Vacation to Las Vegas from Washington State

[jim63]

We started on August 1st and got back last night the 17th. Logged a total of 3050 miles on our SYM's, without one hiccup mechanically. Ran a variety of road and weather conditions, from sea level, deserts to near 8000ft mountain passes. Weather was up to 110 degrees (max posted) to upper 40's for a low. Plan to break down the ride in sections for those who may want to travel on some of the same roads or avoid some we took. We both enjoyed the ride and it was something we will remember well. We learned some things for the next trip, so was a learning experience as well.

Day 1- Left Sedro-Woolley about 8am, headed south down highway 9, until we intersected highway 2. We stopped for gas in Monroe to top off our tanks before crossing the mountains to eastern Washington. Believe it or not this was our hottest day on the trip. We had jackets on till we reached Leavonworth. But by the time we got there the temps were well passed 90 and getting hotter. As we decended into Wenatchee on the eastern side of the cascades, the temps were passed 100. We stopped in Wenatchee to refill our tanks, and both drank alot of water, before heading out into the oven hot eastern Washington. Bought several bottles of water for the next area of travel.After leving Wenatchee we were on highway 28, which we followed to Ephrata, to highway 282, till we hit highway 17 which took us into Moses Lake. It took about 2 hours to get to Moses Lake, WA our 1st nights destination from Wenatchee. And we were both glad we made it, passed a sign on outskirts of Wenatchee that said 110 degrees and it felt every bit that. Was worried about my wife, she was feeling sick alittle, I think the heat was getting to her. We stopped every 20 miles or so to rest, drink water and try to cool off. Was not a really good start to a long road trip. The roads were good and the scenery was nice, but I was thinking ahead to the deserts of Nevada and California and had some reservations at this point. I was ok, it was hot and I felt it for sure. Wasnt sure if the Mrs. was going to hold up if it got brutally hot like this for a few road days. About 250 miles covered today.


Stevens Pass, crossing the Cascades


Our hotel in Moses Lake, WA

Day 2- Was a short travel day. I figured and mama agreed she's appreciate it. We went to the Wildhorse Casino near Pendleton OR. We were lucky to get the last available room. I called after we thought about it in Moses lake after the 1st day ride. We took highway 17 to where it runs into highway 395 near Mesa WA. From there we followed 395 till Pasco WA. In Pasco we took highway 12 until it ran into highway 730. This hugs the east side of the Columbia river, it is a nice 2 lane road not alot of traffic. We followed 730 into Oregon until Cold Springs Junction, where we hit highway 37. Highway 37 is a backroad highway bigtime. Nothing out here but farms, the towns are nothing more than a few buildings. We took this into Pendleton OR, which is a pretty good sized town with all the services you need. Was getting hot again, and to save time, we hopped on I-84 for 5 miles to get to the Whitehorse Casino/Hotel quicker than the longer scenic tour down backroads from Pendleton. Total distance was 150 miles approx traveled. Roads were all in good condition, highway 37 in Oregon was iffy in some spots (loose gravel on road in some areas, cracked pavement). 395 was basically an interstate with max speeds of 65mph, divided highway 2 lanes each side.


rest stop on Highway 730, alongside the Columbia river

To be continued

[Jake aka: Ventoscoot]

Sweet!! I have been looking forward to your report as we prepare for our significantly shorter ride ti Vegas.

[jim63]

Day 3- We got a later than planned start due to the fact the Mrs. wanted to try her luck at the slots alittle more. The original plan was to get to Lakeview, OR, at the southend of the state via highway 395 from Pendleton. We hit the road about 9am, back on I-84 westbound till we got back to Pendleton to get back on highway 395. Highway 395 south from Pendleton to John Day is a pleasant 2 lane highway, not alot of traffic on sunday. It is well maintained, going through forests up and down mountain passes. The trees and altitudes 4000+ feet at times kept things cool upper 80's compared to last 2 days. We topped off in Pendleton, there was only one or 2 gas stations the whole way to John Day about 100 miles. And the gas stations were not national chain variety if memory serves me well. We made it to John Day at about noon. Our plan from the start of this trip was to find lodging at 3pm. We didnt want to ride all day then play musical hotels trying to find a room. Lakeview wasnt going to happen this day, another 250 or so miles, but Burns was 95 miles so we headed there after lunch.

We topped off in John Day after lunch and headed out. The ride to Burns was somewhat similair to the earlier part of the day, till we hit the high desert. Road was good, flatter terrain but alot hotter and less trees. Hit some spots of road construction this stretch. I found it wierd to have a stop light out in the middle of no where for road construction instead of flaggers. The road became one lane over several bridges that were under repair. But traffic was relatively light and the waits were at most 10 minutes. We got to Burns around 3pm, and decided to rough it at the Best Western. We both enjoyed the indoor pool/ hot tub after the ride. Grabbed some beer from the gas station across the street to end the day. Later that day it clouded up, and we watched the news about the coming storm system. Was windy and lightning all around but no rain we saw. Talked with some other bikers (on full-dressed Harleys). They were impressed we under took a journey like this on 250cc scooters. I explained to them we can cruise at 55-60mph easily, but on mountain passes I (not my wife) get alittle bogged and top out at 55 or so depending on the grade. We wished each other a good trip and safe travels. They were headed north into Canada.


