCon stuff.

At Oceanside, CA I hopped on Hwy I-10, because of Camp Pendleton. At San Clemente, Ca I hopped back on Hwy 1 (Pacific Coast Hwy) heading North.

I stopped in Huntington Beach, Ca to check out the pier and the beach. There were plenty of people at the beach today.

Stopped for lunch at Frisco's Bar & Grill In Long Beach, CA, the waitress were all on roller skates, I guess they were Car hops with no cars to wait on. the food was good.

I continue North on Hwy 1, and stopped in Ventura, CA for the night at the local Motel 6.

In between Santa Monica, Ca and Oxnard, CA the ride was awesome!

Photos • Route • Spot

August 19, 2010 Ventura, CA

DevCon Day 09

2010-08-18T00:54:00.000-07:00

Attended sessions all day, I left the hotel at 5:45 PM and hit the road and headed North.

I stopped for dinner at Red Robin in Del Mar, California I met a guy that recommend a place to camp and to have breakfast in the morning. I wish I could remember his name, I do remember that he was a chef and he was going to start his own gourmet food truck. he gave me some great info.

I stopped for the night at San Elijo State Park for the night, set up my hammock at one of the camp site.

A short ride today, but a good one.

Photos • Route • Spot

August 18,2010 San Elijo State Park

DevCon Day 07 & 08

2010-08-16T23:23:00.001-07:00

Day 07:

Sessions all day, and for the evening there was a dinner for the FileMaker Business Alliance Members, which I did attend. A good day.

Day 08:

Sessions all day, and for the evening there was a dinner on the USS Midway, which was very cool. I was disappointed That I did not get to tour the lower decks of the ship, otherwise I had a great time.

Photos • USS Midway

DevCon Day 06

2010-08-16T23:20:00.001-07:00

Left the Courtyard Marriott in Palm Desert, California around 9 AM after having Breakfast at the hotel. Palm Desert is the cleanest town I have ever seen, I did not see any trash on the streets, parking lots, or yards. They must have a very strict trash police in this town.

I headed South on Hwy 74 Through the Mt. San Jacinto State Park. This is a great ride!

I turned on Hwy 371, then on to Hwy 79 and continue through some great country side and roads. This also was is a great ride!

I stopped in Santa Ysabel, California for some lunch At the Apple Country Restaurants. The Bison Melt was wonderful! Right next door was the Julian Pie Company, I had a slice of their famous Dutch Apple Pies, yes it is heaven!

After at wonderful meal I headed South on Hwy 78 then on to Hwy 67 on some more great roads. I continued South on Schpps Poway Pkwy, then on to Hwy I-15, off on Hwy 163 in to San Diego, California.

I found my way to N Harbor Dr to the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina where I'll be for the next three days.

Today was a great day!

Photos • Route • Spot

DevCon Day 04

2010-08-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

Grabbed breakfast at the local Mc Donald's next door to the hotel and headed West on Hwy I-10, took the exit for South Houghton Rd and headed North, turned Right on East Escalante Rd and a Left on South Old Spanish Trail to Saguaro National Park East.

Last time I was here I was in a rented car while my motorcycle was being fixed. It is much better on a motorcycle. Saguaro National Park East has a eight mile loop to enjoy the view. I stopped many times to take pictures. If your here on the weekend watch out for the bicyclists.

Afterwards I headed to the Arizona Victory dealership to get my bike it's 12,000 miles service. The guys did a great job and got me in and out in about an hour. Thanks Ron DeVito!

After my service I had to go over to the Apple Store to get my iPhone fixed after getting it wet (Don't Ask). Surprisingly they replace my phone with no questions asked.

By this time I was starving and looking for a place to eat. I stopped at the Thunder Canyon Brewery, it was some great food or I could of been just really hungry.

I headed West over to Saguaro National Park West and got there before the visitor center closed and was able to do a little hiking & photographing.

I hopped on Hwy I-10 and headed towards Phoenix Arizona, I stopped in Chandler Arizona and stayed in the Fairfield Inn for the night. After checking in I ate at Villalpando's Mexican Restaurant and had some pretty good Fajita.

Photos • Route • Spot

DevCon Day 03

2010-08-15T22:53:00.000-07:00

Got an early start for a change, Had a terrible breakfast at the hotel. My 30 liter bag was hard to close I'm going to have to lose a few thing.

The weather was great this morning nice and cool ride and not a cloud in the sky.

I headed West on Hwy 302 out of Odessa Texas, turned left on Hwy 285 and right on Farm Market Road 652 for the next 40 mile I was the only one on that road.

I turned left on to Hwy 180 to Guadalupe Mountains National Park. I did a couple of miles of hiking in McKittrick Canyon area and then stopped by the visitors center.

I did not see one gas pump since I left Odessa Texas this morning and after exploring Guadalupe Mountains National Park I was started to run on fumes. Found a gas station near Salt Flats, Texas (26 miles west of the park) just in time. I filled up with almost 6 gallons.

I stopped for lunch at May's Cafe in Cornudas, Texas, it's in the middle of nowhere and it's a great place to get a good cheeseburger.

I continued on Hwy 180 West, turned Right on Hwy 375 to Franklin Mountains State Park to take a few photos

After a few miles on Hwy 80, I hopped on Hwy I-10. I pull over at Deming, New Mexico, in a Mac Donald's to take a break, checking email, and have a soda while the rain passes by.

Stopped for dinner at Kranberry's Family Restaurant in Lordsburg New Mexico. This is my third time here and it's always been good.

I Cross the Arizona state line at about 450 mile and pulled off at Bowie, Arizona and turned South on Apache Pass Rd to see the Fort Bowie National Historic Site. I did not make it to the site, after 20 mile the pavement ended and it was getting dark, so I chose not to ride on the gravel/dirt road in the dark heading back to I-10.

However I had a great time riding on Apache Pass Rd. The weather was great and I got some great photos.

By the time I got back to Bowie, Arizona it was dark, I hopped back on to Hwy I-10 to Wilcox, Arizona and booked a room at the Motel 6.

