GMR, Hwy 39 Map and Condition

[linp]

http://www.socalsvriders.com/maps/gmr.jpg

MS Streets and Trips 2002 map file:
GMR.est (http://www.socalsvriders.com/maps/Gmr.est)

Pashnit.com's description of Glendora Mountain Road, Glendora Ridge Road - Mt. Baldy (http://www.pashnit.com/roads/cal/GlendoraRidge.htm)

[ward]

http://www.r5.fs.fed.us/angeles/visitor/roadconditions.html


I was checking the status of GMR, I know it's on fire and all but when I looked it says GMR "closed indefienetly"

As far as I know I thought that indefinetley meant the same thing as forever. I hope this isn't true!

WTF!!

[Kurt'sSV]

Indefienetly means an undetermined amount of time. So the forestry service doesn't know if GMR will be closed for another month, or two months. But it will be closed for a long time:(

Though when it does reopen, we will all rejoice:groove:

[Adrian]

I saw a couple of post referencing GMR and didn't know what it was, until it justcame to me - Glendora Mountain Road?

Another one of my favourite rides. Up the mountain road, down the twisty bit on the other side, down San Gabriel, maybe to Berts for a quick look, maybe a burger at the In-N-Out, then back up San Gabriel, up the twisty bit, left along the ridge, coffee at that cafe in Baldy, then down Baldy road.

Sound familiar?

It's been a while. Last time I tried all roads were closed due to fire and all I got was the Berts/burger thing. Are the roads re-opened yet?

Cheers,
Adrian.

[Sasquatch]

When's the last time you rode GMR? Per the Forest Service, it's closed right now due to fire damage and lingering risk. It'll probably stay closed until we get some rain, after which I will be one of the first people in this group to plan a ride out there. It's one of my favorite rides, and due to its relative close proximity to ME, I ride it often.

The Angeles National Forest website appears to be down, but I usually check road conditions there:


http://www.r5.fs.fed.us/angeles/

[Adrian]

I think the last time I was up there was a few months ago. I remember it was a hot day.

Same as you, I like it and it's the closest good road to me. Well, Carbon Canyon has a good bit and is just up the street, but it's way too short, and way too crowded most of the time.

[bwarbiany]

Cool,
I need someone else who likes the road along the ridge (Glendora Ridge Road) and the backside of GMR... Most of the folks here prefer the front side leading up to the fork... A few runs up and down that at the rides...

Brad

[Adrian]

Yeah, you got to be careful on the back side and the ridge road, but they are a lot of fun. When I first moved out here GMR was never open, so the back and ridge were it.

[Kurt'sSV]

I don't think GMR is ever going to open. We keep saying it will open after it rains, but this is LA, it doesn't rain. I think all the smog is keeping the rain clouds away. Damn this sunny weather!

[ward]

Hey Kurt,
where the heck are you? it hasn't been sunny where I am for a while. nothing but gloomy clouds.

[Kurt'sSV]

Dude I'm in my own world. The Kurt Zone!

[liammtierney]

i went up to see what was going on now and its open from azusa until all the way up to the end of east fork (you know, the really sharp u-turn to the right when coming from azusa). about 20 miles i believe. i always go to the bridge and back for about an hour during my breaks from school (citrus) 3 days a week....thats really the only part that is good out of the parts open. its about a 20 mile round trip from the bottom of azusa, to the bridge and back down. i do that 2-3 times and im content.

its a quick fix since im so close anyway

[Kurt'sSV]

Okay, but is GMR open or what? What you are describing sounds like East Fork road. Is GMR accessible from Glendora?

[Aufaber]

It's just open to the bottom of the actuall road that goes up the backside. Only the road that goes to the restaurant is open. You can't actualy go to the fork at the top, at least that is what I have been told by others.

-Aaron G.

[liammtierney]

no, all of gmr is closed. coming up sierra madre its closed at the light half way up the hill that you turn on to start the ride. coming from azusa its closed at the end of east fork road (the big u-turn). but if you are close to the area like i am, the first 9-10 miles from azusa on up to the bridge is decent. i still like the crest the best, but this small part is somewhat like it. the part after the bridge is really dirty.

[Aufaber]

Ok fresh from one of the guys one the R6 forum that called the forestry department today. GMR is closed untill November 30th.

