KTMrad 508 Posted January 29, 2007 It's been awhile since I've gone on a SDAR ride....went out to meet up with Carguy, Sandiegoland, Ride Orange, Joliet, and Papaalex. We met in Ocotillo. Leaving Ocotillo on S2, we hit dirt just out of town....on a sandy trail with woops. I stopped to record a trail number, and thought everyone passed me and I was the last one. Further up the trail, I realized we were missing Rob and Craig. John and I turned around.....Rob came riding up without Craig, and told us Craig had gone down in the woops and sand, right into a fence on the side of the trail. He had some lacerations, but nothing serious. We continued on with plans to go into Painted Gorge, but it's closed from January to June for the seasonal Bighorn Sheep closure. So we headed east, across the old bombing range and then to the Superstition Mountains. We headed up into the long, sand dune uphills to the radio towers to try to find the way into Sand Dam. As we were going up the dunes, I bogged down in the sand a few times. After getting unstuck and trying the dune a few times, I got wore out. The way we were going dead ended on the hill anyway, so we rode down to Sand Highway and tried another hill up to the northernmost radio towers. Rob and Alex went to the left, I saw that was really deep and loose sand, so I took the right side, which was hard pack. I was doing OK until lost traction after hitting a woop, then tipped over. The bike landed on my left foot....Ouch !! I got stuck AGAIN in the soft sand near the top of the hill....Rob walked down to help me get unstuck, the rear was more than half buried in the sand. Man, the sand kicked my ass today....a combination of not having ridden in awhile, rear tire didn't have much left on the knobs, and I didn't drop my air pressure down from 22psi to about 16psi, like I normally do. After a brief break on top of the mountain, we headed back down to the desert floor, across the flats to the RR tracks and into Plaster City. My foot wasn't too bad, and I wanted to check out another trail, so we found one that went along Interstate 8 all the way back to Ocotillo. We got back to the trucks about 3:30pm, and Carguy had some cold ones waiting for us. If my foot's not fractured, and if it's not too sore, I will go back out on Tuesday and/or Wednesday for more route layout. I didn't have my camera with me....the others did, so I'm sure they'll ad their version and photos also. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Paul 0 Posted January 29, 2007 Well, Sandiegoland eats SH!? Craig, you've beared witness to a healthy diet of poop from more riders here than any one person I can think of... I see the photo made the front page rotation and all... but it seems to come up every other time I logon! Makes me think I'm crashing once a day at least... I think that picture of Sandiegoland is no longer on the front page rotation. Craig you can stop crashing once a day or once a ride. I hope KTMRad and Sandiegoland recover quickly. Hopefully no serious injuries. So is this a case of a self-fulfilling prophecy? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sandiegoland 0 Posted January 29, 2007 Sorry I had to bail after 0.4 miles of sand. Totally my fault. After barely being able to keep up the past few rides, I was all prepped to play catch up today. The group jumped into the woops at about 25 MPH which I thought would be just until they got in the groove. Figuring they would soon leave me in the dust, I just rode their tails. But as the latter half of the group ended up slowing up in the woops… I kept thinking the slow-up was just momentary and I could plow through without dropping a gear. All of a sudden I was without any bite and my front plowed in, throwing me towards a boundary fence along the side of the road. I tried to ride it out but I finally got caught in it and went flying faceplant into the sand. It was a few seconds after getting up that I realized my leg had caught either the wire fence or the fence pole. Turned out to be very minor abrasions (no bruising, no sprains, no strawberries) with no lasting damage to the bike. The pants are waisted and I might be retiring the helmet, but I feel pretty fortunate considering what the bike got tangled in. (Thanks Rob for getting it pulled out as I was sorting out my situation). Being close to the truck I decided to call it a day. I didn’t want to overlook anything and then end up holding up the group miles into the desert. Probably best, as the wound was easy to clean at that stage in the ride, and I had plenty of time to pick up a tetanus shot on the way home. ===== When the riders ahead