Texas Hill Country Ride - need details

[arkline]

If someone could post all the details of the Texas Hill Country ride coming up, I'd really appreciate it. I need dates and places. Good places to stay, etc. If I can get away, I'd like to make at least one of these rides before I die....:)

[Deans BMW]

Ron, its in the Texas Hill country in the spring.

You will be told where to be and when to arrive at the approiate time......and not a minute before. :)

[arkline]

But, but, but...

I've got to make a lot of plans and arrangements. Can't just walk off the job and leave all these folks hanging by their mouse cords...

[Dallara]

Okay, Ron...

Regarding the upcoming Spring 2006 Texas Hill Country Ride - Here's the latest info as it stands right now.

Date is tentatively set for April 20th through 24th. Why Thursday to Monday?

Well, we always seem to have some folks that want to get into these events on Thursday night to get a full day of riding in on Friday, and then leave on Sunday. Likewise we always seem to have some who can't get in until Friday or Saturday yet can wait to return home on Monday. Plan on there being good riding Friday, Saturday, and as much of Sunday as you can afford to hang around.

Base City - Kerrville, Texas. Nice town, not too built up, with great access to wonderful roads and stops on both sides (east and west) of I-10. Fredericksburg, Luckenbach, etc. on the east, with Bandera, Leakey, Utopia, Camp Wood, Rocksprings, etc. on the west. It is also only 45 miles northwest of San Antonio for those that might be flying in and renting bikes.

Accommodations - There are a bunch, but I am going to try and get enough rooms blocked at the YO Ranch Resort Hotel - http://www.yoresort.com/ - and we can stay there. It is not pricey, yet it has a great location only about 1/4 mile from I-10, and also has good food and nice rooms.

There are plenty of other places to stay if it falls through, and we have had good luck with the Hampton Inn and the Best Western there before.

Lots of wonderful restaurants in the area ranging from literally cheap but good, to terrific gourmet fare at reasonable prices (like the Hill Top Cafe north of Fredericksburg - 25 miles away - to Elaine's Table in Hunt/Ingram just west of Kerrville - about 12 miles away. There are some other great ones besides those, too). Plenty of interesting pit stops like the replica of Stonehenge, Lone Star Motorcycle Museum, Luckenbach, etc. and interesting side trips like the Willow City Loop.

Personally I wanted the ride a bit earlier in April, or even March, but given the input I had from a large portion of potential riders either would have caused major scheduling conflicts. It is still not too hot in the Hill Country in April, but statistically the wettest months up there are April, May, September, and October... In other words, we might have a pretty fair chance of rain in late April at least some of the time there. It is usually not too bad, and concentrates in showers and brief thunderstorms, but you never know...

Best part is there are usually still plenty of bluebonnets and wild flowers in April, and the traffic is not as bad as it is March (Spring Break) and during the summer around the rivers. Most, if not all, of the construction on some of the best roads (like 337) should be completed by then, but be prepared to run across lots of "chip-seal" in various places.

If all goes according to plan I should be bringing the infamous "Pagan Family Truckster" (my Chevy Suburban support vehicle and trailer) with plenty of spares and party supplies. I would rather just ride my bike up there, but then I cannot host the kind of evening entertainment that seems to be pretty popular... :p

Anyone who is interesting in going *PLEASE* e-mail me the following information ASAP, even if you think you have sent it to me before...

1.) Full Name, as well as any board screen names
2.) Physical Mailing Address
3.) Any e-mail addresses to contact you at
4.) Phone numbers where you can be reached, and your cell number if you will be bringing a cellphone along.
5.) What type of bike you will be riding.
6.) Any special requests for party supplies... Like preferred adult beverages, specific snacks, cigars, etc.
7.) Any special medical conditions, allergies, or special circumstances or requirements (don't laugh... I try to make sure I have all this printed up and on hand just in case it is you that goes down and is unconscious and we have to tell any emergency response teams your medical history and needs)

All of these are very important... I can't stress that enough, so please try and do it now. Think very carefully about it and don't leave anything out. I try to have copies of all this info printed up so at least half of the participants have it all on their person. Info on your bike is important as to what spare parts and tools I bring along for any possible support issues (like fixing flats, curing electrical ills, fuel delivery, etc.)

It also wouldn't hurt if each of you could contact any riders you know that might like to come along and have them post here their intentions so we can start getting route details, etc. sorted out to everyone's satisfaction.

If you don't already have my e-mail address it is:

pagan (at) intcomm (dot) net

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara)

[Deans BMW]

See, Ron, I told you that you would be properly informed. :)

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/42583197-M.jpg

The smallest part of the Pagen Wagons party fixins.

[Bill]

IN:)

Like the new board.

[Acacia]

Welcome Bill!

Brian.

[socalrob]

Bad news for me, looks like I have YMCA Indian Princesses Camp Fox (its on Catalina Island) April 21-23. Its possible the camp dates may change, but not likely. Shoot.:(

Hey, found out today I may be back in the hunt. My daughter has a conflict that weekend & we may get to go to Camp Fox earlier in the month. So looks like about a 75 percent chance I'm in for April 20th-24th (that weekend). Wife was pretty positive about my going & spending family capital, so that helps too. If I'm going I'll be flying in Thursday morning, renting a bike, & showing up Thurs. aft with a return flight out Sunday afternoon. Only miss 2 days work, which is more important to me than the $$.

Looks like I'll be pullin up the rear on a HD. Should be loads of fun anyway.

[Moose]

:028: Been think'in about the upcoming Texas Hill Country Ride. In addition to aforementioned attractions there is one little out of the way place that has historical Texas and personal significance. Along FM 1340 is a place called Mo Ranch. It is past Stonehenge and along the Guadalupe River. Last year when I rode with the BMWST group we were able to gain access primarily because the bikes are quite. The ranch is now used as a conference center. Nevertheless, it is worth a visit just to take a break from the pace that Dallara will have established. If anyone is interested, I'd be glad to show you around and give you the lay of the land and its history. A quick dip in the Guadalupe can be included as well.

[arkline]

Been playing around with triple A's online mapping and figure the most reasonable route goes through eastern Oregon, a bit of Idaho, some Utah, a bunch of New Mexico and then into Texas. Comes to 2120.9 miles. One way. If I can get two weeks off (unheard of!) then I'll be able to make a good pace without killing myself.

I'm a little concerned about the Rockies that early in the Spring, but nothing ventured...

Got to get the bike prepped and I'm thinking of getting new tires. The ones on there now aren't terribly worn but they are getting old.

Need to know at out making reservations for lodging.

[Moose]

Arkline, I've found the best solution to your travel delima is to just retire. Less explaining that way.

[arkline]

Moose-man,

Retirement is just a dream for me at the moment. Prolly going to have to show up somewhere on time until they put me in the ground. Not that I mind exactly.

[BobFV1]

Man - I really want to be "in". 4/24 is my Mom's 70th B-day and she lives in LA. Maybe I could come for the first day and then loop around to California to arrive by the 24th - that sounds possible. Anybody care to do that giant loop with me? I should be on the new bike (GT/GS) by then so it will be a good shakedown run.

[arkline]

Any updates on this? Looking to book accommodations and such.

[Dallara]

Hey, Ron...

Yep, there are updates. It's just I have been mega-busy, and since I am pretty much organizing the entire gig single-handedly the logistics have to be when I cen find the time.

Here is some of the info, quick and dirty...

Dates are as follows:

Friday, April 21st, 2006 through Sunday, April 23rd, 2006. I will probably try to be in Kerrville Thursday night (April 20th) and will not head for home until Monday morning (April 24th).

Had to scrub the YO Ranch Resort as the base hotel weeks ago as they did not have enough rooms available to handle the expected turnout - 20 to 30 riders at this point pretty much confirmed at this point...

Have been talking to a couple of other hotel/motel's about special group rates, but it's been a bit difficult putting one together that has a decent restaurant (for breakfast each morning) and stay at or around what appeared to be the consensus on room rates. More work on that tomorrow if I can find the time. One wants me to guarantee the entire block of rooms on my credit card, which is fine if everybody shows, but gets a bit, uh... *problematic* if some don't make it.

I assure you I am making every effort to get this done ASAP, but being a one man band does have its limitations.

I will try to put together a an e-mail update this next week and copy that info over here, too.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

Allan,

If the dates are solid then I can go ahead and put in for the vacation time. I need to get the bike serviced and spiffed up and I've got to get a credit card that will let me buy gas more than once a day. Long story.

I can book a room anywhere you point to as soon as that is settled. Just let me know. My breath is 'bated waiting for this.

[Dallara]

Them's the dates, Ron...

Quite a while back when I was first discussing this ride with a lot of people we tried to reach some sort of consensus on dates. As is often the case with these kinds of rides some had a problem with one set of dates while others had issues with another set. I finally just had to look back through all the e-mails, etc. and pick the one set of dates that seemed to conflict the least with the most people. I am sorry if this disappoints some, but I had to go with the majority.

So once again, for all of you out there interested in the Spring Hill Country Ride, the dates are:


Friday - April 21st, 2006

through

Sunday - April 23rd, 2006


This part is now etched in stone. If you know somebody that wants to come along and they are not currently a member of this forum please help me out and pass this information along to them so they can plan a bit sooner than I can get the update out.

Again, I will try to be arriving at the "base of operations" on Thursday night - April 20th - and do not plan to depart for home until Monday morning - April 24th - if all goes according to plan.

I will be bringing along the "Mission Support Vehicle" (i.e. my 2002 Chevy Suburban - known as the "Pagan Family Truckster" - and trailer), primarily so I can haul tools, spares, chemicals, first aid gear, etc. in case someone has a problem, and of course the usual evening post ride *bench racing* entertainment supplies...

In fact, it would be a tremendous help if any of you going along on the ride would post your preferences in beverage, smokes, snacks, spares, etc. here so I can have a list (in one place) of what you would like ot have along...

You can absolutely count on the following already being there:

1.) An assortment of single malt scotches.
2.) An assortment of good quality cigars.
3.) Spare gas for Moose (Ron Musfeldt).
4.) Spare gear oil for Dean's R-1200-ST.

Now help me out... If you have a favorite cigar, booze, etc., or your bike has certain, uh... *reliabilty needs* to complete three days of riding in some of the finest twisty, curvy, technical and challenging roads on God's green Earth, then chime in here.

I would suggest you absolutely plan to bring the following:

1.) A good digital camera and lots of applicable storage media.
2.) An extra $5.00 for access to the "Lone Star Motorcycle Museum".
3.) Some additional coin for one of the famous "Aussie Meat Pies" there!!!
4.) And extra $20.00 for having a dyno run done there so we can all compare peni... Whoops! I mean horsepower.
5.) Ventilated riding gear.
6.) Something you can carry water in during a ride.
7.) A bandana of some kind you can wet down to keep your neck cool and protected.
8.) Sunscreen and chapstick.
9.) Some minor money to blow on trinkets at the "Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop", primarily to support it and keep it alive, but believe me, you will want to purchase one of the super-detailed Texas Hill Country maps.
10.) Sunglasses or a tinted shield.
11.)A rain suit (yes, it can rain in central Texas in April, and then quit and be muggy as hell...)
12.) A working cell phone (helps if you lose track of the pack and get lost).
13.) Your favorite attire for a dip in the water, either post ride at the hotel or in one of the many rivers we will be crossing each day.
14.) Your best jokes and riding stories.
15.) Your favorite hangover cure.

If I can think of anything else I will post it here, but again, do help me out and post what you would like to see brought along you don't want to carry there on your motorcycle. That's what the *Mission Support Vehicle* is for...

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

p.s. - Anyone who would like to volunteer to assist with some of the planning and/or logistics please drop me a PM though the forum here as I can access it at home or at work, whereas I can only access the e-mail account I use for this kind of stuff when I'm at home.

[socalrob]

Dallara,

The dates now work for me, could be a go, but with my current pending high speed ticket I absolutely can't afford another speeding ticket during the next 4 to 9 months (how long it may take to resolve my current ticket). If court date(s) go bad I do risk license suspension, which I figure would be less if I'm not racking up additional tickets. If I do show it will most likely be speed limit plus 5, so I guess I would be pulling up the rear. As long as thats ok I may start serious plans.

How is speed limit enforcement there?

[Dallara]

Rob,

In my experience, compared to other states, Texas doesn't hand out as many tickets... And good ol' Tejas DPS officers are not nearly as *ticket happy*as the CHP.

Besides... Two things, Rob... One, if you are renting a Harley it will be quite difficult, if not impossible, to crack the speed limit on many of these roads... :002: Hell, I'm not sure Kenny Roberts could! Two, and trust me on this one... There will be plenty of guys out in front of you (only because they will be on more appropriate mounts) that will be much tastier a catch to a law dog because of their velocity. :eek:

I wouldn't worry about the ticket part if I were you, but if you are concerned you and I can chat about on the phone some evening soon. Drop me a PM and we can decide on a good time.

On another note... For all of you interested in the Hill Country ride...


!!! WE HAVE HOTEL ROOMS !!!


That's right, folks! Got the details worked out yesterday, and reserved a block of rooms. The hotel was not my first, or even second, choice, but it is a nice place and well located.

Before I give the room details out here I want to get them out on the e-mail list, so if you are on that list be watching carefully for an e-mail today regarding how to put your name on one of these rooms. There should be enough to go around for everybody.


OUR 2006 TEXAS HILL COUNTRY RIDE IS A GO, GO, GO !!!


Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Deans BMW]

Sounds good.

[Deans BMW]

Allan, recieved your E Mail and Darth and I have agreed to be roomies. Do I need to contact the Super 8 to conferm?

[Dallara]

Nope, Dean...

Just drop me an e-mail with that same info and I will shoot you a reply with a confirmation number on one of the rooms. Then all you have to do when either you or Darth check in is ask for the room for that confirmation number with my name and give 'em your credit card.

Easy, just like Big Bend.

And for the rest of you Hill Country monkeys...

As of this moment (11:00 CST - Tuesday, Feb. 28th) there are 7 of the 10 rooms left available, and this is in only a couple of hours since I announced them via e-mail. I imagine most will be gone by this afternoon so if you want one and you have received the hotel room info e-mail from me you need to act quick!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

Hey Rob,

Stick with me and I guarantee
You'll never exceed the posted ............................(by much)
I'm sedate, don't mind the wait
My license aint never been toasted .........(not for a long time)

I'm out for the ride, I'm not out to race
Though there's some I'm sure who hurry
I want to see the lay of the land
Can't do that with eyes gone all blurry

I want to smell spring come in quite well
I guess you could call me a turtle
I want to feel the way a river changes the air
Can't do that while you hurtle

So by and by I plan to arrive
Where all the peckerheads gather
Slow and sure 'though greatly alive
My steed not all covered in lather

Ah, stick with me and you're guaranteed
You'll be slower than most that's for certain
Just look around while you cover some ground
No tickets to cause you no hurtin'

[Deans BMW]

E mail sent to you, non smoking room for Dean Lear and Dave Howe.

[Dallara]

Replied to your e-mail, Dean...

With all the hotel details and the confirmation number for you and Dave's room. You should have long since had that info by now.

Did you receive it?

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Deans BMW]

Recieved, thanks, , just so you know, my mom and dad dated in the summers when they were teen agers at the old family place on the South Fork in Hunt, still in the family BTW.

