el diablo run 2011

El Diablo Run DVD

2011-11-23T10:17:00.000-08:00

We've been working on this since May with our friends Tyler & Wes along with their super pro film and editing crew (used in their bitchin' how-to videos). The master is finally done and the DVD be up HERE in the Lowbrow Customs online store within a week or so. In the video we interview riders from Arizona, Alaska, England, California, Canada and more, and of course check out their bikes. From Kit's Triumph to Dan's knuckle, if you like neat old bikes there is something for everyone. Great riding footage through the mountains and deserts of So Cal and Baja. It's really neat to see our friends and their hand-built contraptions in full HD, hauling ass and raising hell. In the age of YouTube, we figured this DVD better be bad ass so we've included a couple bonuses like a 24-page photo book and a separate CD with the full soundtrack which includes: Bricktop, Archons, Lucero, JD King, Dave Angstrom, Inverted Nines, Spitfire Tumbleweeds, Speed Twin and the New York Ninjas. Huge thanks to all of our friends who've helped out on this project!

The first screening for the film will be in Cleveland, Ohio. Here's the flier and a microsite with all the details.

EDR FILM

2011-10-30T11:59:00.000-07:00

After much thought, we're not going to do a 2012 El Diablo Run. We had a great time this year, and really want to thank everyone who came and made it happen. It's not the kind of event that is ever going to be something you can count on year in and year out. We do it because it's fun, and when it starts to feel like work, we'll back off and take a break. We will most likely do another one down the road sometime, but for now it's going into hibernation. This helps keep it special and not something to take for granted.

Anyone who went on this year's run probably noticed the film guys running around. This wasn't some big TV production, just something we thought would be neat. Our friends Tyler from Lowbrow and Wes from Four Aces Cycle have been doing some cool DVD's lately, from the inspirational Salt Ghost flick to a slew of tune and service and welding How-To's. We teamed up with them and their production crew to produce a roughly hour long film about the whole EDR experience. This DVD will feature a ton of riding footage, interviews with a riders and a wide range of bike features. If you like down and dirty, home-built motorcycles that get ridden hard instead of self-appointed master builders, unrideable show bikes and inflated egos, you will like this film. At least we hope so.

Our goal is to premier it Friday night at Slab City this year, but that is going to be a serious crunch and I wouldn't doubt it if we just have a preview. Whether we make that deadline or not, we'll have it available through the Lowbrow Customs website in plenty of time for the holidays and there is already a screening scheduled Dec. 17th in Cleveland, Ohio. We'll follow up with one in So Cal and several others, so stay tuned!

It's Over

2011-05-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

We got home yesterday afternoon. Some folks are still making it back home. Some are still nursing hangovers and some nursing a broken bone or emptied wallet. What a great showing from the East Coast. Several hardy riders came from Canada on kick ass bikes. I take back half the shit I ever said about that country! Seriously met some stand up guys from the great white north. Always good to hang with some old friends I rarely see. It was a diverse collection of bikes, some old, some newer. About 200 total riders. Here's to low standards and high times. Thanks to everyone who made the trip, there are some photos already getting posted over on Chop Cult here.

Dirt Don't Hurt

2011-05-03T19:05:00.000-07:00

OK, just got a road condition report from our intrepid advance unit, Arousing Rob and the Bolts. There is some construction on the road south to San Felipe. At around mile (not kilometer) 38, 46 and 50 there are two-mile detours that parallel the highway. These are basically hard packed dirt with a small gravel shoulder (just like this photo). They are no big deal, unless we hit them right after the water truck goes through. Then they can be a little slippery. Thanks Rob, Shompers, Baby!

Last Minute Updates

2011-05-02T22:37:00.000-07:00

It's on! Riders are already rolling into town. We'll see the rest of you soon.

We only plan a few tight "go" times on this run. It's mostly up to you to do what you want and entertain yourself. Here are a few times and places you may want to be aware of:

Wednesday, May 4
3:00 pm–6:00 pm: Biltwell Open House (free beer and tacos while supplies last)
25839 Jefferson Ave. Murrieta, CA 92562
7:00 pm–whenever: booze and grub at with the Molochs MC at Hard Hats Bar
27713 Jefferson Ave, Temecula, CA 92590
Best Western Country Inn is a good place to crash, right across the street from Hard Hats.
27706 Jefferson Ave, Temecula, CA 92590-2638 • (951) 676-7378

Thursday, May 5
8:00 am: kickstands up, throttles pinned from Denny's at Jefferson and Rancho California, Temecula. Penfold's Cafe is across the street, good breakfast there too. Gas station on the corner.

This does not mean "meet us for breakfast at eight," it means "gassed up and running." We will try to take it easy, but if you are slow, get in the back. We'll stop for gas and slow down for major turn-offs but you should go at your own pace and know the route. Link to map at the bottom of this post.

12:00-1:00-ish: Lunch at Pizza Hut on Imperial in Calexico, right side of street, just before the border. No more than one hour here, then we go for it.

4:00 pm: Cash bar and taco stand opens at Ruben's Campo in San Felipe. Grub and booze will flow most of the night immediately upon our arrival at this San Felipe base camp. First $300 worth of beer is courtesy of Mike from 47 Industries and first $300 worth of tacos from James of 831 Enterprises. Be sure to thank these dudes!

Friday, May 6
8:00 am to 10'ish: cash stand for breakfast burritos and coffee at Ruben's Campo
4:00 pm–5:00 pm: Circulo de la Muerte at dirt track across the street from Ruben's Campo
6:00 pm–whenever: cash bar and taco stand at Ruben's Campo

Saturday, May 7
6:00 am–9:00 am: Breakfast burritos and coffee at Ruben's. There's no official departure time for Ensenada on Saturday morning, leave whenever you feel like but you should be on the road by 11:00 am just to be safe.

2:00 pm–whenever: cash bar and taco stand by the swimming pool at Villa Marina Hotel, Ensenada

Sunday, May 8
Noon to whenever: cash bar and taco stand at Villa Marina Hotel

3:00–4:00 pm: Bike show judging in the Marina Hotel parking lot. If you want your bike to be considered for the show, it must be in the parking lot between these hours.

4:30 pm: Bike show trophy presentation at the poolside taco stand and cash bar at the Marina Hotel

Monday, May 9
Head north at your own pace, every man for himself!

Detailed map of day one here.

Remember: No guns / No drugs / Ride the Wild Thunder!

The Eagles Have Landed

2011-05-02T05:46:00.000-07:00

Hey East Coast dudes that shipped bikes, they are secure. Nice work, James and Rick. Last I heard, Walt and crew were fixing a Dyna in Mexico, MO. Seems some sprocket bolts decided to shear off. Ironic town to end up in on the way to the EDR...

