Today was a safari day. It was supposed to be safari day, but it turned into dead battery day.
We did get in a little safari like action in early on....
The Rio Grande River as it appears in the canyon below the gorge.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Spring at last, almost
Today was a safari day. It was supposed to be safari day, but it turned into dead battery day.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Wild flowers - Aspens...what is the difference?
In central California there is a season of wildflowers which many to got great length to view and be among.
As fall came here in Santa Fe, the bowl of the ski basin began to turn bright yellow. This might leave one to believe there was a field of wildflowers growing there. However, there is a sense of scale that is off and taking a bike ride up Artist Road and Hyde Park Road into the ski basin it becomes apparent that the yellow mass seen to the north east of Santa Fe is really a large grove of Aspen trees.
The video pretty much explains it all...
As fall came here in Santa Fe, the bowl of the ski basin began to turn bright yellow. This might leave one to believe there was a field of wildflowers growing there. However, there is a sense of scale that is off and taking a bike ride up Artist Road and Hyde Park Road into the ski basin it becomes apparent that the yellow mass seen to the north east of Santa Fe is really a large grove of Aspen trees.
The video pretty much explains it all...
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Nolichuckey Bluffs and the Tennessee Twisties
Tennessee and totally cool roads were never something I would have thought of using in the same sentence. Until this last week that is. While staying at Nolichuckey Bluffs in Greenville, I happened to go on a car ride with my brother on a whim and was totally stunned by the amazing potential riding basically right off his doorstep.
Enjoy the video....more to come.
Heading south highway 70 is a narrow ribbon of road is one of those beautiful pieces of engineering that has almost no straightaway for miles and miles. A few short miles south we crossed into North Carolina.
Along the fly fisherman flocked, like well, flies along the side of the 208.
The trees even at this time of year formed a type of tunnel making the mountains seem dark and foreboding, much like I imagined the Smoky Mountains would look like.
Enjoy the video....more to come.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
That voice leading in my head...pt.1
One of the things I keep on my desk at my "day job" is a list of ten things to do to reduce daily stress. One of the things on the list is "always have something to look forward to." For the last six weeks I have been looking forward to a trip to the American Indian reservation at Window Rock, AZ.
I actually took a day off from work and gave myself a three day weekend and headed out. I was a little, actually a lot, apprehensive about what was going to transpire at our destination.
My riding partner and I were suppose to meet up with a Shaman on "the rez" to do a sweat and possibly some other types of ceremonies. I was excited about the sweat and the ceremonies, but apprehensive because I was informed that the Shaman may or may not show up. I also found at the last minute that we may or may not have shelter. I was OK with that, sort of, sleeping in the arroyo somewhere...but I was not totally thrilled about it.
Nevertheless at eight AM we met at Java Joe's to get caffeined up and make our final preparations. After making sure our caffeine levels were correct we headed south on I-25 toward Albuquerque then head west on I-40 toward Gallup, NM.
It was a long, mostly boring ride as the slab from Albuquerque to Gallup is more reminicent of southern New Mexico to wit dry, brown and boring. At Gallup we turned north on US 491 (Previously US 666) and things began to get more interesting. Large, oddly shaped rocks and red buttes normally associated with norther New Mexico began to appear.
As we grew close to our destination there were some large stones that were more intriguing than the others appeared in the distance..
Monday, November 15, 2010
Bohemian
I had a suitably Bohemian weekend with my Santa Fe friends. I had a need today and another one of my "mad" friends (Refer to Ginsberg to put that in context) gifted me exactly what I needed. I gifted back with some music and he seem pleased. Back to five days of corporate life tomorrow....yeah!
'till next time...
Cameron
'till next time...
Cameron
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Rolling with the "Beats"
I recently picked up a book at the library called "The Beat Reader." One thing anyone who is familiar with this literature could probably agree on is that it is Leftist to say the least. In the context of this post I wish it were possible to strip the Lword of its chequred baggage and use it as a descriptive word only.
To get to the point, I am having a great day today living the Beat life. There was a time not too long ago when I didn't think I would ever say that, given my Objectivist ideals. But, personal and prolonged brushes with poverty have a powerful influence.
Even more to the point is I enjoy the relationship I have with the other members of the Hooligans. We are all fans of Beat writing and have many discussions about books and philosophy. The outcome of this type of thinking is nobody goes without in the group. Just like today.
I met one of the Hooligans for coffee and only had three dollars in my wallet and an empty gas tank. The other Hooligan is question had 23 dollars. I told him I could only have coffee that morning because we were in-between paychecks and I had no money. With out even a thought the twenty dollars was split into two ten dollar tanks of gas. We chose a shorter ride than originally planned to accommodate the comfortable range of the bikes in question. When we got to our destination we pooled what money we had, scrounged for a little change and asked the young lady behind the rough, wooden coffee bar if we could get two of something for that amount of money. Turns out it was just the right amount with a little left over for tip.
We came home broke, but happy in a morning well spent.