Battle Mountain state park, inbetween Pendleton and John Day


My loaded down scooter, at Meadow Brook Pass, on a rest break


Weather was getting rough and the winds picked up that night.


A bobcat in a cage outside a biker friendly hotel, in a small town between Pendleton and John Day. I dont remember the towns name.

To be continued.

[shalomdawg]

howdy, well i can understand hwy 37. i spent a week or so hauling wheat down that to an elevator on hwy 730 to be barged down the river. not a great road for a truck but not too bad for a scooter.
lotsa miles and smiles to ya.

[jim63]

Day 4- We got up early and hit the road beofre 7am. Our original schedule was off now, so where we stayed tonight was dependent on time and rider fatigue. The next bigtown along the way wa Lakeview 145 miles away from Burns. We topped off the tanks, and I put 1 1/2 gallons in the 2 gallon can I brought along just in case. With alittle over 3 gallon tanks on the SYM's and we were getting close to 60mpg (my wife was at about 65mpg) should be no problem, but you never know. Our 1st rest break was in Riley, OR nothing more than a gas station/gift shop/ mini store, with RV park next to it, at the point highway 20 and 395 split back apart about 30 miles from Burns.

Next stop was Wagontire, OR. This was even smaller than Riley. We are talking 2 gas pumps(not national chain), RV park, and a small diner in the middle of nowhere. All on the same property from what I could tell. Talked with a lady there, I think she ran everything, we were the only people there.If you looking to get away from everything this is a good location. I thought it better not to top off our tanks there. There was even a hitching post at the diner, that had a horse recently tied to it (pile of droppings gave it away).

We continued south on 395, riding in the desert type terrain. Was very scenic the mountains in the distance. The road was in good shape. There are several rest areas along the way that have interperative info about the area, animals and local history. We rode along the east side of Lake Albert. This is a huge lake, there are areas you cant see the other shoreline. Next own on the map was Valley Falls was another town in name only, no gas available here. By this time I had burned 3/4 of my fuel, but Lakeview was only 30 or so miles ahead so I wasnt worried (plus I had the gas can).

About 10:30 we hit Lakeview, topped off our tanks and stopped for a brunch type meal, we skipped breakfast. Lakeview is a pretty good sized town, with all the major gas stations, banks, stores, eateries. The California border was only a short distance away from here. Total trip distance to this point alittle over 700 miles. Next good sized town is Alturas , CA. So far we have been lucky to avoid any of the predicted rain or real bad wind. It was actually warm and sunny to this point. Alturas is only 53 miles south from Lakeview.

We got to Alturas in alittle over an hour. At the California border saw alot of bikes (pedal type) headed south. Must have been some sort of rally under way. Also breezed through the California inspection station, no place to hide any fruit on the scooters. We topped off again in Alturas, and decided to go for Susanville, 90 miles south of Alturas. The road was getting more hilly as we went and the winds kicked up quite abit outside Alturas. It made for some slow going, the wind scares my wife so she slows down alot. We were travelling at 45 mph at some points, and were starting to get fatigued. we took a rather long rest stop Viewland, CA to discuss an option I was thinging about. It has been a long day already, the wind brutal at times, but I suggested we tough it out anther 60 miles or so to Reno, and spend a rest day there versus Susanville, then a short ride to Reno. My wife reluctantly agreed but saw the logic, and visions of slot machines to end this day made it all worthwhile. We got to the Grand Sierra Casino/Resort at about 5pm, and mercifully they had rooms available. This was our longest travel day of the trip well over 300 miles. We were both relieved to be done for a day or so. By making it to Reno, our original scheduled stops are now back on track, except for a bonus rest day in Reno.


This is Wagontire, OR


Landscape south of Alturas in California.


Did get cloudy along the way from Burns in Oregon but rain stayed away, and it cleared up in afternoon.

To be continued

[♣Luke♣]

which do you consider the toughest challenge or obstacle, heatwave, cold temp,long stretch highways,dust or wind?
nice ride! more pics,keep 'em comin' we are enjoying it. thanks!

[harrywr2]

Nice ride jim..

[oldnslow]

I'm glad that you're back! My wife was even asking if you were back; she wanted to know how it all went, too.

Interesting comments on your top speeds and mileage. Both subjects of interest to many.

How comfortable were the seats for the two of you? Any butt fatigue issues with the SYMs?

[jim63]

The toughest challenge was the wind, hands down no question. Not only does it slow you down (guess big bikes or large displacement scooters probably dont have this issue) it causes fatigue with the gusts and buffeting of the scooter. Especially when you in mountain or very hilly type terrain. Heat was second but frequent stops in shadey areas with plenty of fluids can over-come this for the most part. In the 110 degree area, it gets brutal. We did have some cool mornings, but found with our coats (we both had light jackets) along with rain gear we were fine in upper 40's at highway speeds.

