San Francisco - Coarsegold California - 370 miles Temp - morn 57F - high 87F  Another early morning start from Vijay and Mo's, with a great sunrise across the valley.  This mornings ride we were escorted out of the area by Vijay, Martin B and Richard Follen. I think they just wanted to make sure we had left.  Martin B giving us a tune on his Indian Flute.  A famous bike meeting point, but not at this time in the morning, unless you are as mad as we are.  How many mail boxes does one house need? But actually these mail boxes are for all the house that are remotely located in the hills around here. It would take a postman too long to deliver to each house so the owners all come down to one place to pick up their mail.     Back on the PCH.     On our way down the PCH to Bixby Bridge we had passed through a town called Carmel which is famous for Clint Eastwood being the Mayor and also where Doris Day lives. Carmel is also known for several unusual laws, including a prohibition on wearing high-heel shoes without a permit, enacted to prevent lawsuits arising from tripping accidents caused by irregular pavement.        An amazing 100 mile ride on the 198 to Coalunga. This road was silky smooth and twisty running through rolling hills covered in sunburnt grass. Unusually at the hottest part of the day (approx 85F) we passed a sign that warned of ICE. Maybe in the winter but certainly NOT today!    We arrived at Don and Joyce's at 1630, where Don had layed on a BBQ for us. His house is set in a fantastic location with great views out from his deck.     Phil and Andy made use of Dons extensive garage to do some running repairs. Luckily Don has a pastime of breaking ST1100's for spares so Phil was able to install a new fuel pump and replace the mirror that got smashed early on in the trip.  Phil had a glamorous assistant, although Im not sure how appropriate a white mini skirt is around dirty greasy "bikers".   While Andy did an oil change on his bike.  Sad to see so many dismantelled bikes, but it enables Don to help other people keep their bikes running.  Sorry Joyce......but I disagree!!!!! :-)  But I do like your rear number plate, you go ride, Im sure Don can rustle up a sandwich while your out.  |
Day9 |