Valkyrie Riders Cruiser Club

May 17 last minute changes.
Due to the flooding in Grand Forks, we have changed out annual Valhalla Rally. Please look later in this post for the location and contact information.

Hope to see you all there.
***************************


The 2018 annual British Colombia, Washington State and all Welcome, VRCC Valhalla Rally will be held in Grand Forks BC. The date is the weekend after Fathers Day, June 21 - 24 (date change, thurs - sun).
 
I have reserved the whole hotel for the VRCC during these dates. To make a reservation, you must contact the hotel, and ask for a reservation for the Valhalla Rally. Rooms will be held till March 1 April 15, 2018. Please make your reservation early if you are planning on coming. I just need to confirm how early you need to cancel your reservation without a fee.

Our liaison is Crystal, but anyone will be able to take your reservation (Victoria).

Johnny's Motel
Ph:250-442-8242
Fax:1-866-611-8588
7291 Hwy 3 E.
Grand Forks B.C.
Box 876, V0H 1H0
johnnysmotel@shaw.ca

Here is the current rates. The 2018 rates have not been decided yet, nor if we can get any discount off the posted charges.

http://www.johnnysmotel.ca/?page_id=175 (http://www.johnnysmotel.ca/?page_id=175)

There are only 26 rooms. They are numbered looking from the road toward the motel, right-to-left, 1A/1B - 25. The list shows what each room has, and which room #, along with the rate. Choose wisely! Some even have covered parking.

More to come as I compile more information.

Hope to see you all there.

Thank you for your support of the VRCC.


Edit, rooms;
If those who said they booked, booked a room, then we are already at 54% booked. (called, 14 rooms booked, but I only have 11 listed as taken. Anyone else?)

April 19, 6 rooms left, all with multiple beds and 3 suites.

1A  Taken
1B  Taken
2  Taken
3  Taken
4  Taken
5  Taken
6  Taken
7  Taken
8  Taken
9  Taken
10  Taken
11  open 3 beds
12  Taken
13  Taken
14  Taken
15  Taken
16  open suit
17  Taken
18  Taken
19  Taken
20  Taken
21  open 2 queens
22  Taken
23  open 2 queens
24  open 2 queens
25  open 2 queens

In case of filling the hotel completely, over flow can try for the next closest hotel, Riverside, which shares the same driveway in.

7351 BC-3, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H0
riversidemotelgf.com
(250) 442-2259

Just reserved room #6.  :cooldude:

Redline 8)

Hah? I had reserved room 6 yesterday :o I hadn't heard back from Crystal on a couple of my questions yet, so I called. After a few hours, she answered. Seems she just got married yesterday!

Congratulations Crystal and husband!

No problem, I just looked and room 5 is close to the same, and still has a carport, maybe $5 more.

Thank you Redline for making your plans known.  :cooldude:

See you there!

What are you guys booking? Arriving Thursday, leaving Sunday?

Our annual group ride. Jun 22 - 24, Fri - Sun. (Note: date changed to add the Thurs 21 - Sun 24)

Arrive Friday, meet up for dinner, back to the hotel and hang. Saturday, go out riding. Back for dinner. Then the fireside chat, gift exchange, more hanging. Sun, a ride home.

Booked today for Lisa and I...room #6 with the carport  ;) ;)

I hope room #6 is a big one... What is the maximum occupancy of a queen bed? :o

Redline  8)

I'm confused. Meet for dinner...as in farm boy dinner...12:00...or city boy dinner...18:00?

Either way, I just got booked in. Room 6.


Edit...Gord, I don't remember if you were there for our dinner/supper conversation at Inzane...if you're wondering what the heck I'm talking about.  ;D

I don't know, but I'm sure we could find out! Just like in our youth when they figured out how many people can fit into a phone booth or a VW beetle.


I missed the dinner, Tess wanted the Fish/Chips and her $10 casino credit, so we ate at the other restaurant. Sort of, but I've been on a farm before. The big meal was mid day.

Linda and I are booked for room 19.

Dana and Joan are booked for room 12.

Hey Gord, with the early signups already starting, we may have to look into having an overflow motel close by as a backup :cooldude:

I just reserved Room 20 and I'm ready to go.

I was thinking the same too. But..

When we used to reserve at the Valhalla Inn in New Denver, didn't we only get about 20 bikes showing up? I mean, I would love to see the hotel filled, but if all we usually get is 20 bikes, then that's about 20 rooms, and Johnny's has 26.

One reason to book early, and with people letting us know that they have reserved, I'm following how many. Maybe wait till fall, or when the hotel is full, and then look for another hotel to handle the over flow? What's your thoughts?