Our rear-ends did need more frequent breaks at the end of the day. We found pulling over every 40 miles or so (45-60 mins riding time) was good to relieve butt compression, plus mama's low nicotine light would be on by then anyway. If she doesn't get her smoke breaks she dons the "SB" outfit with the cape, and that makes us both miserable. The seats were fine on the SYM overall very comfy, but you still need to get off of tham after awhile.

[xjgper]

"If she doesn't get her smoke breaks she dons the "SB" outfit with the cape, and that makes us both miserable. "

That is the best thing i've read today..

I was hoping your route was going to take you up I84 up Deadman's pass, would have been real curious to see how that would have went. You tell a very good story, and I'm able to recreat the whole trip in my mind. You either have a very good memory or were taking notes! Can't wait for the next installment.

Dave

[jim63]

Day 5- Rest day at the Grand Sierra Resort /Casino. They had an event "Hot Summer Nights" going on. A large part of the hotel parking lot was filled with classic cars, a stage with live band, some vendors and food/beer dealers. I really enjoyed looking at the cars. Mama was busy trying unsuccesfully to get the slot machines to payoff, the house wins again. Watched the news that night the low system was due to hit Reno next afternoon, along with very windy 30+mph, and rain, yippee we were tickled about that, not.

Day 6-After watching the news from yesterday about the weather forcasts, I broke out the garbage bags and wrapped our backpacks in them to keep them dry if it rained. Also put our rain gear in easy access. Mine was under my seat, to get it I have to take everything off the seat and remove my saddlebags, which takes a few minutes to do. Our destination this day would be Big Pine, CA, less than 200 miles away. This short distance was chosen to set up the following days ride. We left Reno at about 9am, some last minute gambling was done again, still no luck. Highway 395 in Reno is like an interstate, until you get to Carson City, where it goes back into the 2 lane highway again. Outside of Carson City you start heading up into the hilly country, and the winds picked up here as well. We rode through several short rain storms, no down pours put steady rain. Longest one lasted 30 mins, most were 5-10 mins long. The wind made progress agonizingly slow at times, I was down to 45mph on some steeper inclines coupled with the wind. Stopped for lunch in Mammoth Lakes, was abit off the highway but was a good choice. By the time we passed Mammoth Lakes, we finally got passed all the bad weather, and the wind died down some. The biggest town we went through south of Carson was Bishop, CA. All the major hotels, food places, and services. We pressed on to Big Pine which was about 20 miles further down Highway 395. We rolled into Big Pine, a small town, few gas stations, a hotel and a few stores, and restaurants. The hotel we stayed at was the cheapest of the trip at $54 for the night. What got my wifes attention was the towels, or lack of I should say. There were 2 hand towels, with instructions to hang and re-use. Room was small but nice, had A/C and a color TV. We walked over to the restaurant nearby for dinner, food was good. My wife had to use the ladies room and inquired where it was at didnt see it. The lady there handed her a key and said it was outback. My wife was not impressed, it didnt bother me. From what I could see the recession hit this town pretty hard. Plus having Bishop 20 miles away with everything you could want doesnt help I'm sure. The day overall was very scenic ride wise, several mountain passes, one said 8000 feet on it's sign. The wind was tough on us though.


The Grand Sierra, where we stayed in Reno.


My dream car, if I had money to burn.


I had one of these years ago, '70 Charger RT


Main street of Big Pine, CA

To Be Continued

[jim63]

Day 7- This is the day I planned for by bringing the gas can. If there was a place I'd need it this next stretch would be it. This would be the final leg of the journey to Las Vegas. From Big Pine to Las Vegas was about 260 approx. From Big Pine we headed east on highway 168 to cut over to highway 95 in Nevada. Highway 168 is called the "Ancient Bristlecone Scenic Byway". This road was the most fun to ride on the entire trip for me. You go up and down passes, sharp curves, and even some banked curves ( I think a racetrack designer had part in the construction of this road). Banked curves that go up and down in succession, with steep drop offs if you fail to negotiate the turn. This in many areas on a bike would be fatal I'm sure. So the excitement level was there bigtime. We both took our time, alot of areas the posted speed dropped to 30mph or less in curves. My wife was terrified, she will never travel that road again, she has a fear of heights and disliked the twistyness. I can see people on sport bikes getting carried away on this road. After one set of passes and twisties you come to Oasis, a town in name only. No services of any kind 39 miles from Big Pine. We stopped here for a smoke, mama needed one bad after the twisties. The road straightens out for a few miles across a valley, before the next set of twisties and mountain passes, same excitement level as before.
After the second set it levels off and you come to a town called Lida, NV. It is out in the middle of nowhere, no services just a few house slightly off the highway. After Oasis the highway changes to highway 266. Lida is an old mining town, I'd say a borderline ghost town. 20 more miles down the road you finally meet up with highway 95. The wind up to this point was fairly mild but working against us, slowed me down alittle on the passes, maxed out a few times on the steep grades. The route we took from Big Pine to the intersection of highway 95, was about 80 miles, and no way would I suggest a towing a trailor or taking a semi through there. I did check there was no cell service out there, a breakdown would have been a disaster. Traffic was very light saw maybe 5 cars the entire way to highway 95.
From the intersection to Beatty, NV was about 60 miles, and there was NO services along the entire way from Big Pine to Beatty, 135 miles. There were some abandoned businesses along the way. Saw one pickup truck with a sign in it advertising emergency gas about 30 miles outside of Beatty. There were some houses along the way but nothing else. Map said there were some towns, saw the signs but there was really nothing.
Beatty was truely an oasis in the desert, hotels, casinos and all important gas stations. We stopped to refuel here, had to. I put 2 1/2 gallons in mine wifes was about 2 1/4 gallons. I was in my mind thanking the SYM engineers for putting in 3 gallon tanks, a smaller tank probably would went dry. So I didnt need the gas can afterall. Rest of the way to Vegas about 120 miles, fuel would be a non-factor with several good sized towns along the way. We left at 7am and arrived in Las Vegas about 2pm. We stayed at the Circus Circus, had made reservations over the phone day before.
Spent the next 2 1/2 days in Vegas. My oldest son, step-son and his girlfriend came from Pheonix to be with us for a day. Got them a room right down the hall from us was fun. Was looking forward to seeing them be awhile since we saw the step-son, and my oldest just got out of Marines last month after 4 years, and several tours in Iraq.