-Aaron G>

[edit] still closed (http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1316)

[CBRluv]

As of April 30 2003

going up via gmr itself
http://crashclub.net/4images/data/media/59/gmr_closed_3.jpg

http://crashclub.net/4images/data/media/59/GMR_closed_1.jpg


going up via east fork
http://crashclub.net/4images/data/media/59/gmr_closed_2.jpg

[bling_thing]

Love the skid mark!

[Kurt'sSV]

Damn it, what's up with that road? Are they ever going to reopen it or what?

Maybe they're waiting for Memorial day weekend to reopen it because that's when people start the summer camping season.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV
Damn it, what's up with that road? Are they ever going to reopen it or what?

Maybe they're waiting for Memorial day weekend to reopen it because that's when people start the summer camping season.

I was at a Memorial Day BBQ in Glendora with some really rich people, and they seem to think it's not going to be opened... Ever...

I think that's a little strange, considering that I can tell from every time I head up that way that they're doing work on it, but they might just be repairing it for fire vehicles, and may not open it to the public :sad: :sad: :sad:

[Punkbrad]

quite a few years ago i was dating this punkrocker chik who lived in glendora (imagine that) and she had these beer swilling punker guy friends who took me "chairboarding" on GMR.

chairboarding consists of taking one of those green plastic Adirondack chairs, sawing the legs off, and screwing it to a 2X8 board about 5 feet long. then you take the trucks/wheels off of your skateboard, and screw them into the 2X8. kinda like a ghetto street luge. well, after a beer or five, you go to the top of GMR with your chairboard and wait. races start precisely at midnight. with a football helmet and a pillow to sit on, you start down the mountain...

the winner is who ever is the less road-rashed, or the most drunk, usually not the same guy...

lots of fun..

ahhhh the salad days!!

P to the drunkpunk b.

[dnakase]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
I was at a Memorial Day BBQ in Glendora with some really rich people, and they seem to think it's not going to be opened... Ever...

I think that's a little strange, considering that I can tell from every time I head up that way that they're doing work on it, but they might just be repairing it for fire vehicles, and may not open it to the public :sad: :sad: :sad:

Rich people never want anyone else to have any fun ever. F**K the RICH. (Untill I become one of them, then by association with me, they'll be cool.)

[bwarbiany]

Will it open?

[cracked lid]

It ain't open yet. Had to go up that way for a wedding reception and thought, WTH I'll take the bike, ride some new roads, show up in full leathers, then strip down to reveal my garden wedding appropriate attire.

So GMR is still closed. Funny part was, just as I was getting ready to turn around an ambulance pulls up with it's lights on. I asked them if they knew why the road was closed. They said no, but that they needed to get through and were trying to get ahold of someone to let them in. I decided to wait and see if maybe I could sneak through behind them, but they left after about 10 minutes.

So I went and rode up to Mt. Baldy. Some of those switchbacks are ridiculous. It's like making a u-turn up a really steep hill. I was carrying a passenger, so with the extra weight I was slipping the clutch in 1st to keep the revs up so it wouldn't bog the engine down.

[LaPiñaLoca]

A friend of mine took his mountian bike up GMR recently, said it's perfect, he also said the maintenance guys said they had some "shoulder work" to do, bull shite he says, the shoulder looks great, aside form some gravel here and there.

Azusa (the 39) is also still closed right above the off-foad rec area. It looks like they've repaved it in the past few months, but instead of opening it up, they installed a bigger gate so the poor fellow guarding the old traffic barriers wouldn't have to deal with those bastard bikers coming up every weekend and asking him when it was gonna be open. :) btw, he used to tell us summer, haha, right.

I've heard that they repaved the 39 all the way to the 138 a few years ago, but that it was never reopened past crystal lake or silver lake, whatever that campground is up there.

aaron

gmr, we miss you <tear falls>

[javawhz]

Originally posted by LaPiñaLoca

gmr, we miss you <tear falls>

I heard GMR IS OPEN!!!! :D Go ride it now before someone closes it again ;)

[roar]

These bastards say no:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/conditions/conditions-road.shtml#glendora

But I don't know when it was last updated...

[LaPiñaLoca]

GMR IS OPEN!!!!

I rode it today . . . twice :D :D :D

Going again tomorrow around 8:30, probly again around 1pm, and every day after that for the next two weeks, hehe.

aaron

damn, i love that road, it's like latigo and palomar, but in my backyard:D

[Kurt'sSV]

Hooray!!!! :groove: :vic: =D>

[ward]

typical

they would wait for me to leave


bastards!!!

