Road Trips

Morning Meetup at Delta Chevron

The loud rumble of engines filled the air as our diverse group of riders from all over the lower mainland gathered at the Chevron station in Delta at 8:30 AM.

The morning sun glinted off chrome and painted fairings, showcasing our mix of motorcycles like cruisers to sport bikes.

From the sleek Honda Fireblade and nimble Kawasaki ZX6R to the muscular Ducati Streetfighter and the cruising Honda Shadow, we were ready to rip onto the big open twisty roads.

When Excitement Meets the Unknown

As I hop on my red Ducati Monster 696, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of excitement for what the day was going to behold.

Our leader for the day, Gurp, had planned an ambitious route that would take us across the border and through some of the most scenic roads the Pacific Northwest has to offer which I never have ridden before. So I was pumped up and ready to ride. Little did I know that it was going to be the longest day of riding.

We set off from Delta, Canada, the cool morning air quickly giving way to the warmth of anticipation. Our first border crossing at Blaine was smooth, and soon we were carving through the twisting roads of Washington State.

The African Twin and Yamaha kept pace effortlessly, while the Triumph Speed Triple seemed to dance through the curves.

Why Bike Classes Should Ride Together

One piece of advice I would give on this trip is to separate the class of motorcycles into their own specific groups, ie: sportbikes with sportbikes and cruisers with cruisers etc. That way each rider can keep up better with each other as the type of motorcycle is a variable to the pace and speed you’re be riding.

I was able to keep up with the Honda CBR1000CC and Ninja ZX6R in my Ducati Monster 696 but the lack of windshield and fairings did make it harder for me to keep up at high speeds on my naked bike. The cruisers, touring and other naked bikes had trouble keeping up and we ended up splitting into two groups.

Gurp’s meticulous planning ensured we never ran low on fuel, with six well-timed stops keeping our tanks topped up and providing welcome breaks to stretch our legs.

As we rode east from Burlington towards Marmount and Concrete, the landscape transformed, offering breathtaking views of forests and mountains.

It was the best ride I’ve been on this year in 2024, hands down.

Lunchtime found us gathered around a table, helmets off and spirits high. The camaraderie among riders is something special, and as we shared stories and laughs, I was reminded why I love these trips so much.

The Forest Fire That Changed Our Route

Our return journey took an unexpected turn as news reached us of a forest fire threatening to close roads by 4 PM. With safety in mind, we reluctantly decided to cut our loop short.

Crossing back into Canada at Abbotsford, we could feel the day’s adventures settling into our bones.

One thing I learned from this was to look ahead for any unforeseen hazards or fires on our phones during the day as we ride so we could have saw this coming sooner and plan accordingly on the fly. Would we have known we would have taken less breaks so we could go to our destination sooner.

Full Circle: Returning Home as the Sun Sets

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves back where we started, pulling into Abbotsford just before 9PM.

Tired but exhilarated, we said our goodbyes, each rider heading home with a head full of memories and a heart full of the joy that only a day on two wheels can bring.

I fueled up one last time just to make sure that I would make it back home without worrying about fuel. I grabbed dinner in Chilliwack as I picked up a new motorcycle cover for my Ducati monster 696 before heading home.

The Real Destination: Why the Journey Matters More

Though we didn’t complete our planned route, the day was a reminder that in motorcycling, as in life, it’s not always about the destination.

Even though that is important it is not the end all be all. Sometimes, the real magic lies in the journey itself, the friends you ride with, and the unexpected adventures along the way. That is usually what we remember and cherish in our memories.

My advice to new riders going on a road trip is to appreciate and soak in all the experiences on the road and be 100% present on the ride. Share laughs and epic moments as you and your buddies rip down the road and enjoy every minute of it not focusing on just where you’re going. Because if you did proper planning you won’t have a problem getting to your destination.

Ride safe out there and enjoy the ride!


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Ready for another day of exciting motorcycle exploration through British Columbia’s breathtaking landscapes? Let’s hit the road as we continue our journey from Whistler to Kamloops on my Honda CBR250!

The Route: Sea-to-Sky Highway and Beyond

Our day kicked off early, leaving the mountain paradise of Whistler in our rearview mirrors. The iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) didn’t disappoint, treating us to spectacular views as we transitioned from coastal mountains to the dry interior.

