Day 19 of Route 66 2015 Barstow San Bernardino

This day Constance, Stefan and I agreed to start at the Route 66 Museum in Barstow. It should open at 10.00 and I saw it already in 2013 and it is a must see on 66. So we were there after sightseeing Barstow at 9.45 then we saw they are only open on Friday and in the weekend. It was a disappointment for all  us that the museum was closed  so we went on the way over old 66 heading to LA.

The first stop when leaving Barstow is the Bottle Tree Forest built by a man who hobby is collecting old stuff and making art of it. In 2013 he was on the road but now we met him at his forest. Had a long talk with him about his hobby and how it started. A nice guy to meet, with an exceptional hobby, and thank you for showing us around the place and allowing the picture of you and me

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Next stop was the Iron Hog salon this is a typical saloon like Devil’s Elbow and also a nice stop. Also here a souvenir shops where you can buy a lot of stuff. Because I have no room left I did not buy the t-shirt.  Then we went to Holland Burger. It is not founded by Dutch people as I thought according the lady who served our lunch. The food was good and there were many visitors so a good sign that the place will be long open.

The other must stop in Victorville is the route 66 museum from California. And off course we stopped there. Had a picture in the VW bus together and looked around in route 66 history. A nice place to visit and with nice people to meet there too. We continued our travel together to Summit Inn over the frontage road next to the I-40. The restaurant had an accident in 2014 but all was repaired and now they were open again. 

Here Stefan and Constance had to go further because they had to deliver the rented Harley’s back to Eagle Rider on time. It was nice to drive together friends on 66.  Off course I went in and had a drink and because they have WiFi I could call my wife with Whatsapp again.  The place is really a must see and stop and have a drink or something to eat. It’s too nice not to stop there.

Then I continued my travel true the mountain road around LA in San Bernardino National Forest and went down this way instead of I-40 or like I did in 2013 down part I-40 and then back to old 66.  It is really hill up and down with steep curves so it does not go fast but the roads are good and the lake view is a beautiful sight too.

Entering San Bernardino this way brought me quick at the first Mac Donnalds. It is now a museum and a very nice place to visit. My last stop today was the Wig Wam motel where I stay the night. I can recommend the experience to all 66 drivers. It different but very nice to do.

Then to today, will travel by Interstate to Eagle Rider were I will have a meeting with the manager and then to Schumacher Transport to arrange the shipping of the Honda to the Netherlands. Do some shopping at the Walmart for wife and kids as I promised to do and then take the day off. Tomorrow I do a part Ride Back 66 from the things missed starting at the End Point. Then I go on Highway 1 down to San Diego. My plane is on Tuesday so some time left for sightseeing California.

Day 18 of Route 66 2015 Needles to Barstow

This day I did not drive alone. Two German friends, a couple from Hamburg, who I met several times on my journey over Route 66 are driving with me. And today is dessert day on 66.

We started early on 9 to have some profits of lower temperature but also at 9 it was already 79F. The day highest temperature was 86 so much under the Missouri and Oklahoma temperatures we had.

First a little part on I-40 then to US95 and then to 66 but after Goff it was not possible to drive 66 further. Road was closed. I knew there were bridges flooded in spring but still closed I had not expected. So we did a turn to the interstate and the next exit we tried again.

Still closed but there was a road worker in a car so I asked is it possible or not on a motorcycles. He told they made roads around the bridges so at max 300 feet we would drive on a gravel road. And there was no water under the bridge floating. 

So we decided to give it a try and via Essex road we went back to 66. And indeed the road was almost only our road. No other cars except rail road workers used it. It felt good to drive over the dessert road of 66 again. And we had a good picture stop at the route 66 near the ruins of a painted wall. I Forgot the name of it so help me to remember please. We sat on the road put the bike in front and toke the time for some nice pictures.

Then we continued and in total we had 3 bridges to pass over a gravel bypass. No problems for us and we had a great drive to Roys were we must stop off course to see the place. It funny that the building of the motel looks good on the outside and also the rooms are looking good so with some effort it could reopen as a motel. Gass was 30% more expensive here and we did not need to fill up. Had a drink made the pictures and the drover further to Ludow. 

The road from 66 after Ludow was bad in 2013 when I drove with the BMW over is and now it was even worse. After 10 miles we took the I-40 again because we were shacked out enough. Next stop Bagdad Café famous because of the movie made there. Now it looked old and not clean anymore. So after a drink for me and Constance a hamburger for Stefan we drove further on 66 to Daggett and then to the “ghost town” Calico an old gold mine town in western style build now as a tourist attraction. 

This time there were no busses like in 2013 so we went in. A nice place to see and if there is time a must stop to do for 8 dollars entrée fee. When we left a family from Sweden just came on their rented Harley’s. Two daughter an dad and mum.  They started with the golden state tour and I gave them the advise we had form the road worker. Continue over 66 after Roys Cafe. Yes I could be a travel guide Constance already said. For me it is helping people to have fun.

We continued to Barstow on 66 and entered nearly a marine base build on old 66. I will adapt my files and also River Pilot files need to be adapting here to part interstate and then back to 66. Our journey together ended in Barstow at the museum were we meet again to continue to the Wig Wam hotel in San Bernardino. Off course we go to Victorville museum and the bottle tree ranch and Summit Inn

Day 17 of Route 66 2015 from Kingman to Needles

The day started early for me because I had made an appointment with the famous writer Jim Hinkley in Kingman. Jim and I met the first time in the Preal when he was in the Netherlands in Amsterdam. I felt very honored that he and I met in Kingman.