To get to the point, I am having a great day today living the Beat life. There was a time not too long ago when I didn't think I would ever say that, given my Objectivist ideals. But, personal and prolonged brushes with poverty have a powerful influence.
Even more to the point is I enjoy the relationship I have with the other members of the Hooligans. We are all fans of Beat writing and have many discussions about books and philosophy. The outcome of this type of thinking is nobody goes without in the group. Just like today.
I met one of the Hooligans for coffee and only had three dollars in my wallet and an empty gas tank. The other Hooligan is question had 23 dollars. I told him I could only have coffee that morning because we were in-between paychecks and I had no money. With out even a thought the twenty dollars was split into two ten dollar tanks of gas. We chose a shorter ride than originally planned to accommodate the comfortable range of the bikes in question. When we got to our destination we pooled what money we had, scrounged for a little change and asked the young lady behind the rough, wooden coffee bar if we could get two of something for that amount of money. Turns out it was just the right amount with a little left over for tip.
We came home broke, but happy in a morning well spent.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Hangin' out at the Holy Ghost Campground
It has been a long hard winter in Santa Fe and spring is just now reluctantly emerging. Even with the days warming up, the windows of opportunity for pleasant weather riding are still rather narrow. Mornings are cold and the wind tends to blow fiercely in the afternoon. One of the beautiful things about living in or visiting this area are the number of good rides in easy reach. One of these mini-adventures that is particularly inviting is a visit to the "Holy Ghost" camping area. The entire adventure is just over 80 miles but takes one out into a wonderful wilderness world.
Heading "north" on US-25
From Santa Fe the entire trip is just about 80 miles but it seems much farther because it takes one deep into the world of the wilderness. Travel north north on US 25 which oddly enough heads south initially. Travel seven miles to exit 299/NM 50. NM 50 vectors south east through the storied town of Pecos. The speed limit along this rural route is 45 miles and hour and rather strictly enforced. Drivers are courteous but not always entirely aware of their surroundings.
Art gallery in Pecos, NM
At the intersection of NM 50 and NM 63 turn north. The outskirts of Pecos continue for another mile or two and the urge to twist the throttle must be resisted. Soon, however, civilization falls away and freedom of both motor and mind are attainable.
The road signs are marked will continue to point the way towards Cowles, NM. Points of interest along the way include the Pecos Benedictine Monastery and the Lisbosa Springs fish hatchery.
The road to the Holy Ghost - don't worry it get worse!
At Tererro there is a sharp and easy to miss turn to the north west which is marked intriguingly "Holy Ghost," referring to the "Holy Ghost" campground which lies at roads end.
Although this road is accessible on any street bike caution is indicated, and if you just can't bear to get a chip in that $5000 paint job you might want to give it a miss. That caveat aside this little ribbon of pavement is a ton of first and second gear technical fun.
The center of the road is liberally strewn with pebbles and sharp gravel so riding a clean line is a necessity. The edge of the high and fragrant conifer forest meets the rider to the right and large, broad valleys rise and fall hundreds of feet to the left. The Pecos river braids itself around the route through a series of slippery and narrow bridges. (Meeting up with those too large RV's making their descent from the campgrounds is a particularly adventurous experience.)
Even this early in the season (early May) the air is lightly seasoned with the scent of woodsmoke rising from the many cabins intriguingly place on unlikely rocks and ledges along the river. A bit further up the road riding becomes even more challenging as speed bumps built for giants began to make their appearance along with cattle gaurds which have been flooded with mud and gouged by the recently departed heavy weather.
After crossing one final bridge the road opens up onto a broad parking lot with a couple of picnic tables. The it is possible to ride farther on into the campground but a very official sign warns in no uncertain terms, "Picnickers Must Pay." There is an $8.00 per day fee for day use or camping in the campground proper but the aforementioned parking lot is free.
Stopping at the free site and having a mid-ride snack is extremely pleasant. A small fork of the the Pecos river runs bubbles by next to the picnic tables. A short hike west reveals a network of interlocking small tributaries making their way down the high slope.
A scene from the Pecos river
It is very peaceful except for the occasional sound of distant gunfire. One hopes they are shooting the other way!
Motorcycle gloves make great drink covers and "hopefully" protect from random bullets.
After lunch and maybe a hike, home base is an easy 40 miles away and there is still time for a nap before dinner.
Monday, April 12, 2010
NM4 Part 2
The road continues northward and ascends slowly through the deeply red rocks of Jemez National Monument. There is ample parking, picnic facilities and hiking in the pullout area amid the bright red rocks.
Jemez Springs National Recreational Area
The clue to the next interesting attraction is olfactory rather than visual. Traveling through a deep canyon the river is revealed through a natural waterfall appearing through a twisted mass of frozen fluid rock, obviously volcanic. Called Soda Dam, it is a popular place for people to hang out during the warm hours of the day.
Passing Soda Dam the road continues upward and begins to gradually bend to the east. The riding continues to be excellent and mostly solitary until coming upon Battle Ship Rock. With ones riding head on the looking through the corners it would be extremely easy to slam on the brakes because when it first appears one has the illusion it lies directly in the path ahead.
