I am an ordinary guy who enjoys riding motorcycles. I love riding all makes and models. I love short rides, long rides, and multi-day road trips. I post reviews about motorcycle gear, motorcycles, roads, restaurants, sights, gadgets and more. The Motorcycle Facts,Trivia and History page has a lot of good info. Be safe and enjoy the ride, Oz.
Heading west on CO 165 from I25 - the view is awesome
After a satisfying ride, a hearty meal seems almost essential, and when you're riding through Colorado, you're never short on breathtaking roads. With their twists, turns, hills, and stunning landscapes, the state offers some of the best routes for motorcyclists. While finding a great road is relatively easy, discovering a local eatery that serves up fantastic food can be more of a challenge. But when you do find that perfect spot, it’s definitely worth sharing.
Max's has plenty of parking and outdoor seating with a view
One such place is the 36-mile stretch of Colorado 165, which runs from Colorado 96 near North Hardscrabble Creek to I-25 in Colorado City. This stretch of CO 165 is a true joy to ride, featuring a mix of sweeping curves, tight bends, and changing elevations.
CO 165 is a fun and scenic road
Co 165 also will lead you pass Bishop’s Castle—an intriguing stop that’s well worth a visit. And after enjoying the ride, be sure to end or start your journey at Max’s, located in Colorado City.
Bishop's Castle is a fun and interesting stop along the way
Max’s sits on the north side of the road as you head east into Colorado City, with plenty of parking available. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options. If you opt for the outdoor area, you’ll enjoy a lovely southwest-facing view of the mountains.
The service at Max’s Place is quick, friendly, and filled with that classic country hospitality. Although the menu highlights breakfast, burgers, and dairy treats, I couldn’t resist trying the Green Chili—a dish that’s hard to come by in Texas.
The green chili is tasty and satisfying
The bowl of Green Chili arrived hot (but not too spicy), topped with shredded cheddar and accompanied by a soft flour tortilla. The first spoonful was a revelation—no need to add anything. The blend of ground meat, beans, spices, tomatoes, and green chilies created a rich, flavorful dish with just the right amount of heat.
The tortilla complemented the chili perfectly. Savoring each bite while taking in the view made for a memorable lunch. And to finish the meal, I couldn’t resist the fresh-baked blueberry pie à la mode.
The pie was served warm, with a generous scoop of soft-serve ice cream on top. The flaky crust and rich blueberry filling made it a standout—one of those rare pies that could stand on its own, even without the ice cream.
Blueberry pie and ice cream was a perfect end to the meal
What really made the meal special, however, was the value. The old-fashioned service and cooking were matched by equally old-fashioned prices. It’s hard to find this level of qualityfor the same price. It was a great value.
So, if you’re ever riding through the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, make sure to check out Colorado 165, and don’t miss a stop at Max’s in Colorado City.
* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these
businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.I have an
affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link
and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.You may comment below.
I love mountain air and the amazing vistas. I enjoy looking out in all directions
and seeing miles of valleys, mountains, lakes, and wilderness. Some mountain passes are breathtaking. I take a lot of photos even though the photos never capture the awesome beauty.
On my trip to Yellowstone and again on my trip to Alaska I made plans to ride US 212 a.ka. the Beartooth Highway
that connects Montana and Wyoming by way of Beartooth Pass. The
Beartooth Highway is designated an "All-American Road" which means the
US Department of Transportation deems the road worthy of being a tourist
destination unto itself, due to the scenic uniqueness. Of the 150
National Scenic Byways there are only 37 roads with the distinguished
All-American Road designation and this one is well deserving.
Top of the pass in late June - no snow or ice on the roads luckily
The Beartooth Highway runs 67 miles from Red Lodge, MT to Silver Gate,
MT (northeast gateway to Yellowstone NP) crossing the MT/WY state line
twice. The 38 miles stretch between WY 296/ Chief Joseph Highway
(another great road) and a point about 12 miles west of Red Lodge, MT is
the most scenic, invigorating, and challenging portion of the road. The road has breathtaking vistas, hairpin curves, elevation changes, sweeping curves and wildlife.