We had a good talk about driving Route 66. We both know  and agreed that it is the route 66 and the adventure that make complete strangers friends.

And an example of this fact I had again in Outman were I met again my German friends who I first met in Pontiac and later in Albuquerque . Although we don’t know each other we share the same passion. So we went for dinner this evening together and go together from Needles to Barstow true the dessert. And that is what Jim mend when he said the adventure makes friends.

Well what did I see today after my meeting with Jim I went back to the hotel. Had breakfast and the MD and the went to see Kingmen and the Kingman museum. Saw the winner of top speed cars full electric in the museum too. A nice exhibition of the past and the future where I would give the title too a must see on 66.

Then I went to Chloride to see an old silver mine town just outside Kingman on the road to Las Vegas. And on the same road lived in the past our Santa Claus. He has his house still for sale. It was already for sale in 2013. I think now nobody will buy it and it will be damaged buy time.

Then I drove to Cool Springs were I had my first real coffee since weeks. The guy how worked there I did recognize by face. He and I had a long talk about several things. He told me he will retire in 2 year so when I ever will drive route 66 again he will not be there. Cool Springs is a nice place to stop just before the big hill climing starts. 

And yes I saw the remains of Ed’s Kamp. Dries Bessels already posted more detailed pictures of the place. A sad view if you ask me, lots of buildings are going down this way.

The drive to Oatman is a long climbing uphill. But the pavement was fresh to the road was OK. Coming to Oatman is always nice. The donkey’s on the street the shops like the 60-ties. After hard work driving uphile a nice place to rest.

Well what are we going to see tomorrow when driving true the dessert. Off course Goff’s and Ferner and Roy’s Café and New Bagdad Café and Calicio Ghost town too. It is only a 300 km drive but the dessert makes it special for us European drivers.

Day 16 of Route 66 2015 from Flagstaff to Kingman

A long day with much to see on the route but less route 66 to drive in the start miles. To Williams I stopped at the Harley dealer because his showroom is very nice and there is a nice restaurant next to him. From there is a piece of old route 66 going into the forest. Who can tell me if it is drivable with a motorcycle or not. And were does it end? After a few miles the road went in bad condition so I decided to turn around. GPS of the road start is here 35.24581,-111.85154.

Then to Williams the route 66 city that explores all possibilities to make money out of 66 and there is nothing wrong with is except that putting a radar with 25miles and a police car in the start of the street by El Reno motel makes not a warm welcome feeling. I drove the blocks around 3 times and then I saw a quilt shop. I promised my wife to bring some fat quarters for her hobby quilting so I stopped and bought some nice pieces for her in Route 66 theme.

I also talk to the owner of Pete’s gas station and museum very nice to see. There I bought a AZ license plate for a college who would love to have one. And I let someone made a new picture from me and the bike and the Williams 66 sign. Every time when I come there I do this. For me a special place because I was there with all family members on our 25^th anniversary wedding journey.

Then I went to As Fork to see the people of the De Sotos Salon. But the parking was close by a steel cable and there were no activities outside or inside to see. I had a long chat with the couple living there in 2013. Can someone tell me if the place is still open? Next to them there is an ice salon already closed and some other place next to that too.

Of course I needed to see the Ted's Bull Pen Restaurant & gas station complex where James Martin and other people in the 66 groups were talking about. It completely closed and on the way to get lost in time. Made some nice pictures of the place too and went further over the route 66 town street.

The over the I-40 to the Crookton Bridge over the railroad on US Hwy 66 1937 - 1947 alignment. Nice to do that because many other bikers may drive to Seligman over the I-40 now you enter via Route 66.

Seligman is for me a place with two sides. Of course Angel Delgado did a lot to save the town and route 66. But when I came there were 3 buses loaded with people and the store was loaded too. I am not so fund of overcrowded stores and people traveling with buses brought to places where they do not have any feeling for.

The store further in the street were and cheaper and less crowed I drove slowly further unit the Motor Museum were I had a close look to all the nice bikes there. They even had a Honda history from 185 to 350cc in the 70ties. Very nice to see a must stop for a biker who looks further the a Harley like I am.

Next door is a coffee shop that is owned by a German couple. Talk to some people from Australia and when I said something in Dutch I saw him looking to me. We had a good talk and shared out memories about drag racing in Drachten in the Netherlands at the air strip. He was active that time in this sport and when I describe the bike form Henk Vink the Big Spender with triple Kawasaki 1000 cc engine he became even emotional. I told him the bike is in Neckarsulm NSU museum. He told me a nice story about a guy with 2 rotor engine in drag racing. I remembered that too. Always nice to meet people with the same hobby as I have with motorcycles. And he remembered the visit from Cees Vendel too because of the scarf he and Cees have too.

Then I continued my trip over 66 to Peach Spring. Was the weather in 2013 very hot here now I had 80 degrees and dark clouds and in total to Kingman 3 time a lot of rain in a short period. There was one place even flooded with water on my side of the road so I drove the other side. But speed goes down and I am very careful because I need to come home and in one piece.