Taco Wednesday, Biltwell Style

2011-05-01T11:47:00.000-07:00

Caribbean Taco will be slinging chips, salsa and tacos 3-6 pm at the EDR IV pre-party May 4. After the food and fun runs out at Biltwell HQ, thirsty Diablo Runners will be hitting Joannie's in old town Murrieta, or any number of watering holes in Temecula. Thanks to Ron at Caribbean Taco for bring the grub to our Mexican soiree.

Lowbrow Getting it Done

2011-04-26T14:26:00.000-07:00

I spy a dual-amal Panhead that looks almost ready to ride. Malinky-power, activate! In the mean time Lowbrow has printed some custom shop rags just for you. Only available south of the border...

Camera Car Wanted

2011-04-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

We're looking for someone going on the EDR with a car/truck and no trailer to work as a camera car for some video stuff. Hit up Wes White at fouracescycle@aol.com if you are interested.

Coming Soon...

2011-04-24T16:19:00.000-07:00

Curva Peligrosa

2011-04-22T21:55:00.000-07:00

For you gringos who haven't been to Baja yet, watch for highway signs that say "Curva Peligrosa". Loosely translated this means either "Kinda twisty through here" or "Holy shit, you should have slowed down a lot more!"

When you see Peligroso on a tequila bottle, that translates to free go-juice from the San Clemente crew who just hooked up EDR riders with three cases of the good stuff and three bottles of the super good stuff - the Anejo, plus a bunch of hats, shirts and bandanas. The tough guy dog is Willis doing his best bandito impersonation. He's not going. Anyway, muchas gracias, Peligroso!

NORRA Mexican 1000

2011-04-21T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a random stroke of luck. The NORRA Mexican 1000 is a vintage-oriented, three day off and on-road race from Mexicali to La Paz, and it starts the same day we are riding to San Felipe, May 5th. If you want to take off early and watch the start, it appears the first cars/bikes start at the northern end of the dry lake, just west of Mexicali. If you are riding with us from Temecula, there is a chance we will see some straggling race traffic. How cool would it be to ride down the highway next to the James Garner Olds? ¡Good luck, racers, Viva La Baja!

Denny's Jump Off Point Temecula

2011-04-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here's the details for Thursday morning's departure:

Denny's 28915 Rancho California Road, Temecula, CA 92590.

There is another good breakfast place across the street called Penfolds.

We will roll out right at 8:00 AM. So if you want breakfast, get there earlier.

There is a gas station right next door so you can top off before we split.

This is only a couple miles down the street from the Moloch's MC party and Biltwell Open House/Pre Party, on Wed so it's really easy to find. See you there!

EDR Checklist: Light Packer/Fast Thinker Edition

2011-04-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

By the time May 5 rolls around, Billdozer and I will have fielded literally hundreds of questions about the EDR, everything from the sublime ("How can I help?") to the ridiculous ("Who can I count on to tow my pop-up tent trailer?")

If you're a light packer and a fast thinker, this is really all you need. My list in in addition to the motorcycle between your legs and the clothes on your back, which should include a jacket or vest, t-shirt, flannel, boots, socks, belt, ball cap and jeans:

• $500 cash in small bills (No hundies—Mexicans won't be able to make change)
• Credit card and/or ATM card
• Passport
• Pocket knife
• Tool kit with spares you're confident your hand-built death trap might need (points, plugs, etc.)
• Alloy bottle(s) with a couple extra quarts of gas
• 3 pair of socks
• 2 pair of underwear
• 1 pair of jeans
• Swim trunks or shorts
• Toothbrush and tooth paste
•Sunglasses (If you wear contacts, don't. Instead, bring a pair of prescription glasses. Easier to service/maintain on the fly than eyeballs)
• Flip-flops (for showering, beachcombing, camp lounging, etc.)

Pretty simple, huh? Here's what you're going to buy when you arrive in San Felipe Thursday afternoon:

• $10 hammock
• $5 Mexican blanket
• $5 bottle of tequila
• $50 sack of weed

With these things in your arsenal, you'll be better equipped to offer a girl basic sustenance and companionship. Most chicks who go on the EDR smoke the devil's lawn, and all of them drink. Use these tools to land a spot in some lady's tent or hotel room and you can sell your hammock and blanket to a drunk friend. If you don't score a ladyfriend with your pharmaceuticals, tie that hammock between two uprights and bed down inside your blanket. To stay warm, simply swill more tequila. Your hammock and blanket and the belt I told you to wear in part 1 of this primer will serve as strap-on luggage for the remainder of your adventure. You will probably buy souvenirs in San Felipe, and your makeshift bedding will make an even better spiderweb net for hauling your shit.

Before the ride to Ensenada on day three, throw away one pair of used underwear and two pair of used socks. When you arrive in Ensenada on Saturday, buy the following:

• Rubbers (don't trust the hookers at Anthony's Disco Bar to provide one for you. I hear they recycle)
• Shampoo (your hair will look and smell like shit after boning a strange girl in a dirty hotel room for two nights)
• A Senior Lopez Mexican hoodie (ask a local)
• A Hussong's T-shirt (to replace the t-shirt you tore when you went down in turn three in the Circulo de la Muerte)

After you take a shower in Ensenada, put on the fresh drawers, jeans and socks you brought day one and top them off with the Hussong's t-shirt and Sr. Lopez hoodie. Now you're ready to go out on the town. If a cruise ship docks on Saturday night, you need to look presentable for all the cougars that will climb off the boat looking for strange biker ding dong. If you don't vomit on your duds by sunrise Sunday, this will be the gear you ride hom in Monday morning.

When you pack your shit Monday, leave the blanket, hammock and all old socks, underwear and t-shirts behind. All will be filthy and some will be splattered with blood, so they'll be useless to you in the US of A.

That's it. All this backpack and saddlebag bullshit is overrated in my opinion. I learned the program described above from 3-time EDR vet Caleb Owens, so I know it works. That being said, all my shit's going to be in my chase truck. I don't trust my friend Sweet Lou's XS650 to make the entire trip, and I promised my man from the Buckeye State I'd have a place for his busted wheels. I won't be hauling your shit, however, so please don't ask. See you in Temecula May 4!

-- McGoo

San Felipe 250

2011-04-09T20:43:00.000-07:00

Just fast forward to about the 1:30 mark...

Rockers

2011-04-07T14:13:00.000-07:00

These little babies just showed up. There is a limited supply and they will only be available in Ensenada. Big thanks to Jason at Iron Thread for hooking up the fine embroidery work.

Roll Call

2011-04-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

These are some friends who made the trek on previous EDR's Who's coming this year? We'll know in four weeks…

Sorority chicks spiced shit up big time on EDR 2

DicE magazine's Matt Davis

One Month to Go

2011-04-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

Go.

Or don't.

There is no Try.

