11,000 km Across the States: A Biker’s Epic Journey on Route 66 Leave a comment

Introduction

Once upon a time, a young, novice biker attended his very first motorcycle rally, organized by the legendary Angie of the Moto-Station forum. This gathering, a wild celebration hosted in one of the infamous “bars Sud,” was filled with seasoned riders like Pyrou, GRom, Xavrdtp, Papyfull, the X-team, Lomic, Motowoman, Yepaaa, Patrick13, BN, and many others whose names escape memory. Our young biker, though just starting, felt he had already conquered countless roads and left others in his dust. Yes, you guessed it—that young biker was me.

On that fateful evening, Angie had planned a spectacular night in a rock ‘n’ roll bar decked out in a dazzling “USA 66” theme. The ambiance was electric, and I found myself declaring to the crowd, “Before I turn 30, I must ride Route 66 in the United States.” Little did I know, that dream would lead to an 11,000 km adventure that would shape my life.

The Birth of a Dream

That night in the bar wasn’t just any night; it was the spark that ignited my passion for Route 66. The stories exchanged, the laughter shared, and the camaraderie felt among the riders planted a seed in my mind. The thought of cruising down the historic Route 66, with its rich history and iconic landmarks, became a mission I was determined to fulfill.

Preparation and Planning

Years passed, and the dream of Route 66 never faded. As my 30th birthday approached, the urgency to turn this dream into reality grew stronger. I began meticulous planning, mapping out the route, preparing my bike for the long journey, and making sure I had everything needed for an epic adventure.

The Journey Begins

Finally, the day arrived. With my bike loaded and heart racing with excitement, I set off from Chicago, the starting point of Route 66. The journey would take me through eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. Each state promised unique experiences, landscapes, and challenges.

Chicago to St. Louis: The Heartland

The first leg of the journey took me from Chicago to St. Louis. The open road, lined with classic diners and vintage motels, felt like stepping back in time. Stops at the Gemini Giant and the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum were just the beginning of countless memorable moments.

The Ozarks to the Great Plains

Leaving St. Louis, the road led into the picturesque Ozarks. The winding roads and lush landscapes were a biker’s dream. Missouri and Kansas offered a mix of quaint small towns and stretches of open plains. In Kansas, I met a group of fellow bikers at the Eisler Brothers Old Riverton Store, where we shared stories and tips for the road ahead.

Oklahoma to Texas: The Cowboy States

Oklahoma’s Route 66 is dotted with quirky attractions like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the Round Barn of Arcadia. The flat expanses of Texas were a stark contrast, offering a sense of vastness and freedom. Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo was a highlight, its half-buried cars a testament to the road’s eclectic charm.

The Southwest: New Mexico and Arizona

New Mexico brought stunning desert landscapes and historic pueblos. Santa Fe’s vibrant arts scene and Albuquerque’s neon-lit Route 66 signs were unforgettable. Crossing into Arizona, the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert offered breathtaking views. The stretch through Flagstaff to Kingman, with stops at Winslow and the Meteor Crater, was a surreal blend of natural beauty and Americana.

California: The Final Frontier

The last stretch of the journey led me through the Mojave Desert into California. The excitement of nearing the end was palpable. Stops at Roy’s Motel & Café and the Wigwam Motel added to the nostalgia. Finally, reaching the Santa Monica Pier, the official end of Route 66, was a moment of triumph and reflection.

The Impact of the Journey

This 11,000 km ride was more than just a trip; it was a journey of self-discovery and fulfillment. The people I met, the stories shared, and the challenges overcome along the way enriched my life. It was a reminder of the freedom and joy that comes with embracing the open road.