Key stops along the way:

• Joffre Lakes Provincial Park: A hiking misadventure
• Lillooet: Lunch break with a view
• Cache Creek: Quick refuel stop
• Kamloops: End of day relaxation at Riverside Park

The Honda CBR250: Small Bike, Big Adventure

Don’t let its size fool you – the Honda CBR250 proved to be a worthy companion for this long-distance ride. Here’s why it shines:

1. Fuel efficiency: We made it from Whistler to Cache Creek on a single tank!
2. Lightweight handling: A dream on those twisty mountain roads
3. Comfortable ergonomics: Kept us fresh for off-bike adventures
4. Reliable performance: Conquered elevation changes like a pro through the twisty roads

Joffre Lake: A Lesson in Planning

Excited for a quick hike with my friends, we pulled over at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. Pro tip: Always check park requirements beforehand! We discovered that hikers need to register online, but with no internet service, our hiking plans were thwarted. Still, the view from the parking lot was worth the stop and we took a quick photo of me and my Honda CBR250R.

Lunch in Lillooet

By midday, our stomachs were growling louder than our engines. We stopped in the charming town of Lillooet for a well-deserved lunch break. The town’s rich gold rush history and stunning mountain backdrop made for a perfect midday pause.

Fueling Up in Cache Creek

As we approached Cache Creek, the fuel gauge on the CBR250 was finally nearing empty.

This junction town where Highway 99 meets Highway 1 was the perfect spot to refuel our bikes before the final stretch to Kamloops.

Riverside Relaxation in Kamloops

Rolling into Kamloops in the late afternoon, we made a beeline for Riverside Park. What a perfect way to end the day! We stretched our legs with a stroll along the South Thompson River, reflecting on the day’s adventures and preparing for the next leg of our journey.

Rider Tips for the Whistler to Kamloops Stretch

• Check park regulations: Avoid disappointment like our Joffre Lakes experience
• Enjoy local eateries: Lillooet offers some hidden gems
• Plan fuel stops: Cache Creek is a reliable refueling point
• End your day right: Riverside Park in Kamloops is a must-visit

Next Stop: Onward to the Rockies!

Tomorrow, we’ll continue east towards the Rocky Mountains. The CBR250 has proven itself a capable tourer, and we can’t wait to see what adventures await!

Have you ever taken a smaller motorcycle on a long trip or encountered unexpected hurdles while traveling?

Share your experiences in the comments below!

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Setting Off from Vancouver

Today marked the beginning of our 10-day motorcycle road trip. My four friends and I set out from Vancouver, embarking on the famous Sea to Sky Highway towards Whistler. I was excited to put my reliable Honda CBR250R to the test – a bike known for its great fuel consumption getting between 25-30 km per litres.s

As we left Vancouver behind

the real magic of our trip began to unfold on the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). This world-renowned route lives up to its name, offering a thrilling ride that hugs the coastline before climbing into the mountains.

Leaving the city, we first passed through West Vancouver, the road winding along the shores of Howe Sound. The contrast of the deep blue waters against the lush green mountain sides was breathtaking. As we leaned into the curves, the fresh sea air mingled with the scent of pine, invigorating our senses.

Horseshoe Bay to Squamish

Our first major landmark was Horseshoe Bay, a picturesque ferry terminal surrounded by forested hills. From here, the highway began its ascent, and we could feel the change in our ears as we gained elevation.

The road became a ribbon of asphalt cutting through towering evergreens, with glimpses of the sound appearing between the trees. As I’m riding through these twisty roads with elevation it’s paramount to be paying 100% attention to the road in front of you especially during the bends and turns as you’re riding to avoid any hazards.

Passing the small community of Lions Bay, we encountered one of the highway’s most spectacular features: a series of waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. Shannon Falls, just south of Squamish, is particularly impressive. We took a moment to pull over and admire the 335-meter falls thundering down the rocky cliff face.

The Alpine Ascent

After our stop in Squamish, the landscape began to change. The coastal environment gave way to a more alpine feel as we climbed higher into the Coast Mountains. The road here is an engineering marvel, with smooth sweeping turns and long straightaways that allowed us to really enjoy the performance of our bikes.

We passed by the Tantalus Range viewpoint, offering a stunning vista of jagged, snow-capped peaks. Shortly after, we rode alongside the turquoise waters of Daisy Lake, created by the Daisy Lake Dam. The reflection of the surrounding mountains on the lake’s surface was like something out of a postcard.

Approaching Whistler

As we approached Whistler, we entered the Cheakamus River valley. The road here winds through a dramatic rocky canyon, with the river rushing below. The final stretch into Whistler Village took us through a corridor of tall trees, their canopy providing dappled shade on the road.

Throughout the entire 120-kilometer journey, every twist and turn of the Sea to Sky Highway offered a new vista, a fresh perspective on the incredible landscape of British Columbia.