Battleship Rock
After navigating up, over and around a couple of very technical hairpins Valles Caldera comes into view.
Also known as Jemez Caldera this 95,000 acre natural wonder is also one of the newest national preserves, passing from private to public ownership in 2000.
Note the height of the snow at 11,000 feet even in early April. The coyote fencing is almost completely covered.
After passing beyond Valles Caldera NM 4 meanders pleasantly west toward the general vicinity of Los Alamos. After negotiating another set of technical hairpins the there is a fork in the road that offers the choice of heading north into Los Alamos on NM 501 or continuing west on NM 4 toward White Rock. On this particular journey the choice was to continue heading west. Even passing rather far south of Los Alamos proper things can get pretty weird. All manner of official warnings, gated-off areas and, and mysterious gadgetry punctuates the landscape.
After passing through White Rock turn south on US 84 at Pojuaque (steering clear of the tribal police) and slab it back to homebase.
This is a ride that could easily take a couple of days if one stopped and gave justice to every worthy attraction. Keep your eyes on these pages for more to come this summer.
Wonders along NM4
March madness has a new meaning in northern New Mexico these days. A long, hard winter is finally releasing its grip and the two wheel monsters that have been caged up inside the riders looking for any excuse to roll. In this riders case a long, free afternoon presented itself and a quick study of the map and a few calls local riders made NM4 look like a promising candidate for, finally, an afternoon's adventure.
From Santa Fe, head south on I25 towards Albuquerque, toward US 550. No matter what time of day or night the ride on I-25 down La Pajada hill is always a race. The posted speed limit is already a generous 75MPH, however the reality of the situation is that ride anything less than 90 and be mowed down like so much motor meat.
Turning west on US 550 N, go figure, proves to be a moderately frustrating experience. Skirting the northern outskirts fo the community of Rio Rancho the strip mall traffic is dangerous and annoying. Fortunately, it does not continue for too long.
The real fun begins when turning north on NM 4 at the little village of San Ysidro. Just as a side note by now the ride from Santa Fe will have covered 60 miles of slab and, depending on the range of your motorcycle, it might be a good idea to to take the opportunity to fuel up at this juncture as at least 50 miles of of motorcycling heaven stretches ahead, but the opportunities to get gas along the rest of the route are sketchy at best.
50 Miles of sweet carving lie ahead on NM4
Just a couple miles up the road lies Jemez Pueblo and it is a study in contrasts. Upon first entering from the south there is a group of modern government buildings which at first blush can give a mistaken impression of Pueblo life. Once past the official complex the road continues to ascend, but the ground falls away to the west of the road giving a good overall view of the actual working Pueblo.
Small dirt roads lead off down and to the left and large signs both invite the visitor in and also give dire warnings about the consequences of breaking tribal rules. Because pueblo life is relatively secretive this ride along the high ground gives a rare glimpse into actual conditions inside these tiny little sovereign nations.
Upon leaving Jemez Pueblo the road becomes lonely again twisting the throttle again becomes almost imperative. At this altitude the road has not been ravaged by severe winter conditions and the quality of the road and the almost perfect symmetry of the twisties remind those emerging from long winter layoff just exactly what motorcycling is about in the first place.
Next up on our little road beaded with wonders is the community of Jemez Springs. This first impression one gets upon entering the area is that of yet another impoverished New Mexico community. Small, dusty, run-down trailer park communities lie along the edges of town. Yet despite their overall dilapidated nature, many of them boast amazing artwork of various genres either attached to the dwellings themselves or on diplay in their sad little yards.
This little adobe church pictured below is a good example. Although it sports a sad looking and sagging tin roof which is painted in an unsuccessful attempt to make it look like what it is not, these features are offset by intricately designed stained glass windows and hand carved wooden doors.
The above photos illustrate the dichotomy of life on the outskirts of Jemez Sprngs
From Santa Fe, head south on I25 towards Albuquerque, toward US 550. No matter what time of day or night the ride on I-25 down La Pajada hill is always a race. The posted speed limit is already a generous 75MPH, however the reality of the situation is that ride anything less than 90 and be mowed down like so much motor meat.
Turning west on US 550 N, go figure, proves to be a moderately frustrating experience. Skirting the northern outskirts fo the community of Rio Rancho the strip mall traffic is dangerous and annoying. Fortunately, it does not continue for too long.
The real fun begins when turning north on NM 4 at the little village of San Ysidro. Just as a side note by now the ride from Santa Fe will have covered 60 miles of slab and, depending on the range of your motorcycle, it might be a good idea to to take the opportunity to fuel up at this juncture as at least 50 miles of of motorcycling heaven stretches ahead, but the opportunities to get gas along the rest of the route are sketchy at best.