Molochs MC Bike Night

2011-03-31T20:46:00.000-07:00

As luck would have it, after the Open House/Pre Party shindig at Biltwell, our friends the Molochs MC are having their first Bike Night of the year at Hard Hats about 3 miles down the road. There is a hotel right across the street too.

Rudehog

2011-03-29T05:26:00.000-07:00

Our buddy Eric from Vegas just has a little bit of work to do to get his bike finished for the EDR.

Now you don't feel so bad, eh?

Good luck Eric, you can do it!

Leg One, Detailed Map

2011-03-28T00:29:00.000-07:00

Here's a detailed map of the route from Temecula to the border where we will consolidate, gas up, eat and hit the border crossing together. It's about 150 miles and will take all morning. This is some of the finest riding in Southern California. We will stop at several gas stations along the way so dudes with tiny tanks can top off etc, but we want to keep moving, so they'll be reasonably quick stops. Here's the mileage and a link to the map.

Denny's to Warner Springs (GAS) 40 Miles (Fun/Twisty up to about 4,000')

Warner Springs to Borrego Springs (GAS) 27 Miles (The best 27 miles ever, especially the last 10. Gentle, fast curves turn to twisty downhill insanity where you need to slow down or die)

Borrego Springs to Blue Inn Ocotillo Wells (GAS) 35 Miles (Wide open desert riding, fast two-lanes)

Ocotillo Wells to Brawley (GAS) 25 Miles (Wide open desert turns to four-lane highway. Boring)

Brawley to Pizza Hut in Calexico (GAS) 35 Miles (Congested, light to light, traffic, boring)

View Larger Map

A note about the ride. When we ride out of Denny's first thing in the morning, we'll try to keep it cool, but generally I ride like an asshole, and we always split lanes at speed or stopped, and never wait behind traffic. We have no road guards or ride captains. Know the route, print the map and bring it with you. There are only a few turns, but you gotta make 'em to end up in the right place with everyone else. Once we get out of town traffic I'll slow down and everyone generally catches up and the group rolls on pretty orderly. If you deviate from this route for some reason and break down, there is no chance that the chase truck in the back will be able to help you out. We usually hang at each gas stop until the van catches up or we get an update from the driver letting us know he's helping someone along the route and will catch up at the next stop. Remember, chase it not guaranteed, so be prepared. If you can follow a map or know the area, you are encouraged to break off in small groups and do your own thing. A lot of dudes run out of talent in the twisty sections so don't overcook and kill yourself or someone else, back off. Faster riders will pass you. It's not a race, but some people ride faster than others. This generally sorts itself out. On the highway sections, I'll put someone with a speedometer up front so we don't go 90mph the whole time and leave any slower machines behind.

If you want more description of the rest of the ride you can read more here. See ya' soon!

Guns in Mexico

2011-03-24T23:37:00.000-07:00

There's lots of chatter on the internet (mostly from people who have zero real experience) about how dangerous Mexico is and how you should pack heat and all that tough guy bullshit. Here's the deal - don't bring a gun on the EDR. If you do, you are a dumbass. You can get away with a lot of shit in Baja, but you shouldn't try to get away with carrying a concealed weapon. The chances of getting attacked by a bunch of wild banditos or drug smugglers are pretty slim, but I can guarantee that you and/or your bike will get searched at one point or another. So do yourself a favor and leave any guns and drugs at home and just have a good time riding your moto.

Pack Yer Bags!

2011-03-24T15:56:00.001-07:00

Gabe at AHC put together this little survival kit just for the EDR. Here's what he's got to say about it:

Not sure what to pack for the road?...here's the AHC travel kit, perfect for the EDR and all road trips. It comes with a Gerber 3.0 partially serrated linerlock folding knife, Gerber Firecracker flashlight with a
handlebar mount, a huge microfiber camp towl and a fully stocked bathroom bag. The bag has a stainless hook to hang it and a (crappy) mirror, with all the pockets & storage you need. You get mostly name brand shit - mouthwash, a tooth brush, tooth paste, deodorant, tissues, wipes, body wash/shampoo, hand sanitizer, body powder, lip balm, cotton swabs, energy shot, and 2 things that you do NOT get chincy on when it comes to Mexico - Pepto pills & regular Trojan condoms, not the thin fuckers!... not in Mexico my friend.

EDR Shirts

2011-03-22T19:49:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that we have EDR shirts for sale in the Chop Cult Store? We generally only bring whatever is left over on the run, and that won't be much this year. Plus, we don't feel much like working in Baja, so get 'em early so we don't have to drag 'em down there.

EDR Iron

2011-03-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

The parking lot at the hotel in Ensenada on EDR 2 was filled with cool bikes like this. Here are some others:

¡Muy Peligroso!

2011-03-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

Anyone who's ridden in Baja will tell you to slow down when you see signs that say "Curva Peligrosa". That means Dangerous Curve, and they generally mean it. With a namesake like that, the kind folks over at Peligroso Tequila seemed a fine fit for the EDR. They've offered to chip in with a couple cases of their Reposado Tequila as well as a couple of the special black bottle Anejos, which we are going to have painted up for bike trophies. We'll uncap these cases one night, probably in Ensenada and the shots will flow until they are gone, free of course. ¡Muchas Gracias, Peligroso!

EDR Iron

2011-03-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Another three-time EDR alumni, Caleb Owens debuted this rugged panhead on EDR 2. Like every bike he builds for his Mexican adventures, Cro rode this one like he stole it, and it never laid down.

EDR Iron

2011-03-08T17:38:00.000-08:00

Retro-inspired late model iron from EDR 2. This guy was in Rich Phillips' posse, and his custom softail had some interesting touches.

EDR Iron

2011-03-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

He's a cowboy, on a steel horse he rides. He's wanted, dead or alive. No, Bon Jovi did not go on EDR 2. Gilby Clarke did, however, but this is not his bike. Just look at the photo and don't hold this shit against me. I've got fish tacos on the mind. Two months and counting…

Puta For Sale

2011-03-01T20:56:00.000-08:00

What's left of the famous Puta de Oro (Flyrite Jason rode on EDR2) is up for sale (by another friend named Jason...) See it here.

East Coast Bike Shipping

2011-02-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

Hey, anyone trying to save some time by shipping a bike out from the East Coast for the EDR this year, consider using our friends Mike and James out of New Jersey. 831 Enterprise is a fully insured, DOT-registered transportation company, and they have some extra room in the rig. It's $800 round trip, which is hard to beat, especially with gas prices climbing. Hit up Mike for more details if you are interested mike@47fab.com These guys are putting a lot of time and money into this thing so get off the pot get this handled!

EDR Iron

2011-02-28T17:28:00.000-08:00

SoCal hipster and all-around good guy Harpoon painted the Mexican blanket tank on Trent Schara's panhead, and it stole the show. George Counes' knucklehead is posted up behind Trent's Atomic Special, and both friends rode these machines like a bat at of hell on EDR 2.

