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The 7th Queer Biker Invasion of Death Valley went off without a hitch, once again. Somewhere between 60 and 70 bikers participated in this loosely disorganized ride through the back roads of California.
The ride is different every year, and this year was no exception. Like other years, it was a combination of new riders and riders who have participated in past Queer Biker Invasions of Death Valley. An interesting phenomena has developed. Some riders come back every year to take part in the ride. Others seem to appear every other year. And, it was not uncommon for someone to have participated in a few of the years while missing others.
What appears to happen each year is something like this. About 30 to 40 bikers meet on the starting point on Castro Street. Returning riders greet each other while new riders are made to feel as welcome as possible. The group then gets on the freeway and makes it's way to the first gas stop in Manteca, where another 10 to 15 riders join the group. More riders join at the various other stops along the way' in Bishop the first night, at Zabriskie Point, or just about anywhere else along the ride.
While this is a large group, and we often ride as a group at the beginning of the day, the ride has an organic quality where riders appear to break down into smaller riding groups that get together and separate during the ride. But it all seems to come together at the beginning of the day, and the end of the day, and at Zabriskie Point.
A highlight of this year's ride was a "funeral" for a motorcycle. After the gathering at Zabriskie Point, one of the riders, who had owned several bikes, held a funeral for her BMW GS that had "died" the week before. Dressed appropriately in black garb, numerous riders stood by as gasoline soaked photos of the departed GS were cremated.
Other points of interest on this year's ride. At least two speeding tickets, one lost key, hot weather in Death Valley, the usual lousy food, and a touch of rain on the last day. The top speed claimed by a rider was 172 mph through the Panamint Valley, where the rider claimed the bike could have gone faster, but he decided prudence was in order.
So, if you are thinking of joining us, please do. It's a lot of fun and there are many riders who are looking forward to riding with you this year to Death Valley.
Take care and see you in October...........................
E mail: mcpsycle@well.com