50 Miles of sweet carving lie ahead on NM4
Just a couple miles up the road lies Jemez Pueblo and it is a study in contrasts. Upon first entering from the south there is a group of modern government buildings which at first blush can give a mistaken impression of Pueblo life. Once past the official complex the road continues to ascend, but the ground falls away to the west of the road giving a good overall view of the actual working Pueblo.
Small dirt roads lead off down and to the left and large signs both invite the visitor in and also give dire warnings about the consequences of breaking tribal rules. Because pueblo life is relatively secretive this ride along the high ground gives a rare glimpse into actual conditions inside these tiny little sovereign nations.
Upon leaving Jemez Pueblo the road becomes lonely again twisting the throttle again becomes almost imperative. At this altitude the road has not been ravaged by severe winter conditions and the quality of the road and the almost perfect symmetry of the twisties remind those emerging from long winter layoff just exactly what motorcycling is about in the first place.
Next up on our little road beaded with wonders is the community of Jemez Springs. This first impression one gets upon entering the area is that of yet another impoverished New Mexico community. Small, dusty, run-down trailer park communities lie along the edges of town. Yet despite their overall dilapidated nature, many of them boast amazing artwork of various genres either attached to the dwellings themselves or on diplay in their sad little yards.
This little adobe church pictured below is a good example. Although it sports a sad looking and sagging tin roof which is painted in an unsuccessful attempt to make it look like what it is not, these features are offset by intricately designed stained glass windows and hand carved wooden doors.
The above photos illustrate the dichotomy of life on the outskirts of Jemez Sprngs
Monday, February 8, 2010
The new Road Show
Once upon a time, say five years ago, motorcycling and motorcycle travel was new, fun and exciting. It is still so, but like any good long-term relationship it has gone beyond the infatuation stage, through some of the frustrating and baffling adjustment stages, and is beginning to emerge into some form of maturity. Also, we all live in a very different world than we did five years ago.
All these factors have shaped and are re-shaping Road Show Magazine. Due to economic and time factors I have made the difficult decision to discontinue Road Show Podcast. There is quite a bit of grief associated with this, and guilt. Grief because when we started the podcast I made a promise to myself that I would keep it going no matter what. Unfortunately that is a promise to myself I can no longer keep.
Road Show Magazine as a website will continue on but in a different form that has yet to be completely determined. Many of our archives were lost due to computer and hard-drive failures and losses of back-ups during five moves in the last 18 months. So the magazine, like our lives, will be starting over. Which brings me back to the beginning of this little essay.
As a starting point for this new format I will be posting articles and media from my own personal archives from the earlier days of my travel. It has been interesting personally to review them because they recapture the excitement and romance of my early days of motorcycle traveling.
I would also like to invite more reader participation. I am not quite sure what form that will take, but please e-mail me any materials/suggestions you may have.
Thank you and I look forward to the future of Road Show as we continue on this uncertain, but interesting journey.
Cameron aka BMWeerman
All these factors have shaped and are re-shaping Road Show Magazine. Due to economic and time factors I have made the difficult decision to discontinue Road Show Podcast. There is quite a bit of grief associated with this, and guilt. Grief because when we started the podcast I made a promise to myself that I would keep it going no matter what. Unfortunately that is a promise to myself I can no longer keep.
Road Show Magazine as a website will continue on but in a different form that has yet to be completely determined. Many of our archives were lost due to computer and hard-drive failures and losses of back-ups during five moves in the last 18 months. So the magazine, like our lives, will be starting over. Which brings me back to the beginning of this little essay.
As a starting point for this new format I will be posting articles and media from my own personal archives from the earlier days of my travel. It has been interesting personally to review them because they recapture the excitement and romance of my early days of motorcycle traveling.
I would also like to invite more reader participation. I am not quite sure what form that will take, but please e-mail me any materials/suggestions you may have.
Thank you and I look forward to the future of Road Show as we continue on this uncertain, but interesting journey.
Cameron aka BMWeerman
Sunday, December 27, 2009
A little danger on NM 502 (Part 1)
"Where does this road go?" It is a great game for a traveling day. And sometimes serendipity plays and awesome role as it did on a recent winter day just north of Santa Fe. During the winter the high temperatures in the area often linger in the mid 20's for extended periods. However, an occasional window will open up and provide a bright, clear sunlit day where one can gear up and pretend the riding season is not really over.
Actual beautiful, non-tagged road art.
One of the pleasures of living and riding in northern New Mexico is that the slabs and the highways are actually made pleasant to look at which to me is pretty stunning. As a long time resident of central and southern California it is so pleasant not to have a bunch of inconsiderate "taggers" mucking up every public surface with their stupid gang signs.
Nice curves and great scenery greet the rider on US-285N just out of Santa Fe.
Actually the slab riding up here can be downright pleasant as there are lots of mountains and the engineers chose not to blast every curve out of existence.
In keeping with the theme of let's see where this road goes mentality, in this community and surrounding area it pays to keep your eyes and awareness open to small things that are easy to miss.
