FIND ME ON THE ROAD

Moto Photo - #17 of 29

2012-02-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

#17: Half a World away

About two years ago in March and April I had the pleasure to visit New Zealand for several weeks. A business trip was never sweeter. In a way it felt like six weeks paid vacation.

Every weekend I would take off to explore the Northern island. The whole experience left me with a big yearning for this beautiful corner of the world. One fine day, I will return...

The #29 of 29 Participants

2012-02-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Please check out the other participants in this wonderful challenge initiated by Fuzzy:

Troubadour on a Tiger

WetcoastScootin'

YouMotorcycle

Moto Photo - #16 of 29

2012-02-16T01:00:00.000-07:00

#16 - P L P (Parking Lot Practice)

Waiting for my turn.

I have been told a few times that the Hi-Viz jacket and the bubble helmet don't go too well with a 'brand like this'. It makes me look geeky. Well, I like to think that it makes me ride safer, and I am not using the bike to make a fashion statement anyway.

Now, I begin to wonder if I honor the marque enough that I am riding. Maybe I should join a club, buy a cut, and get a skull tattoo on my... hmmm. Ah, forget it. The Sporty hasn't complained yet.

Moto Photo - #15 of 29

2012-02-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

#15: Lady in Red

There is of course another family member that shall not go unnoticed. Bella, my husband's Vespa GTS 250. In the beginning of my motorcycle revival career I tried to convince my then non-riding husband into riding a scooter. Him being a tall guy, I figured, a Honda Silverwing would fit well. Long story short: I purchased the maxi scooter for him, and ended up riding it myself, because he was completely and utterly intimidated by that big machine.

After a few practice hours the idea of (ever) riding together got buried, and eventually the Silverwing was sold. I continued riding, ventured off by myself or with an occasional riding buddy, that is until last Spring, when my husband dragged me (ok he didn't have to...) into a Vespa dealership, telling me, he would want to try and ride one of those. Instantly he fell in love with Bella who was extremely well priced due to her 'age', being a new but 2008 model.

The spousal unit quickly lost his training wheels on this lovely scoot, and felt absolute comfortable riding it. Now all he needed was a matching riding buddy-ette, and of course it had to be another Vespa. This is how Paolo joined our life.

Moto Photo - #14 of 29

2012-02-14T07:30:00.000-07:00

#14: Vision Limited: Road seen through visor.

The same view, with visor up.

When riding in the rain I usually leave the visor up as I find that can see better through my glasses. Depending on speed the rain can get quite prickly and the wind bites in your face, but makes for pink cheeks.

Moto Photo - #13 of 29

2012-02-13T01:00:00.000-07:00

#13: Another rainy day in Paradise

A Sunday ride in the rain. Noon, the weather hasn't changed yet, it is still raining. I had only planned to fuel up, check on tire pressure, and then swiftly return to my book, and have a cup of tea, London Fog Special, a.k.a. Vanilla Soy Lattea, in front of the fireplace. By the time I return home the clock strikes two. Where it the time go?

Moto Photo - #12 of 29

2012-02-12T09:42:00.000-07:00

#12: Handicap: Lack of ATGATT.

Digging through my archives I found this one. This was back last summer when the green was lush and sun was warm... When I look out of my window, all I can see is fog and rain, not very inspiring riding conditions.

Moto Photo - #11 of 29

2012-02-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

#11: The Urban Street Fighter

My Vespa scooter is a real urban fighter and has the battle scars to prove it. First time I met Paolo (formerly known as Agnes' bike) in the backyard of a downtown house. The little two-wheeler lived outside, but he seemed to have rather chosen this outdoor existence as a lifestyle. Immediately I noticed some nasty scratches on his right cowling, which he had received when knocked over by a careless cager told the previous owner.

Needless to say that I got smitten with his rugged looks and the gravelly voice. And the price? It was a steal, really. I had planned on fixing the dents and scratches at first but there he is, still proudly wearing his battle scars. They are part of what my scooter is: a real street fighter!

Moto Photo - #10 of 29

2012-02-10T09:25:00.002-07:00

#10: Confessions of a closet cruiser fan

My very first motorcycle (above picture) was a so called soft cruiser, a Yamaha Virago 250, as a matter of fact not so much different from what I am riding today: a Harley Davidson Sportster 883.

I used to be a restless traveler between different marques and types of motorcycles, undecided and unwilling to settle for one specific style, although there was a certain pattern.

When I purchased my Nella, the F650GS dual purpose Beemer, I thought for a while that I had found what I was looking for. I liked the bike very much, it was a very practical bike and served all my needs. But is was just another fling, and when it was over I was left with nice memories, yet no regret of letting it go.

Speaking of pattern however, in retrospective, I always liked vintage bikes and naked bikes the most. Since my technical skills are limited (as are time and willingness for wrenching), a real classic bike was out of the question, which left me with only two options readily available on the Canadian market: The Triumph Bonneville or the Harley Davidson Sportster, another model which has been continuously updated but basically kept the same over many decades.

My first choice became the Sportster. First and foremost because you get a lot of bike at very reasonable cost, and the dealer network is awesome. The Sporty is retro pure, has many aftermarket farkles to add, and it offers the style I like the most. A classy bike! My Rover will be the first bike I am going to modify (or better: will have professionally modified)... maybe to resemble the new 'old' 72 look.

Pic from interweb

Moto Photo - #9 of 29

2012-02-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

#9: Lili Marlene

Some of you might remember that old song of the same title sung by the charismatic German singer and actor Marlene Dietrich:

Underneath the lantern
By the barrack gate,
Darling I remember
The way you used to wait.
T'was there that you whispered tenderly
That you loved me;
You'd always be
My Lili of the lamplight,
My own Lili Marlene.

When I spotted that scooter under the lamplight, this song got stuck in my head. I hope to be able to get rid of it by posting it here.

Moto Photo - #8 of 29

2012-02-08T15:16:00.001-07:00

#8: In the chain gang

This frosty comrade is sitting day in day out on the front porch of a rundown shop. The bike is covered in hoar frost, the tire pressure seems low, insurance ran out some time ago, overall a motorcycle in desperate need of some TLC. But it must resemble some value to its owner, because it is chained up. Or maybe it tried to get away once...

I wonder if there is a bike rescue shelter somewhere nearby?

Moto Photo - #7 of 29

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

#7: Paolo sees his shadow.

This year's verdict from Punxsutawney Phil after seeing his shadow during the 126th annual Groundhog Day festivities was: Six more weeks of winter!

Well, I don't think so. My Vespa saw its shadow which means: Spring is coming. Rejoice!

Moto Photo - #6 of 29

2012-02-06T09:33:00.000-07:00

#6: Who you gonna call?

We all know whom to call in case a cat needs rescue out of a tree. Would the same rules apply to retrieving a scooter from the roof? Here, kitty, kitty.

Moto Photo - #5 of 29

2012-02-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

#5: A matter of perspective

Somewhere in there you may notice two Vespas and their riders. I love this look in the 'magic mirror': How slim I appear, something I am really not, at least not yet...

Moto Photo - #4 of 29

2012-02-04T10:57:00.002-07:00

#4: Big and Small

The truck will probably need more gas just to get out of the parking lot than I will need for my whole day's commute. (I had used the spousal unit's Bella that day to give her some exercise while he was traveling.)

Moto Photo - #3 of 29

2012-02-03T20:39:00.001-07:00

#3: Hand warming device.

I don't own winter gloves. I wear my summer gloves all year round, and some silk gloves as under armour when it is getting really chilly, because I prefer to have my dexterity when handling the controls. Naturally and eventually my fingers get a bit cold, and so I take a moment to warm them up in the headlight.

Moto Photo - #2 of 29

2012-02-02T21:15:00.002-07:00

#2: Leaving the husband in charge of decorating.

This was a pleasant surprise I found on a previously empty wall when returning from work. No car, no naked female body shape, but a nicely shaped body nevertheless.
(Sorry for the bad quality, it is a crapberry pic, I was to lazy to get out the camera...)

Moto Photo - #1 of 29

2012-02-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Via Trobairitz I came across the #29 in 29 Challenge posted by Fuzzygalore, and I found it was time to get back to some moto related content and stop whining about diet, fitness plans and crappy weather. The rules: One photo a day throughout the month of February (with motorcycle related content) or as Fuzzy puts it: Picture – Post – Yay.

So here it is.

#1: Sleeping Beauty

January at its greyest and grimmest

2012-01-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry, no motorcycle content.

Can this weather get any worse? Countless hours spent in the kind of twilight that would have vampires walk at day. There was not one day of a weekend worth getting out on the bikes.

Due to my new found healthier lifestyle I most likely covered more distance on foot than on two wheels, walking an average of 5km a day, which I admit is by far not enough, but walking in the dark just has a very limited charm.

Meanwhile I have added a few carbs back into my diet only to prevent me from falling from weather depression into food depression.

Rainy weather and fun food abstinence aside, the changes have already made an impact. I lost eight pounds, feel more energized, sleep well, have less headaches and the joint pain has gone away, plus I haven't had a cold yet. It's amazing what junk food will do to your metabolism.

In quest of a view

What else to do?

2012-01-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

The crazy weather pattern dumped a lot of snow on the otherwise wet We(s)t Coast, leaving the bike house-bound, trapped, locked in, deemed to be parked, and that leaves me with what?

P M S - Parked Motorcycle Syndrome

A common disease that occurs in the winter when a rider is unable to take his/her motorcycle out for a ride and is forced to think about things other than motorcycles.

WRONG!
Still thinking about motorcycles.

That's what the Motorcycle Show is for.

Of course we had a much more serious mission this time. A friend of ours needed assistance for his first motorcycle purchase.

It only happened by pure accident that I ended up on a pretty two-tone colored Bonnie.

Made in England, gotta love that label. I wish they would still do so, but like a lot of other stuff the Bonnie's are most probably manufactured cheaply in Asia these days.

Here is Hubby mildly irritated on a Victory. Pretty fugly the bike, if you ask me, but each to their own.

No sight of the Beemer scooter except for this sign, and finally: the price tag. As expected is is in the same range as the Suzuki Burgman or the Honda Silverwing.

Meanwhile our friend became friendly with a Kawasaki KLR 650, a good and reasonably priced starter bike for a tall guy like him.

But this one, the Yamaha Tenere really made him smile (that is until he took a gander at the price tag).

It was a good trade show with lots of visitors. All major brands where present, even Piaggio showed up. Lots of material to dream and rave about until riding season begins again.

Land of the Free?

2012-01-18T19:46:00.002-07:00

Do the right thing.

The bills must not pass.

The Internet must remain free!

What's next?

2012-01-14T21:41:00.005-07:00

Darling, you got to let me know
Should I stay or should I go?
If you say that you are mine
I’ll be here ’til the end of time
So you got to let me know
Should I stay or should I go?

(Lyrics: The Clash)

So, what do you think? On the one hand there is still a certain British Brand tempting me (Triple, Tiger, Bonneville, Scrambler - I would take any of those). On the other hand this little Harley has grown on me.

What I thought to be a short fling, has become a deep respect for the brand known for leaking piles of metal. I was always under the impression that these bike were made only for the ride to the next pub, or destined to be trailered to marque specific gatherings, but not to be used for actual serious road trips, since usually one would spend more time wrenching in the garage than traveling on the blacktop.