[Dallara]

BTW...

And I hate to bring it up, but could one of you Merry Peckerheads who still have access to the old R1150R board please pop over there and update the "Spring Texas Hill Country Ride - Time to Plan" thread over in the "Group Rides" section with this latest dates and hotel info along with my e-mail address?

There were some folks over there that were interested but now since I can't access my PM account, etc. on the old board I don't know if I have all those folks' e-mail addresses. I don't want to cause any problem over there, but I don't want anybody who was interested in the ride feeling like they are left out somehow.

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

And I hate to bring it up, but...

Done.

[Dallara]

Here are some various pics of the Texas Hill Country for those who haven't been there...


Here's the "Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop"...

http://www.michelleandjoe.com/leakey.JPG

http://www.michelleandjoe.com/right%20hander.jpg

http://www.lonestarbiker.com/past/hc1_thumb.jpg



http://www.flyingl.com/images/FlyingLWaterfall2.jpg

http://www.7canyonsranch.com/images/447_copy500w.jpg

http://www.carras.com/Hill%20Country%201.JPG

http://www.sylviastuurman.nl/stories/texas/hillCountry.jpg

http://www.videobiker.com/Use%20these%20Pics/Hill%20Country/320_240/HillCo_320_340_%20(14).jpg

http://www.heritagefarmsbandb.com/images/bluebonnet1.jpg

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/WillowCityLoop200403/slides/P3300003.JPG

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/WillowCityLoop200403/slides/P3300004.JPG



Here's a short video of actually one of the more uninteresting sections of 337... I don't know why the guy chose this section to put up. Most all of 337 is far, far more twisty and fun than what's in the clip!

http://http://newbieracing.com/videos/PR-37%20short%20clip.WMV


Here's the replica of Stonehenge... It's located just outside of Hunt, Texas.

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/Stonehenge200509/slides/Stonehenge_07.JPG

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/Stonehenge200509/slides/Stonehenge_16.JPG

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/Stonehenge200509/slides/Stonehenge_15.JPG

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/Stonehenge200509/slides/Stonehenge_08.JPG


The guy even throws in a Polynesian monument or two...

http://www.hillcountrybmw.com/Photos/Stonehenge200509/slides/Stonehenge_10.JPG


I'll try to put up some more pics later...

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Dallara]

Thought I would give you guys an attendance update on teh upcoming Texas April Hill Country ride...

Here are the folks that have committed with certainty so far:

Dean Lear
Dave Howe
Ron Kline
Lewis Jordan
Mike Callas
Bill Foerster
Ron Musfeldt
Kent Cook
Doug Smith
Paul Massie
Dave Mock
John Breidenbach
Mitchell Box
John McCord
Brian Gurney (Sat. & Sun. only at this time)
Allan Pagan

Others that I am pretty sure are going but I haven't heard *definite's* from as yet:

Wade Woodall
Rob Hennon
Randy Poelma
Joe Werkhoven
Barney ???

Here's the ones so far that have confirmed or pretty much said they CANNOT go:

Hugh Ferguson
Jeffery Lewis
Adolfo Morales
Barry Walkup
Phil A.
Bob FV1

Here are the *maybe's* that either are not sure yet or who have not responded even though they asked to be on the mailing list:

Randy Woodall
Mark Saulsbery
Morton Chirnomas
Bob Baker
M. O'Mara
David Bell
Linda Rennie
A.J. Sandoval
Moses Ling
Bob Mizner
Jack Powers


Basically, seven rooms of the ten I *blocked* are gone now, with only three remaining. I can possibly add extra rooms if the need arises, but to do so I need to know... like NOW! I'm not trying to pressure anybody. I just want to make sure everybody knows the situation. I doubt it will be easy to find a room at the last minute, though that is always possible with cancellations and all.

If you are planning to go, and want one of the rooms I got, please let me know as soon as you can.

Thanks!

Allan

[Dallara]

For those of you planning on attending the April 2006 Texas Hill country Ride here are some good links...

Some are useful, while some are just enjoyable.

Here's a good source for an interesting map of the area:


http://www.lonestarloops.com/maps.htm


They even have bandanas with a Texas Hill Country map screened on 'em!


Here's a couple of sites that have write-ups on some of the rides others have taken in the area:


http://www.getontheroadagain.com/hc.br1.html

http://www.twistgrip.com/Bandera.html


Here's some info from http://www.motorcycleroads.com on a few of the roads we will be riding on the trip:


http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthWest/TX/TX_1.shtml

http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthWest/TX/TX_2.shtml

http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthWest/TX/TX_3.shtml

http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthWest/TX/TX_4.shtml


"Ride Texas" magazine is a great source of info on motorcycle riding in Texas, and here's their site:


http://www.texmoto.com/


Their ride guide is most definitely "The Bible" of great roads and rides in Texas, with some of the roads not even on any other maps I have ever found !!! :104: Each of these roads are spectacular, too. But it's real value is in the different loops and trips detailed right down to turn-by-turn directions and mileages, and also its recommendations of restaurants and scenic spots. Definitely worth the price if you are going on this trip or are ever going to be riding across Texas. You can get it here:


http://www.m2mmd.com/

Here's a couple of sample pages:

http://www.m2mmd.com/sample.html


Best book I have in my riding arsenal, without a doubt!

Here's a couple of my favorite restaurants in the Hill Country area:

http://www.hilltopcafe.com/

http://www.elainestable.com/


Here's one of the best vintage motorcycle museums around, and we will hit it on our trip:


http://lonestarmotorcyclemuseum.com/


The state of Texas also produces a great magazine called "Texas Highways" with tons of valuable Texas travel info and trips detailed each month, and the magazine has a great website, too:

http://www.texashighways.com/


"Travel Texas" also has a great website with tons of great information at:


http://www.traveltex.com/


You can even get the "Texas State Travel Guide", the "Texas Accommodations Guide", and the "Texas Official Travel Map" all for FREE just by going to this page:


http://www.traveltex.com/tr_guide.asp?SN=10327391&LS=0


How's that for a deal !!!

This should give at least a flavor of some of the trip, but if you want some info just Google towns like Kerrville, Bandera, Fredericksburg, Comfort, Utopia, Tarpley, Leakey, Camp Wood, Rocksprings, Hunt, Ingram. and others in that area of Texas and you will get some info and pictures of many of the places we will hit on our ride in April.

Wish you all were coming along, but for those of you that are if you get your orders on some of this stuff in right now you will have it in time for the trip, and I can recommend the "Ride Texas Ride Guide", the "Lone Star Loops" maps, and the freebie Travel Texas guides and map without reservation.

Hope this helps!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[socalrob]

Looks I'm going to make it. Now I'm trying to figure out which HD to rent. The web site teased me with a Buel Blast, but they don't rent them anymore. Looks like a real HD.

[Deans BMW]

Fantastic Rob.

[Bill]

Cyprus Creek Road 11.8 miles long. Down a hill-corner, up a hill - blind corner, more of same all 11.8 miles Pick up the road just south of I-10 then ride east 11.8 miles. A real pucker power ride, esp at speed.

[arkline]

Looks I'm going to make it. Now I'm trying to figure out which HD to rent. The web site teased me with a Buel Blast, but they don't rent them anymore. Looks like a real HD.

Well, if you're not riding a Blast, you should have a blast riding...and keep all your teeth in your head and not wreck the nerves in your hands and arms. Nuff said...

[Dallara]

Okay, fellow Hill Country ride participants...

Here's the latest list of confirmed riders for the trip:

Dean Lear - BMW R1200ST
Dave Howe - Triumph Speed Triple
Ron Kline - BMW R1150R
Lewis Jordan - BMW R1150RT
Mike Callas - BMW R1150RT
Bill Foerster - BMW R1100RS
Ron Musfeldt - BMW R1100R
Kent Cook - BMW K1200S
Mark Saulsbery - ???
Doug Smith - Honda 998 Superhawk
Paul Massie - Triumph Speed Triple
Dave Mock - Harley Road King
John Breidenbach - Harley Fat Boy
Mitchell Box - Harley Road King
John McCord - Harley Street Glide (???)
Brian Gurney (Sat. & Sun. only at this time) - BMW R1150R
Wade Woodall - Kawasaki KLX650
Rob Hennon - Rental Harley
Allan Pagan - BMW R1150R or Yamaha FJR1300A (if it gets here in time)

Riders I think that have a good chance of making it at the moment:

Randy Woodall - ??? (Randy's actually doubtful, as he is without a street bike at the moment, He may rent, though)
Randy Poelma - Kawasaki KLR650 (50-50 chance with this Randy. He's an accountant, and he has payrolls, etc. to do through the end of April. He wants to squeeze it in...)
Joe Werkhoven - Kawasaki Nomad (Joe is my Kawasaki-Yamaha dealer buddy, and he just got this new Nomad. He wants to go but commitments with his wife may preclude it)


Guys that wanted to be on the list and expressed that they wanted to go but have not committed (or even responded to recent e-mails):

Morton Chirnomas
David Bell
Moses Ling

Riders who were on the list but have notified me they cannot attend:

Hugh Ferguson
Jeffery Lewis
Adolfo Morales
Barry Walkup
Phil A.
A.J. Sandoval
Jack Powers
Richard Antonius
Bob Baker
Bob Mizner
Linda Rennie
M. O'Mara

And I am assuming ol' Bob FV1 won't be there, but he was on the list.

Be kind of an eclectic mix of motorcycles there... BMW's of several types, a few Harley's, a couple of Triumph's, a Honda or two, maybe a Yamaha, maybe a Suzuki, and most likely a couple of Kawasaki's.

Interesting group, too... Ex-racers, and auto dealer and ex-car racer, a current race shop owner and car racer, a construction expert who has worked all over the place, corporate types, ex- and current pilots, ex-BMW shop owners, retirees, a surveyor and business owner, an IT specialist, a printer, an accountant, probably an ex-sheriff and now corporate security specialist, maybe a current Kawasaki-Yamaha dealer who was once a Kawasaki rep, an ex-corporate type who now works for one of the largest motorcycle accessory distributors and is a true peckerhead, a guy whose the head of large university's video and communication department, a ranch realtor, and some other interesting other occupations, too...

Mostly Texans, but one from Seattle, one from Arizona, probably one from Southern California, and one from South Africa by way of the Houston, TX area...

I think it's gonna' be a ton of fun!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

Great work Allan, thanks much for ramrodding this deal!

Dave

[Deans BMW]

Great work Allan, thanks much for ramrodding this deal!


No kidding

[Dallara]

Here's another update...

Mark Saulsbery confirmed today he will be joining us on the Hill Country ride! Great to have you along, Mark. I have edited the post above with the list members and their status for the trip to reflect Mark's addition.

Sadly, though... A.J. Sandoval, Richard Antonius, and Jack Powers both let me know today that they will unable to make the ride. Wish they would be there, and I know we'll miss their company. Hopefully next time, guys. The list above takes their current status into account as well.

Bob Baker is going to try and make it but doesn't want to hold anybody up on getting a room so he said he will fend for himself on accommodations if he can make the ride.


To Dave & Dean...

Thanks. I appreciate the kind words. I actually kind of enjoy some of the aspects of putting stuff like this together, and when it clicks it's great.

Take care all.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

Allan,

I see great things in your future. You'll be owning a semi-large piece of property out in the Big Bend or in the Hill Country. There'll be a restaurant, good but not too pricey, a well stocked bar, twenty-five or so little "bunkhouses" with just the right sort of amenities. There'll be a two and a half mile track with interesting ups, downs, and arounds. Maybe a little closed motocross loop, too.

People will come from miles away, just to ride the tracks and the public roads and highways. Some will make it an annual trek to the Peckerhead Ranch and Motorcycle venue. Some just to get a bite to eat...Some will come just to listen to the old geezers who sit around in the lobby and tell tall tales and lies about riding when riding was really something.

Or maybe not.

Yes, thanks for organizing this. I am definitely looking forward to it.

[Acacia]

Arkline,
If a half of last years Big Bend buch of 'Hooligans' are going to this ride (which they are), I can assure you that it will be a ride of a lifetime! Certainly like no other. None of the stuffy, stand-offishness you get at other gatherings

The wealth and breath of riding, racing and motoring experience that will be accumulated there is a treat. Good people, and if Alan is organizing, things you dont expect appear on the road and off!

The 'Hoon' knows most of the possible routes you need to take - pm him.
I did Torrey last year and can suggest some from southern UT. I am sure that if you need some other accomodation and bike services en route or nearby there will be some willing offers. Holler if you need anything.

[Dallara]

Hmmmmmmm.

You bring up an interesting point, Acacia... and one that had not occured to me until your post.

Every single one of the people we had at the Fall 2005 Texas Big Bend Ride are going to be attending the Spring 2006 Texas Hill Country Ride! That's a pretty amazing thing if you think about it... at least to me.

And I met Arkline in person for the first time just last summer at Laguna Seca and here he is riding 2,200 miles each way just to check out our beautiful Texas Hill Country. To me that is really something incredibly special, and with SocalRob flying in only adds to just how fantastic this ride is shaping up to be. I do hope we all bring our digital cameras and plenty of storage media. I can't wait to see some of the pictures this ride should produce...

I hope we get them all posted here. Makes my heart feel grand to know that we have assembled such a wonderful group of riders here on this new board built out of the ashes of conflict elsewhere. It is because of that I am trying to put together a little something extra for this ride... Something that hopefully will make us all remember this get-together just a little bit more.

And Ron...

You have absolutely no idea just how close you are to what I hopefully get to accomplish before I depart this tiny blue orb... I have plans to get a place to live up in the Texas Hill Country, and if everything works out like I envision it won't too very far off from what you describe.

We'll have to see if I can ever pull it off...

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Arby]

This ride is sounding more and more like a must do. My problem is we are hosting a couples kind of ride the weekend before in the No. Carolina mtns. That means we gotta stay till the last guest leaves, probably Monday AM. Then get the wife back to Florida, so she can go back to work. (Somebodys' gotta pay for these trips) Then it's a 1200 mile ride to Kerrsville.

Is anyone else from the extreme S.E. planning on making this trip? I'm willing to either truck, I've got the truck and trailer, or ride. I'd probably ride a 04 Rockster. I've done a couple of 600 mile days on it, should be OK for this trip.

Bob

[Dallara]

Okay, Arby...

Now I'm putting it together, and my apologies, Bob, for not doing so sooner. Without your profile filled out I didn't realize that you're the same Bob that has been exchanging e-mails with me. Glad I know now...

Anyway, there is another possibility for you, Bob... The same one SocalRob is looking at. One of the advantages of the Hill Country location is the rally point - Kerrville, TX - is only 45 miles from San Antonio, TX. Because of that airline flights from just about anywhere are a breeze, and usually inexpensive (relatively), particularly if you book well enough in advance. Then there is the other plus... A really great Harley dealership is not more than 10-12 miles from the airport, and they do a wonderful job in the Harley rental business...

Now I know what you're thinking... You don't want to be riding a Harley, right?

