36 ROCKS, period.... Unfortunately, I didn't have time to to linger. I got a late start, left Truckee at 2pm and got out of the valley just before dark. Kinda pushed the daylight a bit, many deer at the end-not cool. Got to Fortuna around 7pm.
But, I was in a bind. My bike, as I"ve posted is having issues...
First, about 3/4 the way through 36, the rear brake started to drag heavily and the pedal went dead. Screwed around with that for 1/2 hour. Somehow managed to get the pads off the rotors and was on my way, minus a rear brake for the most part. Then, on my next stop for gas, my bike was iffy on starting. So I made it to a hotel for the night in Fortuna. Had the battery tender stuff with me and parked near the pepsi machine at the best western. Started fine in the AM. First stop though it was week to start. So, sadly I hit 101 and hauled ass to San Francisco instead of taking 1. My bike is now at desmotto sports on 9th.
Started with a Ducati and wound up with a Kia. Not so sure I did okay on that one. But, had to rent the car to continue on the family visit in Carmel. Bike should be ready Monday/Tuesday... BUMMER for sure as I was looking forward to some side trips further south from here and then onto Yosemite, etc... Depending on timing I may head back the way I came from so I can actually enjoy the scenery and hit HWY 1 all the way. When I lived in San Francisco I rode that route often, and love it. But not always as far up as the redwoods.
I could barely stop on the way down as I was sitting on a ticking time bomb. Seems my starter has had it. It's being replaced/rebuilt along with my brakes being checked. They are also going to install heavier gauge wiring. I HOPE that this is the end of my ST issues(insert laughter). In the month and 2,000 miles I've ridden this bike I've been riddled with more issues than all the other bikes I've owned combined-HANDS DOWN, and this is my 12th...
Let's see... New tires, new chain, new belts/timing, TWO stalls on the highway due to electrical issues, now the starter and brake issues. Oh, and a new clutch cylinder to be installed next week due to it leaking.
All this and I can't wait to hit 36 again!
That road is awesome. Whomever mentioned the rough pavement was indeed correct. Also, there are parts that are basically down to one lane with sharp corners. I'm not that aggressive of a rider but I still managed to lift the front tire on one of the rollers. I could see how someone could catch air if they were so inclined.
All issues aside, I still had a great ride and made the best of it. Though, today was rough. I woke at 5. On the road from Fortuna to SF by 11:15. Not exactly much time to stop and smell the roses. I was afraid to stop anywhere that didn't have an outlet, incase the tender was needed....
Fingers crossed that next week goes smoother, and the Kia rental is over with sooner than later. And I hope that I can break up my rides and not tackle that entire journey in only two days. Would be a nice one to do in 3 or even four and be able to check things out.