Off course I stopped at Hackberry General Store and saw the rest room for men. Nice view many would say. The shop is a must see on 66. Many stop here but again I saw a big group of bikers pass. And I also saw the  Giganticus Headicus now painted green. A German who is living a long time in the US is leasing the place and restoring it. There will be an RV camp and the room can be rented for a longer period. He is also restoring the inside and may do some with ice and cold drinks. It is still an interesting place to stop on Route 66.

Thereafter the rain stopped and I drove further to Kingman. I did some sightseeing here too and had the dinner in Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner.  In the dinner I also had a nice chat with a young German couple traveling the Golden State route to the West by car and on the way to Seligman.

Then to today. I already met Jim Hinkley and we had a pleasant talk about route 66. He will come to Germany next year were we will meet again. I will go to the museum of Kingman and then on the way to Needles. Although I did not plane to do it I booked already a hotel in Needles, Barstow and San Bernadino where I will stay at the Wig Wam hotel. A new experience for me and I think it will be nice.

I expect to be in LA on Friday and there I will have to take care of transporting the bike to the Netherlands and have a visit with Eagle Rider were I bought the bike. So one week to go for Route 66 left.

Day 15 of Route 66 2015 from Flagstaff to the Grand Canyon and back to Flagstaff

Well A day with very little Route 66. Yes, I saw the giant in Flagstaff but that was all from 66. I made a circle driving the US180 to Tusayan and then entering the Grand Canyon. I went as much as possible to the left side of the South Rim.

And it was a day with rain and sun so I changed a lot to rain wear and back to sun wear clothing

But also the US180 is going to a very nice forest area with great views and it is a curved road so nice to drive without the big bag behind me. The entrance fee for the Grand Canyon was tripled compared to 2013 when I paid 7 dollars. Now you pay 25 for one person and a motorcycle but still I think this is a beautiful side trip.

When I left the Desert View road entering the US 89 I saw a big group of bikers and a car with a trailer behind them. Again a dutch group of USA-reizen traveling the golden state trip.I spoke with the organizer later in the galaxy inn because they even stay in the same hotel as I do. The do GC today. Always nice to speak Dutch again after a period with a lot of English and German. My German friend are now in Williams and doing GC today.

Well today I continue my Route 66 trip to Kingman. Hope to meet Jim Hinkley there too. See Williams were I need to make a new picture of the big 66 sign and me and the Honda. See Selligman and the old Desoto on the roof.  So my next blog will be all 66 again.

Day 14 of Route 66 2015 from Holbrook AZ to Flagstaff AZ

First I had to see some of Holbrook because yesterday I only was at the mural from  Joe & Aggie’s café. Holbrook is for me a town that has two source of income, route 66 en the Petrified Forest. Many pictures made and of course I was at the wigwam motel. A must see when driving true Holbrook. But my breakfast I had at Joe an Aggie where I met also a german couple again that I met in Rolla. Same schedule on 66 as me.

Already during driving in Holbrook I saw the Cadillac that I saw a picture from at Facebook. The car I saw at Jackrabbit Trading Post again so I could speak with the people driving it. Two older couples from Canada were aslo doing Route 66 and they rented the car in Chicago. I nice drive I think the rented. But they had some problems with the breaks that would be repaired in Flagstaff. I asked what is was and then I heard the cause, air in de brake system so breaks are not responding well. I advised to be careful and went on my way to Winslow.

The city is famous because of a song of the Eagles with standing on the corner in Winslow AZ and no better place to go. I have some nice picture to show from that place and I bought the T-shirt with long sleeves at the standing on the corner music shop. This corner is a must see on 66 and the shops there had many customers.

I went on to the Meteor City Souvenir Shop where I already saw pictures from in the picture groups on Facebook. Well it is now in bad condition. From a distance it looks ok but coming closer it is a disaster to see. Wall broken and the inside destroyed. Two more years like this and it is gone forever. Why does AZ not restore it. They asked 18 dollars to visit the Meteor Crater use some of it to restore the place. Toerist come to AZ to see this.

The same I must say for 2 guns. Compared to 2013 it is nearly destroyed. Looking at the wall of the building and the two guns pictures it will go rapidly down in condition. Also this will be gone soon.

Then I went to the 2 arrows gas station and dinner. The arrows are still there. In 2013 fresh painted now they need to be painted again. I went now into the building and made some pictures from the inside. Well also here I have to say it will be gone soon and another tourist attraction is scraped from the route 66 lists to see. So I think that if nothing is done here Arizone will be less interesting to see on Route 66.

Then I went to the Winona Bridge and drove over it. It can be done with a motor cycle but not with a care. This bridge is already a state monument and will be there much longer to see by the next generation driving route 66.

Then I went to the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument because I had to skip this in 2013. It is a volcano area with a drive true of 50 miles. Seeing different land shapes made by the water and the volcano. A nice side trip when you have the time.

Today I go to do a trip true the Grand Canon from Flagstaff to Tusayan and then back. The trip si about 200 miles long and now without luggage on the bike so it will be a much easier drive for me. This side trip I did also in 2010 en 2013. But the GC is too beautiful to pass only form a distance.

Day 13 of Route 66 2015 from Albuquerque NM to Holbrook AZ

I had a wunderfull trip to Holbrook. In 2013 I drove a different route to see El Moro en did I not drove to Gallup. Now I choose the classic route 66. Although classic with also driving interstate and I am not fund of that but there is no alternative. But I drove Cubero Loop (old rte66) and the death mens curve. But let go to the start of the day.