A case in point being the Cottonwood Gallery just off of NM502 on the way to Los Alamos, sometimes called Atomic City. On an scantily marked dirt side road, one drives on what is little more than a dirt side road to a modest looking faux adobe structure. Waking through the door is a significant surprise. Inside is a very modern, yet intimate and comfortable working gallery inside what used to be a large private dwelling.
The road to the Cotton Wood Gallery
We will get to the danger aspect in part II
Actual beautiful, non-tagged road art.
One of the pleasures of living and riding in northern New Mexico is that the slabs and the highways are actually made pleasant to look at which to me is pretty stunning. As a long time resident of central and southern California it is so pleasant not to have a bunch of inconsiderate "taggers" mucking up every public surface with their stupid gang signs.
Nice curves and great scenery greet the rider on US-285N just out of Santa Fe.
Actually the slab riding up here can be downright pleasant as there are lots of mountains and the engineers chose not to blast every curve out of existence.
In keeping with the theme of let's see where this road goes mentality, in this community and surrounding area it pays to keep your eyes and awareness open to small things that are easy to miss.
A case in point being the Cottonwood Gallery just off of NM502 on the way to Los Alamos, sometimes called Atomic City. On an scantily marked dirt side road, one drives on what is little more than a dirt side road to a modest looking faux adobe structure. Waking through the door is a significant surprise. Inside is a very modern, yet intimate and comfortable working gallery inside what used to be a large private dwelling.
The road to the Cotton Wood Gallery
We will get to the danger aspect in part II
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Road Show Christmas Podcast and Music Show
As the end of the year approaches and Christmas is a few days away our minds naturally turn reflective and look towards hope and renewal as well. Perhaps because most of us are not in a position to acquire material things to trade with each other the focus seems to be largely turning towards making or remaking connections with our friends and loved ones. In this spirit I took a little break from obsessing on motorcycles and turned towards the language of music to communicate the spirit of the season and hopefully bring a little extra joy to those around me.
In that same spirit I want to share the same joy and communication with our Road Show family. However in keeping with the focus of Road Show Podcast it also seemed appropriate to have something about motorcycles included in show.
In this sense I was fortunate enough to connect with David Woodby a biker, writer and web publisher from Panama City, FL. Woodby seemed like a natural choice to spotlight on this Christmas episode because of the helpful and supportive nature of his websites.
David Woodby Panama City, FL motorcycle examiner
Woodby and his wife started the website panamacitymetro.com a number of years ago as a service to help stranded travelers connect with hard to find resources such as shelter, medical care, clothing, etc. As an ex-soldier and area police officer he was well positioned to have access to this type of information. This website has been tremendously successful and its attitude of giving is very much in the Christmas spirt.
Woodby recently launched another website which really takes the form of on online magazine. His panhandlebiker.com website features events and things of interest to the riding community and is updated almost daily. Anybody in the area or thinking of traveling to an event there should check it out.
---------------------------------------------------
About the music: I first had the idea to do this album back in October with grand plans to do an entire CD's worth. As the project progressed and demands on my time and technical problems increased it became clear the scope of the endeavor would have to be severly cut back. I very much like the idea of re-arranging Christmas songs in different settings without disturbing the integrity of the original melody, at least too much. I also thought it appropriate to compose at least one original piece that captured, at least through the lens of my experience, my personal feelings about being in Santa Fe at this time of year.
Credits: Heartfelt thanks go out to two special people who helped this project come together. Mike Ferenci who played all the guitar tracks from his studio in Los Angeles.
Ace guitarist and producer Michael Ferenci ponders a mix from his LA studio.
I also want to thank my great friend and overall master musician/mixer Raul Duarte who contributed valuable advice on mixing and instrumentation.
Of course many thanks belong to my wife Patti who continues to support the whole process.
The tracks you heard on the show are all available for free MP3 download at my music website. I hope they bring you some pleasure and joy.
Merry Christmas to all...
Cameron Weckerley (bmweerman)
In that same spirit I want to share the same joy and communication with our Road Show family. However in keeping with the focus of Road Show Podcast it also seemed appropriate to have something about motorcycles included in show.
In this sense I was fortunate enough to connect with David Woodby a biker, writer and web publisher from Panama City, FL. Woodby seemed like a natural choice to spotlight on this Christmas episode because of the helpful and supportive nature of his websites.
David Woodby Panama City, FL motorcycle examiner
Woodby and his wife started the website panamacitymetro.com a number of years ago as a service to help stranded travelers connect with hard to find resources such as shelter, medical care, clothing, etc. As an ex-soldier and area police officer he was well positioned to have access to this type of information. This website has been tremendously successful and its attitude of giving is very much in the Christmas spirt.
Woodby recently launched another website which really takes the form of on online magazine. His panhandlebiker.com website features events and things of interest to the riding community and is updated almost daily. Anybody in the area or thinking of traveling to an event there should check it out.