About five years ago I broke down here in Wilcox, Arizona and had my motorcycle (Yamaha Venture) towed to Tucson Arizona.

I stayed on I-10 so I could get in 500 to 600 miles today to get a little ahead of schedule, I actual hit my goal at 545.7 miles.

Photos • Route • Spot

DevCon Day 05

2010-08-14T23:09:00.000-07:00

Had a late breakfast at the Hotel and headed over to check out the Heart Attack Grill, I was there way to early eat, but next time I'm here I'll have to have lunch.

A couple of block back towards Hwy I-10 was Chandler Harley Davidson, I stopped there to check out the new 2011 Road Glide Ultra. Very cool bike and no I'm not buying one anytime soon.

I stopped for lunch in Goodyear Arizona at Bill Johnson's Big Apple, what a great lunch, I had the Bison melt.

I continued on Hwy I-10, I had to stop for gas at Quartzsite, Arizona. The pumps were down for about 45 min, the next service station was 40 miles away West and 60 miles East, I could have continue West but was not sure I could make it to the next service station. Better safe that stranded.

After crossing the check point at the California state line I continued on Hwy I-10 and turned North on Cottonwood Spring Rd and entered the South Entrance of the Joshua Tree National Park. By the time I got there the Visitors Center, it was closed, but the park was open.

When I left Phoenix Arizona it was 115˚ and the closer I got to the California state line it was 120˚ and when I arrive at the Visitors Center at Joshua Tree National Park the Temperature had went down to 101˚, the funny thing is that 101˚ felt good.

After driving through, hiking, & photographing at Joshua Tree National Park I stopped for dinner in 29 Palms, California for dinner at the 29 Palms Inn. Had a great steak there at the bar and met some great local people there. The 29 Palms Inn had no rooms left (I really wanted to stay there) so I booked a hotel room an hour away at the Courtyard Marriott in Palm Desert, California.

By the time I got to the Courtyard Marriott it was dark.

After soaking in the hot tub I called it a night!

Photos • Route • Spot

DevCon Day 02

2010-08-11T22:28:00.000-07:00

Left out of Burnet Texas later than I planned and it was already getting hot at 10 AM.

I head West on Hwy 29 To Llano Texas, I have done this road many times and it always a joy to ride. At Llano I turned North on Hwy 71 to Brady Texas. Even though it was hot, it was a gorgeous day. Blue skies with pure white pillow clouds everywhere.

At Brady Texas I hopped on Hwy 87 North To San Angelo Texas for lunch at Fuentes The stuff chicken salad was great!

I continued on Hwy 87 to Sterling City Texas and turned West on Hwy 185. I had to stop and a couple time because of construction.

The closer I got to Midland Texas the threat of rain was coming, surprisingly I skirted around the storms with only a few sprinkles of rain.

When I got to Odessa Texas I called it quits for the day and Reserved a room at the Marriott Towneplace Suite and had dinner.

Photos • Route • Spot

Center Of Texas

2010-08-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

YouTube Video

In Eden Texas their welcome sign stated they were "The Center Of Texas" and In Brady Texas a marble marker on the courthouse lawn states "The Center Of Texas".

So which is true?

http://www.tpwmagazine.com/archive/2006/feb/threedays/

DevCon Day 01

2010-08-10T22:13:00.000-07:00

After my appointment this morning and lunch at Rudy's BBQ, I started my trip to the West Coast.

I rode on Hwy. 290 all the way to Austin Texas, I stop at Napalm Motorsports to take a gander at what they had. They had lots of Victory motorcycle and more Victory accessories than any other Victory shop I seen so far. I was not going to buy anything, but I ended up buying a cool T-Shirt.

I continued on to Ranch Road 1431 through the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge and found a great road "Cow Creek Road", it's a great scenic ride.

After riding and taking photos in Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge I mad my way over to Burnet Texas.

I had dinner at the Highlander Inn (Very Good Ribeye) and booked a room at the Best Western for the night.

Photos • Route • Spot • Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Big Trip Starts Tuesday!

2010-08-08T22:48:00.000-07:00

Headed to San Diego, CA through New Mexico & Arizona for the FileMaker Conference (Database Stuff). Then I'll head up through California to Oregon & Head back to Texas Through Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, & Colorado.

I will be leaving this Tuesday August 10th and returning to Houston at the end of the month.

Crystal (My Daughter) will be joining me in Medford Oregon and I'll drop her off in Ft. Worth on the way to Houston.

I'll post maps later and updates here during my trip.

Follow me here everyday starting Tuesday:
http://spotwalla.com/tripViewer.php?id=1cd24c5f7aa0a867b

Packing

2010-08-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

YouTube Video

I started packing for my trip yesterday and finish up today.

I'll load up the motorcycle tomorrow evening.

Ride out to Washington

2010-07-24T10:21:00.000-07:00

Rode out with the Star Riders to Washington County Area to Chappell Chill Bar & Grill for the Houston Southern Cruisers Hawaiian Shirt Ride.

Afterwards he headed up to Brenham Texas for the Hot Nights, Cool Tune Concert and listen to The Fab 5.

Had a great time, we headed back home around 9:30 PM to try to miss the storm. We ran in to it at the Waller County Line, We stopped there to wait it out at the the Shell Gas Station & the Waller County Line BBQ.

We headed out around midnight and got home around 12:30 AM

Photos • Route

Big Bend Day 5

2010-06-04T20:15:00.000-07:00

A great way to start out the day, breakfast overlooking the Riverwalk in San Antonio TX.

We packed up and checked out of the Courtyard Marriott near noon. and headed out of town East on Highway 10.

We stopped for fuel at Luling, TX, the Bcc-Ee's had a line on the feeder road just to get in to the parking lot, so we decided to fuel up at Love's Travel Stop on the other side of the Freeway.

After fueling we hopped on Highway 90 and headed to Houston.

We stopped for lunch in Columbus, TX at Nancy's Steakhouse and met up with Sherri's friend Otilia from Smithville, TX.

Back on the road the traffic was backed up on Highway I-10, so we decided to head down 10 miles on Highway 77 to Highway Alt 90 and headed East to Highway 59 and then the Toll road and we arrived home around 7 PM.