The Beartooth Highway twisting up the mountain
The road reaches an elevation of 10,947 ft. at Beartooth Pass. Cliff
hugging switchbacks, tight curves, steep grades,
and mountain plateaus make for an amazing stretch of pavement. The high
elevation makes drastic weather changes a constant possibility so
riders should be prepared. When we rode up on July 15 the temperature
dropped about 25 degrees from the Beartooth Highway/Chief Joseph
Highway intersection to the pass and state line. We had to stop and
bundle up before we got too high. Glad we did since it was cold and
windy at the pass.
Heading towards the pass
At the pass and at the MT/WY state line we enjoyed the vast scenery. It
was amazing. The mountain lakes were deep blue, the peaks were still
snow capped, the meadows were alive and green, and the vibrant tundra
stretched out around us. Both sides of the pass are fantastic and challenging.
Twin Lakes
Beartooth Mountains
Forest and stream on west side of the pass
There is one store along the route known as the "Top of the World
Resort." You can get fuel, snacks, drinks, t-shirts, and souvenirs.
There is also a nice area with picnic tables to sit and enjoy the
surroundings. The staff was very friendly and informative. We enjoyed a
nice break on top of the world. If one was so inclined the resort has
lodging available.
Top of the World store - a great place stop
The road offers great views and fun curves
We hit the pass around noon so the chance to see much wildlife was not
good. We were too late (or too early depending on how you want to look
at it). We did see
some bison not too far from the road as we were heading to Cooke City, WY.
Bison roaming near the road - watch out!
The Beartooth Highway is a great All-American Road and is well worth the
ride. The beauty and the fun is intense. If you get to that area of
this great country make sure to include US 212. You will not be
disappointed.
* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these
businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.I have an
affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link
and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.You may comment below.
A few years back I rated some roads I had ridden (Scenic Roads #6-#10 and Scenic Roads #1-#5)
and found especially scenic. Since then I have had the opportunity to
ride many other great roads and one in particular has become a
"favorite" road.
Nestled in the northeast corner of New Mexico is The Enchanted Circle, a well known Scenic Byway which includes the mountain towns of Angel Fire, Eagles Nest, Questa,
Red River and Taos. This is a is a great place to ride, camp, hike, sightseeing and enjoy local New Mexico cuisine.
However, I have decided the 76 mile stretch of US 64 between the Enchanted Circle (just northwest of Taos, NM) and
Tierra Amarilla (south of Chama, NM) is a fun, scenic must ride for
motorcyclists and well worth the detour off the Enchanted Circle. Not to mention the charm of Chama and several good restaurants in the town.
76 miles of New Mexico landscape
What does this road have to offer? Expansive views for the Rocky Mountains, a drive by the Greater World Earthship Community, sweeping curves, hairpin turns,
elevation change, scenic overlooks, wildlife and solitude (traffic is minimal).
Heading west from the Enchanted Circle US 64
passes over the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge which is 600 feet above the floor of the gorge. A visitor center with access to the walkway across the bridge is on the west side and is worth the stop and walk. US 64 intersects with US 285 then continues through the Carson National Forest. Riders need to be aware of
the potential for wildlife so keep alert. With a total of 5 passes over this road I
have seen a bunch of suicidal ground squirrels (they will dart out right
in front of you) and a few deer, but they were never very close to the road.
A scenic view of the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge and the Rocky Mountains
Spirited riding is almost mandatory. The sweepers on the eastern
sector allows for consistent throttle and very little downshifting. The
middle sector has nice elevation changes with some straight sections
where some riders (not that I would :) ) could test bike velocity. In
the western sector there are some tight turns allowing the outer portion of
tires to get some usage.
Great view from US 64
Great views abound and the road reaches an elevation of 10,507 feet at
Brazos Summit (second highest point on any NM highway), so the
temperature can dip even in the summer. Like all mountain areas, rain
is always a possibility so have good rain gear. Two of the five times I have ridden the road I
have experience brief light rain showers.
View from overlook before descent to Tierra Amarilla, NM
The combination of various radius curves, elevation change, spectacular vistas, minimal
traffic and great destinations at each end makes this a road worth the
fuel to experience and enjoy.
* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these
businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.I have an
affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link
and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.You may comment below.
Shopping for Christmas gifts can often be difficult. Trying to find something a person will like, but doesn't already have, takes time and sometimes creativity. Motorcycle accessories and gear can be expensive so many people resort to less than personal gift cards.
Here are some affordable gift ideas that most bikers will enjoy and find useful.. Although numbered, the list is in no particular order and with the exception of the fifth item, I will receive NO compensation or consideration from any of the companies mentioned, even if you buy from them.