I started the day with a sightseeing of Albuquerque. Visited the Route 66 diner, a highlight that I only saw from the outside because I was to early and they open at 11.00. And then I drove to the road runner statue outside the town.

A nice drive further to the Rio Grande Bridge were I tought what is so Grande here so see because there was a small river to see. In rain season it must be impressive but now it’s nothing compared to Dutch standards. The same I must say about the Rio Puerco Bridge. Not much river to see but it’s a nice bridge and the city had placed some statues around the 66 so I enjoyed my visit.

Then on the way to Gallup were I saw also a nearly ghost town Budville. Driving the old parts I have the impression that a lot of building are no longer in use because there is no business anymore. I visited the Continental Divide Indian Market were I bought my shirt to remember New Mexico and I was the only customer for 20 minutes and 3 people at work.  

The I came in Gallup and visited El Rancho Hotel were many famous movie stars stayed for a night.  Only the entrance is already very impressive to see. Entering the building gave me the feeling I walked into a western movie with my favorite start John Wayne. This is really a must visit when driving 66.

After Gallup I visited the Indian stores on old 66 like the Teeppe trading post. No pictures allowed inside but from the outside it’s very impressive. I bought, for my mother in law, the route 66 thimble here so one more to add to her collection. Saw Chee’s Indian store and had a Sprite there also a nice stop although I have to say every store sell the same stuff on the part of 66. Only the presentation is different.

And the most beautiful part of driving my dream route 66, the painted dessert and Petrified Forest. After paying an entrance fee off 5 dollar you can drive the road and sight-seeing of most the most amazing views.  Is a drive for around 40 km long. And after the 2 first stops I decided to let the helmet on the bag. Driving 30 mls. as top speed and let the wind play with my hair gave a wunderfull feeling and I must say the sightseeing brought back many good memories to this place.  So when driving route 66 this part of 66 may not be missed. It is to beautiful to be missed in your roadmap.

Then I drove to Holbrook a 30 km drive from the Forest over a nearly empty piece of land. I did visit shortly  Joe & Aggie’s cafe to make some pictures there. My sightseeing of Holbrook starts today. And of course today I will see 2 guns, twin arrows the meteor crater. A lot of more nice things to see like Walnut Canyon National Monument.

I will stay then 2 nights in Flagstaff and visit the Grand Canyon. My sister and her husband are ill so and had an emotional decision to make not visiting here because I cannot handle being ill on my trip. But Meiny I will see you next year in the Netherlands and at the wedding from Josh and Shannon.

Day 12 of Route 66 2015 from Tucumcari NM to Albuquerque NM

Before leaving Tucumcari I needed to do some sightseeing of the highlight of this town. Off course I saw the Blue Swallow Motel. Even drove around it to see the back side (that nothing special compared to the front side). A must see on 66. I looked to make a reservation there but was to late.

I also saw the apache motel that is not in use anymore I hope there will be a new owner soon else it will be lost in a year or 2. 

And the motel Safari were Cees stayed a night. Also a nice logo on the street. And of course I visited the Teepee Curios were Willem now is making his model from. Spoke the new owner because it was closed in 2013. Gar & Heide Engman bought the place. German names but we spoke English.  Good that this highlight is saved. And a nice shop too but that you can see in the pictures.

Then I drove to Santa Rossa over I-40 and some old parts off Route 66 to see the car museum again. And my Swiss friends were already there making pictures and of course on from me and the car too. This museum is a must see for classis car lovers entrée fee only 5 dollars. They had changed the cars since 2013 but not all, the Mercedes and Datsun are still there. And they have a generation line of Ford Mustangs now standing. And yes the Fina logo is still on the wall. For my Total friend ( previous TotalFinaElf) a nice few.

After the visit I did some sightseeing of Santa Rossa saw the blue hole and eat something in the restaurant and fueled the bike because I know it’s a long ride over the US84 ( Rte66 before 37) with no gas station. 

And now I know again why we Europeans want to drive the road. It is lonely and have a lot of mountain views to see. And the end is a gas station and there I met a truck driver with a Peterbilt from 2003. His Cat-engine had done 1,4 miljoen miles and he was happy with it. No epa10 shit like DEF en Particle filters needed he said. Ok work needs to stop here.

The drives continued to Madrid were many artists are selling their work. To road is a beauty to drive with many mountains and many curves. Cees drove here too and it was like the bike did know the way back.

The visit to Madrid was nice. I saw even a bottle tree ranch on the way to Albuquerque. Entering the city over the old route 66 that went over in a wide street with 4 lanes where drivers adapted the drive still to city style. Always in a hurry

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So what do I today? Going to Gallup NM that I did not do in 2013 were I went to El Moro. The entering the home state of my sister were I will see the Petrified Forest again. Think I will end in Holbrooke today.  

picture will follow asap

Day 11 of Route 66 2015 from Amerillo T to Tucumcari NM

Amarillo is the city of the Peterbilt dealer that helped me in 2013 and my hotel was near to them so I decided to make a visit to the dealer. And I came in the then manager already recognized me by clothing and face. And we had a nice chat about the past. He even could remember that he had a great deal when I helped them to solve an engine problem and they helped me to make a fitting for the TomTom on the BMW. After a hour I left to Palo Duro Canyon.

But first I had to see some more from Amarillo so I rode the 6^th street were old 66 is a highlight. Visited Bob Lile shopped, called him but he was working as a driver guide so no visit of his shop. But 6^th street has many artists to visit. I drove further to panhandle art gallery were the status are still in the garden.

