Last Ride of the Year 2018

[renchinrider]

This was my first time to actually make it to the Last Ride of the Year, which occurs annually at the Stagecoach Cafe in Stockton, AL.  It was started by a member of the Iron Butt Association, and still draws a number of very intrepid riders.  I planned for several months to make the trip, and invited anyone from North Alabama who wanted to join me.  Fellow North Alabama Vintage Motorcycle Club and Iron Butt Association member Raymond Cox joined me for the ride.  He also brought his grandson, Mack, who rode Raymond's new Indian Scout to Stockton.

We left expecting rain, but luckily just had a relatively cold start.  It was about 37 when we rolled out of Decatur at 6 am.  But soon the sun began to rise, and the temps did too.  Here's a picture of us approaching Gardendale and Birmingham.



We made a few gas/rest stops along the way, but made it to Stockton without incident.  We rolled in about 11:45.

Luckily, I had met Chuck and Susan at Barber, so I knew who I was looking for.  Soon I found them, along with Gulfcoaster, and we all shared greetings and introductions.  Chuck, Susan and Gulfcoaster met my riding buddy Raymond.

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We later grabbed a passerby who took this group photo for all of us MC-AL gangstas :D :D.

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After the Stagecoach, Chuck and Susan treated Lawnmower and me to a scenic ride from Stockton to their house.  It was a blast.  As we settled in at their house, I got better acquainted with their Master of Hospitality--he melted my heart! :-*

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Lawnmower and I enjoyed utmost hospitality in Chuck and Susan's wonderful home.  I think I gained 5 pounds overnight!   ??? :D

Alas, after a gourmet breakfast the next morning, it was time for Lawnmower and me to be on our way.  Time for farewells--'til next time!

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The ride home got a little wet between Montgomery and Birmingham...

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...But north of Birmingham I got out of the rain again, and it was just chilly...thankfully not really COLD! :)

Seemingly in no time, I spotted the rocket at the Alabama Welcome Center on I-65--my cue to exit the interstate and meander on home.

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The Last Ride of the Year is a "Don't Miss" event, and I'm so glad I finally got to do it.  The ride with Raymond and Mack, and the cameraderie at the Stagecoach was fantastic, and the pleasure of getting to stay with Chuck and Susan really made the trip memorable.  I'm already looking forward to next year! ;D

[LawnmowerRG]

It was a good ride. I enjoyed it very much myself.

[klaviator]

Good write up!  Glad ya'll had a good ride.