Well, let me be the first to say that an H-D is not my first choice, either, but in the days leading up to my purchase of my R1150R I was invited on a couple of Hill Country rides, but had no scooter. Rather than miss out on the rides I rented Harley's - both from the San Antonio H-D dealer's home location (in North San Antonio, near the airport) and from their Boerne location (out west of San Antonio, and closer to Kerrville, but a long way from the airport). Each time the bikes were immaculately prepared, low mileage, and equipped with the proper extra equipment (bags, windshield, etc.). They were 100% reliable except for one turn signal bolt gone missing on a Heritage Softail. The rental prices were very reasonable (less than what I rented a BMW for in California) and included all the necessary insurance. They even offer helmets for those who do not have one, though I preferred my own, and each bike is equiped with a rain suit in your appropriate size! If you do have a problem they offer a pick-up service and will get you another bike if yours goes out of commission for some reason.

And they even have return hours on Sunday's...

All in all a very pleasant and memorable experience wach time I rented from them... And though I am not the least bit a Harley fan, there is something to be said for a more relaxed pace your first time on some of the Texas Hill Country roads, and they make for a great mount when in the company of other Harley's - and there are going to be quite a few Harley's on this trip with four so far, and maybe as many as two more in attendance. I don't know all the H-D riders going on this trip, but the ones I do know are some of the finest people I know and nearly life-long friends. You could do far, far worse than riding in their company for three days.

Here's the San Antonio H-D rental dealer's website:

http://www.americanmotorcyclerentals.com/

Adn if you wander around his website (which is quite well done) you can see the two locations, info on rates, etc.

My personal recommendation if you are renting a Harley for this trip si to go for one of the following bikes (in my order of personal preference):

1.) Road King Classic (best handling and best brakes, best all-around - IMHO)
2.) Softail Night Train (most cornering clearance, best looking)
3.) Softail Deuce (in many ways the most comfortable, and looks second only to the Night Train)
4.) Softail Heritage Classic (okay, but lousy brakes)
5.) V-Rod (fast, good brakes, slow handling, but uncomfortable)
6.) Fat Boy (worst handling IMHO, and the same brakes as the Heritage)
7.) Dyna Wide Glide (good handling but uncomfortable for a long day)
8.) Sportster 1200 Custom (good handling but uncomfortable)
9.) Ultra Classic Electra Glide (just TOOOOOOOOOO much)

Getting this close to the ride your selection may be limited as to what is available as in the Spring the rentals get booked way in advance, but I would be quite happy doing the Hill Country on any of the first five choices above.

Anyway, sorry to go on so long but I wanted you to know a bit about the option.

One other thing... The response to this ride has been a bit more overwhelming than I originally thought it would be. As such, accommodations are getting way past a little too tight. Because of this I am going to contact "Christi" at the hotel tomorrow (Monday - she is off on weekends) and see if I can cajole her out of another couple of rooms. I don't know if I will have any luck... but it's worth a try.

Bob, it would be great to have you along, and I will do whatever I can to assist you in making your attendance a reality. Just let me know what I can do to help.

Thanks, and I hope you cna figure out a way to make it.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Arby]

Allan

Thanks for the info on rentals. I thought I had filled out my profile, but maybe I screwed it up or left it uncomplete.

Still, I'd like to hook up with anyone from the S.E. if there's any interest.

BTW, I like some of the Harleys.But my Rockster is my newest toy, I'd like to bring it out to play.

Thanks again for all your hard work.

Bob

[Dallara]

Okay, Guys...

Here's the latest April 2006 Texas Hill Country Ride Update!

First off, AT THIS MOMENT WE ARE OUT OF ROOMS!

However, due to the overwhelming response I am working on trying to get some more. No guarantees, but I'm working on it.

Here's how it pans out on whose going at the moment:


Dean Lear - BMW R1200ST - Show Low, AZ
Dave Howe - Triumph Speed Triple - Keller, TX

Lewis Jordan - BMW R1150RT - Houston, TX
Mike Callas - BMW R1150RT - Sealy, TX

Bill Foerster - BMW R1100RS - McAllen, TX
Ron Musfeldt - BMW R1100R - Dallas, TX

Kent Cook - BMW K1200S - Houston, TX
Stuart Robles - ??? - Houston, TX

Mark Saulsbery - ??? - Houston, TX
And an as yet unamed friend from Houston, TX on ????

Doug Smith - Honda 998 Superhawk - Kingsville, TX
Paul Massie - Triumph Speed Triple - Houston, TX

Dave Mock - Harley Road King - San Antonio, TX
John Breidenbach - Harley Fat Boy - Beeville, TX

Mitchell Box - Harley Road King - Beeville, TX
Wade Woodall - Kawasaki KLX650 or ???? - Kingwood, TX

Rob Hennon - Harley Super Glide Classic - Los Angeles, CA
Brian Gurney (Sat. & Sun. only at this time) - BMW R1150R - Sugarland, TX

Ron Kline - BMW R1150R - Seattle, WA
Allan Pagan - BMW R1150R or Yamaha FJR1300A (if it gets here in time) - Corpus Christi, TX

Another who is says he is coming, but may have to change that if his work demands it, is:

Randy Poelma - Kawasaki KLR650 - Corpus Christi, TX

So, at the moment it looks like we will have 23 participants, but that could change up (or down) depending on what I can do regarding rooms.

Others who are still uncommitted, but trying to come are:

Joe Werkhoven - Kawasaki Nomad - Corpus Christi, TX
Randy Woodall - ???? - Calallen, TX

Folks who wanted ot be on the list for this ride, but have still not responded are:

Morton Chirnomas
David Bell
Moses Ling

And riders who wanted to come but cannot make it are:

Hugh Ferguson
Jeffery Lewis
Adolfo Morales
Barry Walkup
Phil A.
A.J. Sandoval
Jack Powers
Richard Antonius
Bob Baker
Bob Mizner
Linda Rennie
M. O'Mara

Sorry you guys have scheduling difficulties. I know we all wish you could be there...

And then there is BobFV1, who I imagine due to his recent relocation won't have any chance of making it.

As you can see, we have the majority of riders on BMW's, with the number of Harley's right behind them... A couple of Triumph's, probably a couple of Kawasaki's, a Honda, and maybe a Yamaha.

As mentioned before, we will have an interesting and eclectic group, too... Ex-racers, and auto dealer and ex-car racer, a current race shop owner and car racer, a construction expert who has worked all over the place, corporate types, ex- and current pilots, ex-BMW shop owners, retirees, a surveyor and business owner, an IT specialist, a printer, an accountant, probably an ex-sheriff and now corporate security specialist, maybe a current Kawasaki-Yamaha dealer who was once a Kawasaki rep, an ex-corporate type who now works for one of the largest motorcycle accessory distributors and is a true peckerhead, a guy whose the head of large university's video and communication department, a ranch realtor, and some other interesting other occupations, too...

Not to mention folks from all over the country will be attending.

With such a good turn-out I am trying to put together a little something extra for those who make the ride, and now I have to get to work on routes, reservations for meals, and arrange interesting stops and waypoints.

Two places that we definitely be on the "must see" stop list are the "Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop" and the "Lone Star Motorcycle Museum", but I have some others in store, too.

Remember, no "Road Captains" on this ride, though... There will plenty of people there to group up with that will ride whatever speed you feel comfortable with, so all we will do is give the route to the next stop and then let the group sort itself out with regards to pace. You wiil be free to go as fast, or as slow, as you want to... Most of the roads we will be riding are definitely technically challenging, but they are also beautifully scenic routes, as well, highlighting just how wonderful a place the Texas Hill Country is. You can test your cornering skills to the limit if you wish, or just sit back, cruise along, and enjoy the view!

No doubt Dean, Darth (Dave), Doug, or Paul will be leading the pack into each stop, but as with our previous rides the first riders will always wait at each change of direction or junction, or pre-determined waypoint, until everybody rolls in. We never leave anybody behind, and we will have a recovery vehicle (Chevy Suburban and a trailer) if it becomes necessary.

We also have direct contact numbers for Helicopter EVAC services in the area if, heaven forbid, that eventuality arises.

But let's not touch to much on that point and remember...

THIS IS GOING TO BE A FUN, MEMORABLE, AND MOST OF ALL - SAFE - RIDE!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Deans BMW]

One of the intresting little tidbits about the Hill Country attendes is Kent Cook, one of my early Beemer customers when I owned San Jose BMW in the '70's, haven't seen him since then.

[socalrob]

Looks like I'm all confirmed, the Big D says I have a hotel (motel?) room, San Antonio HD says I have a bike, and I now have non refundable airline tickets.

BTW, the fly & rent is costing me about $800 total. Figuring LA to Kerrville was something like 1200 miles each way of interstate drone, between tires on the RR, gas, hotels and food for at least 2 nights, its really not costing me more than $400 to fly & rent, and saves me two work days, which more than makes up for it. Not a bad option. Just too bad there isn't a Ducati or BMW dealer that rents in SA.

Should be a great spring trip. :020: :eusa_drool: :eusa_clap: :023:

[Dallara]

Cool, Rob!

Outstanding, in fact!

You, Ron, and I are going to be the first ones into Kerrville with all of us arriving Thursday. Most of the rest of the group will be filtering in on Friday withonly a couple of people not arriving until Saturday (looks like those two are gonna' be Brian Gurney and Randy Poelma).

Sorry for saying you were from San Diego, Rob... Don't know how I got that mixed up but i have corrected it in the post up the page to Los Angeles.

Talked to the hotel today, and though she woul dnot guarantee it, it looks like Christi might be able to scrape us up another couple of rooms. It may take a day or two for her to work it out but it looks Wade Woodall and Randy Poelma will have a room without any sweat...

Oh, I did forget to mention it... Wade Woodall from Kingwood, TX called today and says he is definitely going to make it to the ride (barring any catastrophes, etc...). Most interesting part about that is he is planning on getting a new bike prior to the ride... And what's at the top of his list?

A new Kawasaki Ninja 650R twin!

Man, I hope he gets it as I'd like to snag a ride on one!

Also, it appears Randy Poelma is going to make it if he can get one set of payrolls done the Thursday before, but still he would not be able to be in Kerrville until either Friday night or early Saturday morning. He'll be mounted on his Kawasaki KLR650.

Sooooooooooooo... Right now it looks like we will have a minimum total of 22 riders with maybe more to join in closer to the date of the ride. And it will be 23 if Bob Baker from Florida makes it.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

Dean wanted to know this and I'll post it for the rest in case you need to send out the dogs to find my sorry ass if I don't show up within a reasonable number of days after the Thursday convocation:

I am traveling this way:

Seattle, WA to Burley, ID 657 miles 9.5 hours (mostly interstate) This leg takes me east, over Snoqualmie Pass, down through Richland, across the upper left corner of Oregon, across the lower left corner of Idaho and across the most of the bottom of Idaho.

Burley, ID to Cortez, CO 530 miles 9.5 hours (mostly secondary roads) This leg takes me almost straigth down Utah, through Salt Lake City (damnably unavoidable, I guess. All roads in Utah end at the Temple...) angling a bit toward the east until I turn left and head for Cortez (depending on how tired I am when I reach Blanding, UT, I will decide if Cortez or Durango is the stopping spot for the night.

Cortez, CO to Roswell, NM 471 miles 9 hours This route is partially interstate and then state highway. I'm trying to avoid really large urban areas like Albuquerque, if practical, but life is complicated at times. Especially when there is only one big city in a state.

Roswell, NM to Kerrville, TX 465 miles 9.5 hours This piece drops down from Roswell to Pecos, then Fort Stockton on secondary roads. I pick up I-10 going east and just ride until I see something that looks like Kerrville.

Return trip might mirror this route, if the roads seemed reasonable. Or I might shoot for a different route west of Salt Lake City and up through Nevada, Oregon and home. Doing that adds miles and miles and I'm prolly going to want to rest up a bit at each end, so time might be of the essence. Stopping in Roswell is optional. I lived there twice in my life and I'm curious to see how it has changed in the almost forty years since I graduated high school and high-tailed it out of there. Carlsbad is also a possibility, thus making the last leg into Kerrville shorter and quicker.

All the mapping has been done in Google Earth which has hooks into Google maps. Interestingly, the Google maps site adds a an hour to two hours to the travel times stated by Google Earth. I don't know if that is to account for gassing up, meals, pitstops of the personal kind or what. We'll see on the first leg how accurate the one or the other is.

[Deans BMW]

Ron, I just plotted your trip on Streets and Maps and looks intresting. Would you like some suggestions either comming or going? I am primarily talking between Salt Lake City and Kerrville. Also, at least either going to or from Kerrville, you will spend a restful nite or so at our little place in the country, for all practicle purposes on the way.

[arkline]

Dean,

I'm always open to suggestions, especially the ones that don't start with "Why don't you go !@#$#@! yourself". :icon_smile: What do you have in mind?

[Deans BMW]

Oh something like Burley to Torrey, for the 3 rd nite. Going thru Nephi just south of SLC just off the freeway on the left heading south stop at the new Cabalas for a fun bit of shopping. On to the Chuckwagon in Torrey for the nite, the next day to my house in Show Low.

About 400 miles Burley to Torrey,
About 450 miles Torrey to Show Low
About 750 miles Show Low to Kerrville, spending the nite somewhere in between.

Or something like that on the way back.

[arkline]

Dean,

I'm getting 489 miles from Kerrville to El Paso. (I can't figure anyway to NOT go through El Paso unless we had GSes...) From there it is another 345 to Show Low. From Show Low to Twin Falls, ID is 839. From Twin Falls to Seattle is 625. All totaled - 2298, not a heck of a lot farther than the route down. Problem is figuring where the way points are. Kerrville to Deming (is there anything in Deming anymore?). Deming to Show Low to Blanding to Twin Falls to Seattle?? I'll have to work on this a bit, but on the way back it might be possible. I'll let you know what I come up with.

[Deans BMW]

Ron, overniter in Balmorhea, 300 mi from Kerrville, Van Horn, 380 miles from Kerrville, El Paso 500 miles. Lots of places to stop. When I travel long distances like you will be doing, I just stop when I get tired. A good rout from Show Low is to stop in Kanab, Utah about 350 miles from Show Low. Take 89 north, beautiful by the way. Kanab to Twin Falls 533 mi. Or keep going up 89 a ways, beautiful little for the next 130 miles. Stop anywhere when you feel like it. The next day to Twin Falls would be shorter and easier. Boise is only about 123 miles beyond Twin Falls. That would leave only 500 miles to Seattle. Lots of possibilities and some beautiful scenry.

[Acacia]

Ark,

Last year from Torrey I returned by coming down 191 from Blanding (A nice town to overnight at), Mexcian Hat onto 25 and before Alb. short cut to 25, S towards San Antonio NM, over the Lincoln mountains, Hondo, Rosswell etc. Very open, senic and some some haul-ass areas. I dont know the Cortez south route.

A word of caution. Fill up regularly. Some 'towns' marked are Reservation schools etc in AZ and UT. TX out there before you get to Kerrville also has sections where the speed limit, if I recall, is officially 75.

Ride well.

[Dallara]

Some parts of West Texas the new speed limit is 85 MPH...

I kid you not.

See: http://people.smu.edu/acambre/Plain%20English%20Summary%20of%20Texas%20Speed%20L aws.doc

And specifically section 545.3531 "Authority of Texas Transportation Commission to Establish Speed Limits on Trans-Texas Corridor"

The maximum POSTED speed limit in certain parts of West Texas is only 80, and in other parts only 75 MPH. Interestingly enough, in certain counties (ones with less than 10 people per square mile) out there the speed limit is 75 MPH even though the signs say 70 simply because they have not gotten around to changing the signs yet.