EDR Iron

2011-02-23T17:31:00.000-08:00

Rich Phillips' panhead-powered boardtracker show bike finished EDR 2 in style. Rich only went on one Mexican adventure with fellow Diablo runners, but he made a statement with this crazy scooter.

EDR Gear Guide: Machetes

2011-02-20T18:20:00.000-08:00

You can't take firearms to Mexico, and only an idiot would try. You can take a machete, however, and Billdozer does so by wrapping his in a blanket or bedroll strapped to the fork or fender. I'm a fan of the Ghurka warrior style machete, and this weapons website for D&D nerds has a pretty nice selection. I'm going to buy this one because it looks like something Genghis Khan would carry to a Mexican sex club to keep the talent in check. Ah, the good old days…

Need Help with Arrangements in Mexico?

2011-02-17T18:04:00.000-08:00

Our friend Juan Carlos has overseen hotel management, food and booze vending in Ensenada for two previous El Diablo Runs, and he's pitching in with food, booze and other diversions at the Marina Hotel for this year's event. JC runs a company called Baja Voyager, and he's a professional trip planner. If you're having difficulty booking rooms in Ensenada, consider giving JC an email or a call. His phone number is (646) 160-2454, and you can email him here.

EDR Iron

2011-02-17T17:26:00.000-08:00

Rough and rugged were common buzzwords used to describe the men and machine who converged in Mexico on EDR 2. I don't recall this cat's name, but his bike's square down tube was unmistakable.

Free Tacos & Beer!

2011-02-16T08:12:00.000-08:00

Our friends from back east are steppin' up. Mike from 47 Industries and James from 831 Enterprises (what is it with all the numbers?!) are sponsoring a good chunk of beer and tacos on night one in San Felipe. What that means is, the first $300 worth of beer is on Mike and the first $300 in tacos is courtesy of James. We're not asking for sponsorship dollars from anyone, but if you feel like pitching in, do something like this that benefits the riders, run a tab, buy some beer, firewood, gas, whatever. Thanks to Mike and James for showing some serious class!

Chicks Dig Mexico

2011-02-15T10:02:00.000-08:00

Just in case your friends are worried about riding in the wooly and wild Baja, just know that our friend Colleen recently did it on her Vespa with dual outlaw milk crates on back.

Here's Shawn's report:

These chicks are the real deal and tough as nails.

San Diego to Mexicali to San Felipe.

San Felipe to Mexicali to Tecate then San Diego.

Colleen and her 150cc Vespa killed it.

They even rode two up for a bit on the scoot.

We both ended up dropping our bikes on a particularly slick bit of road construction.

Ahh Mexico.

Don't get shown up by hot girls on scooters, please.

New EDR Shirts

2011-02-14T14:41:00.000-08:00

Nothing says "Check out what a totally tough-guy biker I am"

like a shirt with a super cute devil in a sombrero holding a marshmallow.

You'll have to go on the ride to get a patch, but anyone can buy a t-shirt.

Get 'em here $18

EDR Iron

2011-02-13T17:22:00.000-08:00

About 150 cats and kittens rode to Baja in 2007 on EDR 2, and the bikes that carried them were as eclectic as the crowd itself. Here are some machines and people I can remember from that drunken funfest.

Arizona Nick's green shovel features a hand clutch on the end of a jockey shift, a mod you don't see nearly often enough. Nick's stable of old Harleys is awesome, but this one is my favorite.

Snowbound and Down

2011-02-13T16:29:00.000-08:00

Cody (dude who made the banner for us) only has a few things to finish up and then his bike will be ready to rock. This picture pretty much says it all.

EDR Iron

2011-02-06T17:20:00.000-08:00

Chica in the background can't believe how dope this bike looks in its raw state. Another Spartan frame from Vail, Arizona. Nice work, George.

EDR Iron

2011-02-02T17:17:00.000-08:00

Flatiron Mike Camillo and his Mule 1.0, built in 2003 and ridden to Mexico on EDR 1 in 2006. Mule 2.0 lives today in an old H-D swingarm frame, and the smart money says this is the bike Mike will bring on EDR 4. I sure hope so.

EDR IV Schedule of Events

2011-02-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

Nothing about Mexico specifically or the EDR in general follows what any organized person might call a schedule, but this is the basic itinerary for everything Billdozer and I are in charge of attending or executing on this year's hell ride to Baja:

Wednesday, May 4

2:00 pm–6:00 pm: Biltwell Open House (free beer while supplies last, light last-minute bike maintenance before Thursday's departure)
6:00 pm–whenever: booze and grub at Old Town Temecula location TBD

Thursday, May 5

8:00 am: kickstands up, throttles pinned from Penrod's Cafe in Old Town Temecula. This does not mean "meet us for breakfast at eight," it means "gassed up and running."
4:00 pm: Cash bar and taco stand opens at Ruben's Campo in San Felipe. Grub and booze will flow most of the night immediately upon our arrival at this San Felipe base camp

Friday, May 6

8:00 am to 10'ish: cash stand for breakfast burritos and coffee at Ruben's Campo
4:00 pm–5:00 pm: Circulo de la Muerte at dirt track across the street from Ruben's Campo
6:00 pm–whenever: cash bar and taco stand at Ruben's Campo

Ruben's Campo is the safest, funnest place to be while we're in San Felipe, and this is where I will be spending most of my money and my time. Splinter cells will probably form among dudes who want to fish, look at titties, shop for trinkets or ride down to the Puertocitas hot sprints on Friday, but Ruben's is the place to be in San Felipe. Tentative arrangements are in place for professional entertainers Friday and Saturday night.

Saturday, May 7

6:00 am–9:00 am: Breakfast burritos and coffee at Ruben's. There's no official departure time for Ensenada on Saturday morning, but stragglers rarely lollygag much past 11:00 am. The 150 mile ride across Baja on Saturday isn't slow, but it can be grueling, so most people like to get an early start. Ensenada is the first place many Diablo Runners will take their first hot shower, so people are generally pumped to hit the road. Kekko has promised to crank up the coffee and breakfast cart early on Saturday morning to accommodate any early risers, or those of us who never went to sleep

2:00 pm–whenever: cash bar and taco stand by the swimming pool at Marina Hotel, Ensenada

Our old friend Juan Carlos is hosting the food and booze stands for Diablo Runners in Ensenada this year, and he always delivers.

Sunday, May 8

noon to whenever: cash bar and taco stand in the motorcycle parking lot at Marina Hotel
3:00–4:00 pm: Bike show judging in the Marina Hotel parking lot. If you want your bike to be considered for the show, it must be in the parking lot between these hours. Bike show classes and judges have yet to be determined, but we'll publish more info as it develops
4:30 pm: Bike show trophy presentation at the poolside taco stand and cash bar at the Marina Hotel

The 10th floor lounge and disco at the Marina Hotel will be open all weekend, and EDR guests are encouraged to enjoy their hospitality. No official EDR activities are scheduled for this venue, but 'll be chilling there with friends after dinner Sunday night

Monday, May 9

It's every man for himself on Monday morning. Our chase trucks probably won't pull out before noon, but if you leave Ensenada after that, you're on your own.