of me slowed up I should’ve dropped a gear and backed way off (sat down and paddled if necessary). As it turned out (according to the GPS), I returned back at the same or faster pace in a relaxed seated position. I was just stuck concentrating on standing and maintaining the pace. Now I’ve got to figure out who owns that fence and see about getting it back together correctly… Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ride-Orange 2 Posted January 29, 2007 This was a cool exploration ride. Hopefully our fearless leader will recover soon so that he can continue to map our Desert Dash course. I am glad that Craig wasn't injured worse! Stay away from those barbed wire fences... The pants are waisted and I might be retiring the helmet, but I feel pretty fortunate considering what the bike got tangled in. I wouldn't retire the helmet Craig, the sand is pretty soft where you hit and we weren't going that fast. But if you do decide on a new lid, I recommend the Arai XD Super(comfortable)moto. Here's a pic of Craig (in the background) waiting to go crash... Here are the other players gearing-up... We stopped for a cool drink when we reached Painted Gorge Road because I had overloaded my saddlebags and the woops were ripping them apart... We left Painted Gorge and headed East toward Plaster City. We decided to cross the RR tracks rather than going down to the tressle. Crossing railroad tracks can be an art form. Our fearless leader drew a "stick figure" on his way across, but was able to get the mighty KTM back on the rubber before I could snap this shot... And we stopped for more refreshments prior to the "Carnage in the Sand" leg of the trip... Hopefully John has some photos from the dunes because I didn't get any. I love this area, and the Saturday portion of the DD is guaranteed to be a good time! Thanks for a good ride brothers, see y'all soon... Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sandiegoland 0 Posted January 29, 2007 And we stopped for more refreshments prior to the "Carnage in the Sand" leg of the trip... Cool photo!! Ominous warning spray painted there... "Bikers Beware" Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Chief Gunner 2 Posted January 30, 2007 Looks like you guys had a blast. Nice write up & pics. Looks like Alex has turned into a certified "sand junkie" . Craig; I'm glad you were not injured too badly. Sometimes a scratch or two is just one of things that cannot be avoided. Had a few of those myself.... Hopefully I'll catch you all on the next one. Till then RIDE ON! Gunner Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
carguy 1 Posted January 30, 2007 Sorry I had to bail after 0.4 miles of sand. Totally my fault. Some guys will do anything to get out of a ride. I have rode the sandy stuff and whoops to Superstition many a time from Ocotillo, but never went up into the dunes on a bike. It took a little getting used to, but I think I got it. I actually had a blast in the sand. It is way different than wash sand. It is more fluid like sking or surfing. I was riding the ridge of a dune and dropped over the otherside and the front washed, I went down. It felt like falling into a pillow. Not everyone had a good sand day. Finally to the top. Ken & the Sandman first up. Rob sweeping. As always, another great ride, only minor carnage. You guys are gonna LOVE the DD07. What a awesome group of riding buddies to have, 300+ NOW!!!. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
papaalex 5 Posted January 30, 2007 It was good ride last Sunday... fast, deep woops to test my new suspention, sand dunes , beverage breaks, great people to ride with, all GOOD Craig, Randy, recover soon Till next time papa Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
pyro 1 Posted January 30, 2007 WOW ! Nice one all, great write_up and pics! Sorry I missssssed it, but one thing is 4sure: DESERT DASH '07 will be HUGE ! If not before, I'll see ya'll there! I can't wait to check out those awesome dunes! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joliet 0 Posted January 30, 2007 So, am I the only one that is sore today. I can't wait until my knee gets better so I can stand and grip the tank properly. This too was my first time on a sand dune with my bike, I really enjoyed it. Have got to do that more often. I was suprised to find that my bike did as well as it did. Sorry to loose Sandiegoland so early, he is always good company. I almost washed the front end out in the same woops , mine happened to zig right, away from the fence or I probably would have beat him back to the truck. I don't care for the sandy woops(lack of good suspension and riding style). I am really looking forward to riding Painted Gorge when it opens in June. Randy did you get x-rays? Hope it heals quick. I had a blast and I look forward to riding with all of you again. Ken Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sandiegoland 0 Posted January 30, 2007 ...Now I’ve got to figure out who owns that fence and see about getting it back together correctly… I tracked down the property owner about his fence... all should be corrected shortly. I didn't want the poor guy to find it weeks from now and say WTF?!? Turns out he was away for a few days and that's what keeps his dogs in when he is there -- so I'm glad it will get fixed right away. This is after Rob dragged it out a bit. Isn't target fixation wonderful? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joliet 0 Posted January 30, 2007 You still have your graphics, life is good. If you need help fixing fence this weekend, let me know. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Barry 0 Posted January 30, 2007 Sandiegoland: Tangling with a barbed wire fence, you’re very lucky coming away with only minor scratches. Barry Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sandiegoland 0 Posted January 30, 2007 Sandiegoland: Tangling with a barbed wire fence, you’re very lucky coming away with only minor scratches. Barry I agree. I prefer the scratches over a break, sprain, or deep bruise.Looking at the photo, I think I must've missed the barb wire runner at the top, it was probably the bike that took down the pole, so maybe it was just the chicken wire and runner that tore through my pants. Whatever got me, it just barely nicked me. When the bike caught and started to get pulled down I kind of leaped away to the right and over the handlebars, faceplanting into the sand away from the fence. That's really more of what was going through my mind (yea, sand). I didn't even feel the leg until I stood up and we noticed the big gash in the pants. The only thing nailed on the bike was a fork dust cover was gashed and the bottom of one fork dust cover clamp had slid up a few inches. I'd have to ask Rob how I landed (can't remember exactly), but the wound was clean so I probably rolled onto my back or side. I remember sliding along on my face for a while with the "beak" folded down pretty good. It's funny what you think of in such a short time. I probably slid for no more than a second, but I remember thinking "oh crap, the beak is going to break off". The helmet looks okay, but got a share of sand through the vents. I can also tell the chin guard got compressed because the lining at that part easily dislodges now. I tell you (and this is not sarcastic), there is nothing better feeling that having a well fitted helmet taking the brunt of the ground as you plow along. A looser fit would be more comfortable and feel cooler on the ride... but... when you need it... You can see from my tracks along the bottom left, I needed another foot or two to finish my swerve back to the right! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest stevensyanora Posted January 30, 2007 ...Now I’ve got to figure out who owns that fence and see about getting it back together correctly… I tracked down the property owner about his fence... all should be corrected shortly. I didn't want the poor guy to find it weeks from now and say WTF?!? Turns out he was away for a few days and that's what keeps his dogs in when he is there -- so I'm glad it will get fixed right away. This is after Rob dragged it out a bit. Isn't target fixation wonderful? Wow Craig that looks painfull Im thankfull you arnt hurt to bad...hope to see you soon Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sdklr650 0 Posted January 30, 2007 Great ride write-up guys,hope everyone heals up quik. I was just wondering if all the area that you guys rode is for street legal bike's, trucks ect... or is open to all riding? And if it is only certain spots could some one fill me in!!! ( YA it's a newbe question ) Thanks , Jay Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest stevensyanora Posted January 30, 2007 Great ride write-up guys,hope everyone heals up quik. I was just wondering if all the area that you guys rode is for street legal bike's, trucks ect... or is open to all riding? And if it is only certain spots could some one fill me in!!! ( YA it's a newbe question ) Thanks , Jay onry bad nwbie question is question not asked....now go and ride jayhopper Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