I had a great extended weekend to Big Bend and back. I look forward to going back.

Photos • Route Spot

Big Bend Day 4

2010-05-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

Leaving the Big Bend area today. After packing up and checking out of the hotel, we started the day at Magoo's Place for a great breakfast.

Our route was be highway 90 all the way to San Antonio, TX and will be our stop for the night.

We stopped in Del Rio, TX and ate lunch at Rudy's "Country Store" And Bar-B-Q, one of my favorite BBQ places to eat.

We arrived at the Courtyard Marriott Riverwalk In San Antonio, TX around 8 PM. We Parked our motorcycles, had dinner, sit in the hot tub and relaxed the rest of the evening.

The next trip to Big Bend National Park, I'll plan it for five day at the Chisos Mountain Lodge, that should give us more time to enjoy the park.

Photos • Route Spot

Big Bend Day 3

2010-05-29T19:26:00.000-07:00

Had a good breakfast at Penny's Dinner.

After Breakfast we headed South on Highway 118 back to Big Bend National Park, we stopped in Study Butte for fuel and Water. The Study Butte Store look the same as it did when I stopped here five years ago.

We continued South on highway 118 into Big Bend National Park on Highway 385 (West), after six mile we turned on Ross Maxwell Scenic Road (Do not Miss this road!) and rode 30 miles through the Castolon area to the Santa Elena Canyon. We rode through a couple low areas on the road that were covered with three to four inches of water, that we had to slowly cross.

The Santa Elena Canyon is a must see when visiting the Big Bend National Park.

When we left Santa Elena Canyon I saw Old Maverick Road which reminded me when I was here five years ago. Don't take that road unless you have dirt bike or a four wheel drive auto.

After leaving Big Bend National Park we rode up highway 118 to Study Butte and turned on highway 170. We stopped for lunch in Terlingua, TX at the High Sierra Bar & Grill. I recommend it highly, we had some great food there.

After a great lunch we headed West on highway 170 through the Big Bend Ranch State Park along the Rio Grande River. This road is a must ride when you are in the Big Bend area.

When we reached Redford, TX, we decided to take cover from the storm coming our way.

After the storm pass we continued West on highway 170, two mile before Presidio, TX we had to stop. A creek was flowing over the road from a flash flood. We were stuck there for about an hour with a few other vehicles on both sides of the creek.

When we reached Presidio, TX we headed north on highway 67 to Marfa, TX. We stopped for fuel and had dinner at Mando's. Very good mexican food!

After we filled our bellies we headed East on highway 90, we stopped to see the Marfa Lights.

We got back to the hotel around 9:30 PM. We spent a little time with the San Antonio Southern Cruiser. We called it a night at 10:30 PM.

It was an awesome day!

Photos • Route

Big Bend Day 2

2010-05-28T20:20:00.000-07:00

We had breakfast at the hotel and headed out of town East on Highway 90 around 9 AM.

We stop at the Seminole Canyon

State Park, the Canyon is worth seeing and one of the days I'll come out here to take the tour of the cave. While I was here I renewed my state park pass.

We went down highway 90 a few of mile east of Seminole Canyon State Park and stopped to see the Tallest bridge In Texas, The Pecos River High Bridge 273 feet above the river.

We continued east on highway 90, we stopped in Sanderson, TX for fuel and lunch at the local Dairy King. Had a great burger from the Dairy King.

After lunch we hopped back on Highway 90, when we arrived in Marathon, TX we refueled and headed South on highway 385 to Big Bend National Park.

We stopped at the Persimmon Gap Visitors Center to register for entry with my National Park Pass and to get my National Park Passport Stamped. Sherri & Jessica shopped for some souvenirs. We continued South and stopped at the Park Headquarters/Visitors Center for some fuel and more shopping.

We hopped back on highway 385 headed east and turned South on Basin Junctio Road (Great Road, Do Not Miss!) to the Chisos Basin Area. At the Chisos Basin Area we were at an evelation of 5400 ft and a little cooler.

After a little break, we headed back down the Basin Junctio Road and turned right (East) on highway 385 to the parks exits on highway 118 and headed north to Alpine, TX.

We arrived at our hotel the Highland Inn around 8:30 PM. After checking in, it was time for dinner, we cleaned up a little and headed over to the Longhorn Steakhouse for a great meal. Be sure to eat here when visiting Alpine, TX.

What a long great day and a great ride!

Photos • Route Spot

Big Bend Day 1

2010-05-27T19:34:00.000-07:00

Headed out to Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park Around 10:30 AM, Our stop for the night would be in Del Rio, TX.

We (Sherri and Jessica) took a straight route today on highway I-10 to Seguin, TX and hopped on Highway 90.

We stopped in Hondo, TX for lunch at Pepe's Pizza. The Pizza was OK and very expensive. I would never stop there again, or suggest anyone else to eat there.

We rode through San Antonio, TX and stopped in Del Rio TX for the night.

The weather today was great for riding. Jessica (Right on photo above) rode with me and Sherri (Left on photo above) rode her Yamaha 1100 V-Star.

Photos • Route Spot

2010-05-20T20:22:00.000-07:00

Nothing to do with motorcycling, but I thought this was cool to share.

On our way to Corpus Christi we passed a large trailer hauling a little truck, we slow down to get a better look. The truck is from Ram Bro Contracting.

More Photos

Bandera Spring 2010 Day 3

2010-04-10T02:30:00.000-07:00

We rode west out to Utopia for breakfast at the Lost Maples Cafe. I recommend the pancakes or the hot cinnamon rolls.

After our great breakfast we headed to the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop in Leakey. If you never have stop at the Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop, I recommend that you stop and visit awhile, check out the shop for some motorcycle accessories, grab a cold one, kick your feet up and enjoy the view out the back and if you are there around noon time, grabs some lunch at the Bent Rim Grill.

We hopped on Highway 337 and enjoyed a great ride with a great view of the Texas Hill Country. I stopped a dozen times and took photos, but I did not get any shots that I was happy with.