That's it. Please print the map on this website so you know where you're going, and bring plenty of cash for all that sweet food, booze and entertainment. We can't guarantee any one-legged strippers will be waiting for you at Ruben's on Thursday, but a man can dream!

Banner

2011-02-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

Here's a peek at the banner donated to the cause by Cody Brouwers. These banners become a valued collectible for us after the events. On the last day we bust out a sharpie and everyone signs it, just like your old high school yearbook. K.I.T. have a great summer ;)!

Thanks, Cody.

I think we forgot to make one in 2007!

Circulo de Muerte

2011-01-26T23:14:00.000-08:00

Riders ready, watch the lights!

The Circle of Death is back. Friday in San Felipe we will gather at the roughly-graded oval track behind the campground if all goes well. Not like we have permits for this thing, so we gotta play it by ear. It will be open to any motorcycle that was ridden to San Felipe. No ringers or trailered race bikes. There will be no classes and we'll run motos if there are too many to fit on the track at once. In 2008 a primary belt or two got destroyed so we are going to do it backwards. This will save some open belts and make things more difficult with the rear brake on the inside...

This year Shawn Long of The Imperial House outdid himself on the grand prize for the winner. Whoever wins this will have one seriously cool memento to hang on the garage wall. This is all hand painted on a Primer Red Biltwell Novelty lid. We've given away a lot of trophy helmets over the years but this one takes the cake. Thanks Shawn, you rule! Check out more of his work HERE.

EDR Iron

2011-01-26T17:15:00.000-08:00

Spartan George Counes build the frame and fork on this bike, then he built the bike. George is a badass, and another faithful 3-time EDR rider. I can't wait to see our friend and his lovely wife Wendy in May.

EDR 101

2011-01-24T23:36:00.000-08:00

We're going down to Baja this weekend to wrap up last minute details and will report back with details next week. Read on for what may be the longest blog ever written...

If you would rather join the event on Facebook and get whatever udpates we post that way, you can do that on this PAGE.

Most of the questions you might have are on answered in the "INFORMATION" section on the right hand side. See the graphic below for step-by-step instructions:

If you've never been, I'll try to break it down so you know what you are getting into, without all the hyperbole. First and foremost, this ride is centered around riding your hand-built motorcycle, preferably an old one. BUT, it is open to anyone on any machine.

There is no entry fee or official anything. We will announce a start time and place in Temecula because that's where we are starting. You can start anywhere and take any route you choose.

We will have a truck or two in the back but don't take that as a guarantee. Have your bike dialed and be able and ready to work on it on the side of the road if needed and a back up plan if you can't get it going. We've never left anyone out in the cold and there always seems to be someone's girlfriend in a truck to help out, but it's best to have a plan because you can't just text triple-A and while you wait at Starbucks. That is pretty much the point. We always stress being self-sufficient, not to act like bad asses but to warn those who have never been.

There will be potholes. And speedbumps. Probably a couple sections of smooth dirt or gravel detours around road construction. Sometimes that detour is ten miles long. Sack up, it's just a dirt road. Motorcycles, even choppers, love dirt roads. The wise rider goes single file on these roads and gives a little more interval between other riders. For a quick primer on riding in a pack, read THIS. Or, best of all, break off into a small group with your buddies and go at your own pace and enjoy it. You do not want to ride at night.

So, the whole thing is about 600 miles round trip. Not exactly iron butt miles for a three legged trip. Granted, Mexico miles always seem longer because of sketchy roads and long stretches of isolation, but again, that's the point. It's a unique area to ride and that's what makes it fun.

Thursday, the first day is the longest at almost 300 miles. There are only a few freeway miles, everything else is two-lanes. If you start in Temecula with us, we'll split in the morning and head out through Warner Springs where it'll be a little chilly with over 4000' of elevation change. We'll drop down into the Anza Borrego desert where it will warm up substantially. We'll stop at every chance for gas and wait as long as reasonable for everyone to get their shit together. The first 100 miles is all twisty and if you've been to the Slab City Riot, then you know what I'm talking about. I was told several riders wadded up on this part of the route in November so watch your speed and don't run out of talent. Once we get to the desert floor, it's rolling, fast, wide open all the way to the 86S. We'll take that through a couple dusty little towns to the 8 for only a couple miles and exit at the 111S which turns into Imperial. Here we will stop and regroup right before the border crossing at a Pizza Hut. We'll grab some lunch, gas up and get insurance if you didn't already get it through Baja Bound.

We'll cross the border, generally in a big pack and stick a little closer together. Mexicali is a little sketchy to the newcomer but basically if you just keep heading south you can't mess up. All roads eventually lead to Mex Highway 5 which runs all the way to San Felipe. This stretch is the longest without gas. I always stop at the last Pemex at the south end of town just to get as much as possible. I get about 100 miles to a tank loaded down so I'll have an extra one gallon can on my bike. Once we clear that Pemex, it's a straight shot to SF through some barren landscape that is really cool. Beware of Mexican drivers. They have balls for days and love to drive fast and prove it. This is where road conditions will degrade a little. We'll hit a Military checkpoint about 30 miles north of town. There is a little beer/snack stand called "Three Poles" on the other side once you clear the check. It's a good place for a break and some shade. The army dudes are just like army dudes anywhere except they are locked and loaded and carry their weapons on "fire". Don't bring guns or drugs. They generally look at us like we are idiots and wave us right through. Chase trucks get looked at a little closer. Just tell them you are going to San Felipe for vacation and don't have anything to hide.

We usually ride this whole section without helmet, do what you want. We'll stop for gas a few miles before town and top off. The road is all brand new and four lanes from here on in. It is advisable to wear your lid from here and every time you ride in San Felipe. The loose rule is that it's OK out on the open highway but required in towns. When you see some giant concrete arches, you'll know you've made it. We'll ride all the way to the water, and turn left on the malecon. The town streets are beat to hell, stop signs are not clearly marked and there is a fine coat of sand everywhere making it a perfect place to test your skills. Turn right at the end of the malecon and right again at the next Alto sign. Left at the last possible road and parallel the beach down to Ruben's and Kiki's Campos.

This will be night one of two spent in San Felipe. There are no organized games or vendors or anything to do except explore around, fish, fix your bike, drink, etc. We will do the Circle of Death on Friday some time and will announce details on that as we get closer. Basically, it is a rough circle track, four laps, no crap and the winner gets a prize worth hanging in the garage forever.