You are pretty much safe out on I-10 in West Texas up to 80 MPH, as they don't tend to enforce the limit very stringently, and I always drive 85 or 90 MPH out there and have never had a problem... Even when the limit was 55!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Dallara]

Morning, Folks...

Time for another Spring 2006 Hill Country Ride Update, and wiht most things like this we have some good news, and... well, some bad news.

Let's hit the bad news first, okay?

Scheduling conflicts have caused us to lose a fellow rider from the trip. John L. McCord from Beeville, TX let us know yesterday that he would not be able to make the ride as he originally planned, and on 3/18 Bill Foerster informed me that he will not be able to attend. But that leads us to some of the good news...

John did his best to help make his misfortune a better situation for a fellow rider. Wade Woodall, from Kingwood, TX grew up in Beeville, TX, and John and he are long time friends, so when John couldn't make the ride he requested that Wade get his room slot with Mitchell Box. Needless to say this solved a big problem about accommodations for Wade (and certainly one for me, too... :045: ). We'll miss having John along, I assure you, but Wade's a hoot, too, so we'll just have to hope John can make the next one. Also, when Bill Foerster had to bail out his roomate, Ron Musfeldt, was gracious enough to take in Mark Smith, who until then had been roomless.

Another bit of great news was that Bob Baker, our Cafe's own Arby from Malabar, FL, found a B&B with an available room only about a mile from our hotel. He made a reservation there just in case we can't get any additional rooms in the hotel to get him in the group. He is also bringing his wife along, too, so we will have some much needed female presence! I hope we can get them in the hotel with the rest of us, but if not at least they'll be on the rides with us and close enough they can do some evening *bench racing* with the rest of us! Outstanding, Bob! :eusa_clap:

So here's the latest ride list as we know it for the moment:


Dean Lear - BMW R1200ST - Show Low, AZ
Dave Howe - Triumph Speed Triple - Keller, TX

Lewis Jordan - BMW R1150RT - Houston, TX
Mike Callas - BMW R1150RT - Sealy, TX

Ron Musfeldt - BMW R1100R - Dallas, TX
Mark Smith - Kawasaki ZRX - Wimberley, TX

Kent Cook - BMW K1200S - Houston, TX
Stuart Robles - Yamaha FZ1 - Spring, TX

Mark Saulsbery - BMW R1150GS or Honda RC51 - Houston, TX
An as yet still unamed friend from Houston, TX on ????

Doug Smith - Honda VTR1000 Superhawk - Kingsville, TX
Paul Massie - Triumph Speed Triple - Houston, TX

Dave Mock - Harley Road King - San Antonio, TX
John Breidenbach - Harley Fat Boy - Beeville, TX

Mitchell Box - Harley Road King - Beeville, TX
Wade Woodall - Kawasaki KLX650 or ???? - Kingwood, TX

Rob Hennon - Harley Super Glide Classic - Los Angeles, CA
Brian Gurney (Sat. & Sun. only at this time) - BMW R1150R - Sugarland, TX

Bob Baker - BMW R1150R Rockster - Malabar, FL

Ron Kline - BMW R1150R - Seattle, WA
Allan Pagan - BMW R1150R or Yamaha FJR1300A (if it gets here in time) - Corpus Christi, TX

Bob Neuser - Yamaha R6 - Beeville, TX
Arch Tullidge - Kawasaki ZX-1200 - Woodlands, TX

So we have 23 or 24 (see below) confirmed riders at this point in time, and hopefully we'll have a few more in a day or two...

(And on 03/18 Dave Howe e-mailed me and said that George "Pistol" Tuttle from the D/FW area plans to attend on either his Yamaha FJR1300 or MV Agusta F4 1000, but then George Tuttle e-mailed me on 03/19 and said he will be in the Kerrville area, actually in Hunt, that weekend with the NTNOA rally. We may see him, but he won't be with us...)

Here are the folks who are still trying to juggle schedules to make it:

Randy Poelma _ Kawasaki KLR650 - Corpus Christi, TX
Joe Werkhoven - Kawasaki Nomad - Corpus Christi, TX
Randy Woodall - Harley - Calallen, TX

Here's folks we still haven't heard from:

Morton Chirnomas
David Bell
Moses Ling

And last, here's the riders who have confirmed that they cannot make the ride:

Hugh Ferguson
Jeffery Lewis
Adolfo Morales
Barry Walkup
Phil A.
A.J. Sandoval
Jack Powers
Richard Antonius
Eric Colbath
John L. McCord
Bob Mizner
Linda Rennie
M. O'Mara
Bill Foerster

And, of course, I still haven't heard from BobFV1, either... But what did I expect, what with his mammary fascination, pink outfit and umbrella, and various mole activities... :eusa_shifty:

Now for those of you that might want to try and attend if you can find a way at the last minute, here's the hotel information on where the group will be staying:

Super 8 - Kerrville
2127 Sidney Baker Street
Kerrville, Texas 78028

830-896-1511

As of 3/17 they were still sold-out, but they do get cancellations from time to time, so if you are trying to come do try there first. I am still trying to block an extra room or two at the rate we have, just in case, but I'm not sure I'll get any.

We should have great weather, though we will have to expect some Hill Country traffic. The only time you don't get much traffic up there is in the winter months, but then it is usually rainy quite a bit along with pretty dense fog being a problem from time to time, too.

I going to be sending out an e-mail update to those on the list shortly, so those of you on that list be looking for it!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

A 42-wheeled, rolling orgasmic experience!

Dave

[Dallara]

Well, Dave...

Looks like it will be 44 wheels...

We just got another who will be joining us - Mark Smith from Wimberley, TX mounted on his Kawasaki ZRX-1200, so the number of riders goes to 22.

Officially at the moment he does not have a room, but one pair has already volunteered to let him do the *roll-away* gig in their room, and another one of our Houston contingent has not had confirmation from the buddy he was bringing along and says if he doesn't soon he will take on a roomie, so Mark should be set.

I am still hustling for more rooms and with the way cancellations go up in Kerrville we should have that option, too.

Let's keep bumping the numbers up! I think the more we have the merrier!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

You know, I can't truthfully say I'm looking forward to a "22 bike ride", even in our Hill Country and almost didn't sign up for that reason. Anything more than just a few bikes (especially people - anyone - who haven't ridden together a lot) is potentially dangerous and is a big pain in the ass by definition. At least to me...and most of the guys I ride with.

But...this is not going to be a "22 bike ride", it's going to be a "Motorcyclist Cafe Mini-Rally" and that's a whole 'nuther kettle of fish!

Judging from the great prep-work Allan has so graciously provided, and the guys who are going to be there, this will be a motorcycle event to be remembered.

Now, let's just concentrate on keeping the riding groups relatively small and it will be perfect-o!

Dave

[Dallara]

Darth...

Plan from the start is for this to be more of a "motorcyclist's get-together" than a "group ride". Just ask Dean, Acacia, Moose, or LewisRT about Big Bend. Rarely, if ever, were more than any 4 motorcycles anywhere close to each other for more than a few minutes, and that was usually at fuel or food stops, or at required stops like the entrance to Big Bend Natl. Park.

My formula for rides has always been the "NO ROAD CAPTAINS!" approach... essentially laying out a route with several waypoints and destinations on it, times and places for lunch, dinner, fuel, etc., and turning everybody loose. Those that want to follow the route can do so, while others can head off in their own directions of choice if they prefer (like Bill Foerster di done day at Big Bend and Acacia did all through the park at Big Bend). It has been my experience that riders separate themselves very quickly according to skill and pace - i.e. the go-fasters disappear over the horizon, a sort of mid-pack group develops that go quick but doesn't test any limits, and then there is a group of folks who just cruise and enjoy the scenery.

The only *rule* I try to make everyone along hold hard and fast to is that at certain specific points EVERYBODY stops and waits for everyone else. Essentially the "we leave no man behind" doctrine. This greatly lessens the amount of back-tracking and searching necessary if someone is overdue and has had some trouble. Ideally I try to have no *stint* longer than 30 to 50 miles before a definite stop to let everyone catch up, but I try to time these at gas stops for some and natural break points like road junctions, points of interest, food stops, etc.

So far the *magic* of this approach is that it is pretty formulaic, but yet doesn't appear to have any formula at all... and when it is at its best it is truly superb.

At the end of the day I try to provide an atmosphere where every one can get together with some refreshments (food and both alcoholic beverages and non-alcoholic ones...) so every one can relax and enjoy jokes, toasts, stories, and pranks from the ride and after. I will not ride a bike after any alcohol (except maybe one glass of wine with dinner if dinner occurs on the road back to the hotel before the *party*...), and I strongly urge others to refrain from their bikes after any cocktails. The post-ride *bench racing* sessions are pretty self-limiting, and rarely go past 10:00 PM. Everybody filters back to their rooms at their pace to be rested for the ride the next day. We did this sort of thing Friday and Saturday nights at Big Bend and I think it came off quite well...

I will leave it to Dean, Bill, Acacia, Moose, and LewisRT to offer their impressions of those get-togethers, though...

I understand your concerns and reticience, but I only ask that you don't prejudge the affair until you try it out. I don't want any one here to be spooked by negative vibes about group size, etc. in advance. I want everyone who has not been on one of these type rides I try to put together to go into it with an OPEN MIND, and just see what they think.

Any suggestions for making the event a better one are greatly and openly appreciated, and I try to implement as many as I can. I have been gratified that literally no suggestions for event improvement have come from those who were at Big Bend... makes me feel like I did at least some of it right.

You and I have both been riding a long, long time... And we both know the dangers of large numbers of riders in tight, close, almost formation groups. That's why I never let my rides go down that road. I want first of all a safe ride, but second ot that I want one where riders still feel independent and free to experience the ride on their own terms.

All in all I think you'll like it after it's all over. It may a bit different than you're used to... Besides, you and Dean will be off so far ahead playing with each other canyon dancing that you won't know the difference! :037:

(though Paul Massie on his Speed Triple, Doug Smith on his Superhawk/VFR hybrid will maybe give you guys some fits... and I'll do my very best to keep up)

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

Oh c'mon Allan, there weren't "concerns, reticence, prejudgement, negative vibes", casting aspersions on your rides or harshing your vibe at all in what I wrote above.

Everything you said here you've pretty much said before, I read it and understood it, then changed my mind about the ride and I am attending as a result. And I imagine most of us here have read it too, certainly all who are going.

As you said, we've been doing this a long, long time. Don't take comments based on that experience (made half in jest, but all in anticipation of a great ride), as personal criticism.

I believe I also read previously where you wanted input on the ride and that was the reason I felt, and still feel, we should continue to stress the small group thing. No "rule", just very hard earned common sense.

Dave :058:

[Acacia]

How did we ride and socialize at Big Bend?

Relaxed. Ride your own ride. Good people, good riders. No hero's. No one to impress. Some fast, others faster. Others, smelled the flowers.

[Deans BMW]

That is also the way that the Torrey Gathering turned out last year, small groups doing their own thing turned out perfect even though we had about 25 attendes.

[DarthRider]

Sounds good to me boys!

Dave

[Dallara]

Darth said...




You know, I can't truthfully say I'm looking forward to a "22 bike ride", even in our Hill Country and almost didn't sign up for that reason. Anything more than just a few bikes (especially people - anyone - who haven't ridden together a lot) is potentially dangerous and is a big pain in the ass by definition. At least to me...and most of the guys I ride with.




I dunno', Dave... That paragraph just seemed kind of negative to me. Just my interpretation, I guess.

If that interpretation was wrong I apologize.

I just want everybody to have a great time and a fun, safe ridin' weekend. The looser the better. I guess I also feel the more like minded individuals we can get together for rides like this one the better. I know I am going to really enjoy getting to meet Rob Hennon, Bob Baker, Kent Cook, etc. in person and put a voice and a face with the correspondence I've had with people like them. It is also going to be terrific to see Ron Kline, Dean, Brian, etc. again... People who I don't get to see very often... And it will be wonderful to finally meet you in person, Dave!

All of that means as much to me as the ride itself.

Again, my apologies if I missed my interpretation.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

Hey Allan, my apologies for sounding negative. I was really speaking "in general", not specifically about the Hill Country ride, and I guess in a bass-ackwards way was agreeing and looking forward to the way you've set this up.
I am totally looking forward to the ride(s) and meeting the boys.

Anyway, enough about this...Hoochie Mama's new tires for the ride came in yesterday!

And Allan, maybe we'll meet before the ride?! Hope so...

Dave

[MidlifeMark]

There's a slim chance I might get the engine back in the plane by mid-April. It would have to be a last-minute thing, but if it all comes together, is there an airport near where you guys will be staying? It would be a good excuse for me to get some XC time.

[socalrob]

Mark,

As you may know I'm flying (commercial airliner, unfortunately, or fortunately, since I'm not a pilot) into San Antonio & renting a HD. The shop that rents the HD in SA also has a location in the Hill Country, so you may be able to fly into a little airport & rent a HD & get flight & riding time in during the same weekend. Could life get any better?????

[socalrob]

Darth & Allan,

To me its sad that when out riding I feel more apprehension about other riders on the road than I do about cagers. I put more space between myself & unknown riders than I do between myself & cages. If I'm ever taken out on Angeles Crest Highway its much more likely to be by some squid blowing his/her curve & crossing the line than by an errant cage. So I kind of see Darth's point about small groups, at least from a risk standpoint.

That said, Allan's plan to me seems the best for a group. At Torrey everyone went seperate ways, which was cool, except when it was getting a bit late on Sat. & one rider was not in. Were all adults & responsible, but it stressed me a bit none the less. So I like Allans plan, which I guess could be called seperate but together.

Looking forward to the ride. Should be great time & great people.

[Deans BMW]

Mark, the Kerrville airport is the home of Mooney Aircraft, I did some test flying there BTW when Aerostar and Mooney merged under the short lived ownership af American Cement.

[Dallara]

Replies to some folks in one post...


To Acacia & Dean,

Thanks to both of you. I think it's going to one hell of a get-together! Like Darth said... Really almost a "Mini Rally", and it'll be fantastic to see both of you again and do some ridin' together!


To Rider of Darth & Hoochi Mama,

I think we're both on the same page, Dave. So often the damn printed word is so ineffectual at actually conveying subtle nuances and tongue-in-cheek humor. I know now you weren't trying be negative.

I am now concerned about even bringing the Yamaha FJR even if it does show up in time. Why? Because I doubt I will have it broke-in how I prefer nor be used to it enough to keep pace with you, Dean, Doug, and Paul... :doubt: I've got fresh rear rubber on the R1150R and I can go pretty good on it, and it knows those roads real well, too! Sometimes it's just best to dance with the one who brung ya'... :eusa_dance:

I'd love to get up to see ya' before the Hill Country Ride, but I am stuck down here this weekend despite my desires not to be. We've got another five weeks, though, to try and fit that in before the ride, right?


