AZ 85 & 86

[The emperor has no clothes]

Anybody familiar with 85 & 86 south of Gila Bend ? We are planning a trip to Kartchner Caverns in a few weeks and I like to go new roads to me. Pavement in good shape or anything to be aware of ?

[W0X0F]

I've done the ride a number of times, but, it has been a couple of years.  The road is, or at least was, in very good shape.  The only issue I have is the limited choice of eating establishments along that route.  Have fun!

[The emperor has no clothes]

I've done the ride a number of times, but, it has been a couple of years.  The road is, or at least was, in very good shape.  The only issue I have is the limited choice of eating establishments along that route.  Have fun!

Thanks. Yeah doesn't look like much but desert. I'm sure we will eat in Gila Bend.

[Michael K (Az.)]

If you're coming from the River to the Salome Rd.,take it all the way to Old Hwy 80 by Arlington. Kinda scenic w/ smelly cattle overtones. Cool old bridge to photo op!


Turn Right on U.S. 8 into town and you'll find the Space Age Restaurant!
http://www.yelp.com/biz/space-age-restaurant-gila-bend

Let me know when the time comes.

[The emperor has no clothes]

Hey thanks Michael  Why does it not surprise me you would know this place ? It just dawned on me that's where you got your glasses.  Old 80 was my plan also. Where bouts is the bridge ? I've only been to Gila Bend by way of 85. I expect us to be there about noon on the 19th. I'll post again when closer. A lunch meetup would be great. 

[NautiBrit]

Rob,
If you do pass through Arlington, try to time your lunch stop at the Co-op Restaurant. It's highly rated and I've eaten there a couple of times in the last month and enjoyed it every time. The bridge is a couple of miles down the road from the Co-op.

[The emperor has no clothes]

Rob,
If you do pass through Arlington, try to time your lunch stop at the Co-op Restaurant. It's highly rated and I've eaten there a couple of times in the last month and enjoyed it every time. The bridge is a couple of miles down the road from the Co-op.

Sounds good George. We'll probably make it to Gila Bend for lunch. Have you done the Caverns ?

[Big Tom 10628]

I've done the ride a number of times, but, it has been a couple of years.  The road is, or at least was, in very good shape.  The only issue I have is the limited choice of eating establishments along that route.  Have fun!

I thought that you were a Pic-A-Nic devotee?

[davesretired]

I've been to the Caverns a few times. They have two different tours, but one can be shut down because of the bats for a month or two.......not sure what time of year that occurs. If you prebuy your passes online, the parking is free ( at least for cars, never went there on bikes ). http://azstateparks.com/Parks/KACA/index.html
Lots of info here.

[The emperor has no clothes]

I've been to the Caverns a few times. They have two different tours, but one can be shut down because of the bats for a month or two.......not sure what time of year that occurs. If you prebuy your passes online, the parking is free ( at least for cars, never went there on bikes ). http://azstateparks.com/Parks/KACA/index.html
Lots of info here.

I was wondering which tour is better. They both appear to be going.

[W0X0F]

Actually, you can't go wrong with either tour.  I have been on both tours and if I had to pick, the Rotunda/Throne tour was my favorite.  But, again, both are fantastic.  You won't be disappointed regardless of which tour you choose.

Tim

[The emperor has no clothes]

Actually, you can't go wrong with either tour.  I have been on both tours and if I had to pick, the Rotunda/Throne tour was my favorite.  But, again, both are fantastic.  You won't be disappointed regardless of which tour you choose.

Tim

[NautiBrit]

Rob,
I have to agree with Tim, either tour is worth taking, plus it gives you a good reason to return.

[Big Tom 10628]

Hey thanks Michael  Why does it not surprise me you would know this place ? It just dawned on me that's where you got your glasses.  Old 80 was my plan also. Where bouts is the bridge ? I've only been to Gila Bend by way of 85. I expect us to be there about noon on the 19th. I'll post again when closer. A lunch meetup would be great. 

Hey Mike, I can do lunch in Gila Bend on the 19th. Lemmee know if you want to ride down..

Also the Bike show is the next day if you want to take pictures of Trikes to send to Tim.

[Michael K (Az.)]

http://www.azbikeweek.com/?gclid=Cj0KEQiAoby1BRDA-fPXtITt3f0BEiQAPCkqQXFQ_yot5PoQ2W2HUdXZRnjJpVMU6YLtcsuj9WrapscaAj908P8HAQ

http://www.phoenixbikefest.com/--bikefest-rides

I beginning to think you don't mean the 19th of Feb. Because I couldn't find any bike thingies on the 20th of Feb. around here. ??