Sounds like a plan.There's a couple of other decent ones right there...but also one crappy one. Waiting until September is a good idea...I'm probably riding out that way and can scout it out. I know the first year in POst Falls we had easily almost 40 bikes, but that included Spokane/Valley locals. I spoke with some of the Alberta members who were at Inzane and also a few of the Idaho guys, and they might hit Valhalla next year. With Inzane probably being back East and many not wanting to go that far, might see a few new attendees at Valhalla ...especailly since we all talked it up in Billings and they know now we have a campfire  :)
(https://s5.postimg.org/ni34y2hnb/DSCN2088.jpg)

Gordon,
I have room 10 booked

George

Thanks George! So this means you are hoping to be in full health by then? Good!

See you tomorrow? Matt said he was trying to show up (the current owner of my Green IS).


That would be nice, thank you. I would look at the closest one, hoping people can walk over to Johnny's. I'm trying to find out if there is a foot bridge over the river, looks like it in the google maps.

I like the picture of Tess and I, I'll try to see if I can get it from the photo host site. Id did, but it was 640x480. If you wouldn't mind emailing the original?

I got the room rates from Crystal today, and they are good. If you look at this years high season, then we are looking at about $15 less than those.

I thought about posting them, but felt that maybe it is a little more private information, and shouldn't advertise to the world what each one actually is.

But, it is based on filling 12 rooms. Based on how may people have already replied, including the 3 different bookings for room 6, we already have 9 10 rooms booked.

If anyone wants to know exactly what was offered, let me know, and I'll forward the price list to you.

Hi Gang ! Margaret and I booked room number 5 quite a while ago. We just confirmed our reservation this am, considering the number of people who are sharing a queen bed in room number 6 :2funny:

Hopefully we get a chance to meet up in Grand Forks this September...we can check on that queen bed in good ol' room # 6 then, to make sure the springs are in good shape...lol  :2funny:

Steve, Lisa & I should see you guys on Monday up in Kelowna...probably be in the Miata if the weather stays hot, rather than the Valk

Hi

I am new to the forum. Is there some sort of a Valk rider meet up in Kelowna this Monday? I would like to meet fellow Valk riders. I meet Gord earlier this year in Richmond when I looked at the IS he was selling, but other than that I have not met any other Valk riders, or see that many on the road.

The next Valk get together is shaping up to be a weekend in Sept in Grand Forks BC . Planning is in the preliminary stages .... keep tuned for more details . :cooldude:

Steve

Update:

During out meet up at Grand Forks last month, seems most want to extend the experience, so they booked an extra night, thurs June 21. I changed the 1st post to reflect these dates, thurs - sun.

Called today, and 14 rooms booked, with 10 of those now with the extra night added on.

Also added in the hotel of choice for any overflow rooms, in case we fill up Johnny's.

Great Gord...did you forward the new dates to Willow/VRCC staff so they can include on 2018 VRCC calendar?
When we added the extra night for next year at Johnny's, they indicated that they regularly work with Riverside next door to accommodate larger groups, so I imagine that rates will be similar for Valhalla attendees.

Sent the PM to Willow for Valhalla 2018.

I was going to add in Riverside when Johnny's filled up, but I've posted that already, since we've meet the 50% requirement.

Also, had a PM from an Edmonton rider, looking for a yoke. Seems he hadn't heard of the BC Chapter, or our annual Valhalla Rally. Hopefully he'll post here, and we can all meet him next year. Donald.

I booked the Thursday thru Sunday when we were there in September, so I imagine that I am included in the info you got about the 10 rooms with the extra night. I don't remember what room number I booked.

Bump!

Well, it's the New Year, and people are thinking of riding season and planing their holidays. If you've already booked, but haven't post here, please do.

For those who are planing on coming, but haven't booked yet, please do so. The whole site is currently reserved for the Valhalla riders only, till April. Then any rooms not already booked, will be released for anyone.

The last time I check, we have 50% + booked, so we have met our goal to get the reduced rates for the rooms.

Mike has offered to meet up and go over/plan some ride routes.

Booked at Riverside Motel room #2

Update: 7 rooms are left.

4 with 2 doubles.

3 suites
1 with 2 bedrooms.
1 with 2 bedrooms and 3 beds.
1 with a double and a queen

Since we are doing so well, they have extended the reservation to April 15, and then will release the unbooked rooms. This is coming up fast, 2.5 months away. Please book now, if you plan on coming.

Thank you for those who are participating.

Don't forget the gift exchange, it's optional. $10-$15 USD thoughtful gift. Submit one, and draw for a pick of items there, its a fun time and good for some laughs.

