Agua Caliente Trip Report

[Black and Blue]

Agua Caliente means 'hot water' in Spanish (for those of us who failed Spanish 101).
The hubby was feeling the need to travel and I was playing busy-busy with housebound/family stuff.
So, to keep myself out of 'agua caliente' with the hubby, I decided we would make this a 4 day camping destination.
According to Blues Traveler, the campground was Xanadu and it had always fascinated me.

We took off in a typical Eastern Sierra windstorm on the Wee's with it snowing in the mountains.

Got about 140 miles south and started hitting wind gusts from the west (right side).

Another 20 miles and we were leaning bad and facing a solid wall of water.

Now, you have to know that this is my first trip on the Wee after trading in the cruiser. I can sort of touch the ground when seated and the beast seems awful top heavy to me. The machine basically has me intimidated.
So, idiot optimist that I am, I take off on the maiden voyage fully loaded, in heavy cross winds and into the rain.
But, the hubby is tired of hearing my worries, so I quit complaining and hope that he helps me pick it up when I drop it.
Or, at least helps me stop the bleeding.

We finally have some machines that will travel at the actual speed limit (God bless our Urals), but can only travel at about 40 mph with the wind gusts and rain.

By now, I'm totally dehydrated from sweating buckets of fear and riding with that OMG look on my face :eek:!

Decide to call it a day and seek shelter. Turned around and headed to Ridgecrest, took some Advil, endured the disappointed glares from the hubby :rolleyes:, and waited out the storm.

When the storm passed, it was totally beautiful weather.
Took roads I had only seen on a map.

Passed the Salton Sea and rode through Anza Borrego enroute to the campground.

[Ironheadziggy76]

Glad to hear y'all are making it! P^

Keep us updated................

[Trailace]

:Popcorn

[Black and Blue]

We discovered we needed gas before going into the campground which is off an isolated county road.
So, we ride up to Julian. Doesn't seem far. Only 12 something miles from the campground road turn off. Doesn't click that we are at sea level and Julian is above 4,000 feet. Never was good at math.
Next thing I know we are on some major twisties heading up a cliff hanger two lane narrow road with no guardrails.
I'm back to that :eek: look on my face.
Every blue hair seems to be heading down the hill in their Buick, Oldsmobile, or Caddy on the wrong side of the road.
Hubby's jacket had worn out, so I made him buy one of those neon green jackets. He always seems to ride in the rear, so I figured it would be insurance against me getting rear ended.
Found a gas station. Didn't drop the bike. Feeling a little cocky now.
Been to Julian years ago and didn't want to look around.
Nice place to site see if your into that kind of thing...yoga, candles, coffee shops, pottery, lost souls from the '60's.
Saw a lot of Subaru's, VW vans, Volvo's and Birkenstock sandals.

Made it down the hill without scaring myself too much.

We had reserved a site, but the check in guy said it was very small and there were a lot of people right next to us. He told us to look at it, but take any open site we wanted if we didn't like it.
I drove around that campground 3 times and never did find the site until later that evening when I walked over to it. It was very small and a very large family was camped and overflowing into it. The check in guy knew what he was talking about.

Found a very nice isolated site/area with only four sites in it.
I actually rode through wet and dry sand to get to it. Another first P^ and didn't drop the bike.
(You're all waiting for that first drop report, aren't you?).
We camped next to a real nice grandma and grandson.
She was amazed at all the stuff we pulled off those bikes.

Blues Traveler was right, this is a nice campground and the views are wonderful. All kinds of wild life, wild flowers, and of course, the hot pools.

Found out that bunnies really do eat carrots.