They are so real looking that you could talk to them said a woman I already met at the Canyon and saw also later in Russels Museum. And I agree the children have a natural expression so good that I can see why they are happy.

Then further to the combine city outside Amarillo. Same problem as in 2013 some road works made the road longer. But I found it off course. Many route 66 travels do not see this point. I put it in my GPS files  to share the files so more people can see this.

Then I drove to the canyon Palo Dura a further away side trip but a must see when you are in Texas.  It costs you 5 dollar entry fee but that is worth it. So nice to see and so different from the grant canyon in Arizona. But look at the pictures I made they tell the story I cannot describe.

After this visit back to Amerillo to eat and drink and to see Amerillos other highlight the Caddilic ranch and his gift shop. Again the giant was gone for repairs. Seems to me that he is afraid for me because he was also gone in 2013.

Driving further a choice has to be made in going I-40 a driving a lot of miles in the wilderness of Texas. I-40 is old route 66 and has a frontage road. But after the Mid-Point there is no frontage road anymore and the you drive 100 miles extra to go to Glenrio. Because of that I choose after mid-point the interstate.

Mid-Point café was closed. But I saw the bend door gas station that is in restauration. They only need more funding but it can be looking good. In fact is already better dan 2 year ago. At  Mid-Point I met a group from Switserland, 7 bikers men and woman who also are driving 66. The missed some highlight and I tolded them about Russels Truck stop. And there I saw them again.

Russels truck stop and car museum and gasstation / dinner is a must stop when you drive route 66. For me it is a symbol of the 60ties so pure in how it was built. I spoke with the son of the founder and he told me that every 4 month the cars change and that they had 106 cars. Even the car he had as a boy and were in he asked his wife to marry him was in the museum. But look at the pictures it is to beautiful that I have no more words for it. And next time stop there and say hello for me.

So after that is was already 19.00 I drove to Tucumcari over the I-40. 

And today I go to see this city with Tee Pee Curios and the  Blue Swallow Motel. And the via Santa Fee and Madrid to Albuquerque.

Day 10 of Route 66 2015 from Clinton OK to Amerillo TX

           

It was a long ride today with a beautiful start at my museum in Clinton. I still have the entry sticker from 2013 in my wallet. So call me sentimental I am so what.

Clinton museum is a must stop for every Route 66 fan. At the museum a group of around 30 bikers came when I left. All from the UK. I met them 3 times more and I am so glad that I am not in such a big group.

Ok back to what did I see and do. After Clinton I drove to Elk to visit the big national museum of 66. It is like a small city they build there. Really a must see too. Of course I saw the Beckham County Courthouse Sayre, Oklahoma. A typical USA building for me with all the beauty and glamour needed to be worth visiting.

Then I drove the U-Drop Inn Café, Shamrock the caffee was moved to a bigger place compared to 2013. And yes it is like route 66 Veldhoven in the Netherlands. Typical USA still from the 60ties. Also outsite a beauty. When you don’t stop here why the drive even 66. Go inside enoy the free coffee and buy something so the place can stay open.

Then I had to visit the Devil's Rope Museum where is a part reserved for 66 and the rest is for cowboy time and stuf from 1800. More like how the west was won. See many kinds of barbed wire here. But I did not stay long. It was over 100F inside and that is not funny to be there.

The biggest surprise for my was the visit at Harley  who owns the Sandhills Curiosity Shop. He is a real fun guy. He is a friend of Silke so I said hello for her. And he was very glad I did Silke.

Last stop in OK was the water hole 2 were I had a nice talk with to owner while have a Sprite to drink. It was a hot day again. Also this place is a must stop I think. My UK friend pasted by. Did not know what to see here I think. The paintings are very nice. The tiger I like the most.

Of course I saw the Phillips 66 Gas station still impressive to see. But many other buildings need to be restored too in this town. When entering Texas I knew a lot is I-40 byway driving. And sometime you have to drive 50 or more miles when you do not want to drive interstate 40 extra so I decided to do some interstate today. Also because I wanted to eat in the Big Texan. So I looked again at the schedule and drove to the bug ranch, the leaning water tower with Britten on it.  And then drove to the Big Texan were I arrived at 18.30.  Made some quick pictures and then booked a hotel.

In the evening I met my German friends, Family Gleuel from Hamburg who I met in Pontiac, at the Big Texan and we decide to eat together. They a both on a Harley driving 66 and have fun too. And no we did not go for the 72 ounce steak. I did a 21 ounce and that is big too.

Well what will I do today, see the combine ranch and then go to Palo Duro Canyon state park. I never was there and pictures in the route 66 group made me go there. And then on the way to  Tucumcari.

Day 9 of Route 66 2015 from Chandler OK to Clinton OK

 pictures will follow asap         

Well I had a long day driving over old route 66 tracks came late in Clinton with my bike. But let me start with my morning visit to Jerry McClanahan, famous artist and writer of the EZS66 guide.  I never met him in person. Now I did. For me Jerry is famous. I have his books and like them very much. Jerry showed me around and showed me his work he is doing now. And it will be looking good I can tell you now. Bought from Jerry him a book of Jim Ross where he wrote the entry and he signed it for me there. Thanks Jerry for your hospitality.