Saturday morning we will ride back the way we came, hanging a left/west just after the Military checkpoint. This is only about a 155 mile day, but the roughest of all. After the checkpoint it is pure desolation and the road is generally littered with good size potholes. There are two gas stations along this route, one at Valle de Trinidad and another at Ojos Negros. Last time we went through here there was a section of about ten miles that was detour around the highway. It was smooth dirt road that was watered often and posed no ground clearance problems, but was still dirt. We'll be checking this out this weekend to see what progress has been made.

If you get separated and lost coming into Ensenada, it could not be easier to get your bearings. Look west from any point and you will see the largest Mexicn flag ever made. Across the street is the largest pink hotel, the Villa Marina which is eleven stories high. Impossible to miss. For veterans of this trip, it is right across the street from the place we've stayed the last two times.

Here you can get a room, hot shower and all the entertainment you want. There are a ton of bars and "other establishments" for you to get your party on. Bikes will be in the parking lot and they have an all night securidad posted up. I still run a chain through our bikes just to be safe. There is a pool at our hotel and we will have a fiesta there with food and drink on Sunday and pass out some awards, see who broke what, etc.

Monday, it's every man for himself. You'll be tired of everyone by then anyway. The ride up the coast is the best part of the trip with the ocean on your left and generally pretty good road conditions. Splitting lanes through the border wait in TJ is awesome, just blip the throttle and let the walking vendors and carts know you are coming through and congratulate yourself on those home made super skinny bars, this is where you'll need them. Chase trucks can meet you somewhere in the USA, it'll take them two hours to get through this part. It sucks and there is no good alternative.

Thanks in advance to everyone who's planning on making the trip. There's been questions like always about how many people are going, etc and there really is no way to know until we get there. 300 people have "joined" on facebook, but I will be surprised if a third of them actually show up. Keep in mind that most who do show up have ridden a long time, some of them have taken valuable time off to come from all over the country and no one will be impressed by your drunken 3:00AM burnout on a stock bike. If you want to show off, ride a bike you built yourself and show some class by helping out others with bike problems or by winning the Circulo de Muerte. If you want a good night's sleep in San Felipe, consider getting a hotel a block or two away, there are half a dozen other spots you can stay and then just come to the beach to hangout when you feel like it.

Be sure to hit up www.eldiablorun.com for more details.

EDR Iron

2011-01-23T17:13:00.000-08:00

EDR 1 stickers were a big hit, but not even I would put one on my paint. Thanks for the dedication, brother.

EDR Gear Guide: Sleeping Bags

2011-01-21T18:13:00.000-08:00

Billdozer lost his favorite bivvy sack on a chopper hoedown a couple years ago, but I've seen him put that sack through its paces, and his setup made sense. I'm going to bite his style with a lightweight bag for this year's adventure, and this is the one I'm buying:

Forty bucks is cheap enough that after you're finished sleeping off your five-day bender, you can give your stinky sack to the first homeless Mexican you see on your way out of Ensenada. Bam! Everybody wins. Shop for this and other low-cost camping goods at Cheaper Than Dirt!

Accommodations

2011-01-21T14:35:00.000-08:00

If you don't know where you are staying or how the palapas and camping work, spend a little time on this page.

EDR: Fishing Update

2011-01-20T10:22:00.000-08:00

Lots of people are weirded out by the imagined danger of traveling in Baja. The media has hyped things up to such a point that many Americans wouldn't even consider crossing the border. That is part of what makes it fun for us. The scared people stay home and you get to hang with the more open-minded types who think for themselves and aren't pussies.

Speaking of not being a pussy, this is my good friend Ron Brant. He's been desert racing in Baja since Christ was a corporal and he just retired in Mulege which is way the hell farther south than San Felipe. He ain't scared and he's 65. In fact, he's SO not scared, he sent me this photo this morning of the fish he caught yesterday. Damn, Ron!

If you happen to like fishing, talk to one of the guys at Kiki's or Rubens (where we are staying in San Felipe) and you can easily arrange for a fishing boat (called a panga) to pick you up and take you out for a few hours. It's worth doing and you can take the fish into town and ask a taco shop lady to fry it up for you, share it with her, your friends, etc. The skippers have poles and tackle, etc basically all you do it jump in the boat and bring your sunscreen, beer, and whatever else you need. They take care of everything else and expect tips so bring a few extra pesos to stoke them out.

EDR Iron

2011-01-14T17:10:00.000-08:00

This gentleman rode from Phoenix with his friend Arizona Nick on EDR 1, and both guys made a great impression with their stoic approach to self-sufficiency and organization. "Ubermensch" is German for "Superman," and both bike and rider lived up to their billing.

Map with some mileage added

2011-01-11T13:11:00.000-08:00

Here's a map with some miles called out for ya'.

It's easy money, just bring an extra 1 gallon can if you are worried about gas.

If you are scared, just stay home. More tacos for us!

Never Readys IE MC on EDR

2011-01-10T13:45:00.000-08:00

Last night Billdozer and I met Gil Fabian, Irish Mike, Ryan Dunn and a bunch of other cats from a couple clubs on SoCal to talk EDR over hot wings and beers. Good times and good vibes. Most of the questions Gill's posse asked are answered on this blog, but I'll repeat our super-abbreviated answers to some of the most frequent inquiries here:

"Do I need a passport?" Yes. If you have questions about passports, go here.

"Can I take a gun?" It is ill-advised. It is illegal. I recommend no.

"Can I bring weed?" Since the first 200 miles of our adventure are on US roads, and since possession of narcotics is mostly frowned upon by US police officers, I recommend no. There's plenty of sand at the beach, as they say.

"Who can I count on to carry my extra gas and gear?" Since one of the basic tenets of the El Diablo Run has always been self-sufficiency, the answer to this question has always been the same: no one.

"Where can I book hotel rooms?" Here

"Where is the official jump-off point for the ride?" There isn't one. There is an unofficial meeting spot at the Pizza Hut on the US side of the Calexico/Mexicali boarder off highway 111, and we will be stopping there around noon May 5 for food and gas. This is where many guys from LA and SD counties meet up with our IE posse for the boarder crossing into Mexico.

"Is Mexico safe?" How do you define "dangerous?" If you do a burnout on the sidewalk in front of a Mexican taco stand and six cops beat you like a pinata, you probably had it coming. If you are riding 100 miles per hour on a desolate two-lane and a chicken truck pulls in front of you, maybe you should slow it down. If you live like a dumb ass, chances are you will die like a dumb ass. If not in Mexico, then somewhere else.

EDR Iron

2011-01-09T17:06:00.000-08:00

Trumpnut Nick McLean's BSA took EDR 1's coveted "La Cucaracha" award for its endearing but unnerving unreliability. Nick is a master mechanic with a Fibber McGee's closet full of crazy solutions for every roadside breakdown a bike can suffer, but in the end not even he could keep this machine alive on EDR 1. Nick rode the same bike with new livery on EDR 2, and when he wasn't working on his bike, he helped keep every over British bike on the road. We love Nick, and I hope he makes it to this year's ride.