A break on straight part of highway 168 between twisty parts.


Sign that tells history of Lida, NV


Beatty, NV at a gas station/hotel/store/casino. We were glad to stop here


Our hotel in Las Vegas


Las Vegas at night


The mrs. and my oldest son

To be continued

[jim63]

Day 10- All good things must come to an end, and we had to start our trek back to Washington. Original plan was to back-track some and cut through Yosemite out to the California coast, via Tioga Pass. Was getting hot again reaching into triple digits, and the mrs. had enough of the twisty mountains and the really hot temps. So we took the easy way today. We left Las Vegas on I-15 towards California, we have travelled this in the car/truck multiple times so we knew what it was like. Pretty boring would sum it up. We were able to cruise right along though wind was no factor. Stopped at Whiskey Pete's at the border of CA/NV to rest and last gambling for awhile. In the next stretch to Baker, CA we came upon an accident , where we had the opportunity to lane-split, some other bikers did. But mama said dont even think about it, so we had a short 15 crawl past the accident.
Stopped in Baker, CA for late breakfast and checked out the worlds tallest thermometer, and refuelled our scooters. We then continued down I-15 till we got to Barstow, where we exited I-15 and got on highway 58. It was getting hot over 100 degrees, and I swear it seemed to take forever to reach the intersection of 58 and 395, where you finally get to a gas station/mini-mart for cold drinks. Again like I said earlier this was pretty boring, droning through the desert. Economic hardship was evident along this highway with the dilapidated houses and multiple for sale signs and closed businesses we saw.
Once we reached the town of Mojave, we were finally getting out of the desert and heading into some hills closing in on our destination which was Bakersfield. Tehachapi was the last big town before Bakersfield, after you come down out of the hills you are in the valley. We reached Bakersfield at about 3pm, having travelled about 290 miles. We toughed it out at the Hampton Inn near the intersections of highway 58 and 99. Saw another Washington state biker at the Hampton Inn, he was heading south. Again he like others was impressed that a 250cc scooter was up to this type of travelling. Maybe we can change some perceptions about touring on smaller cc rides.


Bakersfield Hampton Inn, our scooters with another WA biker parked out front.

[jim63]

Day 11- We left bright-eyed and bushy tailed at 8am, and headed north on highway 99. Highway 99, is in some areas basically an interstate that somewhat shadows I-5 which is 20 miles west. My plan was to travel highway 99 to Lodi, CA then cut over to the coast north of San Francisco. We have been through San Francisco via car on highway 101, and mama wasnt to keen on the rough traffic that we'd encounter most likely. So we chose to avoid it.
Highway 99 north from Bakersfield was a pleasant ride, road was in good condition, traffic we encountered was moderate for most part. Some areas it was heavy, but we cruised at our own pace of 55-60mph, and were not really effected much. Good thing about 99 and travelling in the valley, is there are many places to stop for gas/food or just a break. Hopping from town to town down the road, probably no more than 10-15 mins between exits at long stretches. Temps got alittle warm in the 90's but was pleasant as we cruised right along.
We stopped for gas at the Traver exit, exit 106 halfway between Tulare and Fresno. There was an old style store with a Shell gas station that had a nice surprise. Had a good sized area out back with animals/birds you can feed (had gumball machine type food dispensers). Also a nice gift shop that sold fudge, fruits, jams and other nice stuff, along with touristy type things. Mama fed some small goats, and had fun there. Was a pleasant rest stop. Was early still and the guy was just firing up the outdoor BBQ, I guess they sell fresh BBQ also, smelled really good.
After travelling 244 miles we reached Lodi and our exit 264B, and headed west on highway 12. We had lunch in Lodi, at the Denny's where we got off 99. We followed Highway 12, a 2 lane road, more of a arterial than highway, speeds of 50 mph outside of Lodi, to our destination of Fairfield.
Out of Lodi, highway 12 is a pleasant ride in the country, go through a few small towns and pass Travis Air Force Base. Was a short but scenic ride 46 miles, to Fairfield from Lodi. We stayed at a motel in Fairfield off of Texas street near middle of town. Good sized motel, but except for maybe 2 other cars were the only ones there. This where I did the oil changes in the parking lot. The cut in 1/2 gallon sized milk jug I brought with worked great to catch the oil. Made little to no mess, and disposed of everything no problems.