---------------------------------------------------
About the music: I first had the idea to do this album back in October with grand plans to do an entire CD's worth. As the project progressed and demands on my time and technical problems increased it became clear the scope of the endeavor would have to be severly cut back. I very much like the idea of re-arranging Christmas songs in different settings without disturbing the integrity of the original melody, at least too much. I also thought it appropriate to compose at least one original piece that captured, at least through the lens of my experience, my personal feelings about being in Santa Fe at this time of year.
Credits: Heartfelt thanks go out to two special people who helped this project come together. Mike Ferenci who played all the guitar tracks from his studio in Los Angeles.
Ace guitarist and producer Michael Ferenci ponders a mix from his LA studio.
I also want to thank my great friend and overall master musician/mixer Raul Duarte who contributed valuable advice on mixing and instrumentation.
Of course many thanks belong to my wife Patti who continues to support the whole process.
The tracks you heard on the show are all available for free MP3 download at my music website. I hope they bring you some pleasure and joy.
Merry Christmas to all...
Cameron Weckerley (bmweerman)
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Tribal Trouble
On a cold sunny day not too long ago the task befell on me to deliver a motorcycle to a customer living in the no man's land between Santa Fe and Los Alamos. The customer to whom the bike was being delivered wad, well interesting. The map the shop manager gave me was a good one, but a lot of the little roads and small communities out barely show up on them at all if at all. So here I am driving the company truck with a motorcycle in the back looking for nonexistent information on a map and trying to read these funky little county road signs. I keep pulling over to call the customer who sometimes answers the phone and sometimes does not and gives conflicting directions. OK, you get the idea.
I had just pulled back out on to the road when the dreaded flashing lights showed up behind me. I had no idea what I had done wrong but I dutifully pulled over. Seems I had run a stop sign which I did not see, and honestly, could barely see it even after the "cop" had pulled me over.
Here I must digress for a moment. One of the things that is unusual about this area of New Mexico is how the land is divided up piecemeal between United States property and Tribal Indian lands more commonly known as pueblos.
Above is an overall map of New Mexico tribal areas. For a more detailed map click here
Turns out when I got the ticket I found out I had actually been stopped by the tribal police who have jurisdiction even on public roads they happen to cross pueblo land. The traffic tickets they hand out do not go on your driving record nor are they reported to your insurance which is a good thing, but they still cost you. However, the information the tribal police and justice system gives you about how to clear things up is incomplete and misleading.
Initially the officer told me that I had to go to court, in Pojoaque no less, then he said I could just pay the $60.00 fine. Ok great, but wait, you have to show in in court even if you just want to admit guilt and pay the fine. I did a mental double-take on that one and asked for clarification and was assured that indeed, yes, one does have to show up to court just to plead guilty and pay the fine. The paperwork (ticket) I was handed seemed to confirm this.
Two week later I had to take the morning off from work and drive from Santa Fe to Pojoague, checkbook in hand, to sit out my court appearance and pay my fine. When I walked into the tribal justice building there on the left was a little window with a large sign that said, "pay traffic fines here." As it turns out you can go to the justice center any day of the week during business hours and handle your fines or, I also found out, you can indeed just MAIL THEM IN! No one in the system will tell you any of this in advance of course. But wait, they have one final trick up their sleeve. They only take cashiers or certified checks, not cash, no credit cards, nothing. Another fact that appears nowhere on the paperwork or will anyone tell you. Which means you either have to go to one of the local grocery stores and pay an overpriced fee to get a certified check, provided you have the right kind of debit card or cash, or go somewhere else to get one. The other option being, which is the one I chose, just go home and get a cashiers check from your own bank at mail it in which is what you could have done the first place.
Is there a point to this rather long rant? Yes there is, two in fact. First, be very careful when driving on tribal lands, the local lawmen are just out there waiting to pop you for the slightest infringement. Second, if do get busted just get a certified check and mail it in! Of course one could try to fight it in tribal court, but given my experience that seems like it would be a pointless venture.
I had just pulled back out on to the road when the dreaded flashing lights showed up behind me. I had no idea what I had done wrong but I dutifully pulled over. Seems I had run a stop sign which I did not see, and honestly, could barely see it even after the "cop" had pulled me over.
Here I must digress for a moment. One of the things that is unusual about this area of New Mexico is how the land is divided up piecemeal between United States property and Tribal Indian lands more commonly known as pueblos.
Above is an overall map of New Mexico tribal areas. For a more detailed map click here
Turns out when I got the ticket I found out I had actually been stopped by the tribal police who have jurisdiction even on public roads they happen to cross pueblo land. The traffic tickets they hand out do not go on your driving record nor are they reported to your insurance which is a good thing, but they still cost you. However, the information the tribal police and justice system gives you about how to clear things up is incomplete and misleading.
Initially the officer told me that I had to go to court, in Pojoaque no less, then he said I could just pay the $60.00 fine. Ok great, but wait, you have to show in in court even if you just want to admit guilt and pay the fine. I did a mental double-take on that one and asked for clarification and was assured that indeed, yes, one does have to show up to court just to plead guilty and pay the fine. The paperwork (ticket) I was handed seemed to confirm this.