Speaking of the Sporty, the mpg is not great (frankly, it sucks!), but so far this bike hasn't asked for more than gas for the tank, air for the tires, and the occasional (very rare) wash for the looks.

Now, there is a potential road trip on the horizon, the IMBC 2012, and neither my two-wheeler nor I am ready and prepared for this challenge. I will need to build up the physical strength to endure a multi-day journey on a motorcycle, and as for my bike... well, Rover will need some serious modification:

1. A bigger tank
2. A comfy seat (need a new seat anyway with the bigger tank)
3. A luggage rack and saddle bags
4. A different set of handle bars for comfortable long distance riding
5. A set of highway pegs
6. A long overdue inspection
The overall price tag is about 3,500 to 4,000$.

Instead, I could go on a two week ocean cruise for this money...
Or I could keep the money, leave the Sporty as is, and rent a touring bike instead.
Or I could sell the Sporty, and throw the money in for a new and already well equipped bike.

I am left with more questions than answers. Help! Anybody?

The Road to Health is paved with good Intentions

2012-01-06T23:04:00.002-07:00

During the past three months I suffered from depression, fatigue, headaches, bilious attacks, joint pain and at times a foggy brain. In a few words: I was unwell. I ignored my condition, battled the symptoms, not the cause, popped some meds and blamed it on the stress at work.

Since conventional Western medicine didn't get me anywhere I did some research on my own, spoke with friends suffering from similar symptoms, and by holistic approach I came to understand that my body can no longer cope with the daily madness of my lifestyle. Hence, for the first time (ever) I made some New Year's resolutions.

1. The transformation of my eating habits into a healthy diet, starting with cutting down on carbs and sugar, and adding more greens and fruit to my meals. I started buying local produce, and I now pay better attention to the ingredients of some food stuff. I am appalled by the alien contents being put in normal food that don't belong there, and that the body can get sick from.

2. Inspired by RichardM I started walking every day after work, at night, rain or shine. The world moves under my feet, and the rounds are getting longer and faster.

3. I don't drink or smoke, my drug of choice is chocolate, which is actually the main trigger for my headaches. Choco, no mo'.

4. I don't have financial worries, so why bother with a stressful job? That's actually a tough one because I like a good challenge. However, if it doesn't work for me I will be moving on. There is a life to be lived, and roads to be discovered.

5. I will be spending less time in the virtual world, and more time in the real world with family and friends. There are already plans in the make for travels to Europe, and I am very much looking forward to it.

I am practicing this 'new lifestyle' for a week now, and after a couple of days suffering from (sugar and chemical) withdrawal symptoms I now feel energized and oddly motivated, the joint pain and headaches are gone, and my concentration is improving. The mood swings have disappeared, and bonus, I have lost weight. It already feels like I have accomplished something. Now I have to make sure that I stick to my plans.

A Happy and Healthy New Year to all of you.

Find me on the road.

Bob's right!

2011-12-30T22:14:00.002-07:00

Almost two years ago I left a well paid assignment in the wintry prairies for a somewhat mediocre and underpaid job on the unreasonably expensive We(s)t coast. Oh well, it's not all about money in life, isn't it?

One of the first things that Bobskoot said to me when I made my decision public was:
"We didn't get any snow this year. Most years you can ride 48-50 weeks a year, except for a few days of frost."

And Bob was right, there was almost no snow to be seen in the almost two years since I moved here. (There was lots of what they call 'liquid sunshine' over here, though.)

2011 wasn't a bad year for motorcycling. Although work and screwed up schedules prevented me from going on major road trips I logged in about 1,600km on Nella, my F650GS, which I sold in July, 1,800km on Rover, my then acquired Sportster, and 5,400km on Paolo, my trusty Vespa Granturismo.

Most of of the scooter mileage was gathered in commuting to work, which I did from April when I got it until Daylight Saving time stole morning and afternoon light of me in November. As I don't like riding in darkness and torrential rains, Paolo was going to be reduced to weekend take outs.

Actually from April onwards weekends became a wonderful treat since my commuting better half (he is still working in Calgary) got in to scooter riding this year, and was often able to join me on Bella, his Vespa GT250.

Life is good!

Ride safe, ride often, and see you on the road in 2012.

HAPPY NEW RIDING YEAR!

Virtual Factory Tour

2011-12-27T12:14:00.004-07:00

In my line of profession I have had a lot of opportunity (and obligation) to attend factory and facility tours. Actually it has always been the most fun part of my job as I find assembly lines and production logistics strangely intriguing.

Just recently BMW has started in Berlin with the production of the new scooter line. I had expected a fully automatized production facility (something along the line of German efficiency etc.), and was surprised how much manpower is being put into assembling those bikes. They build about 80 of those per day in two shifts with no more than fifteen people per shift. Fascinating.

One different kind of a tour is being presented by Dougie Lampkin, British trial world champion at Renthal. Hmmm, nobody ever offered my to bring my own vehicle...

Dougie Lampkin tours Renthal Ltd from Renthal Ltd on Vimeo.

It is good to see that not everything gets off-shored to cheap labour countries, and some pretty good stuff is still getting manufactured in good ole Europe.

'Tis the Season again!

2011-12-19T00:03:00.001-07:00

The spousal unit had suggested to spend a weekend in Seattle. Purely by coincidence it was also the weekend of the motorcycle show, this year at the Washington Convention Center, which happened to be five minutes away from our hotel. There wasn't much to get excited about except for this Norton:

And yes, yet again probably for the umphtiest time I drooled all over certain Triumph models.

There were a few pretty vintage bikes such as this Honda CB and a Metisse.

And this BMW C1 scooter certainly won the price of the weirdest two wheeler on display.

Also, a handful of bloggers happened to be around at the same time, and so we had our own little convention going. Here we are at Cyber Dogs having lunch.

There was Bob and Mrs Skoot, Troubadour and Trobairitz, and Orin.

And later on for dinner we got to hook up with Chuck again. We had a great time.

The weather was kind, and it was warm enough to actually spend the day outside.

Even Mt. Rainier was showing off.

The Space Needle is always an eye catcher, and seasonally decorated.

We walked through the night enjoying the sight.

Downtown was dressed up all festive.

Happy Holidays and Merry Christmukkah! Wishing you a wonderful motorcycle season 2012! Ride safe and ride often.

Five Local Trips

2011-12-15T20:13:00.003-07:00

Moto-Blogeress Dar came up with a great idea to get away from the grey and windy wintertimes at the We(s)t Coast. She wants us to think about five local road trips and dream trips.

Local meaning, it has to be in my country... which I have actually two of: Canada AND Germany (Cheat Alert, he he!) in no particular order:

1. I have been at Canada's Easternmost point at Cape Spear in Newfoundland, and I have been at Mile 0 in Victoria. Time will come to connect the dots: Trans Canada from one end to the other.

2. Doing the Great Lakes (If acceptable, going around even if I would have to touch US soil.)

3. Been there done that a couple of times but never on a scooter: Port Renfrew Loop on Vancouver Island

4. We have traveled Yukon and Alaska on four wheels, but in summer 2004 Dempster Highway was blocked due to wildfires. I am thinking of riding my Harley up to Tuktoyaktuk in the Northwest Territories and getting the spousal unit to follow in an RV.

5. So, coming to speak of my other country... All along the Watchtower(s): Riding a scooter along the borders of Germany. There are probably not many watchtowers left, and if, they are likely up for demolition or turned museums these days.

Those are all pretty epic but Canada simply makes you think BIG, eh! Please stay tuned for more epic dream trips, this time beyond country borders.

My Favourite Five of the Year

2011-12-10T07:58:00.018-07:00

Kiwi moto-blogger Roger called for a challenge:

Post your five favourite photos of 2011. Tell us why you like them. It could just be you like the pic or it could be more personal or of great meaning to you. The only rule is that you have to have been the one who took them, and there must be at least one of you.

Here are mine:

1. Not motorcycle related. Celebrating New Year in Germany with my bestest ever girlfriends Big & Uli. We travel through thick and thin (German Proverb: Staying together, no matter what!). These ladies have a special place in my heart.

2. Another one not taken by me, but with me in it. This picture was taken on a cold and wintry day in Calgary, the day we became Canadians, eh!

3. A happy day for me! My spousal unit goes two-wheels! Couples that play together, stay together.

4. I have been riding solo most of the time, but never dared to stray far from home. This summer I did the Lillooet Loop, my first >500km solo trip.

5. Vacation time! Mono Lake, California. A weird and quiet place, tingling my passion for geology.

I had to go through almost 5,000 photos. There were heaps of pictures with people and places, memories and vistas, and lots of them memorable, important, stunning or lovely. But above selection means the most to me this year. Thanks, mate for bringing out the best memories of 2011.

One Simple Way to Clear Your Mind

2011-12-09T19:11:00.002-07:00

Some meditate, others go for a walk, some talk other people's ears off. I guess there are indeed many methods to untangle the knots in your brain caused by stress at work, unfinished projects at home, or other life's worries.

For me one obvious solution is getting out for a ride, which becomes a little challenging lately. It is that time of the year where daylight becomes scarce, or the weather goes crazy.

Lately we had torrential rains and strong winds going, far from ideal riding conditions. I don't mind the rain, it is the winds I fear, especially on a scooter, because no matter where I am headed, I will have to cross bridges.

I try not to think about the wind. In a still photo you cannot see the trees wavering. Everything looks peaceful, and the mix of sun and clouds makes for some soft and warm (looking) afternoon light.

But I don't let the picturesque scenery fool me, I stay alert and prepared for a countersteer maneuver every time a gust hits me and tries to push me off the track.

The Vespa however unimpressed, purrs along nicely, and by the time I get home I am one with the universe again.

I hate when that happens

2011-12-07T23:54:00.003-07:00

I hate when I am traveling without seeing anything. I added two new states on my list of visited US states this week (or as I like to put it: states where I have touched ground.), but I have seen zip, zero, nothing.

I had a 'gig' in Atlanta with a stopover in Minneapolis. It snowed in Minnesota. The Airport is pretty, and they have a Harley Davidson store to kill some time.

The Atlanta airport is huge, being the world's busiest airport and all. I was impressed with its efficiency. Unfortunately it was already dark on arrival. I have seen a few illuminated buildings while driving through downtown up to Duluth where I had biscuits and pulled pork on a salad for dinner.

The next day it was warm (17C or 63F) - too warm for my outfit actually - but it rained cats and dogs. The day was filled with supplier meetings and a factory tour, a limousine ride back to airport to catch a plane to Houston (were is was cold, only 3C or 38F), and finally jumping on a plane back to Vancouver. The travel distance covered was over 8,000km (5,000mls), and I have seen nothing. ARGH!

Tour de France - Part deux

2011-12-03T08:24:00.004-07:00

I found a few more pics of our french voyages moto and scanned them. The story continues after we left the Bretagne.

Let's go South on A62! 800km later, easy-peasy for the GS, we arrived at a winery-turned-two-wheeler hostel in Moux, a small town in the Southwester region of Languedoc-Roussillon. The then-owners Rolf and Rosi, avid riders themselves, had had their own share of unfriendly encounters while looking for accommodation.

And so the couple found it was time to offer a motorcycle and bicycle friendly place where tired riders could find rest either in one of the cozy rooms of their B&B, or on the adjacent campground. Needless to say that there was shelter as well as a workshop provided for the bikes.