[Black and Blue]

Had some new gear to check out too.
The Katadyn hanging water filter was wonderful. NO pumping P^! Filled it up, hung it from a tree, and went about our other business.
We ran the tube into the Platypus water container through the pour nozzle, but could have also put it through the zip top.
The Platypus is a keeper for sure. It stands by itself. It can pack small unfilled, or can hang off the bike by the carry handle with water in it.
We also filtered water through the tube into the camelbaks.
To replace the coffee press, I had bought some collapsible coffee drip cones that you sit over your coffee cup. NO GROUNDS! They collapse down to a flat disk for packing and I was very pleased with them.
Forgot to take a picture of these Coleman coffee cup/bowl combination's that we bought. They worked out great also. The two cups nestle inside each other so that you can have one insulted mug, or a cup and mug or bowl.
My old go-to cast aluminum dutch oven worked wonderful as usual and baked us up some good cinnamon rolls and chicken with red beans and rice.
Didn't have the room for the Ural 100 lb bag of charcoal on the Wee's, but I did manage to take some for baking in the dutch oven.

[Black and Blue]

Spent the day taking walks and enjoying the scenery.
There is a naval range near by and it was entertaining watching all the various air craft practicing maneuvers.
Had a nice campfire the last night and enjoyed the night sky.
Of course I kept waking up worrying about how the heck I was going to ride OUT of the sand I felt so cocky riding into. Figuring the hubby was sick of hearing all my fretting, I kept my thoughts to myself. But, I was really starting to miss that third wheel on the Ural.
Speaking of night time, at least for us girls, that same plastic Folgers coffee container that I pack my Coleman duel fuel in works out great with a small plastic trash can liner. Of course, for you gentlemen, I strongly suggest a dark night and a nearby bush.
Morning came and lo and behold-the exit road had flooded from the over flow of the hot tubs that had been released during the night.
Somehow, even with my usual pessimistic attitude, I rode through it.
No drop yet.
Everything packed up swell in the Jesse side cases. They are a keeper for sure. Huge. Cavernous. Sturdy. They hang low for the cargo weight and stick out just far enough that I figure they will save my leg when the bike ends up on it's side.
The ride home was LONG (at least for me). 440 miles.
But we saw and met some interesting characters.
Saw a huge lizard.
Met a turbaned truck driver.
Parked next to a couple Hells Angeles who for some reason wanted to tell us that the Nazi's were great for the German people.
Didn't seem like a good idea to tell him what I thought of his opinion.
They also asked us what country we were from.
Guess they figured we were European with the bikes and the hubby's neon green coat.
I think he is going to throw the coat away after hearing that.

Nice campground. Good equipment. Good bikes. Long ride.

No, I didn't drop the bike.

Hope you enjoyed my ramblings...

Colleen

[Blues Traveler]

Great write up Colleen,

Glad the two of you got to go after all. Sounds like you had quit an adventure. Rain, wind, sun, twisties (that would be Banner Pass) Jullian (should have gotten a BIG piece of apple pie) and got to sit out and enjoy the beautiful desert of San Deigo county. You never mentioned if you took advantage of the hot pools.

From the going home pictures looks like you made a stop at the Summit Inn up at the top of the Cajon Pass.P^

[G wizz]

Nice trip report Colleen. Other than being un-nerved while riding your new pack horses, it looks like you two had a nice time.
Did you miss the extra carrying capacity of the Urals?
Nice jacket you got there Erine ... Looks just like Mellows ... If People can't see that, they MUST be blind. Wished I'd had gotten one that color now ...
Colleen, are you getting one to match ?

G wizz

P.S.
Colleen,
When we see each other at the Chill Out, remind me to tell you a for real story about a turbaned topped truck driver, told to me by my truck driving son ...

[bigTom]

Great report!

I get to go to that area at least once a month, I just love it. Once you get used to it, that Banner Grade road is about the best there is....

I got a new camp mule too, was planning on camping tonight, life jumped up and bit me! Ah, well.

Glad you had a good weekend, and a good ride.

Have you looked at STromTroopers? Is a pretty good place for V questions:
http://www.stromtrooper.com/

[Black and Blue]

Blues Traveler: Keith, the place was nice. Nice scenery and facilities. Did have apple pie the last time we were up in Julian. We didn't ride that time. No we didn't take advantage of the hot pools. Maybe next time. This was an exploratory trip to that part of San Diego County and gave us a reason to try out our new stuff.