We stopped at Love Creek Orchards in Medina for a late lunch at The Apple Store (Not Apple Computer). I had a great cheeseburger with an apple turnover.

We headed back to Bandera on Highway 16, when we got to our hotel we cleaned up and took a well deserved nap.

After our nap Sherri and I headed over to Mansfield Park and visited with the Southern Cruisers for there yearly Twist Off. A great party, food, & friends.

Back at the hotel for some more partying with the Star Riders.

Tomorrow we headed out early on Highway 16 and east on Highway 10 straight back to Houston.

Photos • Route

Bandera Spring 2010 Day 2

2010-04-09T00:22:00.000-07:00

Bandera Wine Run!

I was looking at the map for all the Winery in the hill country. I found three Northeast of Bandera. Most of the winery are further North of Bandera.

We started out with Breakfast in town at the OST Restaurant. After a great breakfast we headed to the first Winery Sister Creek Vineyards. Sister Creek Vineyards was a very cool place, but I did not like the wines there.

Our next stop, Comfort Cellar Winery, we rode pass it and had to turn around. The place looked like any house in the neighborhood. I bought two bottles wine there. Try the jalapeno wine, it will knock your socks off. I also the raisin wine, it taste like a great sherry.

Our last Winery Singing Water Winery was south west of Comfort and Mill Dam Rd worth the ride. What a beautiful place and some great wine. Try the 2008 Sweet Lupe when your there. I also bought two bottle here, the 2008 Sweet Lupe & the 2008 Merlot. Singing Water Winery was my favorite winery for the day.

We headed over to Center Point Texas for a late lunch at Dave's Place. If you are ever near Center Point stop at Dave's Place for a great burger.

What a great day for some wine tasting and riding in the hill country of Texas.

Photos • Route

Bandera Spring 2010 Day 1

2010-04-08T23:32:00.000-07:00

Yearly spring trip to Bandera Texas.

Been looking forward to this trip for over a month to get the Victory Vision out in the hill country.

Steve, Sherri & I met at the Waffle House around 10 AM and headed out to Bandera the long way around. After riding some great back roads North of I-10 we stopped for a late lunch in Greune at the Grist Mill River Restaurant & Bar for a great lunch.

After lunch we headed out on Hwy 46 through Boerne to Hwy 16 to the Lost Valley Resort Ranch. The weather was fantastic and the road were great! It's good to be back in Bandera again.

Photos • Route

2010-01-11T09:39:00.000-08:00

Testing the cooliris photo viewer.

Some of my favorite photos I have taken over the last few years.

Sunday Ride With The Star Riders

2009-12-21T20:38:00.000-08:00

Ripley led the Star Riders on a great ride Northwest of Houston. After enjoying the ride with the awesome weather, we ended up at Joe's Place in Fayetteville for a late lunch.

I really enjoyed Old Mill Creek Road (CR RD 25) in between Burton and Brenham.

Photos • Route

2009 Southern Cruisers Somerville Meet Up

2009-12-13T22:10:00.000-08:00

Sherri & I rode out with the Houston Southern Cruiser for the Somerville Meet Up and Food Drive at the Somerville Steakhouse. We took a direct route there and arrived at 11:05 AM.

I really love there their steaks and I was disappointed that they were serving us only the buffet. The food was OK, guest I was missing the steak.

Followed Rita back to Houston on the back roads, It was a great ride back home. Thanks Rita!

Photo • Route

2009 Depelchin Toy Run

2009-12-12T23:23:00.000-08:00

The Star Riders every year have a Toy Run to support the kids at Depelchin house in Richmond Texas.

Check in was at BB Wolfs, State Farm was there to supply coffee and donuts.

We headed to Depelchin house at 10:30 AM. The kids were great and there were tons of present.

After spending some time with the kids we all headed back to BB Wolfs for lunch, music, 50/50, and a silent auction.

Had a great turnout, I and the Star Riders want to thank everyone that came out to help the kids.

Photos

Star Riders November's Chapter Ride

2009-11-22T22:08:00.000-08:00

Weather turn out great for a Sunday ride with the Star Riders.

We started out early at Kelly's Country Cookin and headed east around the 610 Southeast loop. We rode around the Galveston, Trinity, and East Bays. Took the ferry over to Galveston and had a great lunch at Millers Landing.

Thanks Paul for leading a great ride, I had a good time.

Photos • Route

Dallas International Motorcycle Show

2009-11-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

While I was up in the DFW area visiting family, I decided to run over to the Dallas International Motorcycle Show. This years show seem short on vendors, but it was still a good show.

I got to meet Tom Lowdermilk from one of my favorite Internet Motorcycle Show, SideStand Up. Tom was at the Cruiserworks booth when I met him. It was great to talk to him in persons and talk about our latest ride. (Tom & me in the photo above)

Tomorrow I head back to Houston.

Photos

Back To Vegas To Pick Up The Road Glide Day 5

2009-11-13T01:22:00.000-08:00

After Breakfast at the hotel I took Hwy 25 south to Hwy 380 and headed East through the Valley Of Fires and the Lincoln National Forest.

I Stopped for lunch at Farley in Roswell New Mexico What a huge hamburger! And I ate it all!

After lunch I continue east in to texas and made it to Abilene Texas.

Had dinner with a friend and got some business done while I was there.

I checked in to the at the Marriott Residence Inn and relaxed for the night.

Tomorrow I'll hopped on Hwy I-20 to Ft. Worth and visit with family for the weekend and headed back to Houston on Monday.

Photos • More Info About The Valley Of Fire

Back To Vegas To Pick up the Road Glide Day 4

2009-11-12T00:43:00.000-08:00

After breakfast at the hotel I headed East out of town on Hwy 69.

I stopped for lunch at Al & Diane's Red Onion in Heber, AZ. I had a great Chicken Fried Steak!

I continue East On Hwy 260 through Show Low Arizona, Then hopped on Hwy 60 in to New Mexico. It was now getting really windy and colder.