I didn't buy a calendar this year, no where to hang it, just donated $ instead.

Did our Valhalla Rally get onto the calendar?

Yes it did Paul...it's listed on the calendar.  Are you making it this year?
ps...you must have a pretty small house if you don't have room to hang a calendar ;)  I bought "several"  ;D

 No single rooms left. I Just booked a suite.  It has 2 separate bed rooms with a queen bed  in each room. If anybody's looking to share some cost for a room let me know . I  Will be there for nights of  21-22-23.  Room #4 with carport.

Ready to ride   :cooldude: :cooldude:


Dusty

Just confirmed our reservation, room 22, good to go!!

If you want to update your list of rooms, I’m booked into room 15.

...if my bike has arrived by then.  :roll:

My wife and I are booked in 1a.   Been a few years since new Denver.   Looking forward to seeing yall

Warren

Update

The available rooms list has been updated as of this evening.

6 rooms left, all with multiple beds.

I forgot to ask if the Hold on the rooms will be extended or not, before being open the the general public.

Thank you one and all. I think this is going to be a nice turn out again.

Since we have  added an extra day this year, we will try to put a couple of pre-planned ride options together. Can do one long ride loop and a shorter one, then attendees can decide which one to ride and maybe do the other one the next day.
We can do the BBQ at the motel on the Saturday evening along with the gift exchange as usual, and I'm looking at options for booking a group dinner at a restaraunt for the Friday evening. Maybe can do a show and shine  or something else on the Friday as well.
Gord.... we should get together soon to discuss and confirm events and such

FYI...I booked my vacation for the original Thursday evening arrival date. I took Wednesday  off as well, since it’s a 2 day ride there. Halfway is about Lethbridge, leaves me about a 7 hour ride Thursday . So I won’t be there til Thursday afternoon.

So please don’t plan the best riding for Thursday.  ;D

Edit...got my original post dates mixed up.

Jason, the planned rides will take place on the Friday and Saturday, so no worries. Besides, if we did head out early, I'm sure you'd have no problem catching up on that NEW WING!!

I’m worried about it still not being here and trying to keep up on my old 2 stroke 79 DT175.

To catch up should be very easy, as we most likely would be heading East from Grand Forks to Nelson/Belford Ferry or some other place you could meet us at anyways.

But I'm sure most will be do their long ride getting to Grand Forks on the Thursday. Then from Mike's suggestion, a long and a short ride each day, Fri & Sat.

Sat is the usual meet up dinner. Hang and gift exchange. The BBQ was great last Sept, so we'll plan that again for Sat.

I called Johnny's today and they gave me a couple suggestions for restaraunts to do a group dinner on the Friday night. I'll follow up on that. They also said we should have full use of most of the parking lot if we wish to do something, like a show and shine, bike games, etc. I'm working on a few routes for the Friday and Saturday rides now.
 Gord... your bike on the road yet? We should meet up one day and go over plans for that week.

Not on the road yet :( and I don't know when it will be.

As for meeting up, I was going to see what next weekend is like, but I'm already busy Sat, going to go to the Orange with the guys (and brothers) from work.


May 5th? For lunch, somewhere in Chilliwack? Open it up for all who want to attend?

Suggestions? I went to a place, Jimmy J's Grill, restaurant and pub.

https://www.google.ca/maps/place/Jimmy+J'S+Grill/@49.1573839,-121.9530369,17z/data= (https://www.google.ca/maps/place/Jimmy+J'S+Grill/@49.1573839,-121.9530369,17z/data=)!4m5!3m4!1s0x54843f7cc8412fb5:0xaa19a81a4f44c4bc!8m2!3d49.1580594!4d-121.9527718

They put the over flow into the pub. So maybe a 11am meet.

Flooding in BC.

http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/bc-flooding-more-evacuations-road-closures-as-flooding-continues-around-province (http://vancouversun.com/news/local-news/bc-flooding-more-evacuations-road-closures-as-flooding-continues-around-province)

Might we be needing to look into somewhere else?

Supposedly the rivers crested today, and should start going down. But we choose Johnny's because of it's closeness to the river. Now this might have worked against up.

Suggestions of an alternative location? I've always wanted to base it out of Merritt, good rides out of there in every direction of every type. But there was river rises there too.

Gord, have you called Johnny's yet and asked them of their situation? There is about a month to go yet. I tried calling tonight from the airport here in Atlanta but I just get a busy signal.
I'm sure we'll be fine come June (hoping so anyways)

I was thinking of calling them, but felt they would be too busy. It might be too soon to know, but from the video I've seen, I expect their units have water around them, they where a little lower than the Hwy there, but had 2 steps up to the units.

https://globalnews.ca/video/4202526/flood-waters-rise-in-grand-forks

There is also Hwy 3 wash outs, hillsides moving, outside Keromeos. It might not be just a Grand Forks thing, but the Hwy too. Also problems on Hwy 6 in Lumby.

