International Friendships - A Welcome Benefit of Motorcycling.

International Friendships - A Welcome Benefit of Motorcycling

Story and Photos by Jim Foreman

Judith Regn and Dennis O'Dell

One of the most pleasant surprises that a motorcyclist may expect from their passion is the vast number of amazing friends they gain… and not simply on Facebook.

Interestingly enough, Facebook happened to be the start of a grand friendship that blossomed into camaraderie, mutual interests and even an unbelievable European riding trip.

Several years back Laura Ruddy posted something clever on the BMW MOA (Motorcycle Owners Association) Facebook page.  Through a series of replies, back and forth, a ‘Facebook’ friend request was made and quickly accepted. 

Rather than be content as just Facebook friends, a thought-provoking dialogue ensued and a lasting friendship as formed. 

Laura Ruddy looking back

That friendship with Laura blossomed while she was here, stateside, and matured during a three-week motorcycle trip in Bavaria and the surrounding countries.

The Eurotrip was capped with a four-day run through the Czech Republic that included Dennis O’Dell and Judith Regn.  Dennis and Judith are a delightful married couple that met later in their lives.  Judith is German while Dennis is an American.  Both thrive in Nuremberg.  A unique characteristic is that Judith rides her own motorbike.  Yes, Dennis considers himself one of the most fortunate and grateful men on Earth.

During that incredible adventure which brought us through some amazing back roads and countryside, Dennis expressed that he and Judith were to come to the US to ride for two months, leisurely, across the country.

This revelation prompted the question to see if they were planning to ride much in SoCal.  Judith expressed they plan to ride Route 66.  Universally, Germans specifically and Europeans generally believe Route 66 is a great road that must be included in any trip to the United States.  While there are fun and interesting portions in Arizona and New Mexico, most of Route 66 has been swallowed up by various interstates. 

This was of little concern to Dennis and Judith as they were coming to enjoy the US and share several months of memorable riding. 

Initially, Dennis and Judith’s plans for SoCal were to run from Ventura, CA to Barstow, CA, avoiding the Interstates 101, 10 and 15 as much as possible. 

Upon hearing this, it was immediately suggested that Angeles Crest Highway (CA-2) is a world-renowned mountain pass that will offer an unforgettable riding experience.  Dennis and Judith agreed that it would be nice and that it would also help keep them off of the interstates. 

Several weeks after this enjoyable conversation, Dennis and Judith arrived in San Francisco and purchased two pre-owned Motorbikes to match the ones they rode back home.  Dennis was running a beautiful BMW R 1200 GS Adventure and Judith picked up an identical Street Triple R (with ABS).  The intention is to sell the bikes at the conclusion of their trip.  This way the cost of the bikes would be negligible and quite possibly profitable.  Short of borrowing a friend’s bike, while traveling abroad, this is the best way to ride in a specific country or region for more than two weeks.  If visiting for less than two weeks, it’s probably better to simply rent a motorbike abroad.

Dennis and Judith arrive at the ACH Shell Station

As Dennis and Judith traveled south on Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1), arrangements were made to meet at the Shell Station where the 210 Freeway and Angeles Crest Highway meet.  The Shell Station is a popular meeting point for motorcyclists as one can obviously fuel up and hang out for their friends to arrive.  The station is very grateful to motorcyclists and even puts out chairs for those awaiting their friends.

Just as the tank was topped off on my BMW K 1200 RS, Dennis and Judith both arrived to warm smiles, hugs and handshakes.  A brief description of what to expect was also conveyed to the riding pair.

Angeles Crest Highway Is made up of mostly medium sweepers.  Some are a little tighter, but there are no 180º switchbacks.  Rock and pinecone debris may be on the road, beyond the tunnels.  Given it was a midweek day, we largely had the whole road to ourselves.  This is both a delight and an impossibility during the weekends.

Starting in the lead, it was easy to notice right away that Dennis was really enjoying this road.  At our first turnout Judith was asked how she liked it.  Her beaming smile was very contagious.  She exclaimed that she loves this road and was really grateful that this was arranged. 

Newcomb's Ranch

Diving left and right into beautifully cambered and surfaced sweepers, we made our way to Newcomb’s Ranch for lunch.  While there, we each enjoyed talking to Bologna HOG members who rented bikes and were coming down Angeles Crest Highway into Los Angeles.

