Wow, what an incredible ride we had. Seven days of picture perfect weather in the mountains and valleys of NE Oregon. The planning and execution of this huge riding event has to be experienced to be believed. STP is like checkers, whereas Cycle Oregon is like chess. Moving baggage trucks, shower trucks, kitchen trucks, "blue-room" trucks, every day for a full week and having everything always ready and waiting when the first rider rolls in was astounding.

As for the experience I would say it was like Woodstock on bikes (of course I was there, weren't you?). There was an ocean of tents, little ones for the riders, huge ones for the dining area, beer garden etc. There was live entertainment on stage every afternoon and evening, including bike seminars put on by Bike Gallery, who, BTW, fix your bike for free (except for major parts, and tips greatly appreciated).

And the small towns we visited were ecstatic to have us come and patronize their businesses and learn more about their local attractions. In fact, the town of Halfway, whose population we sextupled, was so happy to have us, they put the Cycle Oregon main stage in the middle of the main road through town and forced the vehicle traffic to detour around!

As for the riding, what can you say about the beauty of the Blue and Wallowa Mountains, Hells Canyon of the Snake River, that hasn't already been said. In the weather we had, it was surreal.

I think I should now cancel this post. Maybe I'll get shut out when I try to register next year.