Hope they’re ok there. The news reports don’t look good. I’m sure you guys could pick one of dozens of great riding areas out there and it would be great, as long as we can get rooms.


Just throwing it out there...if we need to relocate somewhere with no flooding, we’ve got a new bypass around Regina.  We’ve got like 4 new cloverleafs to have fun on now.

Took a look around for alternative locations, it's not the best, but Kamloops, and they have room enough for all who have registered.

http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/british-columbia/hampton-inn-by-hilton-kamloops-KAMBCHX/index.html (http://hamptoninn3.hilton.com/en/hotels/british-columbia/hampton-inn-by-hilton-kamloops-KAMBCHX/index.html)

A little more expensive, but includes a decent light buffet breakfast. Amenities walking distance (Pub and coffee). I would hope we could get a better group rate with 20 +/- rooms taken.

Distance would be closer for some (straight along Hwy 1), and further for others (Idaho/WA/OR members).

But with Hwy 3 being suspect, I would expect road/lane closures, along with construction repairing the washed out roads. There is nothing worse than sitting in stopped traffic on a motorcycle.

I've looked at Kamloops before as a riding hub. There are rides out of there to all points of the compass. To Lillooet, Williams Lake, Valemont, Vernon/Kelowna, and lots of back roads and lakes to see.

I think this would work as a quick replacement if Grand Forks is a "wash out". But I really hope to still be able to stay there. There's talk of years for some areas of the community to be repaired.

Then there is also are currently planed Sept weekend rally also. That is also questionable.

When considering alternatives. Hwy 3 is closed west of Keromeos. Hwy 6 currently has 1 lane open, east of Lumby. Also some road construction near the Nakusp.

https://globalnews.ca/video/4201969/highway-3-west-of-keremeos-remains-closed-highway-6-opens-1-lane-east-of-lumby/

And west of Rock Creek, Hwy 3 again.

https://globalnews.ca/video/4196540/southern-b-c-stretch-of-highway-buckles-as-hillside-slumps

I'm sure the highways will be fine by June 21, and maybe Johnny's will be as well....although the latter may be a bit more of a "hope".
Kamloops is a decent alternative, however it would be better and more central for something along #3. Princeton would be perfect .....if space could be had.....and if routes to and from are fully open. Called the Countryside Inn in Princeton and they don't have enough rooms open. There's a few other decent places I will try this week.
Also, Hope  could be an option, although it would mean another 4 -5 hours for those coming from  the East.

Let's meet up next Saturday Gord, and see what we've come up with for a "Plan B"

Doesn't sound good...

http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,95913.msg1005996.html#msg1005996 (http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,95913.msg1005996.html#msg1005996)

Redline

Looking at options for Princeton, Hope, Kamlooos, and Merritt BC. Anyone else have ideas for an alternate location and motel that may have 20 rooms for that weekend and good riding opportunities?

Hey guys. Does it have to be in BC? Kettle Falls, Washington is close to Grand Forks and has some great riding in the area. Just thought it would keep the riding distance for most attending similar to what they had already planned on. Thought?
paul

Hey all...I've located a decent hotel in Merritt BC...the Quality Inn. Check it out here...it looks pretty nice for this motley crew.
https://www.choicehotels.ca/en/quality-inn-merritt-hotel-cna21 (https://www.choicehotels.ca/en/quality-inn-merritt-hotel-cna21)

We can get up to 20 rooms, singles & doubles at a group rate of 83.00 (a bit less I think for a single). That's CANADIAN $$ for our US friends...so you all will have lots left to buy us poor Canucks some really expensive gifts for our gift exchange  :2funny:

Merritt is high and dry, and central to many GREAT riding routes that are different from what this group has done in the past. Merritt also tends to be on the dry side, with respect to June weather.

Breakfast is included with this group rate...they are OK with the fire pit in the parking lot...they have a deck where we can gather, as well as a restaurant with a large meeting room we can use if it rains (hopefully it won't)....approx. 6 hour ride from Spokane; 4 hours from Seattle; 8 hours from Calgary; your Valk will hardly get warmed up from the  Okanogan or Lower Mainland BC; and for you Jason coming from Saskabush...it really doesn't matter if its longer because you need to put km's on that BRAND NEW WING of yours!!!