They also offered motorcycle rentals (cheap) and guided tours in the area (at no charge). At one time I had rented an F650GS, which was fun to ride. It were those fond memories which made me buy my yellow Beemer Nella last year.

The medieval fortified city of Carcassonne. From here it looked like time stood still.

Enjoying crepes and cafe au lait in some small town restaurant.

Here's "The Dispousal Unit", an excellent and reliable long distance rider, posing in front of a picturesque scenery.

In a place were motorcyclists gather there is a lot of talk around bikes, and one fine day it happened that rides were swapped, which gave us the opportunity to enjoy the vibes of a Harley Davidson for the very first time.

We returned to Maison Las Clauzes many times. Due to its excellent location the B&B became our base camp for travels in and around the area, to Andorra (B) and to Spain (D), to the Pyrenees (I) and the Mediterranean beaches (F).

Good times!

It would not have been the perfect round-trip without the Alps involving a lot of chasing the twisties, collecting mountain passes, and getting rained and snowed on along the way.

If you are in the area you have to ride/drive the Route des Grandes Alpes and get all 17 passes in one tour.

Map found here

Some people make the conscious choice of cycling the route. I certainly prefer the motorized version.

The Col de l'Iseran at 2,770m (9,088ft) altitude is the highest paved mountain pass in the Alps. It looks deserted but tourists of the two or four wheeled kind had actually lined up to get their picture.

At Col de la Cayolle at 2,326m (7,631ft) altitude

Chasing that many twisties is hard work, for all three: rider, pillion and motorcycle. The GS turned out to be an ideal vehicle for this task.

One of my fondest memories of France was our (almost daily) 'milk-run':

a) grab a warm and crisp baguette from the bakery

b) pick up a bottle of regional wine at the grocery store and

c) visit a local cheese maker to collect some goat cheese or Camembert.

During lunch hour we would find a nice shady place for a picnic, enjoy the food, have a glass of wine (in public...), relax and watch the world go by. Good times!

Into each Generation a Rider is born...

2011-12-01T22:56:00.002-07:00

As a student my brother was an avid rider living on a tight budget, and keen on saving in vehicle cost, gas, maintenance and insurance. So he got himself a Yamaha XT, which he rode all year round for many years, fixed himself, and didn't spend a dime extra on upgrades.

Then the 'family thing' happened. He got married, breeding ensued, a bigger vehicle and more living space was needed, and so the motorcycle, a Yamaha XT600 was left forgotten in a dark corner of the shed for many years.

The next thing I hear: The kid is finally tall enough. What does he mean by that, for heavens sake, she is six years old? Actually in Germany a little person that is able to reach the passenger pegs can legally ride pillion, and my niece has reached that very threshold.

As a man of action he recruited family members help funding his daughter's first motorcycle gear (I ended up sponsoring the helmet.). He undusted the bike, did some basic maintenance, such as fluid exchange, spark plug, fresh gas, and that awesome XT came to life like it had never been parked.

Here's my niece is in front of a big pile of gear.

My brother is particularly careful when he rides with her. The first trip was 40km one way to visit Oma (grandma, my mother). Naturally my mom was not amused. (Actually she was plain shocked!)

The little one liked the adventure, but she says she cannot see enough on the back of the bike. I guess somebody is already planning to get into the front row... soon.

How and why did I get into Motorbikes?

2011-11-30T22:25:00.005-07:00

Gary, you were asking...
Here is my own albeit unspectacular story about how and why I got into motorcycling.

I was not born to ride. In fact I hated bicycles, because from where I used to live, everything seemed to go uphill.

There was this young fellow, Lothar, the neighbour's son. I had a bad crush on him. He was the wild one, with a black leather jacket, long hair, and a bit of a scarface. He was maybe 15, had an intoxicating smile, looked a bit dangerous, and was oh so cool. But I digress.

He rode what I thought was the coolest bike at that time. A Honda Monkey. Please forgive me, I was seven and easily to be impressed.

One fine day while my brother and I were (pedal) go cart racing in the yard, Lothar zipped around us, stopped in front of me (be still my heart), and asked me something along the lines of Here's looking at you, kid! No wait, wrong movie.

However, suddenly I found myself on the back of that moped, nose and hands buried in his worn out leather jacket. It was only a ride around the block in shorts and sandals, no helmet, no gear. Of course it had to be that the very moment we turned around the corner my mom spotted us... She must have had a special radar for such things. Lothar, my hero, got in trouble, I got a bad burn from the hot exhaust when dismounting the bike, and a memory that lasts a lifetime.

This event made me a dedicated pillion rider on many occasions until my brother got the motorcycle endorsement along with his car driving license, a package that my parents had denied me... so unfair! So, just because... I saved up and paid for it out of my own pocket, and got my own motorcycle, too.

I kept riding along with my "dispousal unit" many years when one day we found out that our views on life weren't compatible anymore. We eventually parted ways without fighting or battling over property, and we are still good friends. I pursued my career, and constant changes in life and career took priority over motorcycling at that time. In fall 1998 I sold my last bike.

Fast forward to Christmas 2008: Another life, another partner, another continent. We sat with our friends over a bowl of strong brandy bunch when Guido and I started reminiscing about 'the good ole days of motorcycling'. The seed was planted. The sleeper awoke.

Right on cue I got laid off during the beginning of recession, and took that as a sign to start shopping for a reasonable priced re-entry bike. I was back in the saddle on a Honda NT650 Hawk GT in summer 2009.

Tour de France

2011-11-29T08:20:00.003-07:00

Those were the days... when we had six weeks vacation. For the determined gourmet and rider France, as Germany's next door neighbour was the way to go, and this time it was two up on our R1100GS, called Duckbill.

In the years from 1995 to1997 the "Dispousal Unit" (copyright: Nikos) and I visited France quite regularly. We drove across, around, from coast to coast and back many times. One of our sojourns was to explore the Atlantic coast.

We were impressed with Mont St Miche l in the Normandy, a town and monastery built on a tidal island, and at times surrounded by water. We had stormy weather at Cap Frehe l, and lots of rain like we had in England.

Compared to Southern England we found that despite being in a different country, with different culture and language, the ancient architecture was quite similar.

The major difference we noted however was the reservation towards two-wheeled travelers. While we felt welcome amongst the Brits we felt somewhat rejected by the people of the Bretagne, although we spoke French quite well. We were offered the shabbiest accommodations, and got no shelter for the bikes. Once we had a hard time getting a room because of the way we looked (?). OK, we were in gear, wet and a bit muddy from doing too much of this:

The weather didn't play along well, and so we said au revoir to Northern France and traveled down South to the Mediterranean See, and also visited the French Riviera a.k.a. Côte d'Azur, where the weather was nice, and the people were even nicer.

It's Sunday Again!

2011-11-28T00:10:00.007-07:00

I know it's Sunday again, when the four of us have time to go out for a ride.

The rain has stopped for a while, and we play hide and seek with the dark clouds.

It is quite nippy, so we stop for a warming beverage in Fort Langley.

Although the scooters haven't been used much lately they don't complain and are happy to play outside. It is the last week of November, and we are still riding. Life is good!

Je me souviens - I remember... France

2011-11-27T00:05:00.015-07:00

1995: Two Germans on two Japanese bikes in the mood for France, and touching ground in Switzerland, Italy, Luxembourg, Belgium and Holland along the way (Just not necessarily in that particular order.).

Somewhere in France. Not lost, but letting the bikes find their own path. We avoided the highways all together and took two weeks off for a 2,500 km round trip.

The famous V erdon Canyon

There was an abundance of picturesque little places and towns.

We traveled the French Alps several times. The ex-partner's Transalp was made for the twisty terrain, hence the name. But I still marvel at the stuff that I could carry around on my little thumper (a Honda XBR500), and it never seemed to fail me.

I remember I went down in at slow speed in a particularly sharp turn shortly before below photo was taken. I was going too slow, taking the turn too tight, and then the luggage shifted a bit throwing me off balance. Obviously (and luckily) it left me and the bike unscathed. The only thing left damaged was my pride.

I was a bit anxious afterwards, but the road kept me busy, and after I had mastered all these turns without further incident, I knew was ready for more.

C'etait les bons temps, par beau temps.

(It was the good times in good weather.)

There is a first time for everything

2011-11-26T14:35:00.001-07:00

Oh my, we got ugly weather. I almost miss the cold but sunny days in the Prairies, and today in there is even riding weather in Calgary, with balmy 7C (45F).

Vehicle insurance in BC (a.k.a. 'Bring Cash') is expensive. While the bill for all year round full coverage insurance in Alberta was about 400$, the same service will cost you 1,600$ here on the West Coast, for the simple reason that this matter is under provincial jurisdiction. And with the government being the only provider of this specific commodity, prices naturally skyrocket like in any other monopolist environment.

So, for the first time ever in my two-wheeled life I cancelled a motorcycle insurance policy. I put the Sportster into storage mode, and got credited with over a thousand bucks. The friendly insurance agent told me that if I should feel the spontaneous desire to ride, I can get a day or weekend permit for 30 or 40 bucks. I guess I leave that as an option.

I don't like doing it but it is a simple matter of economics. On the plus side... I still have Paolo, my trusty Vespa to zip around. And I plan to keep that one insured.

Got mugged

2011-11-20T16:15:00.001-07:00

The other day at a popular coffee chain the spousal unit picked up cups featuring a Lambretta silhouette. On the receipt it states however: Vespa Mug. Ah well, close enough.

My First Time

2011-11-18T22:32:00.006-07:00

Come the cold dark time of the year, I naturally spend a lot more time indoors. I swap summer with winter wardrobe, re-arrange my shelves, file paperwork, and sift through old stuff. Sounds boring, eh? And it was until I came across my box of old pictures (and instantly forgot about the stuff that I had planned to do).

I got my motorcycle endorsement in 1992 but my first time on a multi-day road trip (what else were you thinking?) wasn't until summer (if you could call it that) 1994 through Southern England, logging in roughly 2,500km.

We left Germany and took the fast lane (Autobahn) to Calais. It was the year of the Euro-Tunnel opening but I didn't feel comfortable traveling almost 40km under water, enclosed by walls, with no escape route. Besides, I love ferry rides. It turned out to be a very stormy one though, but professionally tied up by the ferry personnel no bikes were harmed during transport.

Riding on the left (wrong!) side of the road was so much easier than driving a car on the left. We rode into London, to do the typical tourist stuff (The Tower, Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle etc.), and little did we know about British traffic rules, roundabouts a.k.a. traffic circles, and lane splitting.

In the midst of a traffic jam, a motorcycle officer stopped right beside us, and we were thinking: oh oh! As a matter of fact he explained to us that bikes don't have to wait in traffic (not sure if that rule is still valid). He asked us where we wanted to go, and showed us the way through the pile of cages in downtown London. It was so cool!

It was supposed to be a low budget vacation but the plans to camp were going literally down the drain. It was raining day in day out except for maybe five minutes which we used to dry up and shoot a picture as proof.

Basically it was like: Look an old castle in the rain, oh there another church in the rain. From Brighton to Stonehenge to Lands End and back. Dripping, dropping, we were seeped through, drenched, plain wet most of the time. The wet stuff got everywhere, down the neck, into the boots. I had to wear plastic bags as an additional boot liner.