After lunch we hopped back onto the motorbikes and made our way to Wrightwood.  Stopping for a coffee, we met a couple who just pulled in from Crestline.  Given that is was still early in the afternoon and that we’d have plenty of daylight, I suggested to Dennis and Judith that we could cut and run north to Barstow, CA from there or we could continue to Crestline, Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake.  From there we could take a backroad to Barstow and call it a great day. 

Dennis and Judith on Rim of the World Highway

The only concern was Judith.  In Europe, the distances between places is much shorter than what we’re accustomed to, in the western US.  This proposed route would become one of Judith’s longest days in the saddle.  She was very supportive and was ready to tackle some more interesting riding so we continued our trek.  Crossing Interstate 15, the terrain changes. The road now brought more variety to the day’s journey.  Coming the back way through Crestline was very exciting.  

Completing a lively run was a crescendo that consisted of meeting up with ‘Rim of the World’ Highway on a transition that seems to float in the sky.  At our next break, Judith was simply giddy. She was smiling and bouncing like a schoolgirl who had just been given her first real kiss.  The joy was palpable and we were all very happy to be enjoying this experience. 

Lake Arrowhead Village

Quick stops at Lake Arrowhead Village for photos and then Big Bear Lake prompted me to ask both Dennis and Judy if they expected today to be like this.  Both exclaimed that this was among their best day ever, riding.  They went on to predict that it was probably going to be the highlight of their trip.
As the sun was beginning its descent into the horizon, we pulled into Barstow, CA.  Originally, the intent was only a day ride for me.  The lateness of the day and the desire for some cold draft beer, by the three of us, was enough for me to get my own room and stay the night.

Upon checking in, another guest here on a construction job offered advice on nearby dining.  A brief walk down the street put us at Los Domingos Restaurant.  Upon being seated, three ice cold Modelo Negros were placed in front of each of us and we began reflecting on the incredible day.

Dennis O’Dell and Judith Regn continue their journey, as of this writing.  Many more destinations have been visited including Grand Canyon National Park and Monument Valley.

Dennis even had to order a couple parts from Irv Seaver BMW to meet him along his journey.

Their friendship along with that of Laura Ruddy and countless more friends is cherished and all because of a motorcycle. 

Dennis has a very clever blog detailing many of his journeys including this one.  Enjoy it here .

When you have an opportunity, invite a friend from out of town to ride with you.  It will be a memorable and welcome experience.

Judith, Dennis, Steffi and Weiland enjoying some beer after a great day riding

Christian, Weiland and Dennis in Germany

Beginning the ride up Angeles Crest Highway

Nearing Barstow as the sun begins to set.

Judith on Route 66 Photo by Dennis O'Dell

Sunset over Monument Valley Photo by Dennis O'Dell

Dennis and Judith at the Route 66 midway point Photo by Dennis O'Dell

Judith at the Hotel el Rancho.  Photo by Dennis O'Dell

 ©2015 Jim Foreman All rights reserved.

Is There Any Good Riding In Orange County?

Words by Jim Foreman ©2014

Images Jim Foreman and Kendal Foreman ©2014

Southern California is well known for having some of the most diverse and exciting roads available to motorcyclists.  Very few regions in US and even the world can compare to excitement and beauty offered right here in the southland.

Why is Orange County, in particular, mostly devoid of these spectacular offerings?  In truth, we’re not… completely.   

Orange County may never boast the magnificence of AngelesCrest Highway or the breathtaking views of Palomar Mountain.  We will never have a ‘Palms to Pines Highway’ (CA 243 to Idyllwild) or the nearby CA-38 to Big Bear Lake either. 

Fortunately, for all who ride, those roads and many more roads of greatness are nearby.

So, what do we have?  Most riders will immediately identify Ortega Hwy (CA 74) as Orange County’s best road.  That assessment may be entirely true. 

Ortega Highway (CA 74)

Ortega Hwy stretches from San Juan Capistrano to Lake Elsinore in Riverside County.  If not surrounded by so many other roads of greatness, in surrounding counties, Ortega would be considered a phenomenal destination road. 