So, hopefully all will read this in the coming days...please let me know if thumbs up or thumbs down. I can probably wait a day or two (until Wednesday) before confirming with my new friend Jasmine there at the Q-Inn in Merritt if we want to book.
Any questions reply here or send me a PM 8) 8)

Merritt works for me!

Redline  :cooldude: :cooldude:

Sounds great Mike.

Looks like a nice 15 hour ride.  :cooldude: :)

Good job finding a place on short notice  

Looks good Mike. Works for me.   :cooldude: :cooldude:   Some good riding in that area  and a Home restaurant in the complex.

Dusty

I'm all for the change, just wondering if anyone has made contact with Johnnys though.

I have tried phoning no answer  and have sent an e-mail  requesting an update .No reply yet

Dusty

Ditto...both Gord & I have tried calling and sent messages with no response yet. I assume this means they are concentrating on the task at hand. I will speak with the Quality Inn in Merritt again later this afternoon to confirm how long they will hold a block of rooms for us and if there are any conditions with respect to cancelling if we hear from Johnny's that they were somehow miraculously saved or damage is minimal and can be restored in time....which I can't see. As much as I like Johnny's and the Kootenays, I'm thinking Merritt might be a good option this time, as many in our group probably haven't ridden that region before....lots of great new routes to explore for them. If I can get the Quality Inn to extend their confirmation period for that block of rooms for a couple days , I might get a chance to make a run up to Merritt to check it out in person Thursday or Friday.

UPDATE.....Lisa and I are driving up to Merritt Wednesday  ( good excuse to go fishin')   :)  and will  meet the Manager at the Quality Inn to confirm all the details . Will also be good to get a first hand look and ensure everything is at it seems. As soon as that is done I will post all the reservation details on here .

I can help with ideas for rides from Merritt. I have ridden throughout the area.

I have a friend who just bought a Valk and will be joining us.

Rooms at Quality Inn in Merritt are confirmed for June 21-24 and can be reserved at 250-378-4253 under "Valhalla Rally". 5 single King rooms, 5 single Queen rooms and 9 double Queen rooms...all at the same rate of $83.00 Cdn.  Breakfast is included served in onsite Restaraunt. These rooms are held until June 4. If you have to cancel your reservation , 72 hours notice. Nice place with everything we need and more...good location just out of town.
Don't forget to cancel your room at Johnnys .

Booked. Thanks Mike.

Booked. Thanks Mike, appreciate you taking the time to deal with this!

Redline 8) 

I have booked a room. Talking to the clerk was painful. He didn't understand the "Valhalla Rally" group at first, but eventually figured it out.

Murray
Thanks for practicing with the clerk. He knew the dates and group  and got me booked in fairly quickly.

Dusty    :cooldude: :cooldude:

The manager and staff are very friendly, and the manager is being very accommodating. I met with them this AM. Yes some of the staff may not speak the best of English and since I just set it up this AM, the late staff may just getting up to speed. I think they'll be good to us in June...patience, Grasshoppers... :)

Mike  
 Thanks to you and Gordon for getting this figured out for us.
Is breakfast served in the Home restaurant or does the motel have their own  on site. So now the planning  a route to get there for 4:00 PM. I  would like to take Duffy Lake road and come in from the north     :cooldude: :cooldude: or take the canyon   :cooldude: :cooldude: or  go #3 to Oyossos and up    :cooldude: :cooldude:. Decisions ,decisions LOL.   ;D ;D

Dusty

 

They have a restaurant on site and they serve the breakfast there each AM. Big deck in between Restaraunt and hotel and it's parking lot.  I'll post some pics later that i took this AM. t's a really nice place, just out of town up the hill to the North. Yes, so manyou  routes to take to and out of Merritt once were there. Gord and I will try to meet this weekend to map out some Ride options for the Friday and Saturday . Lots to choose from.

Hey Mike,
Let me know where and when you and Gord are meeting this weekend and I'll try to get out of chores and meet you.
paul

Booked, room 108. Now who else has that one too???

Thanks Mike for searching Merritt for us. Kamloops was more expensive, and getting less (no breakfast).


Murray, I'll take it we'll map the main routes, will figure out some kind of Word Doc. We'll send you a copy, and ask you to add one some others you now if, I'm hoping the back roads, the slow ones. We'll add them on, then get they out to everyone.


I've breakfast with George this Sat in Langley. I'll check with him if he's up for driving out to Chilliwack instead. Tess is working Sunday, so maybe a ride out that day instead?

Paul, are you moved fully now to Abby?

Mission is an option to meet if you're going out to Chilliwack anyway , Gord. Either Rocco's Diner or the A&W on the East end of town. Make it 9:00 - 9:30 so you have time.
I'm open to other suggestions.....just not Langley at 8.