The motorcycles however did great. My Yamaha SR500 got a lot of attention because of its retro look resembling some 60's Triumph. I liked when people watched me kick-starting the bike on first kick (Oh, how much sweat and bruises it had cost me to look like a pro). I still miss that reliable hotpot.

The Ex rode a Suzuki Intruder, and he was obsessed with the repeat desire to wash the bike, an OCD that seem to come with riding a cruiser. Said bike didn't mind the weather or the regular wash and was doing its job.

Wild animal encounter in Cornwall

Vintage GPS in the tankbag a.k.a. map

Staying in Bed & Breakfasts or little Motels although bad for the budget didn't turn out too bad actually, as people were very helpful, and some of their owners were motorcycle enthusiasts themselves. And folks that speak motorcycle always get along well.

One guy really had us in awe. We arrived at a mansion turned B&B looking like drowned cats leaving a trail of dirt and water pooling on the ground. There was a storm coming in, we were almost blown off our bikes when riding above the white cliffs of Dover and we needed shelter, stat. We didn't care how much the room would cost. Not only did we get the room at a very decent price, he also offered that we could park the motorcycles overnight in the lobby as his garage was already full with vintage vehicles. Needless to say... he was a rider.

The pictures are long lost but the memories last a lifetime.

What actually triggered sharing my first time publicly was this find in Portland, OR:

A Quadrophenia style Lambretta in the Downtown Dr Martens boots store

During this first epic motorcycle trip my used German army boots procured in a shady surplus store were ruined due to constant exposure to British weather. Hence, I took the opportunity and purchased a wonderful pair of Dr Martens boots in a tiny store in St. Ives, Northern Cornwall. I had them a for long time and they were serving me well.

Those high quality boots were made in England back then. If only... but today the product is made in China. Otherwise, I swear I would have purchased a pair of the iconic British shoe ware.

Façades of Portland

2011-11-15T18:26:00.006-07:00

A Collection of Staircases

Structures and Facades

Windows

Bridges

Don't mind the weather. Portland is well worth a visit at any given time. Do it like the Portlanders do, leave your car at home, and don't take an umbrella with you.

A weird City... or not?

2011-11-14T23:22:00.001-07:00

Portland: Drove into the city, parked the car and forgot about it. Everything can be done by the 4T: Trail, Tram, Trolley or Train. And it works actually quite well... weird!

One of the greenest North American cities I have ever been to. You actually see people walking, biking (the pedal thingy), commuting by public transit, or driving funny electric cars. Double plus weird.

Portlanders are weird and proud of it.

This zebra car is fueling up... electricity.

Another memorable attribute of Portland is: WET. Capital letters! It's raining all the time, but the only people using umbrellas are the tourists. Did I mention that Portlanders are weird? Let them prosper and multiply!

Walking along the Willamette River.

Walking around downtown.

Lovely fall colours everywhere,

A sea of leaves,

Everthing looks so...

peaceful.

Trees on fire.

Taking the Areal Tram (amazing public transit) to the university (OHSU)

How much more impressive the view must be...

... on a clear day.

If I had a Million Dollars

2011-11-09T22:35:00.002-07:00

Trobairitz called out for a challenge.

If you had unlimited funds and could have one bike for every day of the week, what bikes would you choose?

Monday: I would keep my Sportster 883, and modify it to my liking. Just for the vibes.

Tuesday: It's Bonnie time. I always wanted one, now I can have it, right?

Wednesday: Paolo, my Vespa GT200 gets an orange paint job. Yes, I love that little Italian.

Thursday: I am in the mood for tri-coloured G650GS (pic from interweb), for a little off road challenge, well, make that gravel.

Friday: Meet my Triumph 675 Street Triple R (pic from interweb). It's a sex machine, 'nuff said!

Saturday: This new scooter BMW C600S strikes a chord, and I need to find out why.

Sunday: Promenading on a Norton Commando 961 (pic from interweb). Does this classy piece really need an explanation?

But basically four bikes would probably do it. Really!

One scooter to zip around in town.

One street bike for the open road.

One Cafe Racer because it's got the style.

One dual sport bike to go where the others can't.

Thanks, Trob for the challenge. Dreaming up bikes is one of my favourite pastimes.

The Future

2011-11-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

The new BMW C600 Sport. A touring scooter combining mature BMW technology and scooter elegance. What's not to love? I am definitely hooked. More pics here.

Rumble in the Bronx

2011-11-06T17:02:00.001-07:00

It was a challenge that I had set for myself that had led me to New Westminster, a city in the lower Vancouver Mainland adjacent to the Fraser River.

New West Downtown has quite a few steep roads with uneven surface, and has always been my nemesis until today. It was early in the morning, and had only 2 or 3C (35 or 36F) when I conducted my exercise and rode those roads down and up, left and right. I struggled uphills a few times to keep the weight of the Sportster balanced, but I managed not to drop it.

Letting the bike roll downhills was better. I was glad about the relatively empty streets and the dry weather conditions because these roads are really nasty, and did I mention steeply sloping?

Later I awarded myself with a walk in the Sapperton Landing Park. Today a lovely retreat with enjoyable river views, it has quite a gruesome past.

In the early days hardened criminals were unloaded at this pier to be incarcerated at the BC Penitentiary. 'The Pen' was operated for over 100 years before it was shut down for good and converted into office space.

So, all in all it wasn't really the Bronx, and there wasn't much of a rumble either. However, for the Jackie Chan fans amongst you, the martial arts movie of the same title was partly filmed here, as Front Street provided a slight resemblance to New York's infamous area.

I admit at another time but Sunday mornings I would not have been comfortable stopping here. It looked sketchy enough to me... ;-)

The Ninth Month

2011-11-05T22:11:00.002-06:00

If it weren't for one smart Italian who drafted the Gregorian Calendar in the 15th century, November would still be the ninth month by Roman calculation. Not that it would change a thing in weather though.

The nights bring frost, the mornings are cold and damp and often foggy, and even with the sun shining the temperatures only make it randomly beyond 5C (41F) these days.

With the spousal unit back in town we took one of the last opportunities to ride together this year. Bella didn't get a lot of exercise lately, but she started without hesitation and was eager to get on the road.

The cold temperatures changed the colours of the cranberry shrubs. A lovely contrast in the otherwise bleak harvested fields.

I had my camera resting in the GPS cradle, and wondered what it might look like when I would take a picture out of that perspective while riding. Here's the result:

We rode out to Golden Ears Provincial Park and stopped at Alouette Lake for a stroll. (Alouette is French for lark, but Lark Lake would have sounded less eloquent.)

This time of the year the park is nearly abandoned. Not many people seem to hang out when the season for boating, swimming and other water sports is over.

Occasionally we had deer crossing our path, but that wasn't the only lingering danger in this area, where temperatures could easily drop a few degrees due to altitude and shadowy forests.

Black ice warning signs were all over the place. Besides a pile of wet leaves yet another menace a two-wheeled traveler has to watch out for on the road this time of the year.

It was about 4PM when the sun light faded and we decided to move homewards, with fingers cold, and body craving for a cup of tea in front of the fireplace.

How many days will we have left to scoot around? Soon the trees will have shed their colourful dresses.

And the warning signs for slippery conditions and black ice will have to be taken very seriously.

But until then we will take any opportunity to stretch out the riding season and let it roll.

Retrospect and Prospect

2011-11-03T11:11:00.000-06:00

My bikes from 1992 to 1998.
Brand Hopping: BMW, Yamaha, Honda, Suzuki, Vespa

Motorcycle riding re-visited. My bikes from 2009 onwards:
Rover and Paolo
Swing, Ladyhawk and Nella

What's coming next?
A Nightrod? Back to GS650?
A big fat R1200RT? A nimble Bonnie?
Or the Triumph Explorer?

Or something completely different?

The money tree is planted.
Alas, I am not known for my green thumb.

Long ago, in a galaxy far, far away

2011-10-30T17:27:00.010-06:00

The weather is crappy, it rains, clouds hanging low, the world has faded to grey. I do (long overdue) filing. I am reasonably bored. While flicking through the papers in the binder I came across an old invoice dated April 27, 1992.

It was the final bill from the driving school where I took my riding lessons. Motorcycle riding lessons are mandatory to obtain a drivers license in Germany, and don't come cheap. Total cost added up to 1,160.77 Deutschmarks, or in Newspeak 593.49 EUR (832.07 CAD).

It was a one-on-one training, just me and the instructor. My first lessons started out in the parking lot, understanding basic functions of the motorcycle, learning to work the clutch, stop and go and slow straight riding.

There was one hour exclusively dedicated to stop and go uphills, left, right turns, and u-turns, and I remember that my clutch hand was sore from constant gear shifting to first and second and back.
Also, there were what felt like never ending hours of riding cone slaloms, circles and figure eights, smooth braking and accelerating.

After obtaining the basic skill set I was released into the real world of traffic, riding in front of the instructor who was giving directions over such a bad communication system, that most of his instructions became pure guess work and monitoring his indicator lights in my mirrors became a routine.

I got exposed to riding under different weather conditions (it rained often and a lot, and snowed once), as well as different light conditions from bright shiny daylight to pitch black night.

There was riding in heavy rush-hour traffic in the city as well as relaxed twisting and turning overland. Shooting down the autobahn in high speed and slow meandering along single lanes. All in all about 14 hours of intense mental and practical training, building up riding routines and muscle memory while cursing the instructor, the weather and the heavy clutch pull of the friggin' bike.

My training wheels: Kawasaki Eliminator ZL400.

Putting the invoice back in the binder I can't help but smile at myself upon this memory: I have never ridden a Kawasaki ever again since...

Vespa Melancholie

2011-10-25T23:41:00.003-06:00

VESPA GERMANY from STYLE43 on Vimeo.

Filmed in Cologne, Germany, my old battlegrounds.

Water rattling by

2011-10-23T16:05:00.003-06:00

I had watched the Rugby finals (Congrats to the Kiwis, the All Blacks scraped through...), and got to bed by 3AM, hence had a bit of a late start into the morning.

The world was still covered in a white blanket west-coast style, a.k.a. fog but by the time I had my cup of tea and was ready for the road the mist was almost gone, and a very welcome face appeared in the sky: Good morning Sunshine, the Earth says hello!

After pondering a bit which bike to take (decisions, decisions...) I thought it was nice to take out Paolo for a change, because as my working horse, he didn't get much sight-seeing lately, and not much fair weather riding either.

It was colder than expected, only 6C (43F) but my Olympia jacket and the Joe Rocket pants did well.

I was on my way to Minnekhada Regional Park to go for a quick walk around in the bogs, when I spotted some splashing in a nearby otherwise unassuming creek. As it also seemed a good photo op I stopped, and watched some of Mother Nature's mysteries happen right in front of me.

The water was boiling with salmon struggling to swim up the shallow waters, thrashing their way upstream to their spawning grounds.

There was a smell of decay in the air from the fish that only made it this far. I wonder how they find their way back. Do they follow a special homing beacon? During their cumbersome journey swimming against the water current, the fish encounter all kind of predators and have to overcome shallow waters, rocks, and waterfalls. They end up at their spawning grounds battered and bruised, only to propagate and die. And all this on an empty stomach. Where is the fun in that?

