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General Category => Yamaha FJ1100 / FJ1200 Rally Information => West Coast Rally => Topic started by: Pat Conlon on June 29, 2018, 12:20:02 PM

Poll
Question: *IF* you are going, where do you prefer?
Option 1: Hayfork, CA, Bar 717 Ranch votes: 9
Option 2: Willits, KOA votes: 1
Option 3: Other (post specifics) votes: 4
Title: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Pat Conlon on June 29, 2018, 12:20:02 PM
Hey guys, we would like to start planning on the 2019 WCR so we need a consensus on where we should hold it.

Traditionally we reach this decision by holding a vote at the Saturday night camp fire but this year we did not.
Several folks talked up Hayfork, the site of our soggy 2011 WCR, and folks also talked about Willits, so I listed those 2 locations on the above poll.
Hayfork location: http://www.bar717.com/about-us/ (http://www.bar717.com/about-us/)
Willits location: https://koa.com/campgrounds/willits/ (https://koa.com/campgrounds/willits/)

If you would like us to consider a 3rd location (other than Hayfork or Willits), vote in the "other" category and then post the specifics on the site for us to review and discuss.

Reminder that the 2019 WCR is held the weekend after Memorial Day, so that's Thursday May 30th thru Sunday June 2nd 2019

The turn out this year for the 2018 WCR was light. We missed Frank & Diane, Mike & Tina, Derek & Donna, Ed & Sue, just to name a few, so even though you did not make the 2018 WCR, you can vote.

Please only vote if you plan on attending the 2019 WCR. We would like to get this wrapped up by October 1st 2018.

Cheers   Pat
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: racerrad8 on June 30, 2018, 11:33:37 AM
I'll weigh in with some questions/concerns.

Hayfork:
   
    1) Is there some good riding roads in the area? When we went back in 2011 we only rode 36 to like Bridgeville maybe. Is there more?
    2) I do not completely recall the lodging details. The details were lost when the FJ when the FJrally site was abandoned: http://www.fjrally.com/11WCR.html (http://www.fjrally.com/11WCR.html)
    ***I am not holding the weather as a consdieration as that cannot be controlled.***

Willits:
   
    1) The accommodations; KOA. It seems to me KOA has priced themselves out of touch when compared with conventional accommodations.
    2) Willits seems to come quite frequently with 2016 being the last year.

Here are the WCR rally locations since 2010

2010 - Willits
2011 - Hayfork
2012 - Porterville
2013 - Petaluma
2014 - Willits
2015 - Coleville
2016 - Willits
2017 - Coloma/Placerville
2018 - Petaluma

We need to stay open to other locations, but that requires suggestions from attendees who are familiar with a specific area and is confident it could be a good rally location.

Randy - RPM
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on July 01, 2018, 12:53:28 PM
I really like Coloma.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: FJmonkey on July 01, 2018, 02:06:16 PM
I missed the Coloma rally and the incredible turn out. It looked to be a good set up. I would be interested just for the new place experience. But having made a few rallies I have learned that the real rally is the people that attend, not the location. Hayfork  was my first and the weather sucked. The facility was awesome, the distance...farther than my riding boots could go, the connections to members timeless. Porterville was different, no Thermite or bonfire but a pool. It was a bit warm and if we choose this location then rally shirts should be changed to cooling vests. Mine worked quite well.  If you can't stand the heat then get an air cooled bike.

So bring on the best rally memories to help us select the next adventure.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Mike Ramos on July 04, 2018, 04:04:11 PM
Quote from: ZOA NOM on July 01, 2018, 12:53:28 PM
I really like Coloma.


I also really liked Coloma...

https://youtu.be/JrJLeWX3bZY

Midget
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: moparman70 on July 09, 2018, 10:34:42 PM
Willits is my first rally and my favorite.  It's a good days ride but not too far that I have to trailer.   That being said I am torn —I like going to new places and Hayfork did offer some nice roads.   The biggest pain to me was it's location to the roads.  It's about a 10 -15 mile driveway basically.   Note sure how I will vote.

Stevec
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: 1tinindian on July 10, 2018, 09:44:27 AM
I voted for Hayfork, but it may be a little tight for me to make it as my youngest sons wedding is Jun 22.
I'll just have to see as time gets closer.