Hey Gord,
Yes we're in. We're actually in Yarrow and not Abby......half way between Abby and Chilliwack. Alison loves it out here (quiet, peaceful, wildlife, run to spread out) and I now have room for all my toys. It's all good.

I got ahold of George, and he's up for it. I'll meet up with him in MR, then we'll take Hwy 7 over to Rocho's. A nice 24/7 breakfast menu.

We should be there by 9 am. Guys, are you bringing your ladies too? Tess should be there unless shes working Sat (not as of now).

I'll bring my lap top, so we can look over routes, and post them.

I will  be riding solo. See you guys at 9:00 am.

Not sure if Lisa will come, but I'll be there for 9:00

Thanks for all the hard work in setting this up.  I booked for friday and saturday.  Caroline and I are looking forward to seeing everyone.

Warren

Some of the pictures from BC Hwy showing the wash outs. Some have locations.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/tranbc/albums/72157668491963438/with/28089115698/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/tranbc/albums/72157668491963438/with/28089115698/)

BC Hwys road conditions.
https://www.tranbc.ca/current-travel-advisories/#shuswap (https://www.tranbc.ca/current-travel-advisories/#shuswap)

The restaurant at the Quality Inn is the New Town. By their menu, they are more Asian style.
http://newtownrestaurant.net/ (http://newtownrestaurant.net/)

The breakfast included with our nightly stay is from 6:30 - 9:30, consists of the cereal and breads placed out, and then you are given a selection of the 2 egg breakfasts that you can order from, if I understood correctly.

The Home restaurant is more like a Rickey's or Denny's type, and is just a short walk to the next block.

During our meet up, Mike suggested a Show & Shine. Only question would be, would this be Thurs or Fri evening, after dinner, say 7 pm, in the parking lot. I feel Fri, after everyone is there.

We'll just get the bikes in a row, and have a local "celebrity" come by and look them over.

We'll supply some informational packets, showing routes/distance/time. Points of interest. You decide on the ride you wish to take and when. For those showing up on Thurs, I expect they will be out riding on Fri, then again, everyone on Sat.

Sat night, will be our group get together after dinner. The gift exchange. Discussions of our fall rally, and Valhalla 2019.

And don't forget about the indoor swimming pool. I know I'll be bringing my Speedos.  :coolsmiley:

Will there be a category for the bike with the most bugs? After my last 400 mile ride and the large swarm of bees we rode through, I might have a chance in that class.

Redline 8)

 

Let’s do it!  I’ve got a 15 hour ride. You’re going down.


PS...anyone had any luck calling Johnny’s?

I gave up, and sent them an email, that way there is a record of the attempt to cancel the reservation.

Redline 8)

mmmm.... not sure if new $30,000 fancy-schmancy Wings should be allowed to compete ;)

No competing. I’m just happy I still get to hang out with you old guys...I mean old bikes.

Hey all... just to let everyone know, 18 of our 20 blocked rooms at the Quality Inn in Merritt have been filled. So 2 rooms left, which will be held until June 4. So if you're  coming and haven't booked a room yet , or know of someone else who may want to join us.. now's the time.
If we need extra rooms I can try to get a few more this weekend.

I'm sure that the hotel will be glad to fill there rooms as long as they have some empty.

I was thinking of calling them tonight and see how things where going. Good to hear we are almost the same # of rooms that where filled at Grand Forks.

As for Johnny's, I hadn't mentioned (I think), I called the city because we where having no luck contacting Johnny's, and they said defiantly Johnny's was under water. After repeated calling with no answer, emails not being replied too, I would say it's guaranteed a bust.

If anyone is interested, I carry the digi-sync in my trailer, so it will be at the Valhalla Rally, if anyone wishes to sync their carbs. I have never done it myself yet.

 I might take you up on that Gordon.      :cooldude: :cooldude:    I don't think the carbs have been synched on this bike for 15 years.  ;D ;D

Dusty

What hotel in Merritt BC?

Quality Inn...rooms held under Valhalla Rally . See info in a previous thread here

I have some items I would be interested in selling. How about a little for sale table while we're there?

I have some new and used items. Trying to decide which items I'm going to offer up on the gift exchange.

I've a new Valk air cleaner, GW GL1800 K&N used (dirty), clutch/brake reservoir cap, new pack of star washer (5 pcs), balancing beads, some light bulbs (H4), and more.