Moving on to Minnekhada the road narrows to a single lane. It is always fun to watch two oncoming cagers struggling to pass each other. Two motorcycles wouldn't even have to slow down for this ;-)
The word Minnekhada derives from the Sioux word for 'rattling waters', a purling and babbling noise present in the area from nearby creeks, rivers and streams.

View from my cockpit.

Paolo seemed to enjoy the outing as much as I did, and the Vespa chugged along effortlessly. Temperatures became more bearable now as the thermometer hit the low teens (>51F).

I left the bike (can you spot it in the picture below?) behind, and hiked a few hundred meters into the park. There were bear warning signs around (with all the salmon at paw's reach, who's to blame them).

The view opened up to overlooking the marshlands. It was perfectly calm and I could listen to the rustling sound of the wind in the tree tops. What a great morning.

Mom, where do Vespas come from?

2011-10-21T08:47:00.003-06:00

What you've always wanted to know but never dared to ask.

How It's Made from Vespa USA on Vimeo.

The Dark Side

2011-10-20T09:02:00.003-06:00

Now with days getting shorter there is no avoidance of riding after nightfall. If you think that two-wheelers are getting overlooked in bright shiny daylight... then add some rain or fog to the mix (something happening quite regularly in this vicinity), and you will be completely invisible to others.

In riding school they told us not to out-ride our head-light. With that in mind I usually ride slower after dark, I still keep up with the traffic flow but limit my maneuvers, I reduce overtaking other vehicles, and wear my hi-viz gear all the time.

My commute is mostly on well-lit city streets, so there is still a good chance to notice and avoid hitting potholes, jaywalking pedestrians in dark clothing, stray dogs or other road hazards. Yet I don't feel as comfortable.

I still ride, but I don't like a riding in the dark, so when I expect to work late, I chose to rather commute by car.

Before the wet stuff cometh

2011-10-17T09:23:00.002-06:00

As the spousal unit and I had to work during the Canadian Thanksgiving, we took Friday off in lieu and spent a long relaxing weekend in Kelowna, in the Okanagan Valley, South Central British Columbia. Although fairly close to home we hadn't been here in years.

We drove the slow route along Crowsnest Highway, and enjoyed the sunshine, with temperatures in the high teens (>60F) we wouldn't have to worry about the 'carry chains beyond this point' signs just yet.

Hope Slide, the largest ever recorded landslide in Canada

Somewhere past Princeton

Changing colours

Thompson-Okanagan Valley

We had booked ourselves a roomy suite in a nice waterfront resort overlooking the Okanagan Lake. At the Bonfire restaurant we enjoyed salad and lasagne with a great local wine (a Quails' Gate Chasselas). Sorry, no food porn, too hungry...

A room with a view: Sunrise at the lake

The Okanagan is famous for its orchards and vineyards, and offers year round outdoor activities. Lazy as we are we didn't come for the latter, but we surely did get our taste of various wines, and good food.

Excellent breakfast at the Bohemian Cafe

The chef's special: Cinnamon Crepes filled with pineapple and organic maple syrup yogurt. fresh fuit, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice and a London Fog (breakfast tea with foamed milk).

Reflections

Kettle River

We strolled around in the Kettle River Provincial Park, following an old railway track which was converted to a hiking/cycling path.

Nobody around to do it for us, so we had to do it ourselves...

Fall colours galore. Mostly yellowish, still... it makes a nice contrast against the blue skies.

At one of the countless fruit stands in the area we discovered pumpkins and squash in various sizes, shapes and colours, and multi-coloured corn.

The culinary highlight of our little sojourn was the Indian Nepalese Restaurant Everest in West Kelowna, located in a low-key building, equipped with sparse interior. The food however was delicious.

I picked a Vegetarian three-piece-dinner with Mutter Paneer, Aloo Gobi and Eggplant Bharta, while hubby went with butter chicken, lamb curry and chicken tandoori.

Sunday morning we checked out at 8AM and made it home by lunch-time. Note to self: We need to do this more often while the weather plays along.

California's Wine Country

2011-10-16T04:48:00.001-06:00

Napa Valley or Sonoma Valley is not Tuscany or the Provence, and doesn't thrive to be, but it is certainly a worthy alternative for those who crave some Southern European flair every once in a while. Bonus, it is fairly close to our home, and in the same time zone.

There was an abundance of country lanes connecting the wineries (some big names and many small unknown to us), and we had to admit: This is definitely Vespa territory.

With temperatures in the twenties (70F) we rolled down the windows, wishing we had at least a convertible.

It was harvest time, and big trucks were racing between the vineyards and factory. We stayed out of their way by continuing to use the tiniest roads we could find on the map, and were rewarded with ever so beautiful vistas.

The grapes are ripe, and waiting to be harvested. By the way, they tasted delicious.

Especially this stretch of road with the old moss covered stone wall reminded us of Southern France. There was no sound except for the chirp of the crickets.

Needless to say that this won't be our last visit. There are so many little roads to explore (and wines to taste) that one could easily spend a week in the area to discover (or to get drunk...).

Speaking of... (discovering!). We visited Chateau Montelena, a winery that had a story to tell which was worth making a movie of. Actually, the movie does already exist: Bottle Shock with Alan Rickman.

The tale is said to be based on a true story where a Californian wine for the first time won a blind tasting contest in Paris back in the 70's when French wines were regarded as the world's best wines, and Europe would turn up their nose at American products. California wines earned a lot more attention since, and today many regarded and excellent wines are being produced in the area.

We watched harvesters sorting out the grapes. They didn't notice us and were busy with what they were doing.

Where is the romantic flair of wine cellars? Not oak but metal seems to determine the storage facility for wines.

I rather prefer the barrels. They look so much more picturesque than metal bins.

Alas, this is the last entry of our journey. The touristic part is over, but we had the pleasure to stay another two nights with our friends Guido and Andrea at their house, to catch up, enjoy their garden, admire their ever growing motorcycle fleet and relax (for a change).

Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment.

Highway 1 ('Nuff Said!)

2011-10-15T04:27:00.000-06:00

You cannot complete traveling California without taking Scenic Highway 1. We left quite early to beat traffic, as this road is quite popular with the locals, too.

Not much going on at Alice's Restaurant at that time of the day or so it seems. We were curious about this gathering spot for motorcyclists. The place is a Mecca for burgers, but if you are looking for good coffee, you better find a Starbucks.

We spotted a lot more two-wheelers in this part of the country than elsewhere. And for the first time around, a maxi scooter. We followed the Burgman for a while, and the spousal unit was seriously considering an upgrade...

Crossing Golden Gate Bridge is mandatory. It cost a fee to get into San Francisco, however we didn't have to pay going North.

A forest fire obstructed the view of the otherwise clear day. We have seen this architectural beauty often enough, have crossed it on foot, by bicycle and by car, so we were not too disappointed that we didn't get a perfect photo op.

North of San Francisco the real beauty of Highway 1 begins. The roads are as twisty as hell, and my motorcycle heart was beating fast with desire to ride those turns.

Oops! Trouble? We didn't too anything wrong... We? Speeding? I am sure we didn't do anything unlawful, Officer.

The patrol car was actually holding up traffic for a complete different reason. Here's the scenery:

A film crew was on location to shoot a commercial for a new Porsche. Unfortunately they had it covered and hidden from curious onlookers before opening up the road again. Hence we didn't even get a glimpse of the car. We will have to look out for the commercial though.

The North stretch of California Highway one is SCENIC in capital letters. Much better than the Southern part and less crowded.

The vistas were spectacular, and we were glad that the fog hadn't kicked in yet.

We shouldn't have mention the word 'fog'. Because there it was.

And kept crawling over the hills like a predatory beast.

At the end of our day we were blessed with a pristine sunset in Mendocino.

The misty air made the evening light special. We went to a little food joint in Mendocino, got stuffed, and called it a day. Forgot the name of the place. It wasn't worth mentioning.

Worth noticing however is the breakfast place Eggheads in Fort Bragg. It had a Wizard of Oz themed menu (such as Dorothy's Revenge, Red Shoes Scramble or Lions Mighty), and was probably the best breakfast (crepes and heavenly waffles with fresh hand-cut fruit) we had on our whole trip through six states.

Stripped to the Bone

2011-10-14T20:52:00.003-06:00

It was well about time to uncage Rover. Any concerns about the bike not firing up after being parked for more than four weeks were unfounded. One push and Rover welcomed me with his deep grumble.

As I don't intend to go on major road trips in the next few months I stripped the bike off the sissy bar, tank bag and the windshield, and swapped back to the solo seat.

I like the unobstructed view over the handle bar

and find that a Sportster looks best raw and bare.

The temperatures were in in the low 10C (50F), there was a chill in the air.

Fall, my favourite season.

Although not as spectacular as the Fall foliage in the East, we will get our share of changing colours.

Maybe our Autumn will be reasonably dry and offer some more outings before having to wrap up the Sportster season for this year (not the Vespa season though... Paolo will go all year round.)

Fire and Water

2011-10-12T21:53:00.004-06:00

We entered the land of the giants: Sequoia National Park, the often neglected neighbor of Yosemite. It was nice and wonderfully... void of people.

How can you not become a tree-hugger in front of such beauty? Over 800 year old and going (standing) strong.

Suddenly there was the smell of fire in the air, and we were surrounded by smoke. Not a comfortable feeling I can tell you.

And here are the culprits: Firemen as fire-starters. They use the fire to clear the ground which helps the new vegetation grow.

As the smoke pollutes the air, and air quality is regularly watched, managed wildfires cannot be conducted at all times, but they are important for the health and growth of the forest.

The twisties in the area were fantastic, and would have been perfect for motorcycle riding. Maybe another time. Back down in the valley we chose the slab to cross quickly central California. There wasn't much of interest, except for the prevalent alarming water shortage. The land looked in parts like a dust bowl.

Finally we made to to the westernmost point of our journey. The Pacific Ocean.

Some lazy beach bums

The long way to the water

I could watch them all day, they are so funny.

Our day ended in Morro Bay, a small seaside town.

The most interesting feature here is Morrow Rock, an almost 600ft high volcanic plug (like the Lion Rock at Piha Beach in New Zealand, or Devil's Tower in Wyoming).

We were in the mood for seafood and followed the recommendation of a local.

The Outrigger is a reasonably priced fish restaurant where we were seated at a table with an ocean view. I had some awesome clam chowder (no pic as I was too hungry), and giant shrimps with a Mexican twist: drowned in Tequila.

Yum!

Wet-Picking

2011-10-11T20:53:00.002-06:00

Last Sunday: The weather was too good to stay at home, so we were taking the Vespa's out for a spin, and came by a pond that wasn't there before, with lots of red stuff in it.

Of course, it is cranberry harvest time. The farmland in the Pitt Meadows wetlands are surrounded by dykes. When the fruit is ripe, the fields gets flooded, and special picking machines comb the vines.

The berries float to the surface, are being corralled by harvesters on to a conveyor belt into a truck, and transported to a produce plant where they will be processed to juice, jam, sauce, dried or become other parts of the food chain. I love everything cranberry!

The weather is brilliant, not too cold, and we enjoy our little trip. Fall is definitely my favourite time of the year. Less traffic, with the fair weather riders and weekend warriors gone, their vehicles probably already mothballed.