[Big Tom 10628]

http://www.azbikeweek.com/?gclid=Cj0KEQiAoby1BRDA-fPXtITt3f0BEiQAPCkqQXFQ_yot5PoQ2W2HUdXZRnjJpVMU6YLtcsuj9WrapscaAj908P8HAQ

http://www.phoenixbikefest.com/--bikefest-rides

I beginning to think you don't mean the 19th of Feb. Because I couldn't find any bike thingies on the 20th of Feb. around here. ??

Jeeeeeez how bout dis?

http://www.motorcycleshows.com/city/phoenix-az

[Michael K (Az.)]

Well alrighty then. I'll be a waitin for that freebee.

[W0X0F]

Hey thanks Michael  Why does it not surprise me you would know this place ? It just dawned on me that's where you got your glasses.  Old 80 was my plan also. Where bouts is the bridge ? I've only been to Gila Bend by way of 85. I expect us to be there about noon on the 19th. I'll post again when closer. A lunch meetup would be great. 

Hey Mike, I can do lunch in Gila Bend on the 19th. Lemmee know if you want to ride down..

Also the Bike show is the next day if you want to take pictures of Trikes to send to Tim.

While I am not in the market for a trike at this time, sure, why not?  Send me photos.  I would prefer cash, however, to be perfectly honest.

As of this moment, my calendar is wide open on the 19th.  Mind if I tag along????

[Big Tom 10628]

Well alrighty then. I'll be a waitin for that freebee.   (Mike)

I would prefer cash, however, to be perfectly honest.   (Tim)

Jeeezz   One wants a freebie and the other is beggin for cash.  What kind of crowd hangs around here......LOL


I wonder if the Space Diner has all you can eat Fish Fry on Fridays?

[Big Tom 10628]

OK Mike and Tim, where do you want to meet up for this "Fish Fry"   I'll prolly ride down the 303 to the 10.

[Michael K (Az.)]

I'm lookin at a map to see where we all can meet up before heading S. on Old 80. I don't recall and gas stop or anything besides that school in Arlington except parking on the "dark desert highway" (sorry) somewhere. Lemme take a look on the google.

[Michael K (Az.)]

Meathead, If you take the Salome Hwy to Old Hwy 80, from that point, it's about 45  minutes to Gila Bend. That's not counting the time spent hangin out at that old bridge. Tim, Tom and I will probably meet at the chevron station E. at Jack Rabbit Rd. and I-10 then ride to the Salome + 80 intersection, which, is just a spot inna desert! Roughly hewn  plan at best! If it's a go, The Phx folks can figure out the timing as we go on. Looks like an 11:00 meet at the meathead meet. ( I'm getting tired of saying,'meet')

[Big Tom 10628]

Doesn't show on the Map but there was a station where Salome Hwy. meets old 80.

Or at least a wide place inna road..

[The emperor has no clothes]

Meathead, If you take the Salome Hwy to Old Hwy 80, from that point, it's about 45  minutes to Gila Bend. That's not counting the time spent hangin out at that old bridge. Tim, Tom and I will probably meet at the chevron station E. at Jack Rabbit Rd. and I-10 then ride to the Salome + 80 intersection, which, is just a spot inna desert! Roughly hewn  plan at best! If it's a go, The Phx folks can figure out the timing as we go on. Looks like an 11:00 meet at the meathead meet. ( I'm getting tired of saying,'meet')

Sounds good. Will firm up plans as we get closer. There will be another couple with us on a Yamaha. 

[Michael K (Az.)]

Cool deal! Of course, still loosey goosey here too. Looking forward to seeing you again! ♫

[NautiBrit]

Add me to the riding list, my calendar seems to be wide open on the 19th also.

George

[The emperor has no clothes]

Add me to the riding list, my calendar seems to be wide open on the 19th also.

George

Sounds great ! Looking forward to it. 

[W0X0F]

Shoot, it's beginning to look like I may not be available on the 19th after all.  I build houses for Habitat for Humanity.  Normally, we work on the houses on Saturdays, but, as circumstances dictate, sometimes I work during the week as well.  I am one of only a few people available mid week to help out since I don't have a job.  I just received an email telling me that the roofing contractor will be delivering the roofing materials on the 19th and I was asked to be there to assist the delivery and weather in the roof so shingling may commence first thing on the 20th.

I will know more this Saturday.