To MidlifeMark,

Both Kerrville and nearby Fredericksburg have nice municipal/county airports. The Fredericksburg airport is about 15 miles from Kerrville, and even has a really neat hotel right on the Field - The Hanger Hotel:

http://www.hangarhotel.com/

But if you want to actually ride when you get there then the airport in Boerne, TX - Boerne Stage Field - would be a better bet... Why?

Because the same Harley shop that SocalRob is renting his bike from has another store in Boerne - Javelina Harley-Davidson - and you could fly your bird into there and rent a bike for the ride!

That way you could get some air hours in along with some seat time on the Texas Hill Country backroads. Boerne is only 20 miles down I-10 from Kerrville, and at one time I was actually thinking of basing this upcoming ride out of there.

So if you got the time and the inclination, Mark, give Javelina H-D a call, reserve a bike, and come on the ride! I will be happy to help you with any of the logistics, reservations, etc. Just drop me a PM and I'll reply with my e-mail address and we can go from there.


To SocalRob,

I have ridden with most all of the Texas people on this ride - with the exceptions being Darth, Kent Cook, Mark Saulsbery, and Mitchell Box. I have absolutely NO apprehension about riding with ANY of those I have ridden with before, and I am confident that Darth, Ron, Bob, you Rob, etc. will cause me no trepidation, either. From what I figure I'm not sure we could have assembled a better group to ride and hang out with.

Just be glad we're all not riding up there the week before... There is a pretty big charity ride rally up there then, and it usually draws about 100-200+ Harley's for the most part, and quite a few of those are ridden by folks that ride their H-D's only like twice a year... Now those guys SCARE the hell out of me. Most are the lawyer, doctor, accountant, etc. types that have simply bought into the H-D mystique, etc.... And they wobble and weave all over the place, some two-up, looking only for another place to stop and take each other's picture just around a blind corner, etc. They also tend to ride in huge, long, accordian-acting packs that make 'em impossible to get around on roads like 337. Last time I crossed paths with that group half of them were riding without helmets with some even talking on their bloody cell phones while putt-putting through the twisties!

That charity ride is one of the reasons I nixed that weekend from our ride date choices...

Anyway, I know we'll have an interesting and fun group for our "Mini Rally", and something tells me that we'll see lots of pictures and hear lots of stories about the ride here on the Cafe'!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Dallara]

Just a quick update...

Kent Cook from Houston just e-mailed the info on the rider who will be along with him, so we have another name.

Stuart Robles of Spring, TX and mounted on a 2002 Yamaha FZ-1 will be joining us for the Hill Country Ride. This still leaves our current count at 22 riders, but now we have a name to put in that slot in Kent's room. Welcome aboard, Stuart!

Now for some other news about the ride... Bob Baker from Malabar, FL gave me a bit more info on his plans and we are going to have the pleasure of having Bob's wife joining us! Wonderful news, and it will add an air of class to our *rally*... (UPDATE - Bob Baker and his lovely wife will NOT be joining us now due to scheduling conflicts)

Unfortunately, however... Since the last update we have ahd some people who were on the fence inform me that they will not be able to make it to our ride...

Linda Rennie will be off on a ride in Arkansas with Hugh Ferguson's group that weekend so we won't have the pleasure of female perspective on the ride. Have fun in Arkansas Linda, but I wish you were with us! BTW, you should really check out Linda's art work on her webpage at:

http://www.rennieart.com

She does some beautiful and intriging stuff!

Likewise we lost Maureen O'Mara... and Bob Mizner. Some of you may remember Bob as "Priapismic" on the R1150R board. Well, I can certainly understand why Bob won't joining us! He's going to Birmingham, AL and the Barber Motorsports Park and Museum for the AMA Superbike race there. Can't blame him for passing up our ride for that...

So, that's where we sit right now, and the post on page 6 of this thread that names all the riders with a bit about them has been updated and edited accordingly.

Though I wish these other folks were coming with us we still have a terrific group and I know we'll have a memorable ride weekend!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Dallara]

Well Fellow Spring 2006 Hill Country Riders,

We now have two more participants who will be attending our ride. Please welcome:

Bob Neuser from Beeville, Texas riding a Yamaha R-6

and

Arch Tullidge from Woodlands, Texas mounted on his Kawasaki ZX-1200

Both are close friends of another participant on the ride, John Breidenbach, a both are experienced riders. Remember that John Breidenbach is an old, dear friend of mine I have known since 1973. We raced against each other for over 19 years on MX tracks, and for some reason it seemed we were almost always in the same class. We both had the pleasure of competing against riders like Steve Wise, Kent Howerton, Steve Stackable, and other Texas boys who went on to factory stardom. John was also a Kawasaki/Maico dealer for years in Beeville, Texas, though now he operates a very successful ranch real estate business there. John is also one hell of a guitar player, and plays regularly in a band at many local gigs.

I should also mention that another attendee, Wade Woodall, competed against John and I all through those years, though he was usually faster than both of us. Like John and I, he held an AMA Pro Moto-Cross license for a long time, and was absolutely blazingly fast on a 125.

Interestingly enough, Arch Tullidge is married to John Breidenbach's niece, and here's the best part...

He's a PSYCHIATRIST!

Goodness knows, there will be a lot of us there who could use one... Myself probably first and foremost! I imagine he could do an entire research study on all the obsessions and complusions that will be woven in and out of our riding group so it should be fun to see his reactions... :037:

Just wanted to keep you folks all up to date on the latest developments!

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

As a firm believer in the Seven-Ps, I've been getting all my prep work done for heading out. Got a 6K checkup, changed out the hydraulic fluids, got new (and I'll add pretty slickery Pilot Road) tires, new Westco sealed battery, some bungie buddies and straps to hold the Nelson-Rigg GoldWing rear mount travel bag. Got a tire plugger. Broke down and got a small Cortech tank bag and a cover for overnighting the bike without attracting too much attention. I've got a spare headlight bulb, spare brake bulb and one spare turn indicator bulb. I'll probably get a quart of oil to carry. The nurse in the family is going to inventory my first-aid kit to see what useful stuff might be added. I'll be getting some wet wipes for cleaning the bugs off'n the face shield. I don't know whether a spare alternator belt is a good idea or not...I've already got a compressor and tire gauge. Crikey, the preload will have to be cranked all the way up with all this stuff on the bike.

Still need to get a cheap pair of extra glasses.

If Deanster the Hoon's offer is still good, I'll be looking to leave on the Sunday before and do five days, some longer than others. The outward route would be as follows:

Seattle to Twin Falls, Idaho 625 miles about 9 hours
Twin Falls to Torrey, Utah 418 miles about 6.5 hours
Torrey to Show Low, AZ 463 miles about 7.5 hours
Show Low to Van Horn, TX 509 miles about 8.5 hours
Van Horn to Kerrville 370 miles about 5.5 hours

That puts us in Kerrville on Thursday after a leisurely jaunt across I-10. Please have the beer cold when we get there.

The route back will be more direct and will include a stop in Albuquerque for possible rear tire replacement and an oil change, if I can arrange it ahead of time. I plan visiting the new dealership there and will not be trading in on a KLR...

Anything else I need to be thinking about?

[DarthRider]

"...Anything else I need to be thinking about?.."

Spring time in that part of Texas...Rain Gear!
Many long, back to back days...Airhawk!

Dave

[Dallara]

Going to cover two things here... First some disappointing news and then some things for Ron.

First off, the bad news.

One of our riders from the Fall Big Bend Ride and who was going to be at this ride has had to cancel out due to other sudden family obligations and committments... Bad thing about it is he is a wonderful and incredibly entertaining fellow.

Bill Foerster from McAllen, TX e-mailed me about an hour ago with news that he had just received a schedule that will preclude his joining us. If Bill wants to I am sure he will share with us here why he can't make it, but if he doesn't rest assured it is a alternate committment he simply has to give full priority.

Believe me, folks... HE WILL BE MISSED!

Wish you could be there, Bill... But take care and we will see you out in Big Bend in the Fall.

Now onto Ron's mega-ride down...

A few suggestions for ya'. Ron.

1.) If it will make things any easier you are more than welcome to ship anything down you like to me and I will be happy to bring it along in the Suburban to Kerrville. I have done this on many an extended trip... Sent along ahead changes of clothes, extra gear or parts, etc. so they were there when I arrived at a turn-around point, and then shipped dirty clothes, etc. back so I didn't have to carry so much. If you will recall I shipped ALL my riding gear, etc. out to San Jose BMW when I met up with you in California, and then the shop there graciously shipped it all back. I would be more than happy to take care of that both ways for you if it helps.

2.) I can bring along a spare alternator belt to Kerrville, as I have one out in the garage. I will also be bringing along oil, chemicals, tire repair items, a compressor or two (larger size one for back at the hotel, and and my little Airman Sparrow for on my bike), tools, etc. for base camp operations so that might alleviate some of your concerns about carrying some stuff.

3.) For me any sort of "wet wipes" just don't cut it... Not even the trick Zeiss ones I have for cleaning lenses. I carry a bottle of Novus Plastic Polish # 3 (which is really just a cleaner) and a couple of soft cotton cloths/towels. Works about a million times better, and you will see when you get out here I clean my face shield nearly every damn time I stop. Many of the "wet wipes" I've found do more scratching of the face shield than they do cleaning 'em, and they don't work worth a damn on bdried bug hits.

4.) Darth's right about rain gear... It's rare that it rains a lot during April in West Texas and the Hill Country, but an occasional afternoon or evening thunder shower is pretty common, and early morning fog is not out of the question up in the hills that time of year, either.

5.) Safety wire and good quality cable ties, along with a couple of those velcro cord straps like you see at the computer stores are things I always have onboard. With those and a small amount of duct tape there's not much you can't get re-attached well enough to get ya' where you're going. Check out your local auto parts store... Many of them carry neat little *flat packs* of duct tape that store easily. Another thing I always have handy is a small package of the clay-like strips of JB-Weld. Works great for a quick fix of a holed aluminum case or any plastic component to get ya' by. A small flashlight is a good idea, too, along with a combo-tool like a Leatherman, not to mention a good knife. I also like to carry a few of those little paper funnels just in case. A half-used roll (so it's smaller) of toilet paper can be a nice thing to have... for a lot of reasons, not the least of which is just in case the damn gas station you stop at doesn't have any! It also works great for sopping up all sorts of spills and can even be used with the JB-Weld as *matting* if you have to repair a piece of split plastic... Don't ask me how I know this! :037:

6.) A few extra nuts and bolts that cover some smaller ones that might vibrate loose isn't a bad idea, either... And I make sure before I go on any long trip that I use real bolts with lock washers, Ny-Loc nuts, and Loctite on my license plate mounts... I've lost a license plate on a trip before and it gets real old, real quick having damn near every cop or highway patrol you pass pull you over for it. I got stopped no less than 10 or 12 times when I lost that plate, and I was on a two day ride! I also always carry a replacement bulb for the license plate light for the same reason...

7.) Chapstick, sunscreen, and Visine are not bad things to have along in West Texas, either...

8.) It will be hot I assure you once you hit Texas in late April... A good bandana or two that you can wet down and tie aroound your neck will amaze you at how much cooler it can make you feel as it cools the blood that pumps through those arteries in your neck. I never go on a trip without at least four. They double up as great shop rags should you need 'em.

9.) Trust me... Bring a hat or a cap, and a pair of shorts you can wear under your mesh gear if you have it. Makes it easy to take a dip in one of the streams or rivers we'll encounter often if you're so inclined.

10.) Some way to listen to music or audio books (like an iPod) can be a godsend out in West Texas droning on I-10...

11.) In Texas you absolutely HAVE TO HAVE a copy of your liability insurance carrier on your vehicle, period. If you get stopped they will ask you for it. If you don't have it they will ticket you, period. It's a "Zero Tolerance" law here.

12.) If you are out in West Texas and you see a gas station and you have less than 70 to 100 miles in your tank - STOP AND REFUEL! Stations can be closed for absolutely no reason out there. Once you get to Junction you are pretty much okay, but west of there you never know when a station might be closed, or even out of gas if they're open.

That's about all I can think of right now, but closer to the trip I am going to try and e-mail out a list of things like this I think everyone should have along.

Hope this helps!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

I always carry a small, but extremely sharp pocket knife, small flashlight, and pen. Anyways, when I'm not taking a shower, I do. When you live in earthquake country you think about the absolute minimum of preparedness. In addition, I typically carry a Leatherman and a whistle. Don't suppose the whistle will do much good on this trip, but I do want the dogs to be able to find me under the rubble if the worst happens.

Washington requires you to carry a proof of insurance card. You get one each time you renew your policy. I have a travel wallet that has my registration, proof of insurance, drivers license, other flat cards like BMW Roadside assistance, MoTow, AAA, some cash and the credit card I'll be using for gas. It also has room for a log book for notes, keeping track of mileage and so on. I always make Xerox copies of the important documents and stow them somewhere relatively safe, just in case.

I'll be wearing a 'Stich and am a little concerned about the temps down there. I can layer up underneath in the northern climes, but it will be hard to unlayer, but for riding nekkid under the 'Stich. I have an old MeshTex jacket that I can bring, but no mesh britches. I've ridden in 100+ temps with a long sleeve cotton tee, the MeshTex jacket, jeans, boots and gloves. At speed it isn't a problem, but you do have to push fluids to stay hydrated. I've got a couple of bandaners and there will always be water packed somewhere on the bike.

Donna bought me a sloppy hat from Aerostich for Christmas, since she saw me grill my ears at Monterey. I was thinking of using the Peter Egan method of packing - bring trashed underwear and throw it away after use. Then buy new. There must be a Wal-Mart somewhere along the way...

I'll see about collecting some nuts and bolts, zip ties, and such. I'll look for some of that spray stuff, will have a roll of TP, and the like. I'll see about afixing the license plate pretty securely, don't want to spend too much time talking with the local gendarmerie. "Where you goin' boy?" "Oh, I'm riding to Texas to hang out with a bunch of Peckerheads."... Yeah, that'll work.

Oh, and I'll be carrying my new Nuvi...Geez, I'm such an idiot when it comes to technology. Just lost my mind and bought one offa eBay. Just under $700, just over with 3 day shipping. It is so cool, 'cause it is so small. Works just like the 330c, but a much better size and shape. If we were apportioning blame for the expense I might be looking at the great Bandini, but I know it's my own damned fault (thank you Jimmy Buffett).

All advice appreciated. I am getting soooooooo stoked!

[Acacia]

Ron, sounds like you have most of what you might need.

If I recall you have a 50R. If the clamps on your FI tubing are stock, you might what to get some screw type replacement ones in case.

Belive me, when Alan syas he will have spares, he means that! His Suburban and trailer will be loaded - with not much room for any passengers!

[socalrob]

Possible stupid question,

Do I only need to bring my BMW Airflow jacket, or will it be too cool for that in the mornings or evenings? The airflow packs small & is what I wear for hot weather, or I have a perforated leather jacket with a removable liner that is good from about 55 degrees to 85 degrees. Remeber, I'll be on a HD so no wind chill factor there.:)

[Acacia]

Rob,
I suggest you plan for layering. In that way you can peel off or on if it gets warm - or cool. You need to pack a rain suit- as Alan has previously noted - that can be a layer.

I am also sure that there will be plenty of excess clothing that others will share if there is a significant, but highly unlikely change of weather - which you would probaly be able to forcast before you leave.

