... I did it! And “The King” is stabled for the evening, having delivered me safely home from this most excellent inaugural road trip. Pretty amazing feeling to know I rode approximately 4,300 miles to Sturgis and back. The Road King is a solid performer. We bonded, a kind of “Zen” thing. I know all the machine nuances, from the engine power band to the quirky noises it makes at different temperatures, and times of the day.... I was in the saddle almost 12 hours today, I should know these things. Absolutely, I do know that I am very comfortable riding this bike, and never worried that any component was going to fail.

Just arrived, taking off the helmet.

Tish, happy I made it home alive.

Me, proudly displaying my,

“I rode mine to Sturgis...”

patch... no trailer for me!

I got up this morning in Bliss at 6:15 A.M. The morning air was fresh and cool, a perfect time to clean up the bike for the final run of this journey. The bug slime clung to the rag I was using and formed a scummy film at the water line of bucket. Two rinses and lots of detail scrubbing, I was ready to roll. Eric, the manager, came out to talk with me about the finer points and opportunities of living in Bliss during the winter, which included 4-Wheeling in the snow, shooting guns at the local range, and other entertainment possibilities during the slow months, while managing the motel. If you are ever in the area traveling I-84 and need a place to stay for the night, I highly recommend The Amber Inn in Bliss. These folks are serious about making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

After riding with cool temps to Boise, the day got hot in a hurry. I shed my leather jacket in Baker City, and felt the heat until I got to Eugene. Portland was very hot, and I hit the fringe of rush hour, which made it feel even hotter - the 96 cubic inch engine on my bike runs a little warm ;)

The view just before dropping into Pendleton is vast, panoramic.

Expansive view outside Pendleton.

The ride into The Gorge was beautiful, not too windy, and as the road kissed the Columbia, I welcomed the cooler air as it pushed across the water. I was really intent on getting home at a decent time, so I didn’t stop for any more pictures, but I should have... The Gorge was extremely picturesque today.

Beginnings of The Gorge, Boardman.

So, I did it! Tonight is most likely my last entry... unless, tomorrow evening finds me missing the routine of rambling on about my day’s experiences.

It’s been fun sharing this trip with all of you.

Peace, and until the next time (I already feel it coming ‘round again!),

Eric