Leon
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Firehawk068 on July 10, 2018, 10:17:47 AM
I voted for Hayfork also. I missed the 2011 Rally, due to my move from Arizona to Colorado that June, but if it were not for that, rain or shine I would have been there.
I am looking forward to riding some of those roads up in that area in the near future..................
I know it's far for some of you So-Cal guys, but consider the distance that some of the regulars travel to attend the WCR, like Garth, Derek and Donna, George, Fred, Leon, and others.................
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: racerrad8 on July 10, 2018, 06:42:00 PM
Quote from: moparman70 on July 09, 2018, 10:34:42 PM
... and Hayfork did offer some nice roads.   The biggest pain to me was it's location to the roads.  It's about a 10 -15 mile driveway basically.   Note sure how I will vote.

Stevec

Steve, like I asked earlier is there good roads? The best road I rode was the one to the place.

Randy - RPM

Quote from: racerrad8 on June 30, 2018, 11:33:37 AM

Hayfork:
   
    1) Is there some good riding roads in the area? When we went back in 2011 we only rode 36 to like Bridgeville maybe.

... Is there more?
   
Randy - RPM
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Derek Young on July 11, 2018, 09:30:43 AM
Quote from: racerrad8 on July 10, 2018, 06:42:00 PM
Quote from: moparman70 on July 09, 2018, 10:34:42 PM
... and Hayfork did offer some nice roads.   The biggest pain to me was it's location to the roads.  It's about a 10 -15 mile driveway basically.   Note sure how I will vote.

Stevec

Steve, like I asked earlier is there good roads? The best road I rode was the one to the place.

Randy - RPM

Quote from: racerrad8 on June 30, 2018, 11:33:37 AM

Hayfork:
   
    1) Is there some good riding roads in the area? When we went back in 2011 we only rode 36 to like Bridgeville maybe.

... Is there more?
   
Randy - RPM

My vote is for Hayfork.
In 2014, Capn Ron and I rode (with Donna following in the truck)the 36 from the coast to Hayfork, then took the 3 north toward Yreka. Absolutely stunning roads!
Donna and I have also driven in the truck on the 299 and the 96 northwest of Hayfork. Also awesome!
We have the Destination Highways Norcal map. It is a motorcycling map that rates the roads in northern California with #1 being the best. Within rally riding distance from Hayfork, according to the map, we have the #2,6,11,12,13,18 rated roads in Norcal. Just as a reference, this map rates highway 20, from Fort Bragg to Willits at #32. I don't agree with all their ratings, but they are generally pretty close. I will try to add some pics of the map on the weekend.

In summary, there are a ton of great roads in the Hayfork area, and the Bar 717 is an awesome venue as well.

Derek
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on July 11, 2018, 09:34:05 AM
Quote from: Derek Young on July 11, 2018, 09:30:43 AM
Quote from: racerrad8 on July 10, 2018, 06:42:00 PM
Quote from: moparman70 on July 09, 2018, 10:34:42 PM
... and Hayfork did offer some nice roads.   The biggest pain to me was it's location to the roads.  It's about a 10 -15 mile driveway basically.   Note sure how I will vote.

Stevec

Steve, like I asked earlier is there good roads? The best road I rode was the one to the place.

Randy - RPM

Quote from: racerrad8 on June 30, 2018, 11:33:37 AM

Hayfork:
   
    1) Is there some good riding roads in the area? When we went back in 2011 we only rode 36 to like Bridgeville maybe.

... Is there more?
   
Randy - RPM

My vote is for Hayfork.
In 2014, Capn Ron and I rode (with Donna following in the truck)the 36 from the coast to Hayfork, then took the 3 north toward Yreka. Absolutely stunning roads!
Donna and I have also driven in the truck on the 299 and the 96 northwest of Hayfork. Also awesome!
We have the Destination Highways Norcal map. It is a motorcycling map that rates the roads in northern California with #1 being the best. Within rally riding distance from Hayfork, according to the map, we have the #2,6,11,12,13,18 rated roads in Norcal. Just as a reference, this map rates highway 20, from Fort Bragg to Willits at #32. I don't agree with all their ratings, but they are generally pretty close. I will try to add some pics of the map on the weekend.

In summary, there are a ton of great roads in the Hayfork area, and the Bar 717 is an awesome venue as well.