KTMrad 508 Posted January 31, 2007 Well, just got back from X-Ray.....yep, got a fracture in the outtermost Metatarsal bone in my left foot. I was hoping it wasn't fractured !! I go see an Orthopedic on Thursday, the earliest appointment I could get, 2 others said 2 weeks before I could see doctor !! I guess the ride layout will remain almost the same as last year, we will not be reversing Day 1's direction as planned, since I will not be able to chart the mileage changes and can't expect to burden anyone with all that work in such a short time. We will use some of the changes we made from this Sunday, and may need a couple of you to chart the mileages from Blue Inn to Ocotillo by hand, and maybe I'll follow in the Vice Prez's new Toyota 4x4...that's if he'll let me use it Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bikeslut 1 Posted January 31, 2007 well that sucks... heal quick Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ride-Orange 2 Posted January 31, 2007 .....yep, got a fracture in the outtermost Metatarsal bone in my left foot. Bummer can't expect to burden anyone with all that work in such a short time. I'll call you. I'd have to ask Rob how I landed (can't remember exactly), With little or no grace (as we all do when we crash) Out of the corner of my eye, I saw you kinda hook-up with the fence, followed by an immediate hard left turn into same said fence, resulting in a right handed half gainer/ half twist dismount with continued rotation to the deck, and finished with the now patented "helmet plow" landing... I'll be watching you like a hawk next time yo ride next to a fence. Heal well brothers, see you soon. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
carguy 1 Posted January 31, 2007 I am starting to feel like I am jinxed. Lots of broken bones on rides with me. Randy, you know we will help with layout and all other aspects. You have our numbers. Healup, the year is young. April is a great time to ride. For now What do we need to do?? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Joliet 0 Posted January 31, 2007 I am available either Sat or Sun to chart, plot, do whatever. I would like to help. Let me know what you need. As long as I am out riding I might as well get something accomplished. Yea that it, honey I'll be home late, I'm working, definately working. But then Sandiegoland hasn't said if he needs help fixing fence yet or not. So many excuses, so little time. Ken Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
sandiegoland 0 Posted January 31, 2007 ...Sandiegoland hasn't said if he needs help fixing fence yet or not... It's all taken care of. Thanks for the offer!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Guest stevensyanora Posted January 31, 2007 Well, just got back from X-Ray.....yep, got a fracture in the outtermost Metatarsal bone in my left foot. I was hoping it wasn't fractured !! I go see an Orthopedic on Thursday, the earliest appointment I could get, 2 others said 2 weeks before I could see doctor !! I guess the ride layout will remain almost the same as last year, we will not be reversing Day 1's direction as planned, since I will not be able to chart the mileage changes and can't expect to burden anyone with all that work in such a short time. We will use some of the changes we made from this Sunday, and may need a couple of you to chart the mileages from Blue Inn to Ocotillo by hand, and maybe I'll follow in the Vice Prez's new Toyota 4x4...that's if he'll let me use it Randy when did you crash ? sorry to hear it hope you get well soon.. if you want we can send over Dr Scooter ,he works at Kiaser, he specializes in motorcycle injurys Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Kevin 0 Posted January 31, 2007 Well, just got back from X-Ray.....yep, got a fracture in the outtermost Metatarsal bone in my left foot. I was hoping it wasn't fractured !! I go see an Orthopedic on Thursday, the earliest appointment I could get, 2 others said 2 weeks before I could see doctor !! I guess the ride layout will remain almost the same as last year, we will not be reversing Day 1's direction as planned, since I will not be able to chart the mileage changes and can't expect to burden anyone with all that work in such a short time. We will use some of the changes we made from this Sunday, and may need a couple of you to chart the mileages from Blue Inn to Ocotillo by hand, and maybe I'll follow in the Vice Prez's new Toyota 4x4...that's if he'll let me use it Randy when did you crash ? sorry to hear it hope you get well soon.. if you want we can send over Dr Scooter ,he works at Kiaser, he specializes in motorcycle injurys It looks like that big thing would make you forget about your foot. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