[DarthRider]

Rob -

One of the best "layers" for a mesh or perf jacket is a lightweight "windstopper" jersey.
These function much like GoreTex (they make one of the windstopper fabrics)...it does not allow any wind to pass through to the body but it allows body moisture to pass through the membrane/fabric to keep you dry.
I have a Malcolm Smith model (unfortunately not sold by us anymore). I've used it many times in the early April Hill Country rides we often do before it gets hot. I start out on chilly or cool mornings with it under my Mesh-Tex jacket, then pull it off around 11:00 or whenever it gets warm. It packs up about the size of 3-4 packs of ciggies and is very light.
It can be used in a pinch as a "water resistant" liner also but it's not as good as real rain gear.
They are not for warmth per se, just to kill the wind chill.
Look for them in sporting goods & outdoor stores like Cabellas or Bass Pro Shops.
MUCH better, smaller, lighter than a sweatshirt.

Dave

[arkline]

Acacia,

Good tip. I'll check into that today.

[Dallara]

Ditto to what Darth said...

The "windstopper" pullovers are great. Best part about 'em is you can get 'em anywhere for cheap if you know where to look.

For instance, golfers carry windstopper pullovers for if they are out on the course and a sudden storm blows up with chilling winds, and protects them back to the clubhouse even if it starts raining. You can get these type pullovers at like an Edwin Watts discount golf store for $10 to $20. Another good place to shop for them is big, chain camping and outdoor stores (like the Academy's we have down here, or the Galyan's we had around Indianapolis). They have 'em for golfers, campers, hikers, fishermen, and hunters so you can get 'em in just about any color, etc. you want.

For you, Ron... Don't forget one of the long distance rider's best friend - a couple of big lawn and garden plastic trash bags. Thye pack down to nothing, and if it gets really cold, or wet, you cut two armholes and a head hole in one and wear it under your gear like a poncho. Retains core body temp, protects from wind and rain, and is easily disposable and replacable.

SocalRob...

In your case I would bring the BMW Airflow mesh jacket. I have all sorts of jackets, from a BMW leather one to all sorts of non-mesh textile ones, and yet I find I ride with my First Gear Mesh-Tex II jacket literally 12 months a year down here. I zip the liner in it if it's chilly, but mostly ride in it 95% of the time without the liner. I just wear one of my cool-max type material t-shirts as my first and primary layer, then either a long-sleeve cotton t-shirt or regular long-sleeve sweatshirt over that, depending on temperature, on chilly mornings or evenings. When it warms up I peel off whatever long-sleeve I have on and it's titz.

You guys better count on it being in the 80's or 90's during the day, with perhaps the lowest temps we'll see as around 65 or 70 degrees.

BTW, on rain suits... I like Frogg Toggs, cuz' it is mostly hot down here. They are completely waterproof, yet they breathe. Nylon, PVC, etc. rain suits are like a sauna down here. Frogg Toggs also pack down to the size of a hardback book if you know how to do it, and I keep mine in zip-loc freezer bag. They are also relatively inexpensive, and are available at any camping and hunting store.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

ps - if you bring a rain suit, and we can get everyone to do so, it won't rain... But if just one guy doesn't bring a rain suit then it will rain, for sure...

[Moose]

Rob, go for the perforated leather jacket with liner. That is what I'm taking with a rain suit. Should do the trick for the whole event. Moose

[socalrob]

I got rain gear, which I've used a grand total of one time. It really doesn't rain that much here.

Thanks for the advice on gear.

Trip sure sounds fun.

[arkline]

Allan, old buddy, good friend, pal...

Large garbage bags are anathema to the riders here where it is kinda damp all year long. Besides, they usually melt onto your headers or your cat box or something else. And flap and flap and flap and flap...

If you're serious here you get some bright yellow rubberized canvas overalls and a similar jacket. Helly-Hanson used to make some Alaskan fishing outerwear that was supremely expensive, but would keep you dry all day long. Of course, it took the best part of an hour to drag it on over your regular clothing...

They've since gotten into modern materials. But their gear is still excellent, if a little spendy...

Your best bet is to buy motorcycle jackets and pants that are Goretex lined. And when you wash them (you do wash that stuff every oncet in a while, right?) wash 'em once to get 'em clean and then once with Nikwax to return them to some state of waterproofing. Then while still damp, spray them with Nikwax spray. Let dry. Tumble in a warm dryer to soften 'em up. Works a treat. Smells kinda funny, but who's gonna be sniffing your jacket and pants?

I have a FirstGear mumble, mumble jacket that I've been in some long term rain and have never gotten wet. Cordura, Goretex, and Nikwax. Gotta love 'em.

[Dallara]

That's the great thing about living in Texas, Ron... As you will see. Winter to us is four days where it got to freezing ALL WINTER!

Right now it is so dry down here we are PRAYING for rain! This year I rode all year in my First Gear Mesh-Tex gear... Never once having to resort to any of my non-mesh textile gear or leather. I never used the liner for the Mesh-Tex jacket - not once in the past 12 months. My rain suit came out of its zip-loc bag exactly once in the past 12 months, when I got caught by a severe thunderstorm heading home from the Hill Country. I rode in my regualr gear for over 40 miles, but began to get a bit chilled at 85 MPH, so I pulled over and donned the Frogg-Toggs after drying off a little... Of course that was a mistake, as exactly 25 minutes after I got back on the road the rain stopped and the sun came out. I just rode on home in the friggin' rain suit! :037:


But now, onto other things...

Things that I have forgotten to mention before when offering suggestions for gear for this ride, but I should have remembered.

Some say I go a bit over the top on this subject, but my theory is it is better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it... So let me offer up some suggestions for small Safety items I think everyone should bring along.

1.) A card somewhere on your person showing blood type, any allegies you may have, list of medications you may be taking, and any other medical conditions you may have. This is tremendous help to emergency services folks, and shortens the time to get you treated should you be injured.

2.) Your cell phone on your person, not in your tank bag, and fully charged each day. Your cell phone is no use to you if it's in your tank bag on your bike, but you are laying 50 feet from you bike down in a ditch with a broken leg. If you can just get it dialed to 911 the phone can be used as a locating device.

3.) Try to wear some sort of bright clothing, like a white, orange, or yellow shirt under your jacket. You may not be able to move much, but if you can get onto your back and get your jackey unzipped and opened it makes finding you if you are off in the weeds much easier.

4.) May sound stupid, but a small signal mirror isn't a bad idea in one of your jacket pockets. They work great to get attention in daylight. Likewise a really bright little flashlight, like the SureFire I carry (on my person), for night time use. A top-of-the-line Surefire like I have will put out a beam straight up that looks like a searchlight beam does.

5.) Bright bandanas are a good thing, too. If you end up well off the road should you crash you might not be able to get up, but you might be able to throw the bandana up over a branch of a bush or small tree... This can make finding you a whole bunch easier.

6.) Those small pocket air horns that can be so annoying at a sporting event can be a life saver if you are down in creekbed overgrown with mesquite, etc. with a busted ankle. They are no bigger than the flashlight and they make a hell of a racket. An alternative is one of those little battery powered keychain security alarms that put out that high-pitched shrieking.

I know, I know... This all sounds like overkill, but when you see the level of close knit vegetation we have down here in Spring, along with the creekbeds, draws, ravines, etc. just off the road in the Hill Country you won't think it so extreme. Of course it's best not to ever crash, nor ever leave the roadway at a fairly high velocity, but it's best to never stub your toe, or cut yourself in the kitchen, or pinch yourself with a pair of pliers, or slip on wet surfaces... Accidents happen, and the better you're prepared for 'em the less damaging they can be. The first few minutes after a traumatic injury are the most important so the more you can do to assist help finding you quickly the better off you are.

Okay... Sermon over... But I hope each and every one of you on this ride will consider some of these points.

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Acacia]

Sheesh Alan!

You must be one of those two hour preacher-boys from the Bible Belt!

Now we know why you need to bring the Suburban on a ride - hey? :037:

[Dallara]

Hallelujah, Hallelujah Dear Brother! Do you believe? Do you believe!

I may sound like a bible-belt preacher, Acacia, but I does believe, I does believe! :045:

The little air horns are about the size of a cell phone, so they're no problem in a jacket pocket. A credit card-sized piece of polished stainless makes a good signal mirror and fits in your wallet, as does the med-ID card. A bandana is not only good as a signaling device, but is great for wiping sweat off your face or cleaning your glasses, and fits in you pocket nicely folded... And the SureFire light is not big at all and fits in a pocket easily.

Too much? Maybe... But hey, at least I don't wear one of those goofy looking hi-viz yellow and dayglo orange conspicuity vests, right?

:icon_wink: :icon_razz: :icon_wink: :icon_biggrin: :icon_biggrin: :icon_biggrin:

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Acacia]

Dont you like my yellow and black Joe Rocket mesh "honey bee" jacket then?

:embarassed:

[Moose]

:028: Get the Gars ready Dallara, my schedule is set for April and I'm officially in for the Hill Country Ride. I can be in Kerrville Friday morning if that will help in any way. Can't wait to ride with everyone again. Moose

[Dallara]

Hey there, Fellow Hill Country Haulers!

Bet you folks thought I had forgotten all about the ride, eh? Well, by now those of you who are on the mailing list have a new message in your e-mail inbox about the ride, and your speedy reply to that note would be greatly appreciated.

All is well and looks great for the ride, and as of this moment no changes in participants, etc. from what you have seen reported in this thread to this date. It's less than 3 weeks to the ride now, and I know I am getting PUMPED UP! It is actually going to be my first time to ride farther than 20 miles from my home town since OCTOBER and the Big Bend ride...

Moose, you don't have to worry about the cigars! I am bringing an extensive assortment that includes Gurka, Black Pearl, 5 Vegas, AVO, CAO, Cusano, Oliva, Montecristo, Padron, Partagas, Gispert, H. Upmann, Joya de Nicaragua, La Aurora, La Flor Dominicana, Rocky Patel, Carlos Torano, and actually quite a few others. Most everything I will have along has received ratings of 90 or better in publications like Cigar Aficionado, etc. so I think you will find some fun ones to try.

Should have some other interesting stuff along for everybody, and as always the usual assortment of single malt scotches, some nice bourbons, rums, etc., along with some nice beer and wine... All of which is for the post-riding evening *bench racing* sessions. This ride will grand in that there will be those little *events* on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, too!

The e-mail sent out was to get everybody's proposed arrival time so I can better plan the riding for Friday, so check your e-mail and try to let me know those arrival and departure times ASAP.

Thanks, and I'm looking forward to seeing each one of you and having a great, fun weekend of riding!

Cheers!

Allan (aka Dallara - NACD)

[Dallara]

Hey there, Hill Country Riders...

Afraid I have some sad news. Yesterday, March 31, I got an e-mail from our Cafe's own Bob Baker, whose handle around here is Arby. Bob and his wife were originally going to be joining us on the Hill Country ride all the way from Florida. Unfortunately some severe compression and time pressure of their schedule is going ot make it impossible for them to attend.

Sad news, indeed, as I know all the Hill Country ride participants were looking forward to meeting and riding with them in person. You will be missed, Bob.

Replies have begun to filter in about various participants Kerrville arrival times, and a definite pattern is emerging... Looks like we are going to have a pretty fun group there Thursday afternoon/evening, so I will plan for a nice, relaxing, close-by spot to the hotel for dinner. Two of those arriving Thursday will have covered some miles and had a long day so we'll keep the evening as laid back and restful as possible.

We're having about an even split as to Friday morning and afternoon arrivals so it appears I should put together a very loose format ride route for Friday... probably departing the motel about 10:30am or so. I will make this one easy for mid-day floks to join up with if they so desire, and then loop back by the motel about 4:00 to 5:00pm. By that time most all of the participants will be into Kerrville, and we can all get cleaned up and cruise to a good spot for dinner, with *bench racing* back at the motel afterwards.

I'm going to try to lay out a pretty entertaining and challenging route for Saturday, with an early departure and breakfast. Mid-day stop at the Museum (and lunch), with much more riding in the afternoon. If all goes well then the route should hit the "Hill Top Cafe" in Fredericksburg, TX about 6:00 - 6:30pm for some great food, and then a leisurely ride back to Kerrville... Hopefully watching a beautiful Texas Hill Country sunset all the way, and arriving back at the hotel right at dark or dark-thirty.

Still working on Sunday...

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

Leaving Seattle exactically two weeks minus several hours from right now. :thumbs_up:

[Deans BMW]

Ron, you had better be hungry as Mz Pam will have Pies at the ready.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/16202452-M.jpg

[Promethean]

Damn! Those pies look good.


Ron, you had better be hungry as Mz Pam will have Pies at the ready.

[arkline]

Dean,

I'll avoid eating anything until I get to your place. That pie looks absolutely scrumptious. My compliments to the chef.

[Acacia]

Ron,

Before Torrey last year I suggested to the Old Hoon that he thieve a few pies from Ms Pam and bring them to Torrey. You see, he had tempted us on line with those beasts before he came. He claimed amnesia when he did not arrive with them.

Now he is at it again! It would not surprise me that he eats them all before you get there too! He needs to ship a few to TX just to prove that Ms Pam is really capable and that he is not just re-cycling pics of them!

:120:

[kocook]

Allan,

We have lots of options for routes. What time is dinner on Friday night? You did say something about cigars and single-malt, right? We will put in for the kitty.

Looking forward to seeing you again, Dean.

[Dallara]

Cool !!! :eusa_clap:

First off, let me be the first to welcome you to the Motorcyclist Cafe, Mr. Kent Cook! Outstanding that you have found this little corner of the web dedicated to peckerheads, scallywags, miscreants, etc. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as we do, and post often.

Now, to hit all your points...

Yep, we've got tons of options for routes, but getting them to land where we want 'em at the times we want 'em there is the tricky part. Particularly with the dinner arrangements we're trying to make for Saturday night. However, I think that may be sorted out (thanks to Bob Neuser), and I will be able to post more about that here soon, I hope!

Dinner time on Friday night is still in a bit of a state of flux, but only slightly. We want to hold off on a definite time until I hear back from everybody that's a Friday arrival and their times, but right now it looks like about 7:00pm or so is going to be the number. A good suggestion was made by Lewis Jordan that we all pit for grub at the "Jefferson Street Cafe" in Kerrville for Friday night. That sounds like a great one to me as it is very close to the motel, can handle large numbers, has good food, and is supposed to be quite "motorcycle" friendly.

Anyway, 6:30 or 7:00pm for dinner should give everybody a chance to get into town, get checked into their rooms and get cleaned up, and then get us all kennelled up for chow.

And yes, Kent... We will have a good selection of cigars and single malts, along with other beverages, for after dinner back at the hotel. On the cigars... Well, right now the list is getting too long to relay, but some of the available stogies will be from H. Upmann, Oliva, Black Pearl, CAO, Rocky Patel, Carlos Torano, La Flor Dominicana, Gurkha, Fonseca, Romeo Y Julieta, Gispert, Partagas, Padron, 5 Vegas, among others.

And the list of single malts at the moment sits at Glenmorangie Port Wood Finish, Balvenie DoubleWood, some MacAllan, and maybe some Glenrothes... with more yet to be determined. Probably will have some Martell Cordon Bleu cognac along for the ride, too.