Derek

+1

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: roortcloud on July 11, 2018, 11:03:05 AM
FYI Another option in the Hayfork area is Trinity Lake KOA. It' a "full service" KOA. Cabins, RV, tent, gas station, store, burger joint, swimming pool etc. For more luxurious accommodations there's a place right across the street.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Capn Ron on July 12, 2018, 08:35:29 PM
Quote from: Derek Young on July 11, 2018, 09:30:43 AM

My vote is for Hayfork.
In 2014, Capn Ron and I rode (with Donna following in the truck)the 36 from the coast to Hayfork, then took the 3 north toward Yreka. Absolutely stunning roads!
Donna and I have also driven in the truck on the 299 and the 96 northwest of Hayfork. Also awesome!
We have the Destination Highways Norcal map. It is a motorcycling map that rates the roads in northern California with #1 being the best. Within rally riding distance from Hayfork, according to the map, we have the #2,6,11,12,13,18 rated roads in Norcal. Just as a reference, this map rates highway 20, from Fort Bragg to Willits at #32. I don't agree with all their ratings, but they are generally pretty close. I will try to add some pics of the map on the weekend.

In summary, there are a ton of great roads in the Hayfork area, and the Bar 717 is an awesome venue as well.

Derek


THIS ^^^^

I too voted for Hayfork...The 36 and the 3 are spectacular and one of the great riding days I've ever had is referenced above.  The Destination Highways maps are top-notch and I'm certain we can carve out some fun loops.  I also know of a cool little place to get a milkshake in the middle of nowhere!   :good2:
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Nimbus on July 13, 2018, 11:16:06 PM
Not having been to Hayfork... that's my vote.
Henning
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Derek Young on July 14, 2018, 09:40:37 AM
Quote from: 1tinindian on July 10, 2018, 09:44:27 AM
I voted for Hayfork, but it may be a little tight for me to make it as my youngest sons wedding is Jun 22.
I'll just have to see as time gets closer.

Leon
I sure hope you can make it Leon! I've done rallies both ways, with a Leon and without. They are much better with!

Derek
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: racerrad8 on July 14, 2018, 12:37:08 PM
Derek,

Thank you for the reply. It was unfortunate the last time we were there the weather rained us out for lack of a better word.

That is good information on the quality of the roads in the area.

Randy - RPM

Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: 1tinindian on August 24, 2018, 10:36:10 PM
Quote from: Derek Young on July 14, 2018, 09:40:37 AM
Quote from: 1tinindian on July 10, 2018, 09:44:27 AM
I voted for Hayfork, but it may be a little tight for me to make it as my youngest sons wedding is Jun 22.
I'll just have to see as time gets closer.

Leon
I sure hope you can make it Leon! I've done rallies both ways, with a Leon and without. They are much better with!

Derek
Very nice of you Derek! Makes me even more motivated to make the trip!
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Tuned forks on September 03, 2018, 10:12:29 PM
I'm the newb here but it seems some people are weary of the previous locales?  As a Nor Cal resident, may I offer a potential alternative?  Anyone ever think of Tahoe?  Amazing roads and yes, there are campgrounds.  The only considerations are the altitude and weather.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Mike 86 in San Dimas on September 15, 2018, 11:24:55 AM
Tina and I intend on making it this year and combine it with a vacation to others spots in the area. Hayfork seemed to have potential. As I recall it was really in the boonies, a ways to gas but not horrible. Lots Marijuana grow supply stores if that works for some. I am leaning to towards HF. I imagine they would allow a camping trailer there? It was cool venue for the group. The short drive from So. Cal to Porteville was nice. Damn I like them all. Steve not pushing a So Cal Destination? I'll vote later (popcorn)
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Pat Conlon on November 10, 2018, 12:30:27 PM
Judging by the current vote tally, it looks like Hayfork is the desired location.

Question is: Are the Hayfork facilities available? http://www.bar717.com/about-us/ (http://www.bar717.com/about-us/)

It is important that, if you guys want a block of rooms, someone needs to get this set up, sooner rather than later.