[Adrian]

I rode it today. Just fine. Some dirt on the inside of a few turns on the down side, but the up side was great.

I'd forgotten how long it is.

Also did the backside, which is as rough as ever, but fun anyways.

Long live GMR.

[bwarbiany]

Well, that only leaves one thing to say...

Let's go ride it!!! (http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=4577)

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by Troy
What's it like? How tight? How far north can you go? yada yada.

Only about 12 miles bottom-to-top... So we pretty much ride up it, then down it, then up it, then down it, then up it... (better stop that before Setter gets excited)...

The main section of it that we typically ride is 2-lane, fairly tight, but without a large number of decreasing-radius turns... From the top, where we turn around, you can head down towards San Gabriel Cyn Rd, which is tighter, bumpier, and if you get to San Gabriel Cyn Rd, is a snore... Or, you can head towards Mt Baldy on Glendora Ridge Road, which is a fun ride, if you like lots of bumps, no center line, and very tight turns (which I love)...

The main reason I like it, is that it is one of those roads where most of the fun parts are fun at 50-60 mph, during the *fast* sections... And being only about 12 miles long, it's much like Palomar in that you constantly go up and down it, and thus learn the road really well, as well as the road conditions. You know where the safety margin is big, and where it is not.

I certainly recommend this road very highly, especially for an SV. It's more of an SV road than, say a GSXR1K or Duc 999 road, because it is so technical...

[Cooker]

Today, I rode GMR twice, GMRR (Ridge Road), South Fork Road, and up and down Mount Baldy.

Awesome but dangerous. My gut reaction is that it's one of the most dangerous roads in So. Cal: sheer mountainsides with no guardrails, excessive sand and rocks on the road, and perhaps worst of all, the area is magnet for drinking teenagers and general shitty drivers. Although I rode it midday during the week; a porsche, a minivan and a dumptruck (?! OMG!) crossed the double yellow and forced me to adjust my lane position.

Still, it’s a great ride, and there could be worse. How? Go ride to the top of Mount Baldy, on the last four miles you'll encounter a torturous road designed as a continuous off-camber (for snow and runoff?) complete with creosote-soaked first gear hairpins (Jezuz!) Seriously, Satan is bidding for the engineer who did this. The journey does yield some breath taking views, rest stops, camping grounds and great hiking, but, let's just say there won't ever be a line at the drinking fountain.

Recommendation: Ride up GMR and over GMRR to Mt. Baldy, have lunch and ride down (the fast side). Skip South Fork Road unless you are really itching to shed your gear and skinny dip in the questionable river.

It was a great day, even if the end of the ride yielded a very disturbing incident. Read about that here: http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3711&perpage=15&pagenumber=3

[kpalmer]

Originally posted by Cooker
Today, I rode GMR twice, GMRR (Ridge Road), South Fork Road, and up and down Mount Baldy.

Awesome but dangerous. My gut reaction is that it's one of the most dangerous roads in So. Cal: sheer mountainsides with no guardrails, excessive sand and rocks on the road, and perhaps worst of all, the area is magnet for drinking teenagers and general shitty drivers.

Still, it’s a great ride, and there could be worse. How? Go ride to the top of Mount Baldy, on the last four miles you'll encounter a torturous road designed as a continuous off-camber (for snow and runoff?) complete with creosote-soaked first gear hairpins [/url]

I rode GMR for the first time Aug. 3rd. It reminded me of CA 193 between Placerville and Auburn. I took the south fork down to Azusa Canyon and missed the last four miles to the top.

If you have to put the SV in 1st gear, What gear to you put a 954 in? :-& I was in first gear about half of the way up.

--KP

[kpalmer]

GMR

[kpalmer]

Azuza Cyn from GMR

[kpalmer]

SG Dam from GMR

[dnakase]

Just back from Kuai yesterday so 1st things 1st, rode GMR.

Just getting over the shock of my changed marital status, (married), so it was nice to make a couple of runs up and back.

Down hill side has some nasty patches of sand, so watch out. Staying close to the dbl yellow and you can avoid them. Of course they are at the apex of some nice tight turns. :(

Riding it a couple of times untill you have a feel for the road and any hazards is the wtg. Watch crossing the yellows and as always be alert to traffic.

Didn't look like there was much big, un-burnt so let's hope it escapes this year's fire season.