On Hwy 60 I rode through Quemado New Mexico, the speed limit before town was 65 MPH and 25 MPH in town and out of town there were no speed limit signs. Two miles out of town I pass a state cop doing 65 MPH He turned on his light and pulled me over. So you know I have been riding the speed limit or 5 MPH over, max the whole trip. I ask the officer what was the problem. He stated that I was going 10 MPH over the speed limit. After writing me a $71.00 ticket he told me that the speed limit was 55 MPH for the next 11 miles. This was nothing but a speed trap!

After my 45 minute delay I rode in the dark to Socorro New Mexico and book a room at the Best Western Hotel. I grabbed a late dinner at the El Camino Restaurant & Lounge.

Beside the ticket it was a great day of riding.

Photos

Back To Vegas To Pick up the Road Glide Day 3

2009-11-11T00:12:00.000-08:00

Headed out of Laughlin around 9:00 AM and headed East. I stayed off the main Freeway and took the back roads. I stopped for lunch at Kirklands Bar & Steakhouse for a late lunch.

After my pulled pork sandwich (No Steaks!) I headed on to Prescott AZ and got a room at the Marriott Springhill Suite.

After checking in I headed over to the Palace Restaurant and Saloon for dinner. The steak was fair and I had the place to my self. Before I went back to the hotel, I stopped by Krogers and got a bottle of wine.

I relaxed in the hot tub and had two glasses of wine.

I really love riding on these back roads in Arizona. It was a great day considering my two previous days.

Photos

Back To Vegas To Pick Up The Road Glide Day 1 & 2

2009-11-09T23:28:00.000-08:00

On Aug 5th I Had a motorcycle accident near Death Valley National Park. By the recommendation from GEICO my insurance company, my 2008 Harley-Davidson Road Glide was taken to Arlin Ness Las Vegas. Eric told me that it would take six to eight weeks to fix the motorcycle.

Eric called on the first part of November and told me my motorcycle was ready to pickup and would be like new.

It took three months to fix, I was told that the guy who was in charge of my motorcycle was fired and my motorcycle was forgotten about, despite my calls every two to three weeks to check on the progress and I thought Eric was in charge of my motorcycle being fixed from the beginning and he is still there.

I flew to Las Vegas on Monday evening November 9th 2009. The next morning I arrived at Arlin Ness Las Vegas to pick up my motorcycle at 8:00 AM and I expected to be there two or three hours for minor things that might need to be adjusted or fixed.

I left at 2:00 PM only to find out that the radio was dead, I immediately returned to the shop and was there till 3:30 PM.

This is the part that really upset me:

Eric told me that I needed to stop at the Henderson Harley-Davidson Shop south of Las Vegas to get the radio configured because of the radio beeping every 30 seconds.

The Henderson Harley-Davidson Shop Manager told me that Arlin Ness Las Vegas brought my motorcycle there two times to fix things.

By the time Henderson Harley-Davidson Shop got to my motorcycle and fixed the radio it was 5:30 PM and I headed to Laughlin to get a few miles in.

Riding in the dark and a few hours later I arrived at the Aquarius Casino Resort in Laughlin. After checking in and grabbing a steak, I relaxed for the night.

The motorcycle should have been ready.
I should never had to take the motorcycle to Henderson Harley-Davidson Shop for any reason.
If Arlin Ness Las Vegas had to take my motorcycle to Henderson Harley-Davidson Shop two time to get fixed, Arlin Ness Las Vegas should never work on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, especially my motorcycle.
I had to spend other night in Las Vegas (Laughlin).
I lost a whole day of pay.
The motorcycle still had things that were not fixed.

Throttle sticking.
Fairing to far to the left.
Nut missing on front left turn indicator.
GPS mounts still broke.
Right floorboard sticking up.

The one positive thing I can say about Arlin Ness Las Vegas is that they were very nice and apologies many times.

What do I want out of all of this? The cost of the extra night in the hotel & eight hours of pay, my motorcycle fixed and what happen to me at Arlin Ness Las Vegas does not happen to anybody else.

Photos

Lone Star Rally

2009-11-01T09:37:00.000-08:00

Had a great time at the Lone Star Rally this year. Seem to be more people this year and there was lots to see and do.

Checked in at the Gaidos Seaside Inn around noon, Sherri join me later that night. Nice hotel to stay. Map

On Saturday we did a test ride on some of the Victory bikes, checked out the Strand (The main street for the rally) and the vendors.

We took a nap around 8:00 PM and did not get up, we were in for the night.

Sunday we had breakfast at mosquitos. After a great breakfast we hit the Strand one more time and headed home.

Photos:

Day 1 • Day 2 • Day 3

Comanche Campout 2009

2009-10-25T16:03:00.000-07:00

Can't remember if this is my third or fourth year to attend the Comanche Campout. Anyway it's lots of fun and I always have a great time.

Day 1 Friday:

Sherri and I headed out of Houston Friday afternoon around 1:00 PM. We stopped in Katy to have brunch at Snappy's Cafe & Grill. Always a great breakfast!

After a great brunch we headed West on I-10 to Sealy and took the back road the rest of the way to Smithville at our hotel Americas Best Value Inn. No we did not campout, maybe next year.

After checking in we ran over to the campsite in Buescher State Park where Comanche Campout was being held. We said hello to everyone and had some white chili for dinner with the Cypress Creek SCRC.

After eating some great chili and visiting with friends, we called it an early night (10:00 PM) and we headed back to the hotel.

Day 2 Saturday:

We woke up late and headed over to the campsite to get the details for the Scavenger Hunt. We got our list and headed out and immediately got turned around and end up back at the park entrance. We were hungry so we headed to the cafe (Elm Creek Cafe) on the Scavenger Hunt list. Both of us had the Chicken Fried Steak, we should have shared one plate. It was huge and a great Chicken Fried Steak.

If you are ever in the Giddings area, the Elm Creek Cafe is a

must stop and come hungry!

After stuffing our selfs we followed the Scavenger Hunt map back through Giddings to the Court House to find stuff on the list. We went down highway 71 to La Grange and stopped for gas. We collected some more stuff and found out that we were running out of time and we had to be back to the Campsite by 4:00 PM.