Elizabete on Ortega Highway with her BMW F 650 GS

Most Ortega riders simply get there by taking I-5 south and exiting at Ortega Highway.  There’s a Shell Station right there, though it’s actually positioned to benefit westbound traffic.  Riders who have a bit more time and know the area opt to take the back way in via Live Oak Canyon and Antonio Parkway.  For most motorcyclists, Ortega Hwy truly begins at Antonio Parkway. 

There is a quality about Ortega Hwy that is quite unique.  The road gradually builds in intensity.  It begins as a beautiful meandering run with wide sweepers.  Later, moderate speed switchbacks present fun peg scraping opportunities.  Ortega Hwy builds to a spectacular crescendo of awesomeness as a rider descends the mountain.

Jim Foreman and Daniel Rice on our S 1000 Bikes

There are two roadhouses along Ortega Hwy.  The loud-pipe friendly Hell’s Kitchen in El Cariso Village and The Lookout with a stunning view of the lake and valley below.  The Lookout is the quieter of the two.  If you find yourself riding on a holiday, Hell’s Kitchen is open early for Breakfast and throughout the day.

The best time to ride Ortega Hwy is Sunday after 3 pm and during the week except for typical rush hours 7:30 am to 9:30 am and 3 pm to 6 pm.

There are two spin-offs from Ortega Hwy that do deserve your attention.  There is very little traffic on either, and both are unique.  Offerings of fun, adventure and scenery are yours for the taking.  Both of these roads are on opposite sides of Ortega Hwy, and the roadways are just 1000 meters from Hell’s Kitchen.

Look for this sign after Hell's Kitchen

North Main Divide Road is a giant loop that services many of the campgrounds in the area.  There are many beautiful vistas.  It’s also a great place if you want to be left alone to think, write, reflect, make-out, or just take a nap on a park table.  The road starts off quite smooth. Lack of regular maintenance produces much rougher surfaces, as you continue.  The name of the road changes several times to El Cariso Road, Forest Route 3S04 and finally Long Canyon Road.  It eventually loops back to Ortega Highway.  Early on, one can ride a little aggressively, but soon the conditions of the road make the going slower.  Though it can easily be traversed on a road bike, it’s much more fun on a dual-sport like the BMW GS.

South Main Divide Road is a fairly well-kept secret for motorcyclists.  Most don’t take it all the way to Murietta but instead turn around at some point to rejoin Ortega Hwy.   This road can be a thrilling and entertaining day ride, all on its own.

A back way into Ortega Highway via Antonio Parkway, previously mentioned, is a lot of fun, too.

Santigo Canyon/Live Oak Canyon

General Store on Live Oak Canyon

Santiago Canyon is a relatively high-speed road that offers up wide sweepers and interesting vistas.  It begins at Chapman Ave and Jamboree Road and continues down to eventually become El Toro Road. 

For newer riders, this is often cited as a superb road to run.  It’s a nice mild stroll with no big surprises.  With that mentioned, one should not become complacent when riding Santiago Canyon.  Sadly, this road does claim several bikers each year, though most of them are alcohol related.

At the southern end of Santiago Canyon, is Cook’s Corner.  Cook’s is a roadhouse that is primarily frequented by the shiny chrome crowd.  That said, sportbikes, touring, and adventure bikes are also seen frequenting this roadhouse. 

Cook’s Corner also marks the beginning of Live OakCanyon.  Live Oak is a beautiful tree-lined road with many fun elevation changes and moderate corners.  It’s not terribly long, but it is quite enjoyable leading to an challenging uphill switchback just after the river crossing.  The road is well maintained but narrow in most places.  Small ranches and residences line this lovely road.  Please be mindful of that as I’m sure most people wouldn’t want to have loud rumbling or squealing pipes blasting through their neighborhood at all hours.

Pacific Coast Highway (CA-1)

PCH and Jamboree Rd

Pacific Coast Highway is many things to many people.  The part many motorcyclists find most enjoyable is from Jamboree south all the way to San Clemente. 

Of course, through much of PCH, one has magnificent views of the ocean.  Among the highlights are Crystal Cove State Park and San Clemente State Beach. 