[Troy]

Originally posted by dnakase
Just getting over the shock of my changed marital status, (married), so it was nice to make a couple of runs up and back.


Changing to married or from married? (Not that you'd go to Hawaii to get divorced). Either way, Congratulations!

[mencius]

Strange, California Motorcycle Roads ( http://www.pashnit.com/motoroads.htm) has GRR but not GMR. How different are the two, aside from the dirt Kurt mentioned?

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by mencius
Strange, California Motorcycle Roads ( http://www.pashnit.com/motoroads.htm) has GRR but not GMR. How different are the two, aside from the dirt Kurt mentioned?

Very different... GMR is much smoother, has a centerline, and is much easier to ride...

GRR is almost a dual-sport paradise... Due to conditions, you couldn't *really* wring out a sportbike up there without it being very, very dangerous. A guy on a Triumph Daytona 955 got killed hitting a forest ranger head-on last year. He was riding like there was no other traffic on the road (there usually isn't), using all of the one available lane, and had nowhere to go...

[ersigh]

GMR is fun to ride ...

GO there, go a run once or twice thru and look for where the dirt is ... if you don't go insane, it is easy to spot and evade ...

THere's no way to be prepared without seeing for yourself. I used to ride GMR every weekend, sat/sun if possible ... there'd be a few corners w/dirt, usually not tons, and I'd just do a run up and down and remember where the dirt was so I was prepared ...

(people should do this on every road they ride)

[dnakase]

No work today, so headed up to GMR.

Road crews were repairing the guard rail at the 1st corner on the Glendora side. Looked like a cage took out a portion.

Up at higher elevations crews were clearing brush and scraping the shoulder.

Even with this activity the road surface was free of large rock falls and only had light patches of gravel. Kudos to the Forest Service or Caltrans, who ever is responsible for maint. up there is doing a great job.

As always, becareful up there and ride it slow once and note the road condition for yourself before your rail. It will save you atleast a repair bill. :D

[tigger]

The damn in the picture, is there a way for the public to get to it or does one have to know someone or have official business there?

Rode it the other day for the first time in the light, and OMG! A fun road. Second only, IMHO, to Tunitus Creek Road up north (tight, twisty, and bumpy). Are there roads around here like that?

Even without GMR, there is 39 and East Fork as far as it might be open. Those are fun roads...

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by tigger
Rode it the other day for the first time in the light, and OMG! A fun road. Second only, IMHO, to Tunitus Creek Road up north (tight, twisty, and bumpy). Are there roads around here like that?

Actually, next time you're at the lookout at the top, head up Glendora Ridge Road over to Mt. Baldy... Much nastier :D

I used to love Kings Mtn Rd -> Tunitas Creek -> Hwy 1 -> Stage Rd, then down Cloverdale/Gazos Creek to Swanton & Bonny Doon, or Pescadero Rd back up to 84... God, I miss norcal :sad:

[Tillers_Rule]

Those are some VERY nice pictures.:love:

[dnakase]

Halloween mus be just around the corner.

Riding GMR today as I reached the top coming up from Glendora the cloud cover was low and mist started to swirl up and over the ridge. Out of nowhere I got this spooky feeling. Can't explain it. Not like, "Oh, shit! I'm coming into the turn too fast!" 'cause I was real comfortable and in "The Groove". But something felt wrong ...

There just before junction with Glendora Ridge Road, dual skid marks headed over the side... and a little shrine...

[LaPiñaLoca]

dual skid marks headed over the side... and a little shrine...

yeah, some kids ran off the road last weekend, the driver survived, the passenger died, neither was wearing a seat belt (or a helmet and full leathers).

in the newspaper article the cop said that since the road reopened they had been called out 2-3 times at night for car accidents. No mention of bike accidents, which was nice for once.

I guess all of us motorcyclist's who crash up there have friends with trucks :)

aaron

[dnakase]

I noticed a lot of gravel on the first couple of turns from 4-wheeled vehicles on the unpaved apex. I guess its fun to sit up there and spit gravel.

My 1st thought was, "stupid f**king cagers!"

Sounds like Darwinism is in full swing up there in the wee hours. :(

[LaPiñaLoca]

I'll be riding GMR tomorrow around 10, if anybody wants to come. You can give me a call at 909-907-4889 or just meet at GMR I should be there most of the day.

aaron

[bwarbiany]

Yeah, teenagers like to go up there to get drunk/smoke pot/etc at night...