Traver exit, rest stop


Traver exit rest stop


Feeding the animals at Traver rest stop

To Be Continued

[jim63]

Day 12- Goal of todays travels was to get to Garberville, CA. We left about 7am and headed out continuing on highway 12. After Fairfield we headed into wine country, Napa Valley, and passed through several small towns. Passed fields and fields of grapes. Traffic was fairly light as we passed through Sonoma. Our first rest break was in Sonoma at a 7-11. Bought some water, while mama got a smoke in. She went inside to use the bathroom, after she came out, I thought that was a good idea, not knowing where our next stop will be. The guy behind the counter said there was no public restroom sorry...I didnt say anything back. My wife said it was behind the counter but posted not public use, the guy let her use it though. Being female has it's advantages I guess.
Next good sized town was Santa Rosa 20 miles or so down the road, we gassed up here and I got to use a restroom. We got on highway 101 in Santa Rosa and headed north. Was a pleasant ride in rolling hills, flat areas a good mix. Traffic was alittle heavy in Santa Rosa, but not to bad. For the 1st part of 101 we were on it was interstate type road, limited access divided highway. We cruised comfortably at about 60mph, the faster drivers simply passed us, posted speed was 55-60mph in most areas. Highway 101 changed back to a non divided highway in several areas and stretches north of Cloverdale. Seems like when you came upon a stretch with several fairly good sized towns close togather it goes into interstate mode, with exits and limited access. once passed back to country highway mode. We stopped in Ukiah for lunch, good sized town with everything a traveller would need, fuel, food and lodging.
As we got closer to Garberville, we started seeing more redwood trees, beautiful trees of incredible size. Before you get to Garberville, when 101 is in 2 lane highway mode, in a section of redwoods is a store that sells wood carvings, and all sorts of gifts and redwood touristy items. We stopped and spent some time browsing and looking at this cool stuff. It is about 7 mies south of Garberville, the store is kinda carved into the forest in a bend in the road. Good thing we were on scooters that dont really allow bulky items, some of those carvings were really nice, and not priced to bad. Wood carvings back in Sedro-Woolley our home cost more.
We finished up the days ride into Garberville, and got a room at the Best Western on the north side of town. We decided to walk to the south end of town to check out the shops, and hit the grocery store for some night time TV snacks in the room. The town gave my wife the creeps and made me abit uneasy at times. There were a bunch of "street people", with dirty clothes and bedrolls sitting on the sidewalk. At the grocery store was a beat-up van with a group of guys near the street in the parking lot. To get to the store we had to pass them, one asked for money, and another made a comment about romantic couples (my wife was holding my hand). I ignored them and we went into the store. On the way out, they didnt say anything else but eyed us in a way that made me feel like I was being evaluated as a potential victim. Being on vacation no guns were with us, I had a knife with me for cutting cord but was on my scooter. The whole situation was un-nerving. We did go out to dinner at a restaurant behind our hotel, but after that we went to the room for TV watching. Saw some people in the parking lot, and checked our rides every few hours. The town itself seems nice overall, some of the people, probably dont live there I am guessing. There was a "Hemp" shop that advertised marijuanna, medicinal I guess in a variety of types, right on main street. Safe to say that will be our last time in Garberville. Was the weirdest day of the trip.


roadside store south of Garberville


One of the wood carvings at a store south of Garberville


Parked roadside next to some redwoods


Saw several of these signs but never saw Bigfoot

[jim63]

Day 13- The reason we stayed in Garberville was to setup todays travels. We left the hotel at 7am, and travelled north on highway 101 for 6 miles until we got to highway 254 where we exited 101. Highway 254 is named the "Avenue of the Giants", a two lane road that shadows 101 but goes through some spectacular redwood forests, along with some of the more popular named trees. Was an experience we will always remember, these trees are incredibly huge. Highway 254 goes through grove after grove of these magnificent trees. In some places there is no shoulder the trees are literally on the edge of the road. The Avenue of the Giants goes for about 40 miles approx, there are several places to stop. Restaurants, gift shops, interpretive areas, gas is also available along the route.
We had a late breakfast at the Redwood Cafe, a small restaurant that had an enclosed windowed room with about 5-6 tables, and another couple outside if you so chose to eat outside. Across the street from there was a gift shop, and behind it was a large redwood that had a room cut into it. There was some roadwork along the way with a 15 minute delay. We were at head of the line and talked with the flagger. He said the plan is to redo alot of highway 254 in the future. I said this was probably a pretty good idea. Highway 254 isnt to bad, but stretches are getting alittle rough, cracks and pavement that is just worn out. Also stopped at a tree you can drive through, which we did. It is off of 254 on private property that charges a small fee to enter, $8 for both scooters, but was pretty cool. If you in the area the Avenue of the Giants is a good side trip.
After highway 254, we got back on 101 and continued north. Saw signs for upcoming casino's which got mama's attention. Passed through Eureka, refuelled the scooters and took a break there. It is a big town on the coast, with everything available. After Eureka you hit Arcata, highway 299 intersects 101 there. We got off 101 and headed 5 miles east to the town of Blue Lake, which has a large Casino/Resort there, where we stopped for the day. Must have just opened recently, not all the services (i.e. pay for view movies) and some of the hallway shelves were still being put up. The casino was operating in full swing, takes money just like the rest of them. Was fun, rooms nice and comfortable, at $150 for the night wasnt the cheapest place to stay. But when we gamble I like to have a beer or 2, or more so not driving is a bonus and safer. Due to the sightseeing this was our shortest travel day, mileage wise.