We made it back to the Campsite at 4:10 PM and tuned in our small finding. We did not win, but we had a great time riding around the country side Scavenging. Headed back out to the hotel to rest and get cleaned up before the party later that night.

After our short break we headed back to the Campsite had some gumbo for dinner with the Cypress Creek SCRC. Great gumbo!

The costume party started at 8:00 PM, great costumes this year.

My favorite was Kill Santa, dressed up as Elfs that had santa's head in a shopping bag and yes they won the costumes contest. No, Sherri and I did not dress up this year.

The party continue on all night and we headed back to the hotel around 1:30 AM.

Day 3 Sunday:

Head over to the Campsite around 9:00 AM for the group photo. We had a small breakfast and helped with the packing and clean up. After saying our good byes, headed back to the hotel and packed up our gear, checked out of the hotel and headed down the street to downtown Smithville for some lunch at the Pocket Grill. We had there hamburgers which were good.

After lunch we headed back home through the country side back home to Houston.

The weather was great for the weekend and I had a great time. Put some more miles on the wonderful new Victory Vision.

Photos • Route Day 1 • Route Day 2 • Route Day 3

Star Riders Chapter Ride

2009-10-18T23:05:00.001-07:00

What a great day for riding! The friends, weather, route, & food was great!

We started out at Kelly's, once we got out of Houston we hopped on FM 521 South to Sandy Point Rd (CR 42), then West on FM 42 To Cow Creek Rd (CR 25). These two roads are one of my favorites in the South West Houston area. After a spirited ride on CR 42 and Cr 25 we rode in to

West Columbia for a gas break at the local Buc-ees.

We ran into the Southern Cruisers at Buc-ees as they were getting ready to continue their ride to Mikeska's BBQ in El Campo. It was nice to have a quick hello with them.

After our gas break we headed South on Highway 35 to FM 1459 through Sweeny and turned on to FM 524 to CR 16. My first time to ride on FM 1459, FM 524, and CR 16, very nice roads. After hopping on FM 2919 we ended up at 2J's Cafe & Marina on the intracoastal waterway near Lake Jackson.

2J's Cafe & Marina is a great restaurant, it's worth the trip down there.

I rode my new Victory Vision and finished the break in (500 miles) today and I will schedule it's first service this week.

Photos • Route • GPS File

Riding Tomorrow Sunday

2009-10-17T13:38:00.000-07:00

Leading a ride tomorrow with the Star Riders. You don't have to be a member to join us, so come out for some great riding weather.

Starting From (KSU 9:00 AM): Kelly's Country Cookin 8015 Park Place @ Gulf Freeway. Houston, Texas 77087

Info: http://kelleysrestaurant.com

Location Map: http://tinyurl.com/kellyshouston

Gas/Break: Buc-ee's #6 105 E Brazos Ave, West Columbia, TX (979) 345-6660

Location Map: http://tinyurl.com/Buc-ees6

Destination: 2 J's Cafe & Marina, 5100 CR-469, Brazoria, TX 77422 - 979-964-3233

Info: http://tinyurl.com/ygmeg4v

Location Map: http://tinyurl.com/yge33zy

Route Web Map: http://tinyurl.com/yfoya6v

Route GPS File: http://tinyurl.com/yju7a8d

New Motorcycle

2009-10-07T01:29:00.000-07:00

Pick up a new 2010 Two Tone Ocean Blue & Sandstone Metallic Victory Vision From Team Mancuso Power Sports off Highway 59 South. Ask for Roy Zirpoli, he did a great job selling me the motorcycle and tell him Rex Covington sent you.

Yes I still have the Harley Road Glide and it is still in Vegas being repaired. I have not decided to to sell or keep the Harley yet. It should be ready to pickup soon.

I have been asked why did I get another motorcycle? I wanted the Victory Vision when it first came out in 2008, but I did not want the first year production model with the problems and bugs that come with a first year production motorcycle. I happen to be at the right place, time, year, color and price, so I bought one.

The only mod that I have put on this motorcycle so far is a Lo-Jack.

Photos

Rip's Bad Ride III

2009-10-05T00:57:00.000-07:00

This my third year to be involved with the Rip's BAD Ride and their third year in Texas.

Despite the weather there was a fair turnout for the ride this year. The rain hit hard in the morning and about 25 motorcycle beared the rain. Most folks showed up in their cars and trucks for the great cause to fight Diabetes.

The Star Riders took parking duty and I was the official photographer.

Photos & Videos

Helmet Damage

2009-09-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

I was taking photos and a video to show the damage to the helmets from my accident for the insurance company for reimbursement.

The helmet that Crystal was wearing belong to Sherri, A Scorpion EXO-100. It had some road rash on the right side and down the brim and some on the visor.

My helmet A Harley-Davidson Hybrid Ultra-Light Classic Half Helmet, received the most damage on the right side and the front of the helmet. The front right side was grind down to the fibers of the helmet and the sun visor was ripped off. Just looking at the my helmet, I could see my head with all that damage. A good reason to always wear a helmet!

Check out the Video & photos.

Spot Satellite Messenger

2009-09-01T22:02:00.000-07:00

I was looking at my web site to see if I need to do any up dates and I found the Where Is Lone Star Rider page had me marked when I had my motorcycle accident. The site is automatically marked from my Spot Satellite Messenger (Spot).

One of the reason I bought Spot was that it tracks your location and your family and friend can track where you are on a web page and a check in feature to let them know that you are okay.

The other reason is that Spot will request help from friends or family and/or alert Emergency Responders to your location for a 911 emergency when you are out of cell range.

I have been using Spot for almost a year now and it has been by my side on all of my trips and the tracking & check in feature have been working great. On August 3rd 2009 in Death Valley the 5th day if my summer trip I had a blow out on my rear tire and I crashed my motorcycle. After I checked to see if my daughter (Crystal) was okay and I accessed our accident I decided it was time to use Spot and push the 911 button only to find out that Spot was no long clipped to my belt. I did a search and found it in a bush about 20 yards from the motorcycle. I push the 911 button and about 30 minutes later the U.S. Calvary came, well the California Highway Patrol (Chris) and the Death Valley National Park Ranger came to the rescue. They all were great!