The day started with a drive to Sheba Station a motorcycle museum. It still looked the same and the still had the Honda XL100 and 175 like I own the 250 version of it. And the still had the Hercules rotor engine bike. And no, the engine not running yet. They do not know how so I asked the card of the manager and will contact Neckarsulm NSU museum. The will have the manual for sure that get the engine running again.

Then I continued my way to the round barn and Pops in Arcadia. The round barn I saw in 2013 but now went in to. And there I met some Facebook friend driving route 66 with a Ford Mustang. So I put the Honda next to the car and made a picture for Cees who is a mustang freak. The round barn is a nice place to stop with friendly people and I had the tour. Even went upstrair to see how this barn was made. Technical a nice piece of work considering that is nearly 100 year old. Pops is a must see at a gasstation a big bottle look alike of 66 feet in height.

On the way to OK city I visited the  National Cowboy and Western Heritage museum also a good place to stop and learn about American history.

Then I went in to OK city were I saw the impressive The Oklahoma City National Memorial, the milk bottle on the roof but also some other highlight like  Ann's Chicken Fry House and because of that d-tour I saw more nice thing of OK city then in 2013.

And yes I went over some nice old bridges todoy like the old Route 66 bridge in Oklahoma City at Lake Overholser and the Pony bridge were I even mad some picture during driving over it. 

Had also a visit to the ghost town called Bridgeport looks like a old town to me were people used to live before the interstate came. I made a nice picture of an old post office there and from a Peterbilt they are dismantling but stoped a while ago. The truck looked to me not older the 7 years and I saw some people living at the end of the streets in that town.

Because of the point I visited now the road I drove over were old route 66 I did not see in 2013. So something new added to my GPS files brought me on new parts of 66. Thanks to the Facebook group Route66 picture where I am active in finding places and putting this places with address and GPS location back in to the group.

The end of the day was a real highlight to visit, Lucille's Famous Route 66 Gas Station and a little further Lucille's Roadhouse Restaurant. The old gas station looked so much better then in 2013. Restored and gashouse rebuild so for me it was great to see this. And yes there were sponsors who are now advertising there but I have no problem with that. They did it and that what’s counting.

Well what will I see today, first my favorit stop in Clinton the Clinton Route66 Museum, the Roger Miller Museum and I hope to stay in Shamrock Texas this evening. I also hope less hot weather because the last two days where over 100F 35C. And in the Netherlands it is now 16C.

Day 8 of Route 66 2015 from Miami Ok to Chandler OK

Well because it was Sunday many things were or open late or closed. But for me it was a special day. 

I saved a little girls life at the blue whale in Catoose. She fell in the water when her mum did not watch. The wagon started rolling. As soon a mum and I saw what happened we started running.She pulled her out of the water and I started first aid with vital functions first.

So make her breed way free en mouth clean. Thereafter we cleaned the girls with fresh water. I must say a scary moment that what I realized later when driving again.  After this I wanted to buy the Catoose blue whale shirt. The woman who served me did not want any payment. She said I owned it by helping the kid first.

 What more did I see. Of course over the interstate the  Will Rogers museum where I met a truck driver who drove a Peterbilt with our DAF MX engine in it. He was very happy with performance an fuel consumption and low noise. Oeps was this work again or is work also a hobby. In my case yes sometimes it is.

Then I drove true Tulsa and saw the new Route 66 sign Tulsa has since a half year I think. Correct me when I am wrong. Saw also the old route 66 bridge and statues next to it. A wonderful must see on 66 I think.

Then I needed to fuel up the bike. Did that and a cop came driving by. He would like to know what bike I drive. Well I told him we call it a Honda Pan European but Americans call it a Honda ST1300. He drove a Harley off course. And yes he made my picture at his police car. Like in 2013 but then I missed a stop sign. Now he was curious about me because of the bike and the clothing I wear.

I also saw several old bridges on the sideways of 66. Ken en the old bridge site gave me the gps locations so now I saw 4 instead of 1. Pictures and there sign are attached.

I ended in the Rock cafe in Stroud were I had to drink a lot. It was now 100F (35C) and hot. So I decided to call it a day and book a hotel. So now I am in the Lincoln Motel on route 66.

Today the first visit will be the writer of many route 66 books Jerry McClanahan, EZ66 route book is one of them.

Think I end in Shamrock like in 2103 because also Sheba station in now open and in my route 66 today. And I want to see the classic bikes back.

Day 7 of Route 66 2015 from Springfield MO to Miami Ok

Well a busy day I had on Saterday. A long drive too. But I met nice people every were I came.

Let us start with a visit to de PFI boot shop were you can buy real cowboy boots but many more. My daughter Sanne would love to shop here. Think it would be hard to get her going away. From boots to clothing everything she needs. I bought two shawls to have a fresh one because it every  over 90F so hot and I sweat a lot. Drink a lot of water and sprite too.

Thereafter I did the sightseeing of Springfield and I know were to sleep next time. My favorite hotel Best Western Route 66. Nice in Route 66 style and the signing around the building and de cars and gas station is a must see for visitors. And of course I saw the mural of Buds tires and wheels. Very nice too.

Then I went on the Route 66 to Kansas. First thing to see was the White Hall Mercantile were you can buy old stuff. The I drove to Gary Station with pain in my hart. I knew already from facebook how it would look like. I made the pictures and with this blog a picture form 2013 to compare. 