Avenue of the Giants


Drive through tree


Admiring the redwoods along Avenue of the Giants


Me next to a redwood, to give it scale, I am 6'2" 240lbs. These trees enormous


Near drive through tree


Redwood Cafe

To be continued

[scoot-away]

Jim what sort of precautions did you take pre-trip in terms of tools, spares and flat tyre possibilities?

[CCProf]

Jim - TRULY great trip and pix. Did you ride Red Rock Canyon outside Vegas? Next trip out to see my daughter, I've got to rent something and ride it rather than caging.

[jim63]

Our pre-trip consisted of new tires for my scooter (was at almost 9k miles rear tire wouldn't made it) , new belt and a new spark plug my bike only again.My wifes bike has alittle over 2500 miles on it and the tires/belt and plug were all still good to go. Both bikes got fresh engine oil and rear gear oil changes, also new air filters. I brought a spare belt and a spark plug. Other items were engine oil for a change that'd be due on the trip due to it's length. Roll of duct tape, 20' nylon cord, plastic milk carton (cut in 1/2 to be an oil catch)
Tools brought were, screw-drivers, 3/8 drive socket wrench with various sockets (10mm, 12mm, and acouple others, didnt bring a set, just what fit the various bolts), pliers, vice grips, several box-end wrenches same as sockets in sizes, long neck funnel. I have a flat tire kit, comes with electric pump (hooks to battery posts) plug tool, plugs, and good ole slime. A small LED flashlight.

Tool I forgot- air pressure guage. cleaned out scooter before trip and forgot to put back in. Bought one 2nd day of trip, now I have about 5 air pressure tools lol.

Tool I didnt bring that I could have used- allen wrench(dont remember the exact size), one of my wifes mirrors started coming loose. Never came off, bolts are real long, but was alittle loose.

Tools actually used- socket wrench and one socket for oil change, and air pressure guage (few times).

Didnt get to ride the Red Rock Canyon. Been to Vegas a bunch of times, never done that. I'd be hard pressed to get mama out of the casino's for a ride in the desert.

[jim63]

Day 14- Left the Blue Lake Casino a couple hundred dollars poorer, and headed west where we got back on highway 101 and continued north. Last big town in California was Crescent City aother city with every service you may need. The ride along the coast or near to it is nice. Road in good shape with gentle rolling hills and straight stretches though forests of redwoods, sea breezes so it not to hot, plenty of places for rest stops and photo ops. As far as riding conditions go, dont get much better than this.
Crossed into Oregon, about 10 miles into Oregon you hit Brookings. Good size sea side town, with all the traveling essentials available. We had just stopped for a break outside of Brookings so we cruised through it. About 40 miles or so north you get to Gold Beach, where we stopped for lunch. It is a tourist type of town, was a good place to stop. We stopped at a pizza place, but they a full menu of other items. Had a killer hot pastrami sandwich, best one I have had in along time. Was pretty windy north of Brookings all the way to our days destination of Coos Bay, OR.
Before we got to Coos Bay there is a tourist stop, the "Sea Lion Caves". We stopped there looked around the gift shop, but passed on the tour which was $11 per adult. It wasnt a money thing totally, the girl at the counter said there was no guarantee to see any sea lions at this time. So we skipped it, we both agreed spending $22 to see a empty cave is not worth it. Plus we saw the long walk walk down to the cave from street level, and mama wasnt to excited about that to begin with. We did get the Tee shirts though.
Stayed at the Best Western in Coos Bay. This was the most expensive per night stay at $175. Mama was tired from the long day so I didnt balk to much and just paid it, so we didnt have to play musical hotels. It was a nice room, not worth $175 though. Next door to the Best Western was a family style restaurant, dont recall the name. There daily special was cajun style snapper, sounded good so I ordered some. This was the absolute worst dinner I had the whole trip. It appeared to be snapper with chili powder on it. I choked it down, and washed it down liberally with beer. Could have put the fish in one of my socks, baked it and it might have tasted better, just thinking about it yuck. Plain fish would have been great, that nasty coating on it was horrible. Coos Bay is a nice city, lotsa little shops.