Two week later I had to take the morning off from work and drive from Santa Fe to Pojoague, checkbook in hand, to sit out my court appearance and pay my fine. When I walked into the tribal justice building there on the left was a little window with a large sign that said, "pay traffic fines here." As it turns out you can go to the justice center any day of the week during business hours and handle your fines or, I also found out, you can indeed just MAIL THEM IN! No one in the system will tell you any of this in advance of course. But wait, they have one final trick up their sleeve. They only take cashiers or certified checks, not cash, no credit cards, nothing. Another fact that appears nowhere on the paperwork or will anyone tell you. Which means you either have to go to one of the local grocery stores and pay an overpriced fee to get a certified check, provided you have the right kind of debit card or cash, or go somewhere else to get one. The other option being, which is the one I chose, just go home and get a cashiers check from your own bank at mail it in which is what you could have done the first place.
Is there a point to this rather long rant? Yes there is, two in fact. First, be very careful when driving on tribal lands, the local lawmen are just out there waiting to pop you for the slightest infringement. Second, if do get busted just get a certified check and mail it in! Of course one could try to fight it in tribal court, but given my experience that seems like it would be a pointless venture.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Don't believe everything you read: Pecos, NM
Having never lived in a place where there was such a thing as a "riding season" it has been somewhat disconcerting to watch and feel the temperature get lower and lower each day here in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. Chipping ice off the seat of the bike in the morning to go to work and see actual snow fall around our apartment. Nevertheless, as wise man once said that, "...there is no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothes." With that in mind the Wrench Wench and I set off on a short adventure today to visit Pecos, NM. I had been curious about "The Old Las Vegas Highway/NM 300" which runs from southeastern Santa Fe almost all the way to Pecos.
Old Las Vegas Highway/NM 300
The Old Vegas Highway is a popular spot for local vendors to sell firewood and the ubiquitous strands of red peppers.
For sure it is not a road to burn off chicken strips, but it is an interesting late morning scenic ride through the outskirts of Santa Fe. Although it mostly parallels I-25 it is a much more interesting ride. It rejoins I-25 at the village of Canoncito although if you are just passing through all you will see is a really sharp turn with some bad pavement and a lot of gravel, caution is indicated.
After a few miles on I-25 we took exit 299 heading south on NM-50. It is a pleasant little six mile, mildly curvy ride into the Pecos.
Now, as is my normal practice I had researched on-line our destination of the day. From the website it looked very promising. Lots of pictures of quaint, rural activities and the quote, "Pecos is a an ancient place with modern amenities, a village of small, family-owned lodges, restaurants, shops and guiding services. Pecos is a place of senses for people who value their sense of place." (http://www.pecosnewmexico.com/about.php)
Upon our arrival we were greeted with something completely different. The Pecos we saw driving through was almost a caricature of a declining small town just barely hanging on.
A typical scene from the street of Pecos
We rode up and down the few small streets that seem to comprise the town looking for something captivating enough to stop for, there was nothing.
At the east end of town NM 50 ends and NM 223 begins. Since it seemed to head up into the mountains there was the promise of a twisty road and maybe some good riding. So off we headed.
Looking west from NM 223 towards Pecos, Glorieta, and the western slopes of the Santa Fe National Forest
After pausing to consult the map and consider our next move we decided to continue on with the game of "where-does-this-road-go" and a couple more miles east on NM 223 landed us at the end of the pavement and onto hard pack gravel.
The end of the "paved" road.
Now I have taken street bikes before where street bikes ought not to go, but on this day I was just not in the mood and was wishing we were on a dual sport. So I dutifully and carefully executed a three point turn and we headed back down the hill.
With one more place to visit, the Pecos National Historic Park, we turned south on NM 63 and followed the signs to the Park.
The park documents at least 1200 years of human habitation in the area. There are remains of pithouses going back to the earliest Pueblo dwellers, 17th century farmhouses, and the centerpiece the remains of the first mission built in 1625.
"Red in the foreground with the Mission Church in the background
We were going to linger, but since it was already cold and the sky was quickly turning ominous, as it does this time of year we decided to head for home and shelter.
Ominous skies sent us packing or shelter
It was just a preliminary excursion, but worthy of more exploration in the future with more promising weather or more appropriate clothing.
Old Las Vegas Highway/NM 300
The Old Vegas Highway is a popular spot for local vendors to sell firewood and the ubiquitous strands of red peppers.
For sure it is not a road to burn off chicken strips, but it is an interesting late morning scenic ride through the outskirts of Santa Fe. Although it mostly parallels I-25 it is a much more interesting ride. It rejoins I-25 at the village of Canoncito although if you are just passing through all you will see is a really sharp turn with some bad pavement and a lot of gravel, caution is indicated.
After a few miles on I-25 we took exit 299 heading south on NM-50. It is a pleasant little six mile, mildly curvy ride into the Pecos.