It is that time of the year when oncoming riders no matter what marque or creed, will be even waving at two Vespa enthusiasts ;-)

Gotta love this place. Only twenty minutes from home...

Wish you were here

2011-10-10T06:22:00.021-06:00

Some might remember the 1975 released Pink Floyd album of the same name.

The back of the record cover showed a diver at Mono Lake, a saline lake that hasn't got an outlet and hence is very... salty. It feels soapy to the touch and tasts salty and bitter, as per first hand experience.

One of the fun facts of this waters is the presence of an 'alien species' called GFAJ-1, a bacterium that seems to able to substitute phosphorus (one of the six life elements: carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus) with arsenic to grow. Cool, if you ask me.

Those Tufa sculptures were created by underwater springs rich in calcium mixing with the carbonates in the lake water.

Those towers grow exclusively underwater, hence the now landlocked formations were once below sea level.

Those eerie things make for fantastic motives. And once again the weather played along on cue.

Today the lake is being kept at a constant water level to ensure protection and survival of the local wildlife species, mainly birds.

A boardwalk and a path leads through the strange landscape, with signs explaining the geology and biology of this place, information which I thankfully absorbed.

What a wonderful world we live in. We were glad to have discovered this roadside attraction on our way to Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite Nationalpark is yet again different from all we have seen before.

We climb higher and higher to cross over Tioga Pass at the elevation of 9945 ft.

It was a tad bit nippy but dry. We learned that only one week later the pass got closed due to snowfall. But we were lucky once again.

Although adjacent to Long Valley, nature's architects preferred water and ice to shape this wonder.

Unfortunately the air was quite hazy due to managed wildfires.

Those granite sculptures look marvelous, but we had a hard time to get a prime spot to snap a few pictures.

Although it doesn't look like it, the park was packed with people, climbers, hikers, and drive-thru tourists like us. Everybody wanted to have a piece of this fairly accessible park.

Hence we decided to move on, anticipating that there wouldn't be any affordable accommodation close by anyway, and had this day end at a reasonably priced hotel in Fresno.

This is a location one has to re-visit off season for sure, that is if such a thing exist here.

No food pictures as we were just having dinner at Chili's, hence nothing to write home about.

From Dust Bowl to Whirlpool

2011-10-10T01:35:00.004-06:00

This day's journey would get us down to below sea level, and back to an elevation of almost 8,000ft.

The last resort before the desert: A gas station, a general store, a pub, and please notice the establishment in the background... We refilled gas and stocked up on water supplies, after all we were about to enter one of the most dangerous places on the Earth... or so we thought.

Wait a minute... Aliens?

Prepared for the worst we entered Death Valley National Park.

It went downhill for a long while until we reached sea level.

The temperatures hit 108F.

We were amazed how quiet it was.

There wasn't even a breeze stirring up the scarce vegetation.

What a strange place.

As we continued we watched the clouds building up.

You got to be kidding me. Of all places... it rained in the desert.

Just a few drops but maybe just enough to keep plant life going.

An endless blacktop and a vast horizon. Just the way I like it.

As we moved on to this day's destination Mammoth Lakes we constantly gained elevation again, the vegetation became richer, and the temperatures were cut in half.

The scenic basin of Long Valley is a restless caldera, and as such prone to earthquakes and volcanic activities. The hobby geologist in me became excited and I proudly pointed out the rims to my hubby, explained where the lava flow went, and that there is likely geothermal activity in the area. I digress.

At Mammoth lakes they had a little Oktoberfest going, with Blasmusik (oompahpah!), German beer and bratwurst. Guess what we had for dinner...

Another fantastic day came to an end. And we had the pool and the Jacuzzi at the Juniper Springs Resort all to ourselves (maybe because it was a bit nippy... but hey, aren't we Canadians?)

Life is good!

Absolutely nothing happened in Vegas, really!

2011-10-09T00:01:00.009-06:00

Time flies by when you're having fun. A week later we were headed towards Las Vegas again, as we had planned to drive through Death Valley, and needed an overnighter in between. This time we had booked a hotel at the strip to be able to explore Sin City on foot.

With Vegas it's a bit like with New York, either you love the buzz or you hate it. We love New York, but Vegas? Not so much. We couldn't find a good reason to drink us into a coma, something that people seem to find very intriguing when visiting the City of Sin. Besides, we don't gamble, and we are not interested in obtaining STD's of any kind. This has nothing to do with any religious beliefs, we are just not wired that way. Also, we had visited places like Venice, the Eiffel Tower and The Big Apple in real before, so the miniature copies didn't impress us much.

OK, it wasn't that bad ;-) The hotel had a laundry and a great pool area. So we made good use of both.

Some of the most recent architecture is quite beautiful.

Well, we could have visited a show, but for reasons unbeknownst to me the spousal unit couldn't agree with this one.

We slowly trotted down the most important 4.4 miles of the strip.

Although fairly old (for Las Vegas standards) the Bellagio with its fountains is a real eye catcher.

Fake ahoy!

Nothing beats the real thing!

Arriving at the other end of the strip with the 'blue hour' beginning.

Turn on the lights!

The Whynn and the Encore.

And there will be singing gondolieri.

The long walk made us hungry and we were in the mood for pub grub.

Taxi?

I should have known better than ordering a salad here. It was buried in cheese.

After spending five hours on the strip, we found that was enough for a lifetime. Now we were looking forward to the next highlight of our journey: Death Valley.

Got Sidetracked

2011-10-08T12:55:00.002-06:00

We had planned do drive up to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon but we got stuck (in a good way) in and around Page. There wasn't a specific reason to visit Page, other than grab a bite to eat and refuel the car but we were fascinated by the area. This city was founded in the late Fifties to provide housing for the construction workers during building of the Glen Canyon dam, which formed Lake Powell, and from then became the gateway of the wonderful Glen Canyon National Recreational Area.

Nice how the sign harmonizes with the background.

Parking was free (!). The dam visitor center was free (!) and provided excellent documentation about the construction, as well as as a geological exhibition.

Looks like Planet of the Apes all over again.

Let's go to the beach!

The water was crystal clear, and warm. This is how Grand Canyon would have looked like if flooded.

The car was reasonable challenged with the deep sand, and we almost got stuck. Oh, did we miss our four-wheel drive on that terrain. we would have had endless fun in the dunes.

Endless roads, no traffic, and scorching heat. Not a good place to have a breakdown.

The Colorado River (below dam) at Marble Canyon

At Cliff Dwellers

Not sure if I would want to live in a house that is part of a rock. On the other hand... I live in a concrete highrise building, so that would be something different.

Kudos to the riders, they were in ATGATT despite the heat.

Needless to say we never made it to the North Rim. Sometimes indeed the reward is in the journey, and not the destination.

The Mighty Gorge

2011-10-07T19:46:00.003-06:00

The Grand Canyon, a UNESCO world heritage. What is left to say about "one of the Earth's greatest ongoing geological spectacles"? Actually, overpriced hotels, crowded parking lots and too many people come to mind. It is the third time visiting for me, and if it weren't for the spousal unit I would have rather gone somewhere more peaceful. The scenery at the South Rim is spectacular nevertheless and usually a brisk ten minute walk will separate you quickly from the tourist hoards. I will let pictures do the talk.

I am sorry but after a while they look all somewhat the same. Sometimes photos can't do the live action justice.

I have to admit that we were really lucky with the weather conditions. It was afternoon and we still got a crisp view. No haze, and the clouds made it picture perfect.

North Rim at the end of the rainbow.

Golden sunset.

What goes down, must come up: 6:30 AM sunrise at the rim (we were the only people there...).

Hence the somewhat crappy self portrait.

The air is not as clear as the day before, but it looks like another gorgeous day at the gorge.

You Can Drive...

2011-10-05T21:16:00.002-06:00

... a mile a minute ...

... but there is no ...

... future in it.

WHAT? Turn around, let's read that again.

On a stretch of Route 66 we found a revival of the billboard campain by Burma-Shave, and we learned that their weird roadside verses boosted sales and entertained countless motorists over decades.

Another one:

He tried to cross
As fast train neared
Death didn't draft him,
He volunteered

Burma-Shave

This one I like:

Car in ditch
Driver in tree
Moon was full
And so was he
Burma-Shave

Do it yourself:

Near Seligman we found

a revival of sort

little roadside verses

for sales to support
Burma-Shave

Now, enough with the commercials, and back to the program. Route 66 is fighting hard for survival. Seligman is one of the towns which try to keep the spirit of the Motherroad alive. We had planned on getting lunch here, but after we checked the menu of the local dive called Road-Kill we weren't hungry anymore...

On a previous stretch we drove through Holbrook to see that the Wigwam Motel is still alive and kicking. On my first journey on Route 66 I had booked a night in one of the concrete First Nations habitats. It was cheap, and old, and cold, and loud with freight trains going by all night, such great memories.

Everybody should travel the Route 66 at least once in their life, and keep the legend alive!

Because otherwise there won't be much left of it as seen here at the Twin Arrows Trading Post.

We had a reasonable short trip ahead of us today, and relaxed in Sedona, a lovely little city in the heart of Red Rock Country.

Another biker coming in the way of a good snapshot... not that I mind.

Little discoveries during window shopping:

What a great area, we love it here. Thanks to the lovely couple we met in the spa at the hotel in Moab who recommended the place.

And we had wonderful Mediterranean style DIY food tonight, crowned by wine from Arizona.

I tell you, life is so good!

Arching four Corners was quite a Stretch

2011-10-04T20:00:00.009-06:00

Our personal favourite national park out of the nine we had the chance to get a foot in was definitely the Arches.

The early light was perfect, the morning temperatures still bearable, and so we gathered all our enthusiasm (not a morning person per say...) , and hiked to the Delicate Arch view point. Our legs felt like filled with lead, and we quickly became short of breath. We blamed it on the altitude, and lack of coffeine, not on our fitness. Again it was well worth the effort as we had nature's wonders all to ourselves.

As we had spent more time than planned at Arches, we could only make it a quick excursion to get a glimpse of the most accessible area of Canyonlands. Moab, we will return one day!

Although running behind already we made a detour through Monument Valley, which was nice but after all the previous impressions we felt a bit jaded.

Another Harley rider caught in the middle of the scenery... happened quite a bit while taking pictures.

As we were pretty close to Four Corners, what's another stretch of a couple of 100 miles, eh?

There we met a group of Dutch tourists on... bikes.

Now, been there, done that, moving on...

We went through the Southwest corner of Colorado, only because it was there... and didn't expect that this state would actually look like this:

Not much different from New Mexico:

Dead tired from today's impressions we picked one of the usual suspects of hotel chains in Farmington, New Mexico and called it a day.

So far it has been a hell of a trip!

A Cave without Ceiling, Giant Staircases, and a Wrinkle in the Earth Crust

2011-10-03T20:44:00.002-06:00

At the break of dawn we were on the road again hoping to make it just in time for sun rise at Bryce Canyon. This national park is highly frequented by busloads of tourists hence an early visit is recommended.

We entered the park before the toll booth opened and had the rim road almost for ourselves, a little later than anticipated but got some spectacular vistas nevertheless.

There are countless view points and we took the time to stop at each to take pictures.

The natural sandstone columns look indeed like stalagmites in a cave, only that someone removed the ceiling.

Just in time with the crowds arriving we moved on and took scenic highway 12 through Escalante, the Grand Staircase National Monument. Besides this area being a geologist's wet dream featuring canyons, cliffs and plateaus and breathtaking vistas in all colours of the Earth, it was obviously a bit off the beaten track, and also sparsely populated, so we had it all to ourselves.

The rim road, the road only as wide as the rim is...

Here we discovered the best coffee of the trip at Kiva's Koffeehouse...

and what a vista!

We stopped for a picnic break at the Petrified Forest state park and had to clean up the mess first ;-)

A petrified tree trunk

Two tiny scooters hiding in the shadow of a trailer, reminding me of mother hen and little chicken.

The next attraction was the scenic route through Capitol Reef National Park, a 100 miles long 'warp in the Earth crust' defined by a geological form called waterpocket fold. More rock porn for the inclined amateur geologist.

We arrived late in Moab, and asked for a good Italian restaurant. We should have known better than to follow the recommendation that the guy at the reception provided us with. He looked more than a gourmand than a gourmet, hence the pizza was everything but Italian, rather a huge cheese pie. We gave up and boxed the rest, which was another two meals worth, and fell instantly into a food coma.

Water in the Desert, a Drive-thru Canyon and Little Hollywood

2011-10-02T14:00:00.004-06:00

We arrived at Las Vegas Airport Friday, the 16th of September, only to pick up the rental car and settled in a small hotel far away from the strip to get an early morning start the next day.

Our mode of transport was a Chevrolet Malibu of golden colour, and we wondered if cars could get any uglier than this. We couldn't imagine that somebody your ever call this vehicle their 'dream car'. However, it was a 2011 model and so we wouldn't have to worry about it. Indeed the car didn't fail us on our journey, and was reasonably fuel efficient.

Hoover Dam, our first destination turned out to be a little disappointing, smelling of tourist trap with its parking fees. Hence we drove to the other end of the dam to park free, and got an even better view.

The water levels looked alarmingly low, and we wondered why there were no water restrictions in Las Vegas and surroundings.

At the toll booth of Lake Mead Recreational Area we purchased the annual America-the-beautiful pass which would give us easy access to all national parks and federal recreation lands everywhere in the country. For 80 bucks we found it was money well spent.

Lake Mead had an eery atmosphere, all this water, and yet no life, almost no green, and absolute silence. The area reminded us very much of the movie set of The Planet of the Apes (1968).

We followed the lake shore drive and were fascinated by the contrast of turquoise waters, white sands, black mountains and red cliffs.

Highlight of the day became the drive through Zion National Park. It was a busy Saturday afternoon, and we had to skip the visit at the visitor center due to lack of parking space, but the views were spectacular.

A few turns later we had left the crowds behind and were on our own.

We were marveling at the colour contrast. A feast for the eyes. We thought it couldn't get better than this...

Our stop over for the night was the famous (but internet-less) Parry Lodge in Kanab, a hotel, formerly used as base camp for wild west movies featuring stars like John Wayne, Clint Eastwood and many more.

In Calvin T's Saloon we succumbed to excellent rustic food such as pulled pork and ribs with beer before we called it a night.

Last but not least throwing in some motorcycle content: We have seen lots of helmet-less ridden Harleys, a few Beemers equipped for world travel with riders geared up to the max, a handful crotch rocket riders frustrated with enforced speed limits, and one well used Triumph Bonneville.

Dare to comment...

Wanderlust

2011-10-01T21:39:00.041-06:00

Road trip, baby! said the spousal unit,

and off we went to Wonderland.

from Sep 16 to Oct 1
14 days

7,000 km (4,400 mi.)

6 states

9 national parks

1,500 pictures
10 minutes of rain (in Death Valley no less)

and unlimited fun

Roadside Attractions:

Lake Mead and Hoover Dam

Zion NP

Bryce NP

Capitol Reef NP

Arches NP

Canyonlands NP

Monument Valley

Four Corners

Grand Canyon NP

Lake Powell and Glen Canyon Dam

Route 66

Las Vegas

Death Valley NP

Mono Lake

Yosemite NP

Sequoia NP

Napa and Sonoma Valley

Highway 1

Harvest Moon

2011-09-12T01:00:00.003-06:00

There's a full moon risin'

Let's go dancin' in the light

We know where's the music's playin'

Let's go out and feel the night

(Harvest Moon - Lyrics by Neil Young)

Twist 'n Go!

2011-09-10T22:27:00.004-06:00

Last Friday I celebrated a new milestone: 5,000 kms on my 2006 VESPA GT200 Granturismo Daring Plum a.k.a. Paolo, previously known as "Agnes' Bike".

Here's my take on this cool and stylish two wheeled vehicle. For all who expect an expert's opinion... please don't. An objective review on a piece you love is next to impossible.

As often with commuter vehicles the Vespa came with a few battle scars on the right side as a result of a reckless driver backing into the scooter and kicking it over. The cager had fled the scene, and the previous owner didn't have the budget to get the damage fixed. As a result I got a reasonably good deal on it because the bike was otherwise in good shape, and just serviced by the best scooter dealer in town.

I have owned this scooter for five months now, and I am extremely happy with it, rain or shine.

A 60's Advertisement in a US magazine with lots of text...

People could actually read back in the days?

This over 40 years old ad nails it for me. Aside from trips to the airports to drop off or pick up the spousal unit I haven't used our car much. The scooter serves all my needs, handles well, is comfortable, handsome looking, reliable, and economic. My weekly commuter distance is about 200 km, which means I have to refuel for 10 bucks (approx. 7,5 liters) once a week. My fuel bill sums up to 40 bucks a month, what's not to love?

I named it Paolo (the little one), as it is the smallest bike in my two-wheeled family. Force of habit as well as blind dedication made me farkle up the scooter regardless of its scars.
I added a fly screen, put my GPS ram mount on the mirror, installed a power plug, mounted a rear rack for my luggage roll bag, and got a side stand. Occasionally the bike would feature a front rack but as it is causing unwanted wobbles, it hasn't been used very often. Maybe I am going to re-sell this farkle.

No doubt 200cc are more than enough to scoot around in town or for daily commute. I am also not shy to take major roads, as the Vespa can keep up easily with highway speed, and we even do 'International' travels.
Endurance for (wo)man and machine had been tested on our epic trip through Northern Washington, and Paolo performed extremely well. No flaws, no complains, it rolled and rolled.

Recently I had the scooter serviced again, fluids exchanged, and a new rear tire (Pirelli) installed. Otherwise it didn't need anything but a full tank of gas and continued exercise. The motto being: I ride daily, so I need no stinkin' battery tender (not that I could install one in the parkade anyway...).

Other motorcycles seem to come and go in my life, and I have yet to find the perfect keeper. I will probably continue to shop around for conventional bikes until I found my perfect idol. How different is two-wheeled life with scooters. I don't want anything else but my Paolo.

One day I will have the paint and dents fixed, or maybe have it re-painted all-together. The "Daring Plum" is a colour I had to get used to and I don't mind it, my favourite colour however would be "Giallo Arancio":

Giallo Arancio dal 1968 al 1969

MaxMeyer

1,298,2916

Time (and budget) will tell. Until then I hope that we will have many more miles (and smiles) together.

Jazz on the Mountain

2011-09-05T15:40:00.003-06:00

A long weekend ahead, an excellent weather forecast, and a fistful of dollars left over in the travel budget are the best ingredients for a last minute weekend getaway.

Both being huge fans of jazz music (classic, funk, fusion, basically everything but free-style) we decided to spend the weekend in Whistler and attend the newest Jazz Festival, a three-day open air event with free (and some ticketed) concerts.

Originally we had planned to travel by Vespas but hubby's shoulder was acting up again, so he preferred the car. And knowing well that I would be grumpy all weekend if I didn't get my two-wheeled fix, the best husband of all let me lead the way by Sportster.

Traffic up to Whistler was an ordeal, cagers everywhere, going 70 km/h where signs allowed to go 90 km/h, slowing down to snail speed before every turn, and panic brake maneuvers before merging lanes. Some people simply shouldn't be on the road!

Lots of riders were on the road as well. I gave up on waving at all of them, my hand was getting tired...

We had made reservations at the Aava, a newer, reasonably priced, clean and quiet contemporary hotel, located on the edge of Whistler town site. The room was already available, and we could move in early after we parked our vehicles safely underground.

After settling in we explored the pedestrian zone in order to get a decent food fix. The ride in fresh mountain air had made me hungry, and I was in the mood for Italian, which means authentic cuisine, and not Spaghetti Factory stuff.

The husband knew where to get a fix for my craving, and guided me straight to Il Caminetto Di'Umberto, probably the best Italian restaurant in town.

We had excellent halibut and veal parmigiana, plus half a liter of white wine. After that we were not only filled up but also reasonably tipsy (not used to alcohol...), and staggered back to the hotel to sleep off our inebriation.

Somebody's having fun!

Pretty girl!

Yours truly with helmet hair.

The rest of our time was spent on listening to all varieties of jazz music, but the highlight was certainly Spyro Gyra, an American Jazz fusion band, originally formed in the 70's, and today better than ever. The stage was state-of-the-art and the sound (especially given it was open air) was awesome, a real treat for the ears.

Monday morning we beat traffic by heading home early. We hit the road by 8AM, and I was thankful for my Olympia jacket with the inner liner, and my leather pants, because is was friggin' cold! Two and a half hours, 150km and a few foto ops later we arrived back home. It was a smooth ride sans traffic, with clear skies and crisp air (and did I mention cold?).

All in all a wonderful weekend getaway.

Life is good!

Who says Summer is over?

2011-09-03T16:36:00.000-06:00

Sun and summer temperatures all week, now that's the way I like it!

See you on the road!

Yours truly.

Having a Bad Day

2011-09-01T21:39:00.004-06:00

The day sucked already because I had a long workday ahead of me. I woke up at the break of dawn, headed to the office, worked through lunch, and left at 6:30PM. Blech!

What made today a terribly bad day was the fact that I saw a horrible motorcycle accident (at Gaglardi Way / Cariboo Road - Bob will know...) on my way home. Ambulance was already gone but the bike looked badly mangled. Then another traffic jam, and another accident close to home involving a public transit bus.

And then this: As I enter the third level of the parkade where my bikes live...

Everything looks normal, or does it?

Have a closer look:

Can you see it now?

From the other side:

A wire rope hanging down at level with my throat while I was riding down the ramp. If I hadn't seen it, it could have thrown me of the scooter, or strangled! What are people thinking? Was it somebody who hates riders? Or pure and simple stupidity? The husband immediately called the strata emergency services to report this. I am still upset about what could have happened...

This day really sucked all over! I hope that the people involved in the previously mentioned accidents are somewhat o.k. I will update if I can find out more. Having a cup of tea now and resting on my sofa cuddled in a blanket.

Hubby went down again to check. The issue has already been taken care of before somebody was seriously hurt. But I am still upset.

A Thousand Splendid Miles

2011-08-31T20:30:00.002-06:00

The bike: 2008 Harley Davidson XL883 Sportster, a.k.a. Rover
The mods: Fork mounted front indicators
The upgrades: Sundowner seat, quick-release sissy bar with back rest, detachable windshield
What else: Engine guards added at day of purchase

The verdict:
I wanted a reasonably priced newer two+ cylinder motorcycle, with more power, easy to handle, no chain-drive for a change, and I wanted a bike with a classic look. No doubt about it, I got it all in one package with the Harley Davidson Sportster.

As the smallest member of the HD family the Sporty looks like a small bike, but isn’t. I have never owned a bike bigger than 650cc, so a two cylinder 883cc engine feels like plenty of power to me!

The Sporty falls in the category very affordable, I basically swapped the 2008 model against my 2004 F650GS. Compared to other used bikes of three years or older it seems to keep its value pretty well.

The bike has a nice clean finish, and provides the classic look I was looking for in a two-wheeler. I find it nimble, and easy to maneuver, and well balanced at low speed. The 500 lbs give it a lot of stability in cross winds, and add to the rider’s confidence. It is a good feeling that one cannot be thrown that easily into the next ditch (a fear I always had with the F650GS).

The Sportster is an ideal bike for the vertically challenged of either gender.

The clutch is light and easy for small hands to handle, the gear shifting is precise, and the brakes work like a charm although there is no ABS.

My first encounter with the dealership had been an extraordinary positive experience, and needless to say that you can get a load of farkles for said two-wheeler.

Of course there are a aspects that are a bit of an annoyance:
The peanut tank is part of the signature design, however it will only give you a 150 to 180 km (max. 115 mpg) range.

I like the single seat but the stock seat is way too thin, and not made for longer travel comfort. On rough roads the stock shocks are a bit tough, and the bike has next to zero off road capabilities (but really... I don't want to go there anyway.)

Having said that, would I buy one again? Yes, but rather the Super Low with the bigger tank and the higher bars.

Will I stick with the brand? I have to admit that I am hooked right now… Should Triumph ever improve their dealer network and provide 24/7 roadside assistance in North America ask me again, I might falter.

Do I miss my Beemer? Not really. I got a much newer bike that serves all my needs for the same price. Two cylinders are better than one. And honestly, the F650GS is a functional bike, but doesn't do elegant or classic. What I miss are the heated grips, and being able to go 300km on a tank.

Maybe these days I am becoming a cruiser at heart, and not the long-way-round adventure rider, I thought I was. For now I am truly happy with my choice, and might farkle up Rover a bit before I move on to the next level.

On my wish list: Bigger tank, comfy single seat, luggage rack and luggage, better rear shocks, and pull-back handlebars.

Dog Days of Summer

2011-08-28T14:32:00.004-06:00

(Thanks Charlie6 for the inspiring new title)

Now that summer with temperatures way beyond 30C (86F) has finally arrived I find myself declining offers to ride every so often because I simply feel uncomfortable traveling in full gear, and I don't want to risk my skin and bones by riding in less.

A group meet-up would usually gather somewhat between 9 and 10AM on Sundays, and the trip might take between three and five hours, so one will naturally be exposed to the hottest time of the day. Not my favourite, hence I didn't get to ride much except for the daily commute and the occasional evening getaway.

Scootin' with hubby

My preferred summer time riding happens in the early hours. What seems to be a repeat agonizing procedure during workweek has never been an issue on a Sunday: I get up at dawn, and hit the road by sunrise.

By the time I reach my preferred byways the sun has already eaten away most of the fog. The roads are mine! The air is still crisp and fresh, unspoiled by the pollution likely to be caused by later cage traffic.

Not the slightest breeze moves the air, the waters are mirror-like, undisturbed by any rippling. I have been on these roads many times but the ever changing landscape and skies fascinate me anew.

Not long ago these peaks were still sporting their snow caps, but the last remainders have vanished during last few weeks of hot weather.

Somebody's home, and former business, when times were different. Some will see only decay, and today its only potential might be in tearing it down, because it might be beyond repairs.

There is not much available on the net but I found out that the store was built in the Roaring Twenties of the last century to provide groceries and general merchandise to its new residents likely to be working for Imperial Oil on the north shore of Burrard Inlet. It was also used as a local gathering place and community landmark back in the days.

The verandah is no longer usable for any kind of gathering, today it is a danger to the public, and the former view to the inlet is obstructed by overgrowth forest. As I am carefully moving around the steps and floorboards waver and creak, as if they were to give way any second now.

Vandalism had done their share on this piece of history, and the railing was partly kicked apart. I hope that it is not too late and not been given up already, and that it will see a new visionary owner one day that could bring this building back to life.

Back home at 10AM, just in time for breakfast with the spousal unit.

Epic rides on little scooters

2011-08-22T19:11:00.002-06:00

While surfing the net I recently came across some brave scooterista who mastered huge distance travel on their 'underpowered' vehicles.

There is Binh Cheung who rode from California to Alaska (and back)... on a Symba! Jari Tulilahti from Finland scooted all over Europe with his Vespa. And Eric Swanger dared to take his Vespa down the legendary Route 66.

All those tales from the road are admirable and inspiring, and show that it doesn't take a big bike, expensive expedition equipment and a bunch of sponsors to make it happen.

Sunday Ride to Eat and even more Scooter Farkles

2011-08-14T22:53:00.003-06:00

It was a busy and somewhat expensive weekend but included not much riding. Friday afternoon I scootered to Urban Wasp. Last weekend we had brought in the red Vespa to get the back light replaced which broke during our Washington trip. It turned out to be a warranty issue, and got fixed at no cost for us. Also, Bella got a brand-new rear tire mounted, as the other was compromised due to the flat tire experienced during the same travels. So, I picked up the red one, and left the plum (some would say eggplant) one at the dealership as it needed a long overdue service, and a change of the worn out rear tire as well.

Saturday we picked up parts at our warehouse south of the border which we had ordered at Scooterwest. On the way back we stopped at Holeshot Motorsports, and got sucked into their sales event. We acquired new motorcycle boots (Shift Kicker) and gloves (Shift Hybrid X) for the husband, and boots (Icon Tarmac) for myself. By the time we finished shopping, the Vespa dealership called to inform that Paolo was ready for pick-up, and we headed downtown to take him home.

With both scooters back in the parkade further farkelization ensued. Beautiful Bella got a Vespa top case in red, and a power plug in black, while Paolo is now sporting a front rack, a side stand and a power plug (colour: sand), too.

Today we weren't in the mood for a longer trip, and aimed for a ride to eat at Shake'n'Shingle in Maple Ridge, a rustic log cabin offering typical but tasty pub grub. While Mr M. chose a burger, I decided for a crab sandwich with hand-cut fries. It was fresh and good.

The additional weight of the front rack seems to take its toll on the riding stability. Steering feels awkward, and I am still getting used to the different feel of the bike. I am not yet sure if I like it, but I will give it another try.

The shiny red box on Bella is a real eye catcher, and the husband is more than pleased with the scooter's improved appearance.

The power plugs on both vehicles will not only enable us to 'feed' the GPS, but also operate the Stop'n'Go mini air compressor much easier in case of emergency.

I opted for the sand coloured version as it goes well with the seat and roll bag. It was a simple plug and play installation, as the bike had already a prepared harness inside just waiting for hook-up.

One very convenient farkle is the scooter side stand which is much less cumbersome to operate than the center stand, especially for quick photo ops. I adopted the idea from Sergei's blog (Brilliant pictures by the way, please look for yourselves.), who had hurt his foot during his epic Canada-to-Mexico trip on a Vespa, and couldn't operate his center stand very well. Since my knee is acting up every so often, the side stand is exactly what I need.

Now the Vespa's are even better prepared for our next adventures.

The Loop

2011-08-07T21:26:00.002-06:00

It's been a long time coming! I had planned the ride many times before as day trip or weekend trip but it never happened. But today is the day!

As I plan to get up very early in the morning, I pack my rucksack the evening before:
Additional gear: Rain pants (serves as lucky charm), silk gloves, spare gloves, balaclava, ear plugs, a pair of thin socks
Food: Bananas, energy bars, gum, water, energy drinks, sandwiches
Tools 'n' stuff: Tire pressure gauge, mini air compressor, tire repair set, Leatherman, First Aid kit, fuel bottle (full), zip ties, duct tape, oil, bungee net

5:30 AM Filled up Rover's peanut tank for the first leg of the journey, and hit the Sea-to-Sky highway. The sun is just coming up, and traffic is almost non existent.

Yes, please!

As the sun rises higher the beauty of the scenery unfolds. The temperature drops to 9C (48F), and I pull out my silk liners and the balaclava.

Warming up and snacking at Green Lake (past Whistler).

150km later the mountain road takes its toll: The peanut tank is drained. I am almost running on empty before Pemberton, and have to make use of my fuel bottle.

No gas for the next 98 km on Duffey Lake Road. I refill the bottle... just in case.

We find our rhythm and wave through the twisties. The 'mind-meld' begins, and motorcycle and human become one entity.

Just your average roadside waterfall. I drive by, and have to turn around. Transposition manoeuvres with the Sporty are not as easy as with the Vespa. I almost dump Rover, when slipping on the gravel.

Around 11AM the weather gods take pity on me. It is getting warmer, and I swap the balaclava against the do-rag, and lose the silk gloves and the woolen socks.

Calm reflections at Duffey Lake

Where the road follows the river.

It is getting warmer, and the fleece shirt can be tossed now. The landscape changes, and becomes desert-like.

After refreshment the inner layer of the mesh jacket has to go. The temperatures are close to 30C (86F).

Sometimes it becomes difficult to concentrate on the road with all those spectacular vistas around. A few times I overestimate my skills, miscalculate the different physics of the Sporty, and take a turn 'too hot'. Nothing serious, but a reminder to keep eyes and mind focused on the road.

There is a bus-load of tourists at the Teton lake view point. So, I wait until they are gone, and have lunch, while enjoying the view.

I top up on fuel in Lillooet, and turn South on Highway 12 following the Fraser River.

The vistas are different now, but no less stunning.

It is high noon, and the sun burns holes in my helmet.

I have to stop every so often to re-hydrate myself. Water and sport drinks do wonders and keep me refreshed.

Lytton, at the conflux of the mud coloured Fraser River and the turquoise Thompson River is the self proclaimed hot-spot Canada's, the temperatures hit 34C (93F), and I tend to believe it.

At Boston Bar I put five bucks worth of fuel in the tank for the home run through Fraser Canyon, now following Highway 1 to Hope, before I get on to my home stretch on Highway 7 through Fraser Valley.

A gorgeous day comes to an end.

575km (375 mi.)

Ten hours of bliss.

Life is a ~~highway~~ scenic byway

I want to ride it all ~~night~~ day long

(and that's exactly what I did today)

Should have gone to SpecSavers!

2011-08-06T16:57:00.006-06:00

An Australian Advertising!
Source: Adsoftheworld.com

Farkling Experiment with Rover

2011-08-04T11:08:00.009-06:00

The previous owner of Rover had thrown in a few farkles that needed some closer investigation, and required a field test a.k.a. sunset ride. The items were never used. Is was super easy to remove the single seat, and put the Sundowner bucket seat on. Also, the installation of the quick release sissy bar was a no brainer.

Although I like the visual appearance of the single seat better I have to admit, the Sundowner is mighty comfy, so I am going to keep it for a while. Not sure about the sissy bar though, as I will remain a single rider. But it can probably hold some luggage, which when placed on the passenger seat, will make a proper back rest for me.

Something similar to this could work.

Two hours and roughly 100km later the 'test' was completed, and the bike got tucked away again, until next time...