Oregon coast


Oregon coast


Sea Lion Cave store/tour access point

To be continued

[trbigfoot]

Realy sound's like a great trip, and very good photo's. Hopefully some day I will get to take a trip.

[jim63]

Day 15- Was alot cooler the morning we left Coos Bay, upper 40's with a pretty good sea breeze. In California on the northern coast had some low 50's that was chilly in the am also. Had to put jacket with rain gear jacket on to stay warm. Raingear jacket was used on several mornings in addition to the jacket as a windproof insulator, works really good. After about 10-11am was warm enough to go with just the jacket. Today was a short travel day up the coast on highway 101.
Hit a few casinos along the way. For those who like casino's from Crescent City. CA north to Lincoln City, OR there are 5-6 casinos on or a short distance off of highway 101. We hit them all I think, didnt win in any of them. Came out about even in the Chinook Casino, which is in Lincoln City.
The ride north from Coos Bay stays near the coast, but it is out of view in many areas. Go through several good sized towns Lakeside, and Newport were the biggest of the day we went through. Saw a restaurant that caught my eye in Newport, Pig'n Pancake. My wife thought that was fitting I chose that place and laughed. It is a family style restaurant with a full menu, that includes grilled cheese and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I had some crab my wife went with some shrimp, was really good and not to spendy. Seen other Pig'n Pancakes later so it must be a chain. We stopped for awhile at a casino north of Florence, was off 101 a few miles. A big casino with all the slots and other games. After losing some money we moved on.
We saw sign after sign for the Chinook Casino in Lincoln City, mama was getting pumped up to get another crack at the slots. Was about 3pm when we rolled into Lincoln City. It is a tourist destination with almost every major hotel chain represented along with a slew of independants. We tryed to get a room at the Chinook but it was booked solid. They gave me a printed sheet with about 25 other hotels listed on it, the clerk lined out 3 saying they were full already, the others she wasnt sure.
So we sat outside the Chinook hotel area, while my fingers did the walking as I called down the list. Third hotel I called had some rooms, so we nabbed one, at the Ashly Suites. Was a good room, but alittle spendy at $150. Being a saturday night, in a tourist town, you know you are going to get hammered on the room rate. So we unloaded our stuff into the room, and with-in 20 mins were back at the Chinook Casino to try our luck. Mama was working the machines with vengence to no avail. I was able to end the night on a almost even position, thanks to a hit of $100 on 30 cent bet. If I would have been betting max (which I never do) I could have got well over thousand.....But I'll take the $100 and walk away about even anyday. Mama didnt lose big but lost about $120 after 6 hours of gambling. Goes up and down, way of gambling. You have to stop on the upswing when ahead. Had a stomach stretching buffet here, that was pretty good for about $20 each. Prime rib, shrimp, crab, salmon and a host of other items, was a good selection. Was a good stop that fun.


Pig'n Pancake in Newport


Oregon Beach

To Be Continued

[jim63]

Day 16- We left Lincoln City early sunday morning at about 7am. Topped off our tanks and continued north on 101 towards our home state of Washington. We were less than 100 miles from Astoria where we'd cross the Columbia back into Washington from Lincoln City. On a sunday morning traffic was real light and the road travels through farm land and smaller towns. Highway 101 in this stretch is more like a country road than a highway. Was a real pleasure to ride on it. Was cold again in the am, stopped in Tillamook (famous for it's cheeses) at a McDonalds so we could grab some hot chocolates to warm our insides. Wasnt to breezy but was a biting cold though. But after 11am the rain gear was stowed again and it was jackets only.
We stopped in Rockaway Beach, a small resort type town on the coast that was having some sort of sale along the beach. Misc vendors had set up booths in a beachside parking lot, and were selling there crafts and other items. Alot of nice stuff there, Saved by riding scooters with little storage capacity left, so we didnt buy some things we might have.
The crossing into Washington is via the largest bridge I have ever rode across. Mama was terrified by it's height, on the Oregon side the bridge is way above the water. I am guess so large ships can pass underneath, there is no draw-span on it. Also the bridge, I didnt check the odometer, but it must be a couple miles across. After the first mile or so the bridge goes to a lower height that isnt to high off the water. We stopped so mama could have a smoke and calm her nerves on the Washington side.
On the Washington side, 101 continues to be a country type 2 lane road, with moderate speed limits. Shortly into Washington had 2 deer run across the road about 50 feet infront of me, I immediatly slowed to about 10 mph, and sure enough a few seconds later a third deer about 15 feet infront of me crossed. These were not Bambi sized deer, this would have been a real bad deal to hit at 50mph. In the country these encounters happen occaisionally, hopefully you have time to react. I have noticed also deer seem to travel in groups, if you see one chances are there are others.
We continued on 101 north, and near Aberdeen we decided we were not ready to go home yet. We could have made it home by about 7-8pm if we wanted to. But with the Quinault Beach Resort/Casino at Ocean Shores a short 20 mile ride from Aberdeen, no arm twisting was needed. Called them and they had rooms available. About 4pm we arrived at the resort. We recently there in april and was covered in another thread. So I wont go into details about it. But we enjoy the resort, it is on the beach. We got a beachside room with a spectacular view of the beach on the 3rd floor.