Rob Rouser Sporto Award

2011-01-05T21:36:00.000-08:00

Our favorite Texan and EDR lover, Rob Rouser has an idea for an award on this year's ride. See, Rob loves sporties so he wants to pick his favorite and then hook that dude up with a set of these modified to fit sporties moto pegs as a sort of trophy.

Here's what he's got in mind: The winner will be chosen on a total package kind of thing, the person, the moto, the distance traveled... You know what I mean, not just a "wow, that moto is cool". I'll even do a short "interview" on the chosen one for a blog entry, just a couple of pics and a few fun facts of the moto and rider. I hope yall are down with my idea?

Hell yeah, Rob. We're into it. So get that XL ready son!

Haifley Bros. Are Goin'

2011-01-04T21:56:00.000-08:00

Kelly over at Haifley Bros. has committed to finishing this sweet Beezer in time for Baja. He'll be riding with our friend and world-champion arm-wrestler, AZ Nick out of Phoenix. If you don't know what a Haifley Brother is, check their site for some really neat, hand-made seats and p-pads.

EDR Iron

2011-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Another hand-built deathtrap from Flyrite Choppers. This machine was so low it didn't need a kickstand. The dude's name escapes me, but his style and attitude exemplified the EDR 1 ethos perfectly.

Run Whatcha' Built

2011-01-02T18:08:00.000-08:00

Here's what Rick Aragon is riding.

EDR Iron

2010-12-31T17:00:00.000-08:00

Jason Kidd's Puta de Oro, winner of the rider's choice bike show on EDR 1. I hope our friends from Flyrite join us on next year's adventure. Jason and his wife Whitneye are good people.

Mexican Insurance from Baja Bound

2010-12-28T18:42:00.000-08:00

Do you really need it? Read this on the Baja Bound website. Sure, we've paid for Mexican insurance plenty of times over the years and never needed to actually use it. You can run without it, BUT what if? Smart people get it. Our crew gets it from Baja Bound. These insurance guys ride motorcycles in Mexico and are total enthusiasts. They went on the last EDR and will be racing in the NORRA Mexican 1000 the same weekend we are down there. That's way cooler than my Farmers Insurance agents in the US! You can buy insurance in Mexicali before crossing the border but it is much easier to get it ahead of time via the internet and save a bunch of time and hassle. Here's the link.

EDR Iron

2010-12-26T16:57:00.000-08:00

Wendy Counes' Spartan Special from EDR 1.

EDR Iron

2010-12-23T16:57:00.000-08:00

Previous EDR's earned a reputation for showcasing some interesting iron. Starting today I'll throw up some of my favorites. Some of the bikes I'll blog the next couple weeks survived all three EDR's, an honor very few men (and women!) can claim. If I can recall the rider/builder's name I'll share it. When I can't, just check out the photos and enjoy. What are you building for next year's EDR?

Atomic Trent's shovelhead from EDR 1 in 2006

Canadian Honda

2010-12-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

Rumor has it some dude from Canada is riding this thing for his first time in Mexico...

Run Whatcha' Built

2010-12-17T10:23:00.000-08:00

Cody is riding this sweet '71 CL450.

Run Whatcha' Built

2010-12-14T10:08:00.000-08:00

This is what Kirk Jones is finishing up to ride on the EDR next year. What are you building?

Passport Card

2010-12-12T22:26:00.000-08:00

You will need a Passport or the new Passport Card to cross back into the USA from Mexico. If you don't have one already and don't really see any international air travel in your future or wanna save a few bucks, get a "Passport Card" for $55. Here's what the Dept. of State says about 'em and here's the link. Processing time is about 4-6 weeks.

The U.S. Passport Card can be used to enter the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda at land border crossings or sea ports-of-entry and is more convenient and less expensive than a passport book. The passport card cannot be used for international travel by air.

EDR BIKE

2010-12-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here's what Atom from San Diego is riding. Let's see what you've got.

Run Whatcha' Built

2010-12-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

So, the EDR is open to all bikes, but the idea is to ride something you built yourself. Here's a couple favorites from 2007. Got a cool project you plan to ride to Baja on Cinco de Mayo next year? Send it to me and I'll post it up. bill@chopcult.com

Eric's XS650

Tattoo John's Indian

Trent's Pan

Warren Jr's Shovel

George's Knuckle

Nick's BSA

San Felipe, Baja, Mexico

2010-11-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

The first two nights of the EDR we stay in San Felipe, on the Sea of Cortez.

You can see that big ass party palapa on the beach at Ruben's from space.

¡Comida!

The Panga skippers know where the fish are.
You can rent all your equipment from these dudes
for cheap and just go out for a couple hours.

The water is bath-tub warm and the beach is really shallow and sandy. You can arrange to go out fishing, ride on a giant inflatable banana behind a sketchy boat, fly in a VW-powered ultralight with some creepy European guy or sit around and drink beer and fix your bike.

These ladies know how to cook! Bring them your catch and they'll cook it up for you.
They are the little turquoise shack next to the Club Bar Miramar at the north end of the malecon.

It's easy to eat well in San Felipe. You can go to high end sit down food at the El Nido, or just grab a fresh fish taco from a street vendor. It's also usually pretty easy to buy a few kilos of shrimp early in the AM from a local fisherman and grill them up yourself.

Beach side tree forts at Kiki's. You can call ahead and reserve one.
The ones at Ruben's are first come first serve.

You can see how centrally located everything is around the palapas at Kiki's and Ruben's. For info on lodging, click here. If you want to google around and check it out from space, click here.

Nothing beats Nick's pan at Kiki's.

The sunrises are very bromantic and always a trip to Californians to watch the sun come up over the water.
You'll probably be way too hung over to notice.

Trumpnut

2010-10-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

Trumpnut Nick, EDR '07. I started this day still pretty drunk from the night before. I made it about 25 miles before I realized I was still in third gear. Sure went faster once I up shifted... The damned magneto on this bike gave me trouble for well over a year until I finally broke down and sent it to Hunt for a rebuild. Solid after that, but man I spent some time on the side of the road until that got sorted. Nick happened to be going by in a truck this day somewhere south east of Ojos Negros. He stopped and helped me get it going. Nick is a generous, super-smart dude that is a blast to hang out with. I rode it to Ojos and then threw it in a trailer and hopped on Fredo's shovel and rode that the rest of the way to Ensenada. I noticed later that his rear brake caliper was hanging by about one thread on one bolt and the other one had already fallen out. The problem with the Triumph ended up being the input shaft on the mag (it rounded out). I made a new one out of an allen wrench in Ensenada and with some help from Wes and Nick we got her going again and I rode it home no problemo...

My point? These experiences on the road are rich, and are what makes for good friends and good memories. Thanks, Nick!