Along the way are some unique and enjoyable places to stop and take a break.  Ruby’s Shake Shack at Crystal Cove is just one of those destinations.  Owned by Ruby’s Diner,  this popular place offers rich and creamy shakes in a variety of flavors.  Being on a motorcycle is an added benefit as there is often a lineup of cars waiting for parking.  Being on two wheels, just ride up to the front, park without impeding traffic and place your order.

Ruby's Shake Shack

Laguna Beach is also a favorite place to regain feeling in your bottom.  Whether it’s watching the beach volleyball or looking for the dolphins that jump about, at sea, there’s plenty to keep one interested.

In Dana Point, PCH Splits in half with the northbound and southbound sections as one-way streets.  On the southbound section, just past Violet Lantern, on the left is the Bonjour Café.  It’s a great place for Breakfast or Lunch and happens to also be the former production office for Bruce Brown.  Bruce Brown was the director of the motorcycle cult classic film, “On Any Sunday” and the epic surfer film, “Endless Summer.”  One can gather, quite quickly, where the inspiration to name his film director son Dana came from.

Carbon Canyon Road - Brea, CA(CA-142)

Start of Carbon Canyon Rd

Carbon Canyon Road is a pleasant little retreat for the soul.  Carbon Canyon Road starts off as Lambert Road east of the 57 Freeway.  The surrounding rural atmosphere instantly transports a rider away from suburbia and into the countryside.  Several small hamlets line the drive with a wicked ‘S’ turn near the end.  The elevation change through the ‘S’ turn often spooks new riders.  Just take it easy the first couple of times and keep your chin up.  It’s much worse if one is looking down.  The road ends in Chino.  One can either continue on toward their destination or turn around and run it again.  Avoid Carbon Canyon Road during rush hour (west in the morning and East in the afternoon) as many motorists try to use it as a bypass for a jammed up 91 or 60 freeway.

Turnbull Canyon Road – Whittier, CA

There's a lot of Awesome on Turnbull Canyon Road.

The inclusion of Turnbull Canyon Road is a total cheat.  Turnbull Canyon Road is in Los Angeles County, but it’s proximity to the Orange County and genuine awesomeness earns its place on this list.  Anyway, if you’re not cheating, you’re not trying.

Turnbull Canyon is among the most fascinating destinations due to its interesting, curious and bizarre history.  A plane crash, attempts at weather manipulation, a mental asylum, Hollywood celebrity party spot and the rumored former home of Anton LaVey (founder of the Church of Satan) all have a claim to history on this four mile stretch of roadway.

Turnbull Canyon runs between Painter Avenue and Beverly Blvd in Whittier and S. Vallecito Drive in Hacienda Heights, CA. 

Turnbull Canyon (or Turbo Canyon in the 80’s) is a technical canyon.  Think of it as a short Glendora Mountain Road.  Turnbull has two stages.  The half closest to Painter Avenue is a straight-up canyon.  No residences or intersections.  The other half is residential, and a good rider will respect that.  There is a beautiful, elevation changing, mini-carousel and some breathtaking views of the valley below, in this half.  Please take it easy in the residential section.  The last thing we need are angry residents causing heavy police presence, as has happened, in the past.  Run quietly through this section and be mindful and respectful of the residents.   It’s well worth it.

Honorable Mention

Though not spectacular or even awesome, there are several other places in Orange County to get some two-wheel therapy in. 

Hacienda Road between La Habra and Hacienda Heights is a great road for beginning motorcyclists. 
Add Colima Road between Whittier and Rowland Heights for beginning riders, too.  Colima Road is a good way to introduce higher speeds to a new rider. 

Brea Blvd/Brea Canyon Road between State College and Pathfinder Road is also a pleasant little run.

The end of Laguna Canyon Road.

Laguna Canyon Road (CA-133) Between Irvine and Laguna Beach is also a nice little treat.  It’s nothing fantastic, just a pleasant, pretty road except during traffic hours.

Approaching the 'S' Turn on Carbon Canyon Drive

Crystal Cove State Park

Colima Road

Mini Carousel on Turnbull Canyon Road

Heavenly sign on South Main Divide Road off of Ortega Hwy.

Pacific Coast Highway

Jim Foreman and Terry Rollinson taking a quick break in Laguna Beach