July 5, 2003 - Yuma, AZ

Forecast: 90 degrees

Road Condition: Smooth with limited construction I-5 South, to the 805 South, to 8 East.

Fuel: $1.98

Miles Traveled: San Diego, CA to Yuma, AZ: 180 (1,414 Total)

Bike Update: Serviced and ready to go.

Road Trip Log Update: San Diego Harley Davidson did a great job of service. While the tune up was being handled we enjoyed the Saturday party they had going on with a live band and barb-b-q. There were allot of people to meet and bikes to look at. We took the opportunity to get some business taken care of before heading out. Drew invited us to lunch at Al Fornio on Del Mar for a big Italian send off. Again the food was fantastico, and the hospitality was truly Italian. (Thanks Manni!) We made our last visit to the Pacific Ocean as a tribute to making our first corner successfully. On our way out of town we stopped by REI to pick up some new sunglasses for JillMarie for the remaining 9500 miles. Seems as though sunglasses don’t last when they are not put away properly………If your on a road trip and you need gear, REI is the best for getting outfitted for endurance. Camelbacks, sunglasses, maps, security clips, back packs, socks, riding gear, they have it all. Riding through the Tecate Divide at sun down became an experience that most motorcyclist would enjoy. At an elevation of 4,180, with 25 miles of big continuous winding smooth curves and a 6 percent down grade it was quite the ride coming down to sea level. The air felt like a warm bath and the brief but intense gusts of side winds were welcomed. With the sunset in the rear view mirror and the temperature picking up we decided to stop and take off our chaps and reload the Camelbacks, which turned out to be a good choice. Riding through the desert at night there is less traffic, and heat. Unfortunately there are drawbacks like visibility and bugs, which meant we needed to reduce our speed. Tip: When riding through the desert, pack some eye drops to give your eyes a wash. We made Yuma by midnight and requested a late check out. Another night riding the desert would require sleep and the time to acclimate to the heat.

JillMarie and Future Master Chef Drew Rivera	Ironman and Sugarlips in the First of Four Corners San Diego, California
San Diego Harley Davidson #1
San Diego Harley Davidson #2
The Helpful Crew at San Diego REI Very Helpful Manager Kara on right!	REI
Click to see July 4, 2003	Click to see July 6, 2003