Circle of Death

2010-10-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, there will be a Circulo de Muerte for 2011. We're thinking about running it backwards this time to avoid busted primary belts. Makes braking a whole new game. Who's got a fast Triumph? Whatya think?

Randoms

2010-09-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Sponsorship Info

2010-09-24T20:27:00.000-07:00

We put up these wheat paste posters back in 07 on an abandoned building between Mexicali and San Felipe. No wonder Shepard Fairey likes this stuff so much, it's crazy durable. That building smells like poop but looks good from the highway.

Here's the deal on sponsorships. There are way more grass roots events now then there were when we started this thing back 2005. Supporting these events for small chopper companies takes a financial toll, even if it is totally worth it and fun to do.

We don't want the EDR to be one more responsibility for these guys, or one more thing they've got to pay to sponsor. We want this to be fun, not work.

So, if you've got a company, blog, whatever, and would like a link on the El Diablo Run home page, give us a link on your page, and let me know: bill@eldiablorun.com and we will put your link up on ours.

Only one catch. You have to commit to going on this thing. Even if we are bros and swap manhugs every time we see each other, you have to pinky promise that you will ride your motorcycle to Mexico and drink out of coconuts with us, or no link for you!

I already added a few of you old favorites, if for some reason you aren't going, let me know and I'll take you off the links and then cry myself to sleep.

TJ riding

2010-09-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

Splitting lanes through the busiest border on earth is on the tops of my list for "must do" motorcycle activities. Nothing makes me love my motorcycle like saving two hours of sitting in traffic. That, and pissing off a thousand angry drivers who wish they could do it too. Yes, that's a cop in the pickup truck. The game is to see how few times you can put your foot down. My personal record is dabbing twice, on my old Triumph which was perfectly narrow for such things. Too bad the camera card filled up before we got all the way through on this trip.

Done Deals

2010-09-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

Pre run update #1
McGoo, Mike D. and I just did a blast through the route yesterday and today. We spent most of the day on the road or in San Felipe. The good news is, we got the campgrounds sorted. The better news is, Ruben's is going to be free to anyone who rides in on a motorcycle. Between Ruben's camp and Kiki's camp/hotel, San Felipe is dialed in and it's good.

Read below to get the scoop on the new place in Ensenada. The same guy "JC" who made the fiesta happen the last two years at the hotel is now working across the street for the Villa Marina. Better pool and a whole lotta upstairs discoteca, aye-aye-aye muchachos!

The road to San Felipe from the border was in a fine shape, lots of new pavement and no more detours in the dirt on the side for miles like we dealt with on the 2009 (non-EDR) trip. Highway 3, from the turn off at Three Poles to Ojos Negros is in rough condition. Probably 50% of the road is littered with the infamous potholes, under construction or just plain old and beat up. It's totally passable and not that big of a deal, just a little challenging like it's always been. Right now there are a couple smooth gravel detours around construction on the highway that will actually be pretty fun to bomb through on bikes if they are still there in May. The usual fun twisty bits are just as fun as before and in pretty good shape. The road out of Ojos and into Ensenada is in great condition and will fun to ride again. We will do another prerun or two before since road conditions are likely to change over the next seven months anyway.

See below for details on accommodations in both towns.

San Felipe

Ruben's Camp

We've reserved all 30 of the palapas at Ruben's Camp. These will be available on a first come, first serve basis. You can gang up in one of these rustic tree forts, or pitch your tent on the beach. You don't need any reservations or anything here, and it's all been paid for in advance by Biltwell and Chop Cult. The outdoor bar area, massive palapa and fire pit area will be located at Ruben's. The actual restaurant there is closed but there should be a taco cart or two and plenty of beer.

The Grande Palapa at Ruben's Camp. Right on the beach

First come, first served at Ruben's Camp

When camping in palapas you can stay in a tent,

hammock, sleeping bag or just go face down

when you've had enough.

Kiki's Camp & Hotel

Right next door, only separated by a low wall and some chain link is Kiki's Campground and Hotel. Here there are about a dozen hotel rooms and 30-ish palapas. This is for the EDR traveler who wants to know in advance that he's got a spot reserved. You can email Kiki directly kikimr.baja@hotmail.com His English is great and he is a trusted friend of ours that we've known for years. The rates are $25 per palapa per night. You can fit up to five people in these at that rate, but that is pretty tight quarters. We'd count on two or three being a little more comfortable. Each palapa has a shade cover up top and a picnic table down below. The hotel rooms are all large double rooms, in great condition and go for $60 per night. There is free wi-fi at Kiki's.

You can walk about 1/4 mile to town from these locations, and both are right across the street from the Circulo de Muerte track...

Inside a palapa at Kiki's

Bathrooms and hot showers will be a welcome sight

Happy campers

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Ensenada

Villa Marina Hotel

This is a new venue for us this year, but is through our old friend in Ensenada, Juan Carlos. The VM is the tallest building in town so you can't really get lost trying to find it. It's an older hotel showing some signs of age but the staff is friendly and the prices are great. The parking lot is big enough to hold plenty of bikes and there is an all night security guard on duty. The rooms are adequate, hot water in the showers and the whole top floor is a disco for our enjoyment. The pool area in the back is well kept and we'll be having some bbq back there and handing out the awards on the last day from this location.

Making reservations here is easy, you can email: hvillamarina@hotmail.com or call 1-800-336-5454 or 858 454-7166. Website: http://villamarinaensenada.net/reservar.htm

You really can't miss the tallest building in town

Sweet pool area

Get your disco on, son!

Pre Runnin'

2010-09-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

This time next week, we'll be heading down to San Felipe to tighten things up and make sure these dates are going to work, check on the campgrounds, road conditions, etc. SF here we come!

EDR Pics

2010-09-03T20:59:00.000-07:00

Here's some photo sets from 2006, 2007 & 2008. This is really just a test to see if we've got this whole blogger+facebook thing linked up and running...

Tentative Schedule for 2011

2010-09-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Alright... Yep, we're going to give this thing a go. Nothing official yet, we have some stuff to lock down but the tentative dates you should pencil in on your calendar are May 5th thru the 9th, 2011. You can subscribe to this blog, or join the event on Facebook and stay up to date on things as they progress. The basic plan is this, do it exactly like '07 and '08. So, start getting your shit together, it's sure to be a banger one way or another!

EDR Iron

2010-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Another hand-built deathtrap from Flyrite Choppers. This machine was so low it didn't need a kickstand. The dude's name escapes me, but his style and attitude exemplified the EDR 1 ethos perfectly.

EDR Iron

2010-01-03T17:03:00.000-08:00

Another hand-built deathtrap from Flyrite Choppers. This machine was so low it didn't need a kickstand. The dude's name escapes me, but his style and attitude exemplified the EDR 1 ethos perfectly.