We started the day with 24 bikes as we left Shari’s and headed north on 101. We took the Dry Creek Rd exit to avoid the humdrum of the freeway for a more scenic route up to Cloverdale where we rejoined 101. The farther we headed north, the smokier it became, and a few folks opted to return due to the smoky conditions. However, as we proceeded further up 128, the hazy conditions gave way to a bluer sky. We stopped in Boonville for our mid-point gas stop and leg stretching then on to 253, over the hills to Ukiah. Unfortunately, the smoke returned and was pretty bad by the time we arrived at our lunch break in Calpella with the remaining 20 souls who decided to brave the air quality and stay for lunch. As always, the folks at Club Calpella did a fabulous job of hosting our large group – thanks to Dudley, our host!
After a hearty meal, we mounted our machines and headed south on 101. A few folks headed straight home, but most of the group decided to take a more scenic way back via Old River Rd. Several of us stopped in Cloverdale to say our goodbyes where we departed and went our separate ways.
Apart from the poor air quality, the ride was fantastic… this is one of my favorite routes with a nice combination of twisties, great scenery and decently maintained roads. I logged 199 miles roundtrip. Thanks to Dan Shilling and Gretchen Tomm for being sweep and mid-sweep, respectively and George Homenko for the ride photos
Ride Captain – Robyn LaMantia
Click the Google Photos Image to open the Ride Album in Google Photos