Now, as is my normal practice I had researched on-line our destination of the day. From the website it looked very promising. Lots of pictures of quaint, rural activities and the quote, "Pecos is a an ancient place with modern amenities, a village of small, family-owned lodges, restaurants, shops and guiding services. Pecos is a place of senses for people who value their sense of place." (http://www.pecosnewmexico.com/about.php)
Upon our arrival we were greeted with something completely different. The Pecos we saw driving through was almost a caricature of a declining small town just barely hanging on.
A typical scene from the street of Pecos
We rode up and down the few small streets that seem to comprise the town looking for something captivating enough to stop for, there was nothing.
At the east end of town NM 50 ends and NM 223 begins. Since it seemed to head up into the mountains there was the promise of a twisty road and maybe some good riding. So off we headed.
Looking west from NM 223 towards Pecos, Glorieta, and the western slopes of the Santa Fe National Forest
After pausing to consult the map and consider our next move we decided to continue on with the game of "where-does-this-road-go" and a couple more miles east on NM 223 landed us at the end of the pavement and onto hard pack gravel.
The end of the "paved" road.
Now I have taken street bikes before where street bikes ought not to go, but on this day I was just not in the mood and was wishing we were on a dual sport. So I dutifully and carefully executed a three point turn and we headed back down the hill.
With one more place to visit, the Pecos National Historic Park, we turned south on NM 63 and followed the signs to the Park.
The park documents at least 1200 years of human habitation in the area. There are remains of pithouses going back to the earliest Pueblo dwellers, 17th century farmhouses, and the centerpiece the remains of the first mission built in 1625.
"Red in the foreground with the Mission Church in the background
We were going to linger, but since it was already cold and the sky was quickly turning ominous, as it does this time of year we decided to head for home and shelter.
Ominous skies sent us packing or shelter
It was just a preliminary excursion, but worthy of more exploration in the future with more promising weather or more appropriate clothing.
Monday, October 5, 2009
BMW Track Day 2009
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I have always been curious about track days, but as a primarily touring motorcyclist it has, until now, remained just that a curiosity. This year as a perk of my job I was offered a free ticket and there was a chance to see the new BMW S1000RR up close and personal. It was also a chance to watch my buddy and co-worker Ben aka Mr. Wizard show off his Frankenstein airhead build.
Sandia Motor Speedway from "The Tower"
BMW S1000RR looking lean and mean from the front all taped up for track day.
Traditional racing design with some special improvements compliments of Motorrad engineering. For more info on this bike visit bmwplanetpower.com
Beemerman with BMW factory rider Gary Hardin
Mr Wizard aka Ben Grant with his "slightly massaged" airhead.
We are going to do a whole article on this bike, there is just too much to go into here.
It is the only "Santa Fe" model BMW in existence!
Andy Caparones also made an impressive showing on the track with his two custom builds.
Andy's aqua Honda performed reliably and FAST
His "7/11" Gixxer also showed promise, but was plagued by oil leaks and was disqualified early on
And then there was ever faithful "Red" shown here decked out for her track day debut
Glad I left my ego at home and signed up for the novice class, where I put a a respectable showing, otherwise I would have had my ass handed to me.
In other Road Show news, Rupert Piston a good friend and part-time guest host of the show is taking his motorcycle based art in a new direction using some new media and introducing some new characters. Check out his latest work at Cartoon Thunder.
Also thanks to the guys at 1 OFF Motorsports for the video!
Be looking for more details on Mr. Wizards bike soon and thank you for downloading Road Show Podcast.
I have always been curious about track days, but as a primarily touring motorcyclist it has, until now, remained just that a curiosity. This year as a perk of my job I was offered a free ticket and there was a chance to see the new BMW S1000RR up close and personal. It was also a chance to watch my buddy and co-worker Ben aka Mr. Wizard show off his Frankenstein airhead build.
Sandia Motor Speedway from "The Tower"
BMW S1000RR looking lean and mean from the front all taped up for track day.
Traditional racing design with some special improvements compliments of Motorrad engineering. For more info on this bike visit bmwplanetpower.com
Beemerman with BMW factory rider Gary Hardin
Mr Wizard aka Ben Grant with his "slightly massaged" airhead.
We are going to do a whole article on this bike, there is just too much to go into here.
It is the only "Santa Fe" model BMW in existence!
Andy Caparones also made an impressive showing on the track with his two custom builds.
Andy's aqua Honda performed reliably and FAST
His "7/11" Gixxer also showed promise, but was plagued by oil leaks and was disqualified early on
And then there was ever faithful "Red" shown here decked out for her track day debut
Glad I left my ego at home and signed up for the novice class, where I put a a respectable showing, otherwise I would have had my ass handed to me.
In other Road Show news, Rupert Piston a good friend and part-time guest host of the show is taking his motorcycle based art in a new direction using some new media and introducing some new characters. Check out his latest work at Cartoon Thunder.
Also thanks to the guys at 1 OFF Motorsports for the video!
Be looking for more details on Mr. Wizards bike soon and thank you for downloading Road Show Podcast.
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