Not like during the day when us RESPECTABLE people head up there, right :D

[LaPiñaLoca]

Not like during the day when us RESPECTABLE people head up there, right

you got it brad, haha :D

[Dom]

yeah I hear they do alot of drifting and street racing type stuff at night up there. I was leaving late one day and there weren't many cars but enough of them were there to mix it up a little (alone though no racing) that there may be some validity to the claim.

[LaPiñaLoca]

Yeah, i've seen some wrx's going pretty fast up there at night. When you think about it, drfiting at night, when there's hardly anybody around and you can see the headlights form an oncoming car, is more responsible than doing it during the day, what with all the bicyclists and motorcycles :)

Getting drunk/high/whatever and driving fast (especially with a passenger) up there is never responsible. There are over 100 turns on gmr, and a lot of them don't follow the "smooth, flowing, predictable" curves we're used to on the street.

aaron

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by LaPiñaLoca
Getting drunk/high/whatever and driving fast (especially with a passenger) up there is never responsible. There are over 100 turns on gmr, and a lot of them don't follow the "smooth, flowing, predictable" curves we're used to on the street.

aaron

Yeah, that's why it's mostly high school kids...

They're not very smart, as a general rule, and that applies to most of the smart ones as well...

In fact, some high schoolers hit telephone poles in their dad's Buick Roadmaster station wagon... Not like I'd ever do something like that, but I can attest that a telephone pole doesn't do much to a '77 Buick :D

[dnakase]

Today's Pasadena Star News has a story about possible closing of GMR! (http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/Stories/0,1413,206%257E22097%257E1694782,00.html)

Dead teen's mom wants road closed
Prevention of new traffic deaths targeted
By Diana L. Roemer, Staff Writer

AZUSA -- The mother of a boy who died three weeks ago when the car he was in plunged down a canyon on Glendora Mountain Road said the road is a temptation to teens and should be closed to prevent more deaths.

Lourdes Diaz, 38, of Azusa said her son, 17-year-old Johnny Diaz, who went over a bank 9.8 miles up the mountain road Sept. 21, was too young to die.

Diaz was a passenger in a Honda.

The driver, a 17-year-old Azusa boy, survived.

"There are a lot of innocent children (who) can die there. I don't understand why they keep that open. I don't understand,' she said, crying.

"They were out there, they shouldn't have been out there, but we can't control every move they make all the time,' she said.

Police have said the boys were not wearing seat belts, which may have contributed to Diaz's death.

A pair of skid marks are visible on the road near where the car went over the edge.

Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich is looking into the safety of the road in the wake of Diaz's death. At least 13 others have died on the road since 1980. Antonovich said he may close it once all data being collected is in.

Diaz, a 16-year Azusa resident, said her son left home Sept. 20 with his two older brothers, intending to go to the movies.

But they went to the 15-mile- long mountain road instead to look at cars of other teens who gather there, she said.

Diaz and his friend, whose name is being withheld by police because he is a minor, were on their way back down the hill when a car they wanted to see passed them, headed north, Diaz said.

"He wanted to come home early. They were coming home but they saw trucks, really tall, big, and my son wanted to see them so they went back and then it happened,' she said crying.

She still doesn't know what went wrong.

Only the driver knows and he hasn't told her, she said.

She asked one of her two older sons, who were also on the hill that night, why they went there.

"He said 'Johnny wanted to see the cars,' Why, why, he was only 17,' she said.

Diana L. Roemer can be reached at (626) 962-8811, Ext. 2105, or by e-mail at diana.roemer@sgvn.com



[The version in print had a harsh coment about motorcycles in a quote from one Ed Knapp of the Glendora Ridge Runners... we need to find out where Ed lives and give him a little talking to ................ ]

[LaPiñaLoca]

That artical was in the Tribue today as well as another article about Glendora asking the CHP to do a study of why there are so many accidents (hmm, should we save them tens of thousands of dollars and let them in on a little secret: teenagers and 15 miles of 15mph turns don't mix?). I wonder, if I time some of the regular riders up there and show them just how fast you can safely go on that road, will they keep it open? haha, right.

They are looking at either closing it at night, or closing it altogether.