I was so looking forward to this ride   

[The emperor has no clothes]

Shoot, it's beginning to look like I may not be available on the 19th after all.  I build houses for Habitat for Humanity.  Normally, we work on the houses on Saturdays, but, as circumstances dictate, sometimes I work during the week as well.  I am one of only a few people available mid week to help out since I don't have a job.  I just received an email telling me that the roofing contractor will be delivering the roofing materials on the 19th and I was asked to be there to assist the delivery and weather in the roof so shingling may commence first thing on the 20th.

I will know more this Saturday.

I was so looking forward to this ride   

Bummer, was looking forward to a meet up. Sounds like it's for a good cause though. Next time 

[Michael K (Az.)]

I was just thinking that if you folks have enough time, instead of shooting down the fwys, from Gila Bend, this route is a little more interesting as you go thru the Res. and see some different countryside. If your "time is tight" (Booker T and the MG's tune) you'd save about an hour on the slabs. Looking forward to next Friday!! 

[The emperor has no clothes]

Yeah Michael that is going to be our route  How is the pavement down there ? We usually try to avoid the Interstates whenever we can. Part of the enjoyment of riding is going the less traveled way.

[Michael K (Az.)]

I probably should have remembered your 1st post. Ha! From what I remember, the roads not too bad. A dent now and then and some gravel here and there. It's mostly 2 lane country roads and you might keep an eye out for the errant pickem up truck pulling out at a snails pace. Just standard country ridin. I put a spot 25 miles W. of G.B. on that map in case you want to check out "Painted Rock Petroglyphs". Tom and I have been there before. Stuff to see, ya know?

[Big Tom 10628]

Are we still a go for meet up at Jack Rabbit on Friday?

We pick a spot to eat?

Big Dave, I know you are lurking, you gonna take the day off?

Mike you bringing Da Kiddo?    Her lunch is on me if you do...

Just Sayin.... 

[W0X0F]

Well, I hope you guys have a fun ride. Not only will I be working on the Habitat house on Friday, but, today and Wednesday as well.

Be safe.

Tim

[Michael K (Az.)]

Sorry you can't make it, Tim!
As far as I know we're good to go! Waiting for Meathead and George to cough up a hairball or opinion which ever comes first about the meet, George, you and me at the gas station on Jackrabbit Rd (195th), the chevron. Then travel down to where Old Hwy 80 and the Salome Hwy meet at the Hassayampa store. Timing will be on Meatheads travel sched. When M.H. gets an idea on timing, the rest of us can just backtrack, easy peasy! Dining preferences? All good for me, we can decide when we meld.  

[The emperor has no clothes]

Sorry you can't make it, Tim!
As far as I know we're good to go! Waiting for Meathead and George to cough up a hairball or opinion which ever comes first about the meet, George, you and me at the gas station on Jackrabbit Rd (195th), the chevron. Then travel down to where Old Hwy 80 and the Salome Hwy meet at the Hassayampa store. Timing will be on Meatheads travel sched. When M.H. gets an idea on timing, the rest of us can just backtrack, easy peasy! Dining preferences? All good for me, we can decide when we meld.  

We are leaving at 8 am so I think that would put us at the intersection of Old 80 and Salome Hwy at 11 am. I didn't realize there was a store there, even better yet.  Sound ok with you guys ? Looking forward to the meetup. 

[Michael K (Az.)]

PERFECT! Looks like if we meet at the Chevron @ Jackrabbit and I-10 around 10:30, it should get us at the Hassayampa store,(jury's still out if there's a store or not, might just be a chunk 'O desert) about 11:00. We can hit the old bridge for a gander, toss around chow choices, kick a tire,(OK George, Tyre) or two and, aah, you know the drill! ♫ Chime in for alternate plans.

[The emperor has no clothes]

PERFECT! Looks like if we meet at the Chevron @ Jackrabbit and I-10 around 10:30, it should get us at the Hassayampa store,(jury's still out if there's a store or not, might just be a chunk 'O desert) about 11:00. We can hit the old bridge for a gander, toss around chow choices, kick a tire,(OK George, Tyre) or two and, aah, you know the drill! ♫ Chime in for alternate plans.

Sounds good to me 

[NautiBrit]

I'm good with the Chevron at 10:30. As I age my memory gets worse, but a week ago there was nothing at the intersection of Salome Hwy and old Hwy 80 except dirt.

[Michael K (Az.)]

 I was afraid of that! My mapmaker must have been an incurable optimist.