Now understand we are not restricting these post dinner activities to only scotch drinkers, as we will have some nice bourbon's, a bit of canadian whiskey, some good vodka, smooth tequila, and a wee bit of rum along, too... Not to mention some flavorful beers and ales along with a short wine selection, along with soft drinks and bottled water. There will also be some simple food fare to go along with the beverages and tobacco.

Think English Pub sort of meets Mexican Cantina and you will have the right idea.

But you guys don't be shy! If there is something specific or special you want to have there at the *bench racing* session just let me know! I will do my very best to accommodate any requests... No guarantees, but my best, nonetheless.

Should be good fun, and present a great chance for everybody to meet and get to know one another before the long ride on Saturday!

BTW, for you guys arriving on Thursday - I already have dinner arrangements, etc. tacked down, so all you folks need to do is get there. I should be arriving about 3:00 - 3:30pm on Thursday if all goes well.

Anything I haven't covered yet? If so, please let me know.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

p.s. NEWSFLASH from Lewis Jordan, who was in Kerrville this past weekend... Apparently there is a bit of road construction on Hwy. 16/Sidney Baker Road right in front of our motel. He says it's not problem, but riders need to exercise a bit of care in this section. Just FYI.

[Dallara]

If you are one of the folks going on the Hill Country Ride please check your e-mail. Earlier today (Thursday, April 6th, 2006 - 2 weeks from first arrivals in Kerrville) I sent out TWO e-mails...

One with a "Riders Contact List" attached that has names, addresses, e-mail addys, phone #'s, etc. so everybody will know most all of the people on the ride. I say most because not everyone who is currently going on the ride have sent me that info. This is in Microsoft Word DOC format so most should be able to open it without a problem. However, if you do have trouble, or need it in another format more compatible with your computer system, please let me know so I can get that out to you. Should other ride participants get me that info (which includes emergency contact info, etc., too) I will send out an updated list prior to the ride.

The second e-mail has an attachment, again in Word DOC format, that gives detailed information on the hotel along with room confirmation numbers for rider pairs. The e-mail bearing the attachment also has some instructions on check-in, and the attachment also contains information on some lunch and dinner reservations and arrangements.

Please take a look at these e-mails... Primarily so you can inform me of any errors or problems with any of the data or plans so I can make the appropriate corrections.

Thanks!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Deans BMW]

Kent, you are going to have to tell the tale of tossing a perfectly good Beemer off a mountain, at supper with some good adult beverage and gar.

[Deans BMW]

Ron, just to help you on your way, Mz Pam will be at home all day Tuesday, making pies. Looking foward to seeing you.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/14415035-M.jpg

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/16202452-M.jpg

[arkline]

Dean,

Well, I'm nearly packed and ready to leave on Sunday. The ointment has gotten a little buggy in the last couple of days. The snow level in the Washington passes is down to a nominal 2,000 feet and we've got predictions of 12 to 18 inches for tomorrow (in the passes). Temps are in the high 30s at Snoqualmie right now. Push comes to shove, I'll have to ride down to Portland and take a left. That'll add about 2 or 3 hours to my first day. I'm pretty prepared for rain and cold, but if the pavement temps drop below 37 degrees F, I won't ride the pass at Snoqualmie.

Otherwise, things are looking okay. Got my room set in Twin Falls and another at Austin's Chuckwagon for Monday. I'll be dragging my sorry backside into your territory sometime in the afternoon on Tuesday, so watch out. And please, tell Mz. Pam not to make any fuss on my account. Really.

If anything stops me from making it (mechanical breakdown or such), I'll give you a call and let you know to go on ahead without me.

[Dallara]

Man, Ron...

That's going be one heck of a ride! :eek:

Sounds like you're gonna' have one hell of an adventure. If you get anywhere in the state of Texas and have a problem you call me and I'll come getcha'!

Truck, trailer, tools, and all...

Cheers! And Good Luck!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)


p.s. I sure hope we don't have to cancel the ride on account of deer... ;) :icon_wink: ;)

[arkline]

Allan,

Just tell me it is gonna be warmer in Texas than it is here...


MMMMMMMMMM, warm.....

[DarthRider]

"...Just tell me it is gonna be warmer in Texas than it is here..."

You can count on it. But don't bet on it!
Be careful on your ride Ron and have fun.
If the Old Hoon leads you astray we'll chip in on your bond...

Dave

[Dallara]

It's 84 degrees here at the dealership right now, Ron...

And the Weather Channel's website says it is 85 degrees in Kerrville, TX right this minute, with Partly Cloudy skies and a 15 MPH breeze gusting to 21 MPH...

Thursday through Sunday of the actual ride show high's of between 81 and 86 degrees (with Friday being the hottest) and low's between 57 and 60 degrees (with Friday and Saturday being the coldest). They are predicting some Scattered Thunderstorms on Thursday & Friday of next week, but the rest looks clear...

Wednesday up there shows a 0% chance of rain, with Thursday and Friday showing a 30% chance, and it drops back to a 0% chance on Saturday and Sunday.

Is that warm enough far ya'? :023:

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

"...Is that warm enough far ya'?..."

If not, come back in a few weeks!
Man, I hope that temp forecast holds. A bigger bonus would be low humidity.
Mesh country...
Gotta go, Peckerheads in the driveway...must hurry & guard beer.

Dave

[arkline]

Let me just say this...it is 45 degrees F right this very minute, cloudy, with a stiff breeze from the south. I'd give my left testicle for a twenty degree rise in temps by tomorrow, but I'm not getting any takers...:043:So, 80 is looking good to me.

[Deans BMW]

Ron, 72 F here today and only 45 this morn. Have a good safe trip. Call from somewhere Tuesday and I'll meet you somewhere.

See you tuesday.

[Deans BMW]

Allan, just recieved a call from Ron Kline, Arkline, he is stuck in Nampa, Idaho, 32 F out and snow/raining. After 11 hours in the saddle yesterday riding thru snow and rain all day he can make it no further and will turn back. Deep regrets in his voice, his right hand is still numb. He said that he will gladly pay for his room if no one takes it. He is not an experienced long distance M/C rider.

[Acacia]

We will miss him - but he has to do what is best for himself. He tried. Playing hero is not smart - and he obviously has the smarts to survive to ride and enjoy another day! :eusa_clap:

Experience and the right equipment are very important - and accumulating both takes time on the road.

Still a lot of good wild flowers in the Hill Country and my 500 miles there this WE - saw only a handfull of deer remains on the side of the road. The cagers were far more frightening.

[Deans BMW]

Just recieved word from Ron, (Arkline) that he made it home safe and sound, in driving snow and rain all the way back from Nampha Id to Seattle, Wa.

We will get to meet at the BMW tent for the Laguna GP.

[Tipstall]

Ron,

That was a good try. I was mapping out your route to go down there. Smart decisions are sometimes not fun ones. Glad you are home safe.

Ken

[DarthRider]

Good show Ron, glad you're OK.

Dave

[arkline]

Thanks for all the good wishes guys. All totaled, I rode around 1071 miles in two days in some of the nastiest conditions I've ever been in. I am really, really bummed that I won't be down there in the warmer world to meet all of you and sweat it up. As it stands now, I still just a side-liner, cheering on the Peckerheads, etc. You all have a safe and sane time. Well, as safe and sane as you want. Don't go wide in any curves...

I'll work up a ride report and post it here. Now, if only my left thumb would regain its sense of touch...

[Dallara]

Okay...

I'll bite. What do you use your left thumb for when you type? :eusa_think:

Seriously though... Glad you are A-Okay and made it home safe. From our discussion last night on the phone I got the impression it was pretty nasty. Good you decided to reverse course and head for safe harbor.

Don't worry, we'll hoist a round or two in your honor in Kerrville! :030:

BTW, be watching for a Fed-Ex 2-Day package to hit your door on Thursday, but please don't post what's in it until next Monday. I sent you the stuff that the Hill Country Ride participants will be getting and I don't want them to know what it is until they get there!

Cheers!

Allan (the unmighty duster Dallara - NACD)

[arkline]

It isn't that you use your thumb for typing or anything much. Precision grip, but on the left hand that doesn't make much difference to me. It just feels weird. Like about twenty minutes after you mash it, but it's been over twenty-four hours. My resident medical person say neuropathy of some sort. Prolly from using the handlebars to do isometrics...

[Deans BMW]

Well I headed out about noon yesterday.............for no other reason than to just get started, this morn I am at a Super 8 in Las Cruses, NM. Today will be heading East on I 10 and will work my way on down to Rocksprings and take a knapp under a tree by the river. No hurry, will be in Kerrville on Thursday, bike running great, 90 MPH cruise on the interstate, all is well with the world.

[Deans BMW]

Made it to Hunt, Texas and am staying with my Aunt and Uncle, will ride on up to Kerrville tomarrow.

[arkline]

Dean,

You rock! Must have gotten six or seven speeding citations by now....

[DarthRider]

Hey you old Hoon...save some tire rubber for a ride tomorrow afternoon before dinner, I'm outta here mid-morning and will see you boys mid-late afternoon.
Moose is leaving about the same time.
Dammit Ron, we're going to miss you! Next time buddy.

Dave

[arkline]

I don't know if you guys will have internet connect at the motel, but...

Allan,

Package received, opened and appreciated. Thanks a bunch. Takes a bit of the sting out...

[Deans BMW]

I am going to encorage others blessed with a gift of the written word to write all about this fabulous weekend, but..............sitting here Sunday afternoon after a nap by the river in a hammock and reflecting on the weekend, for now this.

Of the countless motorcycle get to tegthers that I have experienced over my life time, so far, of motorcycling, this one ranks up there with the best, and it just might be the best by a long shot.

Allan deserves every gold star and acolade imaginable. The riding was as good as I have ever experienced, the group of 25 like minded kindred spirits captured the essence of what the MotorcyclistCafe could ever be, to the point of bringing a tear to my eye.

Again Allan, thanks will never be enough

Seeing Kent Cook after all of these years and his tales that I have forgotten of the 70's at San Jose BMW were absolutely priceless.

Speaking of tires, just made it to Cycle Gear in San Antonio this morning where they had a brand new Pilot Road waiting......the bike is happy again, new rubber and 900 miles home tomorrow.

[kocook]

Just finished a dip in the pool. The scooter is cleaned up from the trip. So thought I would check in before packing for Alaska.

Stuart, Mark, Brian, Paul and I rode south on 16 out of Kerrville. The one road we missed on Saturday. So our trip was complete. Mark and Brian took the short way home from Boerne. Staurt, Paul, and I took the more fun route with a late lunch (Blacks BBQ) in Lockhart.

Paul took his leave at Pattison (the last of anything with a curve). Stuart signed off as he exited I-45 Gulf Freeway at Telephone Road. And after little over 1,000 miles I am safe and sound.

Dean, getting to see you again after all these years was wonderful. Glad the Cycle Gear bit worked out. I look forward to our next ride together. Thank you for inviting me along.

Allan, you are the best of hosts. You really took care of everything. Thank you so much for making this event so special.

Gentlemen, I cannot tell you how much I enjoyed your company. This trip was truly memorable. Thank you so much for letting me in on this circle of friends.

[jamais]

Without question, this weekend's Hill Country Ride was a smashing success. I've ridden the Hill Country before but those trips pale in comparison to the Official Hill Country Ride. To all of the participants and especially to Alan, I want to say thanks for giving me the most memorable motorcycling experience that I have ever had.

[Acacia]

A superb weekend, great food, spirited riding with wonderful people- characters all - it does not get better than that. And, a better organiser, host and fun person we could not have had than Alan! Again, thank you Alan.

My count was 934 miles, an accurate top speed recorded of 115 mph ( humble 50R mixed in with some hot-shot T triples, K1200s Y's and H's ), some muttering when I thought that the bike was jumping out of gear in 3rd and 4th when it was in fact hitting the rev limiter in the sweepers in the fast rides Saturday. I tried to estimate how many corners we took from the 100 mph sweepers to the 15mph switchbacks - must have been in the many 100's.

Friday started out for me riding to work and being caught at 6am in a thunderstorm that dumped 1 1/2 inches in 45 minutes, tore down trees and visibility down to 20 feet. A quiet 250 mile ride to Kerrville Friday pm. Plenty of YEEHA's and hooliganizms, and roadster like riding from then on.

In good cafe' style we shared the roads with thousands of other bikes in groups of up to 20 or more -though travelling at considerably less pace - I am sure there were some mutterred comments among them about those 'hooligans' - but then we did not wait around to hear any comments!

Another special event.
Thank you to all who attended. You were all great company!

[DarthRider]

I can only echo what the others said...a great ride, fantastic roads, a terrific group of Peckerheads, Hoons, Miscreants, Totsies...and damn good riders!
It was great to put faces with names from the Cafe as well as the other guys who were there, what a crew! And some new Cafe members as a result...welcome aboard Kent Cook. What an entertaining ride that was, behind you on your beautiful new K1200S. You and that new bike just "out-smoothed" each other and were fun to chase!
Dean-O Hoon is a fast old fart that I would follow down any road. And will.
And to Allan Pagan...thank you so very much for all the blood, sweat & tears you put into organizing and Major Domo'ing this ride weekend! It was a stone blast and one that will always be remembered among my favorites. Just top notch!
It even washes out having my truck get beat to crap in that hale storm on the way down...Springtime in Texas!
A bonus was that was the first real ride on fast, technical roads I've been able to do on the new Speed Triple...Hoochie Mama and I had to share a cigarette after each orgasmic encounter.
More later on the ride...

Dave

[Moose]

That Hill Country ride was Sierra Hotel (Shit Hot):028: . World Friggin' First Class Allan. You sparred no effort to ensure the exhilarating camaraderie we shared in Kerville and the Hill Country. And SoCalRob makin' the scene says a lot about this passion we all share. My heat lead has now been officially passed to Rob. For those not in the know, I owned the heat lead for the Big Bend ride because of running out of petro enroute and Dallara and Acacia had to launch the rescue land barge.
It seems to me these rides are really promoting the site as well. Remember the Victory rider who just had to come over and check out the scene? He was amazed by the variety of bikes and excitement of the all the riders. I'll bet we pick up 10-12 new members just from that ride. Hey, Kent is with us now.
What really appealed to me was that Mark Smith and I rode together all morning Saturday, then joined everyone at the Motorcycle Museum for lunch to compare lies. Everyone got to pursue their own venue through the hills, yet we all arrived at the same place at the appointed time. A shot gun start into organized chaos??? It worked fantastic. Hell, I think even the Harley riders had a good time. Good to see some old acquaintances from South Texas again after all these years. And great to see those vintage Nortons and Triumphs the North Texas Peckerheads rode to the museum. It just doesn't get any better. Thanks to all.

[fotomoto]

Hey Everyone!

First post here. Great ride huh?

Well, except for Dallara's poor ol' bimmer. Even Allan, with all of logistics experience in Indy cars, can't be prepared for everything so I suggest we take up a collection for one of these:

http://kalecoauto.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=36

[Markus]

Just signed on here with the direction of Kent and Allan's links.

A quick note to say what a wonderful time this past weekend was, and Thanks for having me.

Truly a great group who welcomed this stranger as one of their own.
Allan's hospitality was unsurpassed. Thanks for hosting a fantastic event.