Happy shopping for your biker!
A Book Motorcycle Riders Will Love
1) If your motorcyclists loves traveling and quality photographsFrance in Americawill make him/her smile. After retiring Gary France from London, England shipped his Harley Davidson RoadKing to New York City, NY and began a 6 month, 21,475 mile trip to fulfill his dream of riding across America.
While riding in 27 states he experienced some of America's greatest sites. roads, food and people. He documented his travels with professional quality photographs and writing that pulls the reader along on the ride. This is an inspirational travelogue coffee table that is also a great resource for trip planning. Any biker or adventurer will enjoy this book. Order Here at France in America
Three action packed road racing series
2) Finding motorcycle racing on television (free) is extremely difficult if not impossible, but it is one of the most thrilling sports to watch and I haven't found many riders who does not enjoy watching good motorcycle racing. A subscription to a racing series would be a welcomed surprise a rider. One would enjoy the gift for a year and share with friends with a "watching party." There are several series but here are my three favorite:
MotoGP World Championship - the world's best riders on prototype machines. The subscription includes years of previous races, interviews, technical explanations, documentaries, highlights, practice sessions, qualifying sessions and races for all four classes in the championship: MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE. Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards. With 20+ rounds there are plenty of races for the money.
World Superbike Championship (WSBK) - modified production motorcycles ridden by world class riders. This subscription also includes years of previous races for all four classes
in the championship: Superbikes, Supersports, Supersports300 and Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WCR). Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards. WSBK has 12 rounds with two or more races per class each round.
MotoAmerica - Ten round series in the United States of America. There are eight classes using different size production motorcycles modified within the specifications. MotoAmerica includes the wildly popular King of the Baggers. Although this is a national series there is an international flavor as there are numerous riders from other countries including riders from the two world series. MotoAmerica has become extremely competitive and highly respected globally. Watch the rising stars where many have moved to the world stage after successful seasons.
Dixxon Flannels are high quality and a great value.
3) Dixxon Flannel Shirts - This is a great company that my son introduced me to a few years back. They make flannel shirts, short sleeved shirts, t-shirts and more. High quality, stylish and comfortable shirts that can be worn when riding or when out and about. For riders who want to ride even when temperatures are less than ideal the flannel shirts provide comfort and warmth. Dixxon.com
Rocky Boots Alpha Force - side zipped, comfortable and waterproof
4) Rocky Boots - Comfort, ankle and foot protection, waterproof, side zipper, non-slip soles, durable - all are characteristics of the Alpha Force Rocky Boots. I got my first pair in 2014 and wore them for 6 years. I am now heading into my fifth year with my second pair and they are still in great shape. When needing to ride in the rain they have never failed me. These are great waterproof boots for an affordable price. Check out the Alpha Force and many other styles and models - Rocky Boots
5) Duke Cannon - Christmas 2019 I received some Duke Cannon soap and shampoo. I immediately enjoyed the funny and direct packaging/marketing Duke Cannon uses i.e. "Not for clowns" was part of directions for the shampoo. I also was happy to see the company's commitment to financially supporting our military. The bar soap and many fragrances were inspired by our American soldiers. They have a wide range of products for hair, body, face, beard and more. Ever Duke product I have used have been excellent quality. Since that Christmas I have used Duke Cannon products exclusively.
Full disclosure -this is the only company on this list of which I am an affiliate partner. So if you follow this link and purchase I will receive a small commission.
Still riding even when it is cold outside
6) Fleece Lined Jeans - about 8 years ago I discovered fleece-lined jeans at Cabela's and decided to try them during an upcoming charity event. I was not disappointed. The jeans are comfortable, durable and the fleece lining feels great. After the event I purchased a second pair in order to be prepared for cold weather riding, camping or any outside endeavor during the winter. I have used them multiple times. Here is a video review I did with more info.
7) Haul Master Wheel Cleaning Stand - I have NEVER had one of these, but I want one. Just recently saw one at Harbor Freight and love the idea. As I have gotten older and now own a "bagger," cleaning that rear wheel is difficult. Getting up and down to move the bike 1/8 to 1/4 wheel turn is tough on this old man. If I could stay down, rotate the wheel and keep cleaning it would be much nicer. Maybe Santa will bring me one.
* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these
businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.I have an
affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link
and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.You may comment below.