G Wizz: George, I think Colleen is full of :oh2: She can ride a two wheeler as well as her three.:flipmeister: The bike dynamics is different than her cruiser, that's all. I think she rides better than me.;) I deny ever telling her to :boss1: As far as the load capacity, the combination of the Jesse Cases and the top case, plus a medium duffel, we took everything we needed. Didn't miss anything that we normally took on the Urals, except our dogs.:( I'm not sure if Colleen will get a new jacket. The two Hells Angels asked us what country we were from.:confused: Thought we were European.:mad: I might 86 that jacket if that keeps up.:D

big Tom: Thanks. Yes, we have been on the Stromtroopers forum. Very informative. We have been reading that ride report from that doctor from San Diego, (Palm trees to tundra-2009.), that went to Alaska last year with his friend, the dentist. Great report.P^ Riding those Wees on the slab was very exhilarating compare to the Urals. We actually passed other motorist.:eek: I like it.P^ That part of California reminds me of our Texas trip, Border Patrol everywhere.

Ernie (Blue of Black and Blue)

[Mr. Guy]

Nice report, looks like a lot of fun. Someday, someday.

Guy

[Trailace]

Great read and thanks for taking us along.

Colleen remember as long as the tires are rolling the bike wants to stay upright. Most drops come when you stop our use to much brake. :eek:

See you guys in a month. P^

[G wizz]

Great read and thanks for taking us along.

Colleen remember as long as the tires are rolling the bike wants to stay upright. Most drops come when you stop our use to muck brake. :eek:

See you guys in a month. P^

Trailace,
Just wondering ...:rolleyes: ... How do you use a muck brake?
On second thought ... what is a muck brake?

[Trailace]

Trailace,
Just wondering ...:rolleyes: ... How do you use a much brake?
On second thought ... what is a much brake?

??????? :p

[Mr. Guy]

Trailace,
Just wondering ...:rolleyes: ... How do you use a much brake?
On second thought ... what is a much brake?

That's "munch brake", kinda like a Frito munching brake.

Or maybe bear. :D

Guy

Yes, I'm going to keep this up. P^

[G wizz]

??????? :p

Oh, that was a _ wasn't it? I thought it was a __ . My eye sight is as bad as your spelling :D

[G wizz]

That's "munch brake", kinda like a Frito munching brake.

Or maybe bear. :D

Guy

Yes, I'm going to keep this up. P^

Ok fine ... So ... where IS my bear ??? You didn't "brake" my Bear did you ???

[Trailace]

Oh, that was a K wasn't it? I thought it was an H. My eye sight is as bad as your spelling :D
My spelling is bad and I never proof read anything. :eek:

Remember don't mess with someone who can edit everything. :D

[Black and Blue]

Okay, I get it now Rick.

Never stop. Perpetual ride...no gas, no red lights, no stop signs...ride forever.
The muck brake is evil.


Colleen

[G wizz]

quote=trailace;29877]my spelling is bad and i never proof read anything. :eek:

Remember don't mess with someone who can edit everything. :d[/quote]


:well YOU don't play fair! ... It WAS muck till you mucked with it!

[Trailace]

Ok I won't!
LOL :eek:

[G wizz]

LOL :eek:

Trailace,
YOU ... Sir, are messing with my messages :well
Behave yourself, or I'll tell Mellow on you. :p

[Trailace]

Trailace,
YOU ... Sir, are messing with my messages :well
Behave yourself, or I'll tell Mellow on you. :p

What?

[G wizz]

What?

Don't WHAT me ... Go back and just look at what you've done ...
Shame on you !
I have a good mind to report you to Mr. Modulator Guy !

