Story of the 10^th Annual Queer Biker Invasion of Death Valley

Once again the ride came off wonderfully. It meant another birthday ride for me; ten years and counting that I have had this way to celebrate my birthday. Thanks, everyone for helping me celebrate.

This ride was typical of many other rides. 30 bikers left San Francisco. Another t10 to 15 bikers joined us at the first gas stop in Mantecca. More joined us in Bishop, including long time riders Tom and Leland on their Pacific Coasts (with bodies by Tupperware). The Desert Brotherhood of Las Vegas once again showed up at Zabriskie Point, as did Sabina on her Valkerie. And, the gay sportbiker group were once again present in large numbers.

As has happened in other years, some of us went through Yosemite, while others, including many of the gay sportbike group decided to continue on Route 108 and go over Sonora Pass. The larger group appears to reassemble at gas stop just north of Lee Vining. This is typical. First we re together, then we separate, then coming back together. This happens numerous times each day.

This year I found the ride tiring. I had extensive dental surgery a couple of weeks before the ride and it appears to have taken it’s toll. Then I returned, I was wondering if I should be riding an easier bike to ride. My 92 Harley FXR is fine for freeway, but takes a lot of energy in the turns. And I was wondering about a bike with cruise control. I love cruise control. I play with it in the car. Cruise control tends to slow me down and keeps me going at a more reasonable. It helps me avoid speed creep. But in the end, I’ve decided to keep the Harley and just slug on. For those of you who know me, the Harley "fits me"/

This is also the last year we will have a dinner at Carrows in Bakersfield. The service was slow, once again. The food was bad, once again. There was a general feeling of disinterest regarding Carrows. If anyone has any suggestions, please offer them. Anyone want to investigate the possibilities?

As to the most frequent question I am asked, "How many rides took part". I actually do not know. Probably about the same number as last year. That means the low estimate is probably between 60-80 bikes at some point. And the high estimate is perhaps about 100 bikes tookpart at some point. Quite a few bikes never make it to Zabriskie Point. Others just came for the first day and headed back to SF. They had to work on Monday. Colombus Day is, during the life of the Death Valley ride has become less and less of a holiday.

So, that’s it for this year. This is being written about 6 months after the ride because I’m more into riding than writing. But I got it done, again.

Be there and be queer.

Your disorganizer,

Michael Psycle

E mail: mcpsycle@well.com