Gary was special for me. I came in 2013 at his station he talked with me and he said during the talk “So you are driving your dream Route 66”. I will never forget that. Because it says exactly what my emotion about route 66 is. I really hope it will be restored and thief’s will return the stolen items.

After the visit I drover further to Red Oak II. I was not there in 2013 but it look like I came into American History. Lots of picture made and now shared. 

When I asked a builder who was working there he told me a men went to Paris made a lot of money there can back an restored his home town. And more I see too. This is a small site trip on 66 but a must see for all 66 lovers.red.

Off course I was on the Oak Street Bridge, visited the Bonnie and Clyde Hideout and then came in Kansas. At cars on the Route were I met Melba. We had a good talk about why visit Route 66 and that Gelana did a lot to restore things. The ghost house is as an example for it. It was closed but on the outside I could already see a lot of work was done. I had to say hello to Willem and Monique for her.

 
I did that of course via the check in function of Facebook. Made some nice pictures here too also from Willems work.

Then I continued to the Galena Mining and Historical Museum and the Rainbow Arch Bridge were I made the picture of the bike in front. The museum was already closed. That happens on Saterday and Sundays they close early.  Saw in Baxter Springs the Angels on the Route and did not stay on the same hotel as in 2013. Decided to drive further to Miami  and to see the Service Station and Allens Filling Station and Diary King Ice Salon. All closed already but the outsite is a nice visit too. 

Had to make some picture there too. Put it on facebook as a check in knowing Willem would put is model pictures at it and he did. Willem nice work you did there in the model!

Entering Miami I already knew where to eat later in the evening. On the route 66 highlight called KuKu drive-in restaurant. It was so nice to see inside and outside this building and good service too. I met a guy who told me he own the cars on the route. Nice couple to talk with. He is in chemicals like Diesel Exhaustgas Fluid. Had a good talk with them about Route 66 and that is one of the common things to talk over.

Well what to do today on Sunday. I know a lot of highlight will be closed. My route 66 museum  Vintage Iron Motorcycle will open at noon. But I already saw a lot changed. The Evel Knievel stuff is gone. I still have the sticker from 2013 inside my wallet. Saw that every day. I will look at it and rember it how it was. I think I can make it to Oklahoma today. Cees, Ken Turmel and I cannot meet. His has another appointment in Joplin.

Day 6 of Route 66 2015 from Rolla to Springfield MO.

Day 6 of Route 66 2015 from Rolla to Springfield MO.

Well I had a real Honda day today. Why I will explain later. But I have seen 3 dealers  in total.

What did I seen today. Starting in Rolla around 9 I went on the route 66 on my way to  Vernell's Motel. On old motel on a byway of Route 66.

Then I drove to Devils Elbow café and bridge. In 2013 the bridge was just op for me thereafter the bridge was repaired ans restored. I was too early at Devils Elbow they were still closed and would open at 11.00. Because it was already hot (around 90F) I decided to go on. But only the road to drive to this place makes it word to take this byway.

After Devil Elbow I drove to the Honda dealer in Waynesfile. They had a nice showroom but could not help me with a new rear tire.  A pity because they would fit is for free.  But they gave me the adres of the Honda dealer in Lebanon. There I met Rany DeWit. Yes,

 he has Dutch parents but did not speak it anymore. He knew some words from his grand mother.  Like ” benauwd en bezopen”.  We had a great time together. The workshop changed the engine oil and cardan oil and the parts guy called to Springfield and they had the tire in stock.

So I continued my travel to Route 66 to see the closed Gasconade Bridge Rally, Hazelgreen, MO. I bougt the shirt in January to support the Route 66 groups to keep this bridge open en restore it. Now After the bridge I had to travel the I-44 to the next exit. Missouri has very good road signing for  Route 66. A great help to stay on 66. So I was not fund of this part on the interstate called Route 66.

Then I passed the big sign of the Munger Moss Motel. This is a wonderful place to stay a night. But it was only two. Had a long talk with Ramona and bought a gift for myself to remember this place. Not a T-shirt but a plate with the sign on it. Made some nice picure there also from the art hanging there and saw Ken Turmel the Landrunner his work hanging here too.

Then on the road to Spring Field. Pasted the largest gift shop but did not stop. Had to be on time to let my tire changed. And the dealer there had the tire and during the waiting time I made some pictures of the showroom. They are selling to bike like the Honda CTX700 for very low prices. I do not know if this model is en the EU also. But it’s a nice bike to see.

Well start today with a short drive, because my hotel is near to it, to the PFI western cowboy boots shop. Will pass also  Gary’s Gay Parita, gas station but it will not be the same as in 2013 were I had a nice talk with Gary. He passed away and thief are stealing now the icon of Gary dream.

Day 5 of Route 66 2015 from St. Louis to Rolla

Looking back to a day where I was very lucky. Why you will read in the end. But I know there are still honest people in this world

 

So what did I do, I was planning to see again the Arch inside. But that was nearly impossible or I had to let my bike stand somewhere outside. The streets were broken up and the parking at the arch could not be reached and other parking did not let me in. So I let it go with some nice picture form the outside.

Then I continued to Ted Drewes frozen custard. They were close unit 11.00 but the older lady let me in gave me an ice and a big coke and the menu and a nice sticker too. So happy that people see me and are willing to help. This is the advantage from being alone and looking European in my motorcycle cloth

ing.