[Black and Blue]

Okay, Trailace. We think someone is going stir crazy, (George :rolleyes:), and needs to get out and ride more often.:D

[Trailace]

Okay, Trailace. We think someone is going stir crazy, (George :rolleyes:), and needs to get out and ride more often.:D
I agree 100%

[G wizz]

Geez ... You're ALL pickin on me now ! :(

[Mr. Guy]

Geez ... You're ALL pickin on me now ! :(

Wow, I've never seen anyone need to ride so bad they were starting to get paranoid. :D


BEARS ARE AFTER YOU! ! ! :rolleyes:

Guy

[G wizz]

QUOTE=Mr. Guy;29947]Wow, I've never seen anyone need to ride so bad they were starting to get paranoid. :D


BEARS ARE AFTER YOU! ! ! :rolleyes:




You are full of :oh2: ... I am not :dizzy1:

[Trailace]

QUOTE=Mr. Guy;29947]Wow, I've never seen anyone need to ride so bad they were starting to get paranoid. :D


BEARS ARE AFTER YOU! ! ! :rolleyes:




You are full of :oh2: ... I am not :dizzy1:

Denial is the first sign. :eek:

[G wizz]

Denial is the first sign. :eek:

:wow1: Am I getting :torch1: :p

[bigTom]

"Just 'cause I am Paranoid doesn't mean that they aren't out to get me!"

[Ironheadziggy76]

Colleen, have you dropped that Wee yet? If not, you aren't trying hard enough! :p

Don't worry, when you get here in a few weeks, I'll take y'all to a few places where you can get it upside down if ya want! :eek:

Seriously, you are worrying way too much!

[Black and Blue]

No, Steve. No drop yet.
I think Mr. Guy has plans for the Wee and the dirt too.

[Mr. Guy]

LOL

On it's side is a motorcycle's natural position. They never stand up on their own. Even mine needs a nap from time to time.

Mine's getting street shoes on it this weekend, so it'll be easy dirt if any.

Guy

[Mr. Guy]

:wow1: Am I getting :torch1: :p



We only tease you because we know you can take it.

Guy

[G wizz]

[QUOTE=Mr. Guy;29995]We only tease you because we know you can take it.



Well, ... That's what I like about this forum, we can have a good time without someone popping a cork, and having a hissy fit. P^

G wizz

[Trailace]

[QUOTE=Mr. Guy;29995]We only tease you because we know you can take it.



Well, ... That's what I like about this forum, we can have a good time with out someone popping a cork, and having a hissy fit. P^

G wizz
P^ -----

[Mr. Guy]

P^

Dang right, see ya in a couple of weeks.

Guy

[Ironheadziggy76]

LOL

On it's side is a motorcycle's natural position. They never stand up on their own. Even mine needs a nap from time to time.

Mine's getting street shoes on it this weekend, so it'll be easy dirt if any.

Guy

Guy, I put the Wee's street shoes back on Sunday and it's like a new bike. It doesn't howl like my 4x4 now! :p I also noticed that my rear wheel lip is bent just a tad too. I guess I bent it when I bent up my front wheel in AK. :confused:

[G wizz]

Say Ziggy ...
Can you keep a secret?
I just dug up a nest of big 'ol snakes ... kept a couple ... I'm brinin 'em with me ... gunna put one in Mr. Modulater Guy's sleepin bag when he ain't lookin. They should be good 'n hungry by then ...
That'll teach him to tease me with a bear and taunt me with Fritos ... He He.
Oh yah, bringin one for Trailace too ... for mucking with my messages ...

[Ironheadziggy76]

Wait till they meet my pets here in the woods! ;) I have a raccoon that thinks he is Tony Soprano! :p

[Mr. Guy]

Guy, I put the Wee's street shoes back on Sunday and it's like a new bike. It doesn't howl like my 4x4 now! :p I also noticed that my rear wheel lip is bent just a tad too. I guess I bent it when I bent up my front wheel in AK. :confused:


I'm putting on a set of Avon Road Riders that I already have a little over 7000 miles on and they're not even half gone yet. Put my knobbies on for Big Bend, but going back before the next trip. And yea, WAY quieter and smoother.

Guy

P.S. I love snakes, taste just like chicken. P^

[Mr. Guy]

Yes, they are magicians. :D

You remember the carpet bag from Mary Poppins? They just keep pulling stuff out of those Urals. It's amazing to watch. It really is. P^

Guy

[Ironheadziggy76]

Yes, they are magicians. :D

You remember the carpet bag from Mary Poppins? They just keep pulling stuff out of those Urals. It's amazing to watch. It really is. P^

Guy

It also boggles my mind at how quickly they can unpack and pack all that gear. P^