Spot cost $99.00, one year subscription $99.00, and $49.99 for tracking. I think the $250.00 is worth every penny and I will never leave on trip without my Spot.

You can buy one at http://www.findmespot.com/

Port Arthur Ride

2009-08-30T22:17:00.000-07:00

Sherri did a pre-ride for the Southern Cruisers that she is leading in a couple weeks, so a few of us joined her on her ride.

Since my bike is still in Vegas, A friend offered one of his bike for me to ride (Thanks Berk!).

Our ride started at Sabo and Beltway 8 at 8 AM. We headed towards Baytown up to Dayton and over to Port Arthur to Ester Cajun Sea Food.

When We Arrive at Ester it seemed that Hurricane Ike got the best of Ester's with a lot of damage to the building and they were closed.

Now with no place to eat lunch (And getting hungry) we went on a search for another restaurant. Most places were closed. We ask a guy working at one of the local gas station where was a good place to eat, he recommended La Suprema Mexican Restaurant eight miles from the gas station.

The place seem busy and the food look good, but my tamales tasted like they were store bought from the gas station down the street, otherwise the rest was good food with great service.

We headed back on 73 in to Anahuac and stopped there for fuel. After fueling the group broke up and headed on there way back home.

This was my first day ride since my accident about three weeks ago. I did fine on the way up there and about half way back my shoulder on the right back side started to hurt. When We got back home Sherri took a look and said there was a little swelling. I will stay off a motorcycle for a couple of weeks and be a little more careful with my right shoulder until it heals up and then start off with some shorter rides next time.

It was good to get back on a motorcycle and I had a great time today despite my shoulder pain.

Thanks to Sherri for leading her Pre-Ride.

No Photos excepts for the above • Route

Motorcycle Status

2009-08-16T11:41:00.000-07:00

Last Friday the insurance adjuster called me late afternoon and let me know that the bike will cost $8301.92 to fix. My part will be $543.00.

The bike is in Las Vegas, NV at Arlen Ness Motorcycles service department and will be repaired there. The really bad part is that the bike will not be ready for 6 to 8 weeks.

I have been in San Francisco for the FileMaker DevCon all this week. This is my last day here in San Francisco and I will be heading to Las Vegas, NV to check on my bike and get more details on how long it will take to fix my bike.

Tuesday or Wednesday I'll fly to Ft. Worth, TX to visit with Crystal and the rest of my family.

I should be back in Houston Thursday or Friday.

The Day After

2009-08-04T23:51:00.000-07:00

We are still in Pahrump, NV at the Nugget Hotel & Casino. We slept in late and had breakfast at the hotel. The medicine that the doctor prescribe tend to make me sleepy so I took a nap.

Enterprise Car Rental picked me up and took me to there office around 11:30 AM I rented a car for two day.

Back at the hotel I took another nap. And around 3 PM we went over to where the motorcycle was towed too to get a few thing and take some photos of the bike. The bike was up on it's kickstand (Harley calls it a Jiffy Stand) and it did not look to bad until I got up closer. I hope it is repairable, I really love that bike. I felt really sad looking at it and about my motorcycle trip coming to an end.

Back at the hotel I took another nap. And around 8 PM we had dinner at the hotel. The hotel and the staff have been great here and have gone out of there way to take care of us. One of the managers gave us a free night.

After dinner removed all my bandages and took a stinging shower (Ouch, Ouch, & Ouch Dammit). before I put on some fresh bandages Crystal took a couple of photos of the road rash.

Will be taking Crystal to the airport in Vegas, she will be flying back home to DFW. Despite the accident I have had a really good time with my daughter.

I will stay in Vegas one more day and will be flying to Portland to meet Sherri and to continue the trip in a rental car down the coast to San francisco.

Time for another nap.

Photos

2009 Road Trip Day 5

2009-08-03T23:20:00.001-07:00

We had breakfast at the hotel to get a early start to beat the heat in Death Valley.

Just outside of Indian Springs, NV I could not shift up, so I turned around and headed back to Indian Springs and stopped at the local gas station.

My hill shifter came loose, I tighten it and we were back on our way.

About 15 minutes before arriving to the East entrance of the Death Valley National Park. We heard a loud pop, Crystal said I think we have a flat. I already knew that we did and I was fighting to keep the bike up. We were traveling around 55 MPH and the bike rear end was swaying back and fourth on it rear rim. I was not able to keep the bike up and told Crystal to hang on. We hit the ground hard and slid with the bike to the opposite side of the road. I laid there on the road face up trying to catch my breath. When I got up I saw crystal picking things up in the middle of the road and moving our stuff closer to the motorcycle.

After looked for my Spot, which I found in the ditch, I pressed the 911 button and we waited.

A French guy stopped and ask if we need help, I said yes and that he could go get us help, but I don't think he understood us, he went on his way.

After about 30 minutes a California Highway Patrol (Chris) arrived and then about 45 minutes later the Park service ambulance arrive. Crystal and I were transported to the hospital.

Both Crystal had road rash on our arms, Crystal also had road rash on right leg, right and left fingers and her stomach. My shoulder had some pain, the xray show no broken bones.

This is my first accident on a road bike, I had a couple of blowout on other bikes and was able to keep them up.

I have many mix feeling, I'm glad our injuries were not worse, I'm mad and disappointed I will not be able to finish my trip, and I'm sad that my bike is in bad shape.

I'm not sure what will happen in the next few days, but I'll let you know.

We are staying in the Nugget Hotel and Casino in Pahrump, NV for the night.

Just a note, my Spot Satellite Messenger worked as advertised!

Photos • Route

2009 Road Trip Day 4

2009-08-02T22:54:00.000-07:00

We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express last night and I wanted to say thanks to Debbie for going out of her way to let us park the bike out front.

After breakfast at the hotel we took off towards Zion National Park.

Zion National Park is one of my favorite national parks. I will come back here and stay a week to enjoy this park.