I used today the GPS from River Pilot next to my TomTom files. Well let’s say they are different. I left St. Louis after the visit to Ted via the Interstate. Something I normally never do. Drove 40 km interstate and then came on the byway of Route 66. When you are in a hurry to do the trip I understand this. But why not respect the user setting keep off highway. I will try Rivers Files sometime more. But now continue with my files. Yes, the River Pilot Files brings you to the highlights of the Jesse James Museum too. But not to the Caverns near there and that is also a must see with the Jesse James hide out.  I was in 2013 also here. The Jesse James museum was closed now and the also. The toy and truck museum was now even empty. A pity for future visitors I hope the museum will be reopened soon.

So I continued the journey at the byway of route 66 to the Wagon Wheel Motel. A nice place to stay but it was too early to stop. I bought my T-shirt of this Route 66 symbol and continued to the big rocker chair in Fanning . Here I met two German ladies’ that toke my picture of the chair and I did the same favor for them. They were heading to Springfield MO so a long drive to go. I told them that I would be a late arrival. Planning in front in nice but when the route 66 is to be seen I plan in the evening with booking.com. For me it is much easier to travel. 

Last nice thing to see was the Totem Pole Trading Post after I visited a large truck stop were I take some picture and spoke with some drivers. Did not feel like working although it is related.

This truck was at the truck and repair shop before the cavern. I stopped the in 2013 to. The truck is total loss not older then a year. A pity I think.

And after the visit of the Totem Pole I wanted to book my hotel. And then shit happened. I found out I lost my Iphone4 I use with a US sim.  Well what to do then is calling the number see if somebody found it. And yes I got a police woman on the phone. I told her it’s my phone drove to the police station and had it back. 

  I am so glad that there are honest people in this world that bring things to lost and found.   The cop that gave me back my phone asked one question to be sure it’s my phone. What is on the background of the opening screen? Off course I know that is my route 66 symbol sire. So lucky me.

Day 4 of Route 66 2015 from Springfield IL to St. Louis MI

Still not complete adapted to the US time zone I write my blog early in the morning instead of in the evening. Fall asleep at 22.00 to wake up at 5.

Well how did 66 go today? I saw Becky’s Barn. The owner I say to just leaving for a trip.

So it was closed but still a good place to visit. Made some pictures and had a nice chat with a Canadian couple on a Harley. When I drove a way there I had an problem with my boots. The sole came lose like in Budapest last year so I had to look out for a replacement or repair. But that comes later.

First what did I do and see more. Well drove the brick section of 66 after Becky.

Was surprised about the good road condition.  Saw also the Skyview Drive-In Cinema. For younger European people a what’s that question. Well go by car to the bios in open air and watch the movie in your car with your friends.

Made a visit to Country Classic Cars were they had over 500 classic in big barns ready to drive.

Even saw a Ford Mustang. But the price is for me to high. My Ford Focus will stay.

After that I saw the semi big rocker shortly before Henry’s Rabbit Rach. Yes he had rabbits to. But his fame come from the VW Rabbits who are planted in the ground like the Cadillac Ranch in Texas ( EU people the VW Golf is called here Rabbit) Henry was just planning to leave be he toke same time for me.

Nice to be back there.

And then I drove to the Antique Moll were the Muffler Man,  Pink Elephant and a classis Ice saloon is. The hall was filled with stuff I remember that my brothers and sisters and I trow away when cleaning the house of our past away parents. But the ice was great. The lady rembered Cees Vendel, who bought the present for his wife from Betty Boop here.

And they have two GIANTS. One boy with an ice cream and a Harley men. And I thought only drunk people see then but I saw it two a pink elephant.

It is a real must see this place I added to route 66 GPX files after my visit in 2013.

And then to the Chain of the Rock bridge were in 2013 it took me 3 hours to see both sides because the entrance to the interstate was close. Now I saw no bikers or other people. The a men on a bicycle came from the other side.

I asked him can I pass the opening on the other side with my bike and he sad yes. So I did what my dream tolled  me to do, I drove the bridge on the bike and it felt like a dream and thereafter I felt like a naughty boy who did what was not to be done. Drove the view point to the bridge to make some more picture of the beauty before leaving.

Then I visited World's Largest Catsup Bottle a site tour for me that I did not do in 2013 but it’s a must see to. And it is for sale now according the sign. I hope the new owner to be will let the bottle stay.

Then I called it a day and look for a place to stay. No wifi needed because I bought a pre-paid card from T-mobile that allows me to share the data with my other iPhone so booking.com works even on the street side. I am now for the second time in a Americans Best Values Inn next to Denny where I had my first real American T-bone steak with a real American salad with ranch dressing.  So a good meal for less.

Next place to visit is the Gateway Arch were I want to go up to see St. Louis from above.

Now how did I solve the boot problem I had. Well I was lucky when driving true Litchfield. The on 66 I saw a Honda and Yamaha dealer with a big shop. I bought there a new pair. But I was very glad I stopped there. 

Saw the Honda CTX 1300 with the same engine as the Honda ST1300 for the first time live. I did not see this bike in the EU. And yes they had classic bikes place high above. And there it was standing another dream bike a Honda CX650 turbo

in brand new condition. The sales man had no idea what he had standing there and why I was so excited to see it.

I had a Honda CX500turbo for 6 years. Just for having fun and having it. Technically it is a dream bike introduced in the year the a did my internship at Honda Netherlands. And that was the only bike I was not allowed to drive from the boss that time. And that makes it special for me to have and see this bike.