Triumphrat

yaunus · 06-29-2009, 05:06 PM

In August 2009 I'll be heading up to Vancouver, Canada on my '06 Scrambler, along with two friends, each on a bike as well.

We're leaving from the San Francisco Bay Area and going straight up, through Oregon and Washington.

I'm a new rider, and I'm currently packing miles under my belt to prepare for the long trip. I plan to have logged 1000 miles before we hit the road.

Has anybody made this trek or something similar? The part I'm most concerned about is Northern California, which can be hoooot in the middle of Summer. We're considering taking 101 instead of 5, although it'll add some time to the trip.

Also, can anybody make some recommendations for luggage for a trip like this? We're planning on being gone around 10 days. I'm packing with me, along with clothes, a laptop and a camera. I've got a tail bag, and I'm going to need some saddle bags.

Thanks everyone! I'm looking forward to the feedback!

M700R · 06-30-2009, 10:21 AM

Here's my '06 Scrambler, loaded for touring last summer. The Ventura pack/rack system works well. You're right though, a saddlebag would be handy:

I'd avoid I-5 if possible. It's just a long, boring slog through most of it. A little bit interesting here or there, but riding a bike is supposed to be fun. The smaller coast roads are a LOT more fun and interesting. Time permitting, I'd highly recommend sticking to the coast road as much as possible, particularly along the Northern California and Oregon coasts - incredible ride, and yes, it will be cooler. Big problem in summer is the number of tourists/RV traffic along the coast. Even with the increased traffic, I'd much prefer the coast route.

I-5 is for getting there. 101 is for the ride.

yaunus · 06-30-2009, 01:10 PM

Thanks M700R!

101 definitely seems like the way to go. Google Maps says taking 101 up to through the southern tip of Oregon will only take 2 hours longer than 5. Seems like that estimate might be a bit aggressive. Have you taken 101 before? Any idea how long it'd taken on a bike?

M700R · 07-02-2009, 01:02 AM

When I'm just moving the family from central Washington to the San Francisco Bay area, we pile in the cage, turn up the stereo and keep it on the highways for about 15 hours straight for the 800 miles.

When I'm enjoying the trip, on 101, it takes me three days...

Yes, I've ridden 101 quite a bit, mostly years ago when I was younger. But yes, I still ride it!

Regards, Guy

Medic09 · 07-02-2009, 02:34 AM

When I lived in Vancouver, I came down the coast a few times.

The contrast between I-5 and the coast road has already been pointed out. Go the coast road if you want to be inspired.

BUT, soon as you get stuck behind a logging truck or slow car, that coast road will get very slow. Be prepared for the eventuality. Relax, throttle back, enjoy the ride.

You're in for a great time!

When you get to Van, try to make time for the Sea to Sky highway up to Whistler. Another short, beautiful coastal run.

Just be very aware of your safety. This is tourist season for lots of families; so lots of idiot cagers on the roads.

Have a great time!

yaunus · 07-02-2009, 03:16 AM

@M700R: Nice looking bike (I've got the same one). Is 3 days pretty tight, or would you say that's definitely feasible without completely rushing?

@Medic09: Thanks for the tips. Does 101 drop down to 1 lane up north? How does you get stuck? We're planning on doing the Sea to Sky. One of the guys riding with us is from Canada and he says it's amazing.

Thanks!

Medic09 · 07-02-2009, 08:40 PM

I don't know what the northern end is like now. I haven't been near the road for about 15 years. Used to be, IIRC, that it ended at Port Angeles, WA. You could get the ferry from there to Vancouver Island, and another ferry from there to Vancouver on the mainland. Really pretty rides. Just check the accuracy of what I'm saying here. I'd hate for you to get lost on my account.

One other thing. Towns like Seaside, OR used to have kite festivals. All sorts of amazing kites being flown and for sale in little specialty shops. I still have a little frameless parafoil that folds down into a little sack like the raincover for my backpack. Have carried it to several peaks and then sat on top of the world flying my kite...

M700R · 07-03-2009, 01:22 PM

Three days was terrific. Time to ride and enjoy, without pushing and worrying about the traffic delays. Plenty of time to take a break in the little towns, walk on the beach a bit, grab some great food along the way. You'll see a four-piece fly rod on my Triumph - my other passion is fly fishing... I find time to fish on a lot of motorcycle trips. Three days up the coast is great. If you absolutely must, shave some time by taking the I-5 freeway on the way home.

BTW - take a close look at the map - there are a bunch of really great motorcycling roads crossing the coast range in both Northern California and Oregon, should you want to take I-5 for part of the trip and 101 for part of the way. I've only ridden a few of them, but every one of those East-West 2-lane roads over the coast range was an outstanding ride. More turns = more fun & more grins. Since you're new at this stuff, don't push the pace, just relax and enjoy the ride.

The only times I've ever gotten into trouble on a ride was when I was pushing beyond my capabilities, and riding too danged fast for the street anyway. The combination youth, enthusiasm and inexperience on a fast bike led to some bumps & bruises and a few parts and pieces twisted into really interesting shapes...

Since those days, I've slowed down quite a bit, and really enjoy the rides more anyway. Not that the Triumph doesn't get leaned over quite a bit in the turns even now...

Regards, Guy

tenacious_dee · 07-06-2009, 03:55 AM

Just an FYI on the Sea-to-Sky Hwy-- it's under CRAZY construction in getting ready for the olympics. I'm a pretty adventurous rider, but that thing scares me in a cage right now! (I frequently go to Squamish to climb). Check road conditions before you head there.

Ken09S3 · 07-08-2009, 03:37 AM

I'd recommend avoiding the I-5 unless you're in a rush. Its boring and there are a hundred other roads that are better and less busy. The coast is amazing.

As well, in Washington I'd recommend route 9. There's a kick ass restaurant about 30-40mins south of the Mt Baker Parkway called the Blue Mountain Grill.

Have a great trip.

-Ken