I think that is a great idea. I don't have anything to sell at the moment, but I am always looking for Valk parts. At the moment I am looking for

• a standard/Tourer speedo, it doesn't need to be working (mph or kph)
• Always looking for chrome
• VTX Headlight (I know it's not a Valkyrie part, buy maybe someone has one.)
• Super Charger

Just a thought ..... the Penticton Peach City Car Show is on the weekend of June  22/23/24 . Penticton is about 1 3/4 hours from Merrit . The car show is a GOOD one with hundreds of cars from Hot Rods to Muscle Cars to you name it .  One of the rides could be a loop which takes in the car show ??? .... just saying  ;)

YES!!! Great idea Steve. I'll look up the details like times, etc and include it in our options. Was looking for something like that in Merritt or Kamloops but never thought to check out Penticton.

Could be very nice, take the long way through Princeton to Penticton. Check out the show, then the fast way back to Merritt.

Steve, seems the women are planning a Spa Day in Merritt on Sat afternoon.

Hi Gordon ..... or we could just do the the ride down in reverse since the roads are way more interesting . The fast way "Connector " is straight, boring, cold at elevation, and actually not a hell of a lot faster overall. .... just saying  ..... so we have options ! :D

One week away.

Just bumping it to the top.

Should be in before 5pm. Haven't decided on route or time yet, due to morning rush hour leaving the city.

Weather forecast has improved...looks like we'll have 30 + for most of the 3 days with lots of sun  :cooldude: 8)

 Started packing   ;D ;D ;D

 Ready for some warm weather and good roads.

Dusty

Just ran Green Mountain Road ( it is now open with only a very small section of gravel) from Penticton and hooked into 3A, 97, and then WHITE LAKE ROAD all the way to Oliver ....... it is miles and miles of BRAND NEW TWISTY PAVEMENT  :D :D :D :cooldude:......... perhaps we could tap into this if we take in the Penticton car show ??

A good ride for those of you heading back to Vancouver or there abouts is the Coldwater road out of Merritt. It comes out south at the Coldwater exit on the Coq.

Hmmm..… the Vermin Club "Long Way 'Round Ride" crosses at Osoyoos. It looks like this White Lake Road might be "on the way" to Merritt! We would appreciate any cool route options from you locals.

Redline 8)

Here's an option  :D ..... ride to OLIVER .... turn left @ FAIRVIEW RD. ( traffic light) .... turn right @ WILLOWBROOK.... turn right @ WHITE LAKE RD ( definitely NOT LEFT!!!!!)..... turn left onto 97 .... turn left onto 3A to KEREMEOUS .....go WEST on 3 to PRINCETON  ( after HEDLEY look for OLD HEDLEY RD on the right .... you can take this or just stay on #3) ..... take 5A north to MERRITT ........ this is longer than just taking 3A out of Osoyoos , but more interesting .

Another option ..... follow the directions above . But after you turn left on 3A to KEREMEOUS look for GREEN MOUNTAIN RD on the right . Ride GREEN MOUNTAIN RD all the way to PENTICTON ( there is one small section of gravel, not bad though)..... take 97 north....take 97C .... take 5A to Merritt.

97 C is the infamous CONNECTOR and has a higher speed limit ( 70mph and 75 mph) . Fast, but not twisty, and can sometimes be quite cold at elevation ( 5,670 ft) .

Just remember some of these routes will be options for the Friday and Saturday rides as well, so you'll have plenty of opportunity to  catch several great riding options. Just be careful especially on any of the more regular highways on the way up.... beginning of the Summer season will see a few more radar locations in place... the Mounties especially like ticketing vermin from the US ;)

Thanks Steve, we'll see how the ride goes and how adventurous we feel at that point in the day. I've learned what the name Russell Day-Long means, Day-Long seems to be 300 miles!

Redline 8) 

Thanks Mike, but I have no issues with riding great roads more than once!

Won't have to worry about the Mounties with my wife on board!

Redline 8)

Redline .... know what you mean :'( My behind starts screaming at me at around the same mileage or less   :tickedoff:

Home , safe and sound from Valhalla rally  :cooldude:

On the return trip we had a bit of a heart stopper on Green Mountain Road  :o  . Some idiot on a Harley :uglystupid2: couldn't hold his lane on a blind curve and met us head on . At the last second, I was able to give him just enough real estate without putting us into the ditch .  :tickedoff: :tickedoff: :tickedoff:

Had a great weekend and it was super fun to see all of our friends again. :) :)

Glad to hear you avoided what could have ruined the end of what was a great trip, and got home safe.

It's the end of another Valhalla Rally, and I hope I can say, that a great time was had by all.

1st, I had neglected in formally Thanking the Vermin for buying the pizza for last nights dinner, during our evening events. I wasn't there as the pizza was being delivered, so I hope individuals there, who where enjoying the pizza, had thanked the Vermin at that time.

