OT - Finally got out on my motorcycle!

I finally broke free yesterday for an almost 200 mile motorcycle ride. I started in Moab in 94 degrees, rode up over the La Sals where the low temp hit 68, then dropped down into Gateway, CO on the John Brown Road. I hung out there for a bit, ate a sandwich from the deli and loaded up on water. I left Gateway and rode the supremely satisfying, twisty asphalt above the Dolores River, stopping once to check out the remains of the hanging flume inside the canyon. Interestingly, from that vantage point, one can also see several cars lying crumpled at the base of the cliff. Pre-guardrail days, maybe? I turned on the road to Bedrock, CO in the Paradox Valley. I stopped at the Bedrock Store, built in 1881, for a cold drink and a snack. While there I learned that the old guy who lived in the apartment above the store committed suicide only a few hours before my arrival. Yikes! I finished the ride by heading west through La Sal, back to the 191 and north to Moab.

Phenomenal day to be on a bike and a much needed escape from work, work and more work. Only problem is that now I just want to head out for a few days and a few hundred miles. Maybe soon...

Here's a snapshot from the cockpit on the highway between Gateway and Uravan in that beautiful red rock canyon. Here's a link to a short ride video in the twisties: http://youtu.be/sYDbyK6K_jA

Speaking of the Bedrock Store, if you find yourself in need of a restroom while there this is what you'll find. It really is an outhouse, just like those from the 1800's, which means it's a big hole in the ground and a wooden bench on which you'll rest your cheeks. You might be inclined to just "hold it".

Here's a crunchy photo (thanks to compression) of the Dolores River and some remains of the hanging flume. Really interesting story behind it. The marvels of engineering that were designed and built way back in the day never cease to amaze me.

Confidence instilling bridge and sign near Uravan.

That video is cool, but why so slow?

Sounds like a great ride, Bret. I love that area, solidified all the more by my excursion through there in May.

Hey Todd,

This ride only convinced me that I need to spend a lot more time over there. I'd really like to run the Dolores some time to see the canyon from below.

Bret,
Is the road passable by 2wd vehicle in dry warm weather? Looks very scenic.
Joe Roger

Sweet! The video is just like riding again. Which I will never do again! They got me on Parker Road in 1987. I must have looked like the shuttle with the slow rotation I did after I left the bike 8' in the air. Be careful out there, Bret!

Joe: The only part of the ride I did that was dirt is a few miles from Gateway up into the La Sals. That section is easily passable by a 2WD, low clearance vehicle. Saw a BMW M3 on the road yesterday, if that tells you anything.

Sweet ride Brett, and great outhouse photo. B&W really makes it pop.
I'm a BMW rider as well 88 K75s.
Kurt

hi bret,
photography & a cycle....if u havent already discovered.....can be a great combo!! you sometimes won't know what vice to pick. the combo platter is a nice option. i've got my tripod bungeed to the rack of my givi topcase. (on my scooter as u may recall)
take care,
norm---colorado

looks like fun