Thanks Kent and Paul for inviting me to join the ruckus....and to Brian Gurney for making sure I got back to Houston safely with my thin tire. (must have been good if there's cord showing, right?)

Great roads, great fun, great company.:023:

-Mark Saulsbery

[arkline]

I can't tell whether I should be bummed or joyous. It sounds like the whole passel of PSCRMaoFs had a wonderful good time. Maybe next time for me.

Allan - You must be the best ride impressario I've ever met. My hat (blue baseball cap, really) is off to you. Many thanks. I've got some memories tucked away.

Y'all keep your powder dry.

[Moose]

Ron, you were there in the Hill Country with us partner.

[scratch]

It was a most enjoyable riding weekend! You can't beat the combination of good roads, good weather and good food followed with fine scotch & cee-gars. Except (of course) that sharing it with good company makes it nigh-on perfect. :cool:

Special thanks to Allan for his generosity, hard work and planning. You're a class act, my friend! :eusa_clap:

__________________
Paul M.
'04 Speed Triple

[Bill]

It is just too hard to handle those 100 mile per hour sweeps and 16 mile per hour hair pins and a set of handle bars at the same time. You might think there might have been a couple of photo ops at the hotel or restaurant. Looks like I missed a good ride! I would have liked to have been there but mom was calling “Jacksonville Florida-Mayo Clinic 1 year check-up” All is well so far http://www.e-foerster.com/LiverTransplant.htm BigBend and Bonneville are next on my colander. See you there.

Allen, I know you did GOOD!

Bill Foerster

[Dallara]

Hey, Bill...

Hope all is still doing wonderfully with Ann's health issues. We sure did miss ya' at the Hill Country Ride.

I do have some pictures up at http://r1150r.smugmug.com/gallery/1396972 , but I am none too happy with either their quality or the quantity. Quality is all my fault as I had great subjects and the camera is a champ... I just couldn't get it right this time for no reason I can explain. Quantity I will try to do better on next time, but I did have my hands full a good bit of the time.

Anyway, enjoy the pics, and I hope some others have some better ones of the ride and its associated festivities.

My sincerest THANKS to everyone who attended, and for all the nice compliments. It really is a pleasure for me, and I am glad you folks enjoyed it. Special thanks to Brian "Acacia" Gurney for the nice clock. I really appreciate the thought, Brian.

Cheers, and let's get ready for Big Bend in the Fall now!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[socalrob]

What a great weekend, even though I did have that gravel mishap while on Allan's R bike.

I still can't believe I dumped another rider's bike, thank god the damage was light.

The ride was fantastik, the food top notch, Texas was great, weather was great, roads were great (especially when I figured out the gravel on the little rural lanes matched in color with the pavement), and the company was outstanding.

Allan went above & beyond the call of duty to make sure everyone on this classy ride had a great time.

My time on the rental HD riding mostly with the HD riders (& Wade on a KLX650 thumper) was more fun than I though possible. Those HD guys can ride those things with authority.

The fly in & rent thing went perfectly, I would not hesitate to recomend it to anyone in the future. The rental bike had less than 3,000 miles on it and ran perfect.

More later, got to work

[bbneuser]

and another new member from the weekend's festivities. hey, a thanks to all for an instant and easy sense of comaraderie, shared experience and wisdom, both during and after the day's riding was done. and of course to alan, for an enormously generous spirit and for throwing such a great gig...and for the short course on tire tech-kinda cuts through all the published 'matter' regarding real world tire capabilities and recommendations.
there was a lot to absorb for one just getting back to riding after a long layoff, and have taken plenty of mental notes for rides/trips going forward. rarely see this much talent and accumulated wisdom in one spot and came away with bits and pieces from everyone. believe dean's comments about the mix of the crew were spot on and really contributed to this being such a great weekend.
will continue to polish my skills and hope to see some of you before the next ride out in big bend. thanks again.

[Deans BMW]

Made it home at 8 PM, road all the way home in one fell swoop today, just under 900 miles, my longest day ever and made it in 14 hours and 2300 miles for the trip, 20,000 miles now on the ST.

Definitely one of the all time best get togethers, ever.

Can't wait to ride the Texas hill country again

[geechie]

Sounds like a wonderful time was had by all. I will choke down my sour grapes and say how very pleased I am. No... Really.

Wish I could've been there too.

George

[DarthRider]

Geech -
Next time buddy, next time.
Dave

[arkline]

Dean,

You must have a cast iron ass and brass cojones. Just think, that's about the distance from Seattle to Monterey...

[Dallara]

Some notes on the Hill Country Ride I wanted to pass along to some of the members who weren't there...

1.) Even though we a bit of spotty weather on Saturday morning the rest of the weather was wonderful.

2.) Hotel did a great job of grouping us all together right on the parking lot above our bikes so security was no issue.

3.) There were literally THOUSANDS of bikes and riders up in the area, but outside of our group I only heard of one crash - a woman whose bike was too low and asked to lean too far into a 15 MPH bend on Hwy. 16...

4.) We had no problems whatsoever with either other biker groups nor with the constabulary. That's right, not one ticket, despite some velocities oftenin the triple digits.

5.) All our reservations with the hotel, restaurants, etc. went flawlessly, and each establishment was extremely *motorcyclist friendly* and accommodating.

6.) No animal strikes, though we saw lots of deer, cattle, sheep, goats, etc. were everywhere on some of the roads. Riders that were usually leading groups were experienced with critters and were able to signal following riders and avoid contact with all God's little creatures.

7.) Nobody got hurt, and there was only one very low-speed get off by one rider who encountered some well disguised gravel at a rural road intersection. Damage to the bike was next to nothing, and only the rider's pride was scuffed. :)

8.) Instances of riders geting lost or losing touch with groups were minimal. Had one slight nuclear fission happen Saturday morning, but that sorted itself out quickly and actually worked out somewhat for the better in the end.

9.) Motorcycle reliability was terrific, with only one mechanical that even surfaced (a faulty vacuum petcock on a Kawasaki KLR). There were some tire issues, but some of those were from folks who didn't bring along enough remaining tire mileage in the first place and had to cut their riding short accordingly in order to make it home.

10.) We ended up with booze, beer, party food, and cigars left over... And you know what that means... WE GOTTA' GET MORE PEOPLE FOR NEXT YEAR'S TEXAS HILL COUNTRY RIDE!

Now it's time to start planning the Fall 2006 Texas Big Bend Ride, but that's for another thread.

Thanks again to everybody that made the Hill Country Ride such a wonderful time for me, and hopefully for everybody else, too. I do hope some folks will start posting some of their pictures and ride stories here soon so other Cafe' members can get a flavor of how the ride was.

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[scratch]

Some notes on the Hill Country Ride...

9.) Motorcycle reliability was terrific, with only one mechanical that even surfaced (a faulty vacumm petcock on a Kawasaki KLR). There were some tire issues, but some of those were from folks who didn't bring along enough remaining tire mileage in the first place and had to cut their riding short accordingly in order to make it home.
Hey, I resemble that remark! :icon_wink:

Looking at the tread on my front tire after arriving home in Houston, it would have been fine for the full ride on Saturday. My paranoia was the real issue. Live and learn... :icon_redface:

[Dallara]

Paul,

Sometimes paranoia is a GOOD thing! :eusa_shhh:

Right now you be home dancin'... :dance: Whereas if you had pressed some cord on the rapid transit home you could be up to your ears in plaster.

I like paranoia... I mean is it really paranoia if something really is out to get ya'? :eusa_think:

Glad you made it to the ride though, and even more glad you were the one on the R-1150-R when the new Metzler decided to take a dump. Anyone else probably would have crashed it. Thanks!

BTW, Paul... Did you ever get to try the Drew Estates "Sauza" Tubo?

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[Deans BMW]

A few shots from the Texas Hill Country ride.

Our fearless leader, Allan.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271701-M.jpg

The clock that Brian made for Allan, has the Motorcyclist Cafe logo.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271685-M.jpg

The Lone Star Motorcycle museum over 50 miles from anywhere.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271736-M.jpg

The Motorcycle Stop in Leakey, Texas, population less than 300 and another 100 miles from anywhere.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271756-M.jpg

The back of my Aunt and Uncles house, the river is to the right.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271776-M.jpg

Darthrider, Dave Howe, off in a zone somewhere for over an hour soaking his feet in the river behind my Aunt and Uncles house in Hunt.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271716-M.jpg

Some more pics of the river in their back yard, this place, by the way, is the only place in the entire state of Texas that the river is leagely owned by the land owner.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271821-M.jpg

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271834-M.jpg

The house that my grandparents built in 1923, all part of the same property with the river still in the back yard.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/photos/66271785-M.jpg

[Thermalizer]

Another newbie from the Hill Country Ride here!

What an outstanding weekend with excellent riders and stand up gentlemen! Fine food, scotch, cigars, and entertainment ( Joe King Carrasco :035:) topped off a magnificent weekend of riding some of the best roads Texas has to offer.:023:

Thanks to my regular riding buds, Kent and Paul, for the invite out. And a special thanks to Allan for putting on one hellava party!:eusa_clap:

It was a pleasure meeting and riding with Dean, Dave, Bob and everyone else. Looking forward to doing it all again soon!

[arkline]

Dean,

Your aunt and uncle need any more relatives?????? What a grand place.

[Dallara]

Wow!

We are really picking up some great new members of the Cafe' here from the Hill Country Ride... Doug Smith, Paul Massie, Kent Cook, Bob Neuser, Mark Saulsbery, Stuart Robles... That's really neat.

I'm glad you guys look in here and decided to sign up. It's a great place to hang out when you have a minute, so jump in there and post away. Great to have you here!

And now 16 pages iin this thread, over 150 replies, and nearly 2,500 views!

Damn!!!

Cheers, and again, WELCOME to all you new guys!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

p.s. and Happy Birthday to Mark Saulsbery!

[DarthRider]

"...We are really picking up some great new members of the Cafe' here from the Hill Country Ride... Doug Smith, Paul Massie, Kent Cook, Bob Neuser, Mark Saulsbery, Stuart Robles... That's really neat..."

It is really neat and I was most proud to meet, eat, drink, party...and especially ride with you. You guys rock! (You ride pretty damn well too!)

And welcome aboard...The Cafe is richer now!

Dave

[leeroy]

I am new here.Thanks to Kent for hooking me up with a great bunch.Thanks to Allan for the way you made me feel welcome to the group.I enjoyed every one.The riding was great.Look forward to riding with you again.

Thanks,
Keith(Hutto)

[MidlifeMark]

What's the date for next year? I might be in Hawaii for my 25th, but if not, the fly-in-and-rent thing could work for me.

[Tipstall]

Allan,

Congrats on a great event. You should be very proud.

Ken

[Deans BMW]

Lets hear it for the Hutto Hippos.

Keith it was great meeting you and welcome to the Cafe.

[DarthRider]

Hey Keith...I mean Leeroy -
Welcome man, you slipped up on me.
Glad you're here, have a good time!

Dave

[DarthRider]

Here is a small gallery I have on SmugMug. Most have captions and I tried to rotate some...didn't work.

http://r1150r.smugmug.com/gallery/1410024/1

It starts on my trip down in my (formerly) cherry, low mileage 2000 Dakota pickup. I had to hole up in a rancher's Oak trees to unsuccessfully hide from a major hale, rain & wind storm. It beat the dog crap out of the truck but the Speed Triple had not a scratch or a dent.

Damn, didn't anybody on this ride take any RIDE pics?

Dave

[Deans BMW]

Damn, didn't anybody on this ride take any RIDE pics?


I though the same, but that would mean stopping.....and there is no fun in that.

Great pics Dave.

[arkline]

Dave,

I rotated three of the pics that were obviously out of alignment. Let me know if there are others there that need fixing.

On my ride east from Portland into Idaho (I'm calling this the Texas Hill Country Ride Annex North) there are lots and lots of cool, photogenic vistas. But like Dean said, you'd have to stop...And if your camera doesn't have image stabilization, well the shivering would have made a blur of everything...

Ride safe folks.

[DarthRider]

Thanks Ron, I do like to get rotated from time to time.
I think SmugMug hates me.
You could post some pics of the inside of your freezer?

Dave

[Dallara]

Actually...

I have to say I have been a bit surprised at the lack of posted Hill Country Ride pics. Saw lots of folks there with digital cameras, but not many pics or links to pics. So far just Dean, Dave, and I if I am not mistaken.

I have refrained from writing any sort of stories about the ride primarily because I sort of hosted the event. I had hoped some that were on the ride might chime in with some tales of the various roads and adventures some had during the weekend...

Oh, well...

Cheers!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)

[DarthRider]

It may just be time Allan.
In my case, between house remodeling for sale, planning the new one and going to Timbercreek Canyon in the morning for a week to work on the house deal, I barely had time to post the pics. Oh, yeah and my job!
I want to write something but it will have to wait until I have time.
Dave

[kocook]

Just back from Alaska. Great pics guys. Really has me ready to do it again. Come on Big Bend.

[Dallara]

Folks,

I gotta' tell ya'... I am stunned and shocked today, and deeply touched.

Those on the Texas Hill Country Ride knew about a little mishap that occurred, but I doubt many others here at the Cafe' did. See, I had always planned to try and ride my new Yamaha FJR as much as I could on the ride, but I brought along my trusty ol' BMW R-1150-R just in case... Just in case I didn't get along with the FJR, or just in case I couldn't go quick enough in the real twisty bits on the FJR, etc.

Well, Friday rolled around and it was time to try the FJR, but another rider there had some displeasure with his chosen mount and I offered to let him borrow the BMW Roadster. All went well for most all of the day with it, but at one point the rider mis-read a bit of gravel on a crowned road at an intersection (and no, Jason, ABS wouldn't have helped one nano-whit...), and the rider did a lazy fall at about 5 MPH or so.

Fortunately the rider was completely unhurt, and the bike came out remarkably well, primarily from how and where it landed - the only true damage being a pretty scuffed up cylinder head guard and a rashed and lightly cracked cam cap cover (cracked where the cylinder head guard got shoved into it... and it never leaked oil from the crack). That's all. Turn signals, fenders, etc. all survived absolutely unscathed, and the rider rode the rest of the day on the bike with no problems.

Another rider was due to ride it the next day, but then disaster struck the rear Metzler tire on it and took it out almost before the day started.

Well, the first rider - the one who dropped it - had graciously agreed to supply all the parts necessary to repair the R-115-R from the drop damage, and dutifully set about gathering up all those pieces from the minute he got home. Once he had them in his hands he notified me that he was sending them to me Fed-Ex, and that I should have them today.

He also said he was sending along something extra to assist me while I was swapping out all the parts...

Well, the package arrived today, right on time, and all I can say is WOW!

I won't reveal who the rider was, or what he sent along with the parts extra, unless he instructs me to - or posts about it himself here. However, I will say you simply would not believe what this fellow Cafe'r sent along with the parts, or how thoughtful and perfect an extra it was, or how much the stuff costs. It was a surprise beyond my imagining, and way more than necessary or that anyone should have ever done.

You know who you are, and I wanted to make a point of thanking you publicly for such a kind and thoughtful gift. Absolutely un-friggin'-believable!

Thank You!

Allan (Dallara - NACD)