If the Facilities at the Bar 717 resort are not available, then a plan B needs quick attention.

tick tick tick..
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on November 10, 2018, 03:16:26 PM
13 votes is pretty thin... I know there'll be more than that attending.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Pat Conlon on November 10, 2018, 04:20:00 PM
Wait as long as you want, it's fine with me, I have no dog in this hunt.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: RPM - Robert on November 10, 2018, 05:04:05 PM
Quote from: ZOA NOM on November 10, 2018, 03:16:26 PM
13 votes is pretty thin... I know there'll be more than that attending.

There was 15 with the attendance of the two Aussies last year; 13 might be the number  :negative:
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on November 10, 2018, 05:55:43 PM
Quote from: RPM - Robert on November 10, 2018, 05:04:05 PM
Quote from: ZOA NOM on November 10, 2018, 03:16:26 PM
13 votes is pretty thin... I know there'll be more than that attending.

There was 15 with the attendance of the two Aussies last year; 13 might be the number  :negative:

As long as I get a cupcake for my birthday again, I don't care where we go.  :good2:
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on November 10, 2018, 07:21:34 PM
Quote from: Pat Conlon on November 10, 2018, 04:20:00 PM
Wait as long as you want, it's fine with me, I have no dog in this hunt.


I'll call and check it out...  Marsh did the arrangements last time and I think it worked well for them schedule wise.  They got a weekend "warmup" before the camping groups started coming in for the summer.  I don't remember much about it other than it was pretty comprehensive with breakfast and dinner chow lines each day and pack it yourself lunches if desired.  Accommodations were campy as you'd expect, but they had an excellent covered fire pit area where most people hung out until bedtime anyway.

I'll update after I talk to them...  probably later next week.

Frank

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Tuned forks on November 11, 2018, 08:20:24 PM
As I've never been to Hayfork, would someone describe the accommodations that are available, please?

Joe
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on November 12, 2018, 08:03:28 AM
Quote from: Tuned forks on November 11, 2018, 08:20:24 PM
As I've never been to Hayfork, would someone describe the accommodations that are available, please?

Joe

:bomb:

(https://proxy.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fs-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com%2F736x%2F49%2Fd2%2Fc0%2F49d2c0bf0859e0143ee3fb1cb8d43c72.jpg&f=1)
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: TexasDave on November 12, 2018, 09:55:23 AM
As long as the woods aren't on fire those accommodations look fine to me.

Dave
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on November 12, 2018, 10:06:18 AM
Quote from: Tuned forks on November 11, 2018, 08:20:24 PM
As I've never been to Hayfork, would someone describe the accommodations that are available, please?

Joe

The facility is a summer camp for kids and most of the accommodations are 3 walled bunk houses essentially.  Due to the group size and the rain, I'm not sure anybody stayed in those.  They also have indoor quarters as described here: http://www.bar717.com/about-us/facilities/ (http://www.bar717.com/about-us/facilities/).

I didn't personally see much beyond the small room I shared with Monkey Mark.  It was fine and had a bathroom just down the hall from it, so worked out well.  By 'Campy" I meant it was like what you'd find at a youth camp.  The most important aspect of the accommodations for that particular trip was that it was DRY...  It rained long and hard while we were there, but the covered fire area and the bravery of a few all weather riders made it a good time regardless.

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on November 12, 2018, 11:41:45 AM
Looks like an interesting place. Lots to do. I might pack a fishing pole and see if I can drag a couple trout out of the Trinity river.

Looks like new construction going on...

(http://www.bar717.com/webcam/bar717kitcam2.jpg)

(http://www.bar717.com/webcam/bar717kitcam1.jpg)
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on December 01, 2018, 02:20:48 PM
Quote from: Flynt on November 10, 2018, 07:21:34 PM
Quote from: Pat Conlon on November 10, 2018, 04:20:00 PM
Wait as long as you want, it's fine with me, I have no dog in this hunt.


I'll call and check it out...  