scootdawg.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=rides&action=display&thread=21951

Day 17- We headed home via the shorter route described in the above link. We stopped in Oak Harbor to visit my wifes parents. Her father just had some surgury to remove some cancer and is recovering nicely. In California we were considering flying back and leaving the scooters in storage, if his surgury didnt go well. We were in contact with her family daily and it was a concern for us. We arrived back in Sedro-Woolley about 6pm. The vacation was over, to soon. Was an adventure we both enjoyed and will always remember. We learned some things from this trip, on what to bring and not to bring.
Next time the gas can will stay at home, was a good precaution but un-necessay. We never really got close to running out of gas due to the good sized tanks the SYMs have. Will bring a heavier jacket, for the colder mornings. I had a GPS, which was invaluable for reassurance if you think you on wrong road, or where to turn at some poorly marked areas. I also had the DeLorme state gazetteers for all the states we travelled in. This was really helpful for route planning and or changes. It is alot more indepth than a regular one page per state road atlas. For example the California gazetteer is 160 pages long. Tools were fine, didnt need any for un-necessary repairs. Prior planning was key, makes things so much easier. Knowing where the gas stops are going to be (most of the time). Setting daily goals for travel that are realistic, and be willing to change if needed. Dont stress out if weather, or things beyond your control come up (i.e. road construction, accidents, slower drivers than you). Take your time to enjoy the scenery, plenty of stops to decompress your rear-end. The SYM's were fine for most conditions. On several windy days going through mountain passes, crawling at 45mph maxed out, I was secretly kicking myself for passing on the Burgy 650 last november. If my weight was about 100+ pounds lighter like my wifes I'd probably be fine. In my defense besides being alot bigger than my wife I was carrying extra gas, the tools, and had my side-bags filled with some snacks and other misc stuff. After this trip, we wil be making every vacation we can via scooter or motorcycle (yes I have toyed with the idea of getting one). Some of these areas we have been on before in a car, but the scooter was a whole new experience. Miss alot of stuff zipping by at 75mph in a car, with the windows up and A/C on. It maybe more comfy in the car but, I'll take the scooter anyday. Hope everyone reads this long story enjoys it. Thanks for reading it. Jim


Rockaway Beach, OR


Washington side of Columbia river bridge


Looking towards the Oregon side of Columbia river bridge, didnt have a zoom lens to catch other side fully. Kinda goes off into the distance.


At mile marker 1 in Washington, on highway 101

[homey246]

Looks like a great long trip to me great pics..

[Kiwiscoot]

great trip - thanks for sharing

[dangdawg]

We must have at least a few things in common. The Pig’N Pancake would always be my first choice even though I have never heard of it before. Plus a dawg bone just for that alone if nothing else would be warranted.

Congrats on the completion of a successful and epic vacation. What a trooper the little lady is too.

Don’t feel bad thinking about getting a…….. well you know, the “M” word. After completion of my 1,600 mile in four days trip, I have been thinking about it too. We live in the west where there are mountains and wind and Interstate only options. We would be unintelligent if we didn’t consider the “M” option. There are some pretty cool middleweights like the Kawasaki Versys or the Yamaha FZ6 that cost considerably less than the big Burgman or Honda Silverwing. At least for me, the motorcycle would probably be more fun, but arguments for the scooter are compelling too. It is a very difficult decision.

[Jake aka: Ventoscoot]

Very inspirational for me and my vegas trip!! Was hoping to do it this year, but may need to do it next year.

[kalekendel]

Ahhhh, so you passed by my town of Reno huh and you didn't even invite me to GSR to look about the cars. That's not too dawg like now is it lol.

[notoriousbigec]

wow thanks for your response---you are both amazing for logging a trip of that magnitude. that must have been a trip of a lifetime. thanks for the advice...i will split it up into 2 days with a stop at my uncles place in beckly, wv then over to the wonderful FT Knox, Ky. great hearing from you and please share anymore road experiences you may have. thanks

[jim63]

Was definitely the best vacation we ever took in my opinion. This year we were planning a trip to Chicago to visit my family, but I goofed up on the dates and my dad will be in San Francisco watching the Cubs play the Giants with my sister. They take a trip every year to a different city to watch a Cubs away series. I was stuck in last years dates and the day we would have arrived he would be leaving the next day. I am sure she told me this years dates, I must be getting senile like my wife says. So no Chicago this year.

This left a problem since my wifes dates are locked in and unchangeable now. She needs special request for 3 weeks off in one shot, and needs way in advance planning. My company is alittle more lenient as long as you have time on the books, but advance notice is also needed, if anything to lock in your days you want. Her eyes lit up when I mentioned there are some new casino's open we have not been to in Las Vegas. So Vegas here we come again. Plan on a different route this time, the coast, the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway, California Highway 1) is part of it from LA. Most likely on the way back, along with a stop in Hollywood, we had fun there before. Other than that we are kicking around several other ideas.