The smooth pavement, well-banked curves, and stunning scenery made this stretch of road a motorcyclist’s dream. It wasn’t just transportation; it was a profound experience that connected us with the natural beauty of the region in a way that’s only possible on a motorcycle.

Riding my Honda CBR250R was smooth however keeping up with traffic can be quite difficult as some drivers are going beyond 130km/hr up elevation which my bike has a bit of trouble maintaining that speed uphill.

Squamish Stop and Sea to Sky Gondola

Our first stop was the charming town of Squamish, often called the outdoor recreation capital of Canada. Here, we took a break to ride the Sea to Sky Gondola. The 10-minute journey offered breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the coastal mountains. At the top, we explored the Summit Lodge, taking in the panoramic vistas from the viewing platform. It was tempting to linger, but the open road was calling.

Continuing north, we reached Whistler by early afternoon. After checking in at the cozy Deer Lodge, we couldn’t resist the allure of the Whistler Blackcomb gondola. The ride up didn’t disappoint – we were treated to stunning alpine scenery and even spotted a few black bears roaming the mountainside.

For lunch, we headed to the Whistler market, savoring local flavors and refueling for our afternoon adventure. Then came the highlight of the day: downhill mountain biking at Whistler Mountain Bike Park. With over 4,900 vertical feet of lift-serviced trails, it was an adrenaline-pumping experience that left us exhilarated and pleasantly exhausted.

As evening approached, we made another stop at the market, this time picking up groceries for a home-cooked meal at our lodge. Sharing stories of the day’s ride and adventures over dinner was the perfect way to cap off our first day on the road.

My takeaways from riding to Whistler

Ride ideally on days that are sunny with clear visibility as the road up Whistler is approximately 130 km from Vancouver which takes about 90 minutes if you’re riding a good and fast pace without much traffic. The Sea to Sky Highway has many bends so make sure you’re well rested before going up. I do suggest taking a small bathroom break if required as the road is long and can be a bit fatiguing on your body if you’re riding a sports bike like me.

Tomorrow, we continue our journey to Day 2, but for now, we’re relishing the memories of day one – from coastal highways to mountain peaks, it’s been an incredible start to our motorcycle road trip. Check here for Day 2.

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The Call of British Columbia’s Greatest Ride

Are you ready to experience the biggest and most revered motorcycle loop in BC?

Then buckle up and join us on an epic motorcycle journey through British Columbia’s stunning landscapes.

This ride promises to be an unforgettable adventure that will ignite your passion for exploration.

Our journey begins on the legendary Sea-to-Sky Highway. This winding road hugs the rugged coastline. You’ll see breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean on one side and towering mountains on the other.

As you twist and wind your way through this iconic route, you’ll feel the exhilaration of the open road.

But this is just the beginning.

The Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Loop

Leaving the Sea-to-Sky Highway behind, we’ll embark on an epic loop through the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.

Here, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of pure wilderness and crystal-clear lakes beckon with their peaceful beauty.

As you navigate through this incredible terrain, you’ll be struck by the sheer resilience and reliability of your trusty steed.

Every twist and turn will be met with steady confidence, as your machine effortlessly conquers the challenges of the open road.

This is where the true spirit of adventure comes alive.

A Journey of Personal Discovery

But this journey isn’t just about the physical thrill; it’s a voyage of self-discovery and personal growth.

With each mile conquered, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and a renewed appreciation for the freedom that comes with exploring the world on two wheels.

The carefree spirit of the open road will sorround you, inviting you to shed your worries and embrace the present moment.

Nature’s Grand Canvas

Throughout this incredible adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich variety of British Columbia’s diverse landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains to the arid beauty of the Chilcotin Plateau, you’ll see nature’s beauty in all its glory. And whether you’re cruising along winding mountain roads or traversing vast stretches of open highway, you’ll find yourself in awe of the sheer power and power of this incredible province.

Support and Resources for Your Adventure

But our commitment to your journey doesn’t end there. As you plan and prepare for this epic ride, you’ll have access to a wealth of trusted resources and expert advice.

From seasoned riders who’ve conquered these routes to knowledgeable professionals ready to guide you, you’ll be fully equipped for any challenges ahead.

Your Adventure Awaits

So, what are you waiting for?

Embrace the call of the open road and join us on this unforgettable motorcycle adventure through British Columbia’s Sea-to-Sky Highway and the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the world of two wheels, this journey promises to be an experience like no other – a proof to the power of freedom, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of adventure.

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