Quick update:

Just talked to Kent at Bar 717...  he's the guy on the other end when Marsh arranged this venue for the '12 WCR, so we're a well understood motorcycle gang and they're open to having us again... :rofl:

Basic rundown I asked for was:

20-25 bikes, maybe 30-35 people (might be optimistic, but let's start conservative)
Most arrivals Thursday night (5/30/19), but no meal required...  just a fire in the group dining area.
Friday/Saturday - breakfast, take away lunch, and dinner with evening fire in dining area
Sunday (6/2/19) - breakfast and late checkout

Kent will develop a proposal for us.  Like last time we'll try to get everyone's in/out times and meals accounted for to some extent, but this sort of package deal is always better for those that take the whole package and don't try to pick it apart.  I'm also willing to be the single contact point for Kent (at his request)...  getting everyone's details and payment settled so Kent doesn't end up talking to 25 people.  This role sucks, but someone's got to do it.  I'll be a bit more brutal than Marsh was however...  deadlines with consequences I'll publish in advance.  As long as information and monies are delivered per schedule everything will be handled.  Exceptions will likely be dismissed...  unless of course I'm trying to build a hotel in your country and need a favor.  :diablo:

Those that attended Hayfork last time can attest to how comprehensive it was.  RPM's Fall rally is the closest thing I've been to and this one has more group time with communal meals and a nice gathering area with fireplace in case the rain does make for a short day.  It will be on the expensive side, but I believe the convenience and the resulting focus on riding the bikes and enjoying the community is worth the premium.  If I remember right, my bill for the 3 nights described above was $275 or so...  let's see where we come in this time.

Next update when I have numbers for everyone...  I told Kent we want to have this option fleshed out for a vote within a week or two.

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on December 01, 2018, 02:24:55 PM
Quote from: ZOA NOM on November 12, 2018, 11:41:45 AM
Looks like an interesting place. Lots to do. I might pack a fishing pole and see if I can drag a couple trout out of the Trinity river.

Looks like new construction going on...

(http://www.bar717.com/webcam/bar717kitcam2.jpg)

(http://www.bar717.com/webcam/bar717kitcam1.jpg)

That's the new kitchen and outdoor dining area.  It was pretty nice before, but definitely well worn.  This new facility will be open by our visit (hopefully)...

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: ZOA NOM on December 01, 2018, 02:32:33 PM
That's great news, thanks for your efforts, Frank. I've already scheduled my leave...
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: andyoutandabout on December 01, 2018, 05:42:29 PM
Yay, go Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Tuned forks on December 02, 2018, 12:28:30 PM
Thank you Frank.

Joe
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on December 28, 2018, 01:40:05 PM
Quote from: Flynt on December 01, 2018, 02:20:48 PM

Next update when I have numbers for everyone...

Frank

I'm running a bit behind getting the numbers nailed down, but Kent is working with me on the announcement for the group now...  should have something within a day or two.

The basic offering is sounding pretty good though...

Accommodations available Thursday 5/30 - Sunday 6/2 (6/3 checkout), 2 night minimum
3 levels of accommodation from camping to guest rooms
Breakfast and Dinner each day with carry off lunch (meals optional, but highly recommend)
Excellent, new group gathering area with fireplace for meals and evening activities
Route suggestions from Kent, a MC rider very familiar with the area

More on Hayfork Bar 717 Ranch to follow soon...

Should somebody be checking out KOA availability in case Hayfork doesn't work out?  I'm not reserving spots in Willits KOA or anything like that...  I think the Bar 717 pricing will be very reasonable, but that's a matter of opinion and it may be more than some want to spend.  Or possibly the location won't appeal to some. Who's going to head up Plan B?

Frank


Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: andyoutandabout on December 28, 2018, 10:34:39 PM
I've much faith in your plan A, so plan B seems superfluous. Bar 717 with three levels of accommodation should fit all sizes, even cheapskates like me, who'll (you guessed it) be camping. Nice job Frank. It's good to see you're putting your retirement time to proper use.
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: Flynt on December 30, 2018, 06:51:21 PM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on December 28, 2018, 10:34:39 PM
I've much faith in your plan A, so plan B seems superfluous. Bar 717 with three levels of accommodation should fit all sizes, even cheapskates like me, who'll (you guessed it) be camping. Nice job Frank. It's good to see you're putting your retirement time to proper use.

OK everyone...  here's the rundown in a new polling thread so we can see if we have enough interest to make Hayfork happen.  Here's the link to the poll: http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=18337.msg184950#msg184950 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=18337.msg184950#msg184950).

I'll answer questions in the new thread...  c'ya

Frank
Title: Re: 2019 West Coast Rally: Where do you want to go?
Post by: T Legg on December 31, 2018, 07:12:55 PM
 Ian and I would like to go, but I have to keep in touch with customers while I am gone.How is the cell phone coverage in that area ?Or is there any coverage at all?