We stopped for lunch at Oscar Cafe, Sherri and I ate here last year and it was just as good last year. Crystal and I got waited on the same person (Grant) who waited on Sherri and I last year.

We did a straight shot to Las Vegas, NV and arrived around 3:00 PM. When we arrived at our hotel and checked in, and we jumped in the pool to cool off.

After a swim and a 1-1/2 hour nap, Crystal and I went to the strip for some dinner and to check out the sites.

Today was hot, but tomorrow will be even hotter going through Death Valley National Park.

Photo • Route

2009 Road Trip Day 3

2009-08-01T23:49:00.000-07:00

Left out of Farmington around 8:30 AM and headed to The Four Corners Monument. The last time I remember beening there was when I was around 7 or 8 years old. Crystal was going Twitter crazy at each corner.

We stopped for lunch for some swinging steaks at Mexican Hat Cafe in Mexican Hat, Utah, Only to find out that they starting cooking at 6:00 PM. We were way to early so we went over to the San Juan Cafe next to the San Juan River. Crystal order a Veg Indian Taco and I ordered one with meat. This was Crystal first time to try an Indian Taco, it was also her first time to hear about Fry Bread.

Out next stop after lunch was Monument Valley, This was worth the stop, the view are fantastic!

We made it in to Kanab, UT and stop for a great dinner at The Rocking V Cafe before we check in to our hotel.

Another great day of riding.

Photos • Route

2009 Road Trip Day 2

2009-07-31T23:52:00.000-07:00

After a quick breakfast we rode out to Cadillac Ranch on Hwy 40 West of Amarillo. Cadillac Ranch was kinda of a disappointment, I thought it would be? Anyway it was different, ten Cadillac buried half way in the middle of a field and people paint them with cans of spray paint. I would not go out of my way to see them, but if you are in the area then make a point to stop and see them.

We found our way to Hwy 87 and headed out of Texas and in New Mexico we hopped on U.S. Route 64 all the way to our hotel in Farmington NM.

On our way to Farmington we stop at Capulin Volcano National Monument, this is my first time to see a nonactive volcano. We met a few riders from the Houston area there heading back home from riding in the area for the last week. This stop is not for everybody, but I thought is was cool. For some reason there were tons of flies everywhere.

We continued on U.S. Route 64 Through Cimarron Canyon State Park and Carson National Forest. We ran into a few showers after Clayton, but nothing really heavy.

We stopped for dinner at Elk Horn Cafe In Chama, I had the chicken fried steak and it was great.

After dinner he continue on U.S. Route 64 to our hotel.

U.S. Route 64 is a great Ride!

Photos • Route

2009 Road Trip Day 1

2009-07-30T22:13:00.000-07:00

Started off this morning on time at 8 AM for the getting across Texas day. Headed up Hwy 45 and it started raining hard when I got to the other side of Huntsville. I stopped put on my rain gear and my rain gear did not keep me dry, I'm very disappointed in the Gerber Extreme Gear. It quit raining near Corsicana, I stopped, removed my rain gear and fueled up my motorcycle.

I arrived in Euless an hour late because of the rain and Crystal was running late, so I went over to the Harley Dealership and bought some rain gear while I waited on Crystal.

Got Crystal packed up and we stopped by my moms house to say hi. We finally got out of town around 3 PM.

We did a straight shot on Hwy 287 to Amarillo. We stopped in Electra and had dinner at Carlito's Mexican Restaurant, it was a great dinner or maybe I was just really hungry.

Hwy 287 was a long boring ride, we arrive at our hotel around 11:30 PM.

It was a long day and I'm bushed!

Photos • Route

2009 Road Trip

2009-07-29T21:18:00.000-07:00

Heading out on the big road trip in the morning. I'll update this blog daily when possible.

Planned Routes

Part 1:

http://tinyurl.com/mhpkyx

Part 2:

http://tinyurl.com/mz38r7

Part 3:

http://tinyurl.com/labb2u

If You want follow me on my trip here are the links:

Photos:

http://rexjc.smugmug.com/

Twitter:

http://twitter.com/lonestarrider

EveryTrail:

http://www.everytrail.com/profile.php?user_id=38706

Hawaiian Shirt Ride

2009-07-18T23:37:00.000-07:00

Every year the Southern Cruisers have a ride up to Yankees Tavern & Grill in Carlos Texas. This will be the first time I have attended the Hawaiian Shirt Ride.

There were many people and all kinds of motorcycles at Yankees. I visited with a lot of friends and made new ones. There was a contest for the best and worst Hawaiian shirt, water gun fights and lots of fun.

By the way, Yankees makes a great burger.

Photos • Route

Rocking Horse!

2009-07-14T23:47:00.000-07:00

Get Your kids the Rocking Horse!

Would have been really cool too have one of these when I was a kid!

See more at The Blog Paper or at NOTCOT

Southern Cruisers Chapter Ride

2009-07-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Rode This Saturday Morning With The South Cruiser To The Hill Bar & Grill In Waller Texas.

Great Route and had a good time with some friends I have not see in a wile.

A Nice little Bar & Grill with some great food. You will not leave hungry!

Photos • Route

ROT Rally 2009 Day 2

2009-06-13T23:53:00.000-07:00

Sherri and I planed to ride out west of Austin before heading over to the rally.

We rode out around to Lake Travis near Hippy Hollow and we stopped at the Oasis for a drink and a snack (Rita's, Chips and Guacamole). This was my first visit to the Oasis and I love the place, If you ever in Austin stop by and check out the Oasis. What a great view!

Afterwards we headed back to ROT. I don't know the head count for this year, but the economy did not seem to slow down the attendance for the rally this year.

We ran into a few friends while doing some shopping and checking out what was going on in the vendors area. ROT has not change much over the years and this year we spent less time at the Rally. I may not go next year and go somewhere different.

Around 6 Pm we headed out and met up with Randall, Betty Jo, Mike, Cheryl, and the rest of the guys

at Texas Land and Cattle Steak House for some dinner and a visit with family and friends.

After dinner and saying our good byes, Sherri and I headed back to the hotel, had a drink and relax in the pool.

Photos