I hadn't found time to set up any kind of swap meet, but had sold a few of the items I had brought (usually carry in my trailer) to Murry and Doug. I'll try again next year.

We've decided on trying again for Grand Forks for next years Valhalla 2019 Rally, to show them some support after the flooding. I'll be contacting them and trying to set some things up.

Seems that the only complaints we had, where about the service in the onsite restaurant. Most had already spoken with Heidi on the desk, we also had chatted about it. But I had only heard praise about how good the food was. Coming from Richmond, we have a major China Town type community here, about 10 Asian restaurants every block. All kinds, and Tess and I found the food very nice. The staff where very obliging about our events, the fire pit, drinking in the parking lot, late night chatting around the fire pit keeping people warm. The local police did drop by while I was out buying some stock for my weekend, to say Hi, as I had contacted them to inform them of our event. No one reported any run ins with them while on duty, so who knows, maybe it was worth it?

Our ride on Thursday turned into a single group ride. Everyone came alone to the same place. We road over from Merritt to Lillooet, to Dina's Place, Greek Food. I found the calamari lunch Tess and I had was perfectly cooked. Complaint from our table mates, was no yellow mustard for their burgers. Surprisingly the food came out fairly quickly, no one was left behind eating while the rest had left, after no warning to Dina's and about 20 people descending upon them.

A couple of spots where the road was being fixed up from a slid and paving being done. Some rain outside Ashcroft on our drive by Logan Lake on the way back to Merritt. But after the rain stopped, 15 minutes down the road, and most reported arriving back at the hotel dry. One reason I was looking forward to riding in the Merritt area, a semi-arid desert means less moisture/humidity.

While the ladies had arranged to stay behind in Merritt on Saturday, and make a spa day, the guys and one Brave lady, drove down to Princeton and then over to Penticton for an annual Show & Shine that was going on at the same time.

A nice detour Steve H showed us, was a back road ride between Keremeos and Penticton, the Green Mountain Road. For those who have been to the New Denver Valhalla Rally, I liken it to the road between Kaslo and New Denver.

Our only report of a mishap was a rider from WA, whom unfortunately had somehow had his Valk fall on him and pin his foot under it. Foot was bruised and sore, but he was still able to make a good show of it and walk an hour at the Penticton Show & Shine.

A nice lunch off site in Summerland, then up to the Hwy 97c connector between the Okanagan Valley and the Nicola Valley.

Then the usual final night events. We had the Show & Shine votes from the day before for the best traditional Valkyrie, won my msd (Mike) black/red IS. The best non traditional MC, won my Steve from Spokane, F6B. And lastly a Buns of Steel, given to Beardo (Jason) from Regina Saskatchewan, 18' GW.

Our trophy Valkyrie Standard, which is given out to the "attendee" who had a mishap, was given to the above mentioned WA member for his foot injury.

Again for those who have attended, we started a new tradition. Redline (Cal) from the ex Seattle Vermin, always has a nice Hawaiian style shirt at these rallies. So the guys all came out at the event night wearing theirs too. It made for a nice lite moment for all, and got a big smile out of Redline.

And talking about Redline, Thank you for bringing out your better half, Linda, to our event. She was a pleasure to meet and talk too, and fitted in nicely with our crowd.

Thanks again Mike for helping out so much in organizing this event, along with all the others who have put time in, from behind the scene to just showing up and enjoying the time with like minded individuals. Everyone has smiles and hugs from the women, and are pleased to attend the Rally.

If I have forgotten anyone, I'm sorry, but I don't take notes, as I'm also trying to enjoy myself as much as the rest of you all. In helping in setting up and cleaning up before, during and after the Rally. In just attending.

I had neglected in not counting all the attendees, but we had 16 MC and our pace car on the ride to Lillooet. Warren and his wife showed up for Friday night.

Did I miss anything? Hope not.

Thank you again, everyone. I had a wonderful time, made everything worth doing. Now lets see what we can do for next years Valhalla Rally!

gordonv and Tess.

Another great Valhalla Rally! On behalf of the Washington State Chapter, a big thanks to the BC Chapter for hosting another great event. Looking forward to returning next year... don't forget your shirts.


Redline 8)

Glad you were able to maneuver around him. If anyone could, it would be you. I really enjoyed being on your six once again, some of the most enjoyable riding I’ve ever done. It’s a privilege being behind someone with your experience and road-reading skills.  :cooldude:

Thanks again Gord and msb for all the organizing and to the whole gang for letting me tag along with your amazing group.

Had a great day of fly fishing with msb today. He didn’t even laugh (out loud) at my (lack of) fly fishing skills.