Long and Winding Roads ( and hot ones )

Although a troublesome security lock nearly caused a big problem by being on the wrong way round (definitely not operator error) - Today was the BIG leg of our tour 360 miles from Pismo Beach to Palm Springs. We headed off on a 'scenic' route Alan had got from the local Moto Guzzi owners club. It certainly was breathtaking scenery but twisting roads and this meant slower speeds.

At least it did for us - Once again we came upon the scene of a not long happened road crash. This time a motorcycle that was in a bad state. We hope the rider faired better.

After the twisty bit we headed across some wide open country - really huge wide open valleys and dry rugged mountains. Also there were very few settlements and almost no fuel stops. ( the one shown on the SatNav was closed - it's sunday of course !)

Some local bikers assured us that th HDs will go for a good while after hitting the 'E' on the gauge provided you take it easy - So we slowed right down to burble along in top gear and eventually came to a Gas Station/Subway/Shop type place.

As we arrived a couple of more bikes rolled in, including a side car out fit occupied by 'Slatan' the dog. He looked really good in his road goggles and was very comfortable in the rig. His owner said it was a 'heavily customised' Suzuki ( a description which none of us disagreed with ! )

After getting 'gas' and a sandwich we pressed on.

And On

And On.

Eventually deciding to take the main freeway to stand a chance of arriving in Palm Springs before dark. We  got there about 7pm and checked in to the Inn at Palm Springs. After so many hours on the bike there were a few creaking joint and hot showers, swim and jacuzzi were right in order. After that we went out for a salad bar snackette and lashings of sparkling mineral water.

[ editors note - certain statements in the paragraph above may not be wholly accurate ]

The plan for tomorrow is cooler bike wear and plenty of sunblock before we head off for another 250 miles to Kingman - via Route 66 !


Here are a few pics from today - no too many as we were on the road non - stop

After a short while some officers arrived to speak to Slatan ( or it might have been something about the bike.) and then we saw an honest to goodness workhorse 'pick up' roll up...

Reg says this is a very good feature at this hotel: