COTC IV - Day 2

The day started with the most spectacular sunrise. I was the first downstairs, and I was packing my bike when several of my buddies started coming outside. Cleaning the windshield, wiping the bike down, and packing the saddlebags are all part of the morning ritual. While sipping a cup of coffee, several of us went over the map. Today would be a little over 300 miles, and we would be riding some really beautiful roads. Kickstands up at 0730. We would be traveling through Santa Cruz, up highway 9 / 35 through the Redwoods.

Many of us have made this journey before, and will tell you that it is always wonderful. This day did not disappoint us. The weather was stellar, and the roads were in good condition. Highway 9 is a nice series of twists and turns, accompanied by some very amazing scenery. Dotting the landscape are several small towns, the residents of which were treated to the long procession of motorcycles. Many in our group had the Firefighter special edition Harley Davidson’s. They are painted a unique shade of red, and are adorned with gold pin striping. When you see so many in one group, it is quite awesome.

As the rode becomes more complex, we change from staggered to single file. From my position as tail gunner, I got to watch each person negotiate the curves, and admire the gleaming chrome serpentine of cycles make our way to the breakfast location. Alice’s Restaurant.

Not only does this place serve good food, it is in one of the most scenic parts of our ride. Towering trees like all sides of the intersection where the eatery sits. Contrasting the deep green against a bright blue sky, the treats are both visual as well as culinary. Our waitress was great, and she seemed to know how to deal with a group of bikers fairly well. The coffee was hot, and just what was needed. These times are some of my personal favorite, sharing a meal and talking about the day’s adventures. Bill was very excited.



Prior to making the map for this trip, I found out that part of the Coast Highway was closed due to damage from a recent storm. No problem though. We re-routed and took a freeway into San Francisco. I’ve crossed the Golden Gate Bridge many times before, but today’s weather was legendary. There wasn’t a single cloud in the sky, and there was no fog bank to diminish the views. We parked at the visitor’s center on the Northern side, and took a few pictures.

The motorcycles always seem to be quite the topic of conversation here. Maybe it is the sheer number of them; maybe it is the fact that so many are the same color. I am not sure, but people just seem to gravitate to them. There are tourists from all parts of the world, and everybody wants their picture taken with the big American motorcycle. Pretty cool.

Eastward we traveled into Napa. North to the Alexander Valley. These roads are very beautiful, with the wineries, the old homes and the immaculate landscaping. The air was fragrant and clear. I continued to wonder how we could be so fortunate with the wonderful weather!


We continued to make our way north, then west. We eventually ended up near Lake Sonoma. The highlight of today’s ride was the Skagg’s Springs Stewart’s Point Road. This particular road has been written about in many publications. Pashnit.com called it “The Holy Grail.” Although it was late afternoon, we pressed on. In the end, everyone was amazed at the sites we had just seen, and marveled at the road we had just conquered.

We made our way back to the hotel where we met for evening cocktails and a cigar. What a great close to an awesome day.