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I expected to be redundant as a 'reporter' on this rally. Mainly, because I didn't think about doing a report at all until tonight.
Vicki and I rode up to the Central Coast on Thursday before the rally because it was the only weekend that Vicki would have free all month. We called Jerry when we got in and arranged to meet for breakfast and a ride the next day prior to everyone else's arrival at the KOA in Santa Margarita (about 32 miles from our motel). We have stayed there before and it was the only reasonable motel in the area due to the graduation ceremonies for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo taking place the same weekend.
Knowing we didn't need to be at the KOA until six-ish, Jerry acquiesced to we who, supposedly, 'know the territory.' He'd never been to Pinnacles National Monument (which is a mighty interesting geological phenomenon, you could look it up). We ran north on the 101 freeway for a bit than turned off into two-lane blacktop country south of King City onto eastbound Hwy 198. A nice ride with no real traffic. We took it easy and traversed across the valley to Hwy 25 where we turned north to the Monument. Another great two-lane road. We made a pit stop at the monument, Jerry took some photos and then we were on our way. We continued north on 25 to Hollister for fuel. (Hands in the air please. Who knows why Hollister is famous and site of huge annual bike rally?)
From Hollister we trended westerly to Salinas and then down the 101 to Santa Margarita and thence to the KOA for LoHo's juicy burgers.
The next morning, we were on time for breakfast (another delicious repast). There was some confusion as to who needed fuel and what our destination might be. I guess the original plan was to run down Hwy 58 (a spectacular road with curves and dips and hoop-de-doos) and visit a dry lake traversing the Carrizzo Plain. This is truly isolated country - no nothin' for 72 miles (actually, closer to 80, because when you reach something, there's not much there and if you need fuel you have to go to the next town 8 miles down the road).
It turned out, however, that time had slipped on us and by the time we were all clustered, getting down and back was not an option in order to meet our schedule for LoHo's dinner. We then decided to run across to the coast and ride up to Cambria to a large BBQ joint (kudo's to the Firestone Grill) with a large menu, generous portions and very reasonable prices.
Departing Cambria we turned inland up very nice Hwy 46 to Paso Robles. Met a lot of hot rods coming the other way. When we got to Paso Robles, Vicki and I opted for our motel. This old fart took a nap. Some of the rest of the group opted for Pozo's for adult refreshment before dinner.
I don't know how LoHo can prepare brisket so tender, so quickly, but it was the highlight meal of the weekend (for me). Tire kicking and conversation ensued. There was a nice moon and the campfire was warm and welcoming.
Next morning we were all gathered for breakfast. TKAT got the 'Road Sofa' loaded and he and Carolyn departed. LoHo got his trailer loaded, and about that time, Vicki and I took off for home.
Stories about Pozo's and the ride to Monterrey Bay will have to come from someone else.
Anyone reading this should try to make plans to attend next year. We were a little down on numbers this year (nine bikes), but if there is a rally in your future, think about making next year's Calirally.
Ralph
Vicki and I rode up to the Central Coast on Thursday before the rally because it was the only weekend that Vicki would have free all month. We called Jerry when we got in and arranged to meet for breakfast and a ride the next day prior to everyone else's arrival at the KOA in Santa Margarita (about 32 miles from our motel). We have stayed there before and it was the only reasonable motel in the area due to the graduation ceremonies for Cal Poly San Luis Obispo taking place the same weekend.
Knowing we didn't need to be at the KOA until six-ish, Jerry acquiesced to we who, supposedly, 'know the territory.' He'd never been to Pinnacles National Monument (which is a mighty interesting geological phenomenon, you could look it up). We ran north on the 101 freeway for a bit than turned off into two-lane blacktop country south of King City onto eastbound Hwy 198. A nice ride with no real traffic. We took it easy and traversed across the valley to Hwy 25 where we turned north to the Monument. Another great two-lane road. We made a pit stop at the monument, Jerry took some photos and then we were on our way. We continued north on 25 to Hollister for fuel. (Hands in the air please. Who knows why Hollister is famous and site of huge annual bike rally?)
From Hollister we trended westerly to Salinas and then down the 101 to Santa Margarita and thence to the KOA for LoHo's juicy burgers.
The next morning, we were on time for breakfast (another delicious repast). There was some confusion as to who needed fuel and what our destination might be. I guess the original plan was to run down Hwy 58 (a spectacular road with curves and dips and hoop-de-doos) and visit a dry lake traversing the Carrizzo Plain. This is truly isolated country - no nothin' for 72 miles (actually, closer to 80, because when you reach something, there's not much there and if you need fuel you have to go to the next town 8 miles down the road).
It turned out, however, that time had slipped on us and by the time we were all clustered, getting down and back was not an option in order to meet our schedule for LoHo's dinner. We then decided to run across to the coast and ride up to Cambria to a large BBQ joint (kudo's to the Firestone Grill) with a large menu, generous portions and very reasonable prices.
Departing Cambria we turned inland up very nice Hwy 46 to Paso Robles. Met a lot of hot rods coming the other way. When we got to Paso Robles, Vicki and I opted for our motel. This old fart took a nap. Some of the rest of the group opted for Pozo's for adult refreshment before dinner.
I don't know how LoHo can prepare brisket so tender, so quickly, but it was the highlight meal of the weekend (for me). Tire kicking and conversation ensued. There was a nice moon and the campfire was warm and welcoming.
Next morning we were all gathered for breakfast. TKAT got the 'Road Sofa' loaded and he and Carolyn departed. LoHo got his trailer loaded, and about that time, Vicki and I took off for home.
Stories about Pozo's and the ride to Monterrey Bay will have to come from someone else.
Anyone reading this should try to make plans to attend next year. We were a little down on numbers this year (nine bikes), but if there is a rally in your future, think about making next year's Calirally.
Ralph