Apparently Mr. Knapp is in the Glendora Ridge Runners Club and probably doesn't cotton to vehicles flying by him at twice the recommended speed limit. Personally, I think HIKING TRAILS are the best place to run/hike/mountain bike, but that's probably just becasue I'm a motorcyclist. Street bicycles on the other hand, can't go on dirt trails and while I do feel bad whiizzing by them, I can't help but think that my sv is much better than a WRX or a big-ass delivery truck, and that there are much wider roads they could be biking on.

aaron

[Kurt'sSV]

They won't close the road simply for stupid kids driving off the edge. As we all know, it's not like closing this one road will prevent all future deaths of teenagers in cars. It said 13 people have died on that road in the past 23 years. OH SHIT, that should be one of America's deadliest roads, then. Right? Fuck no. More people have died on PCH in the past 23 years.

Why are stupid people always in the news?

(answer: because he's the president :p )

I also sent an e-mail to the writer of that article basically saying what I've said here, but in a longer fashion (I hope I spelled everything write :( )

[bwarbiany]

Yeah, GMR didn't kill that teenager... Doing something they should not have been doing killed that teenager. It is a horrible tragedy, but closing one road won't mean that all teenagers will suddenly be safe...

And how about wearing seat belts? I know they've saved my life on numerous occasions...

I'm sure that if the cops looked into the length of those skid marks, it would probably show that the car was traveling above the speed limit. Broken law #1. Not wearing seat belts, broken law #2. Had they been traveling in a responsible, safe manner, and wearing their seat belts, I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem.

[dnakase]

I saw them skid marks and the cage that left them probably flew 50 feet horizontal before gravity took over... You could tell the driver was way over his ability and in trouble way before he mashed the brakes.

[dnakase]

Pasadena Star-News


Enforcement, not closure


Monday, October 20, 2003 -

WHILE we acknowledge there have been accidents on Glendora Mountain Road, we don't believe closing the road is the best alternative.

Closing that road, a main entrance to the Angeles National Forest, just adds to the closures already in and around the wilderness area (Highway 39 remains closed just north of East Fork Road from fires in 2002. The highway has been closed just south of Highway 2 for 25 years, and so on).

Better enforcement is the best answer to stopping speeders and the deaths those decisions often bring on mountain roads.

Certainly we grieve with the family of the young man killed in a plunge off the road late last month, but closing the road isn't likely to stop young people from engaging in the type of activity that resulted in the crash.

For decades, roads leading into the foothills have been used as party spots for teens. The gatherings usually involve drinking, drugs and other activity if not blatantly antisocial, anti-parental control.

Surviving such self-destructive behavior seems a rite of passage for teens who live in the shadow of the San Gabriel and San Bernardino mountains and their foothills.

But speeding on mountain roads, day or night, isn't limited to teenagers. No, too many adult drivers have been killed over the years on Mt. Baldy Road and other roadways leading into the area's mountain ranges. Passing when they shouldn't on switchbacks, speeding around curves, just bad judgment all have taken their toll in lives lost and serious injury inflicted on drivers and passengers.

We understand Lourdes Diaz's desire to prevent such accidents claiming another young life such as that of her son Johnny, just 17 when the car in which he was riding veered off Glendora Mountain Road and down a canyon about midnight Sept. 21. But the very nature of mountain roads tight curves, little traffic draws young drivers and motorcyclists who wish to test their skills or try out often new, powerful vehicles.

Diaz's death was the result of poor decision-making, including his own in going along with a group that chose to use mountain roads often poorly patrolled and isolated for gatherings. Also, according to law enforcement on the scene, neither Diaz nor the driver were wearing seat belts. That alone could have possibly saved the young man's life.

The death of anyone, especially a young person on the verge of adulthood, is a tragedy. But closing a road to responsible drivers isn't the answer. We instead urge Supervisor Mike Antonovich, who has called for an investigation into possible closure, to push for stepped-up patrols, especially on weekend nights, to deter young people from using turnouts as personal party spots.

Immediate saturation by the California Highway Patrol ought to be sought. It's pretty amazing what expensive ticketing can do in an area known for speeding, red-light running, and other traffic infractions. Antonovich ought to start there and move away from closure.

[Kurt'sSV]

Hmmmm, me thinks I'll be staying away from that road for a while.:-?

[No_Brakes23]

Lourdes Diaz, 38, of Azusa said her son, 17-year-old Johnny Diaz, who went over a bank 9.8 miles up the mountain road Sept. 21, was too young to die.

But he was old enough to decide not wear his sealtbelt.

I know it's fucked up to say it, but that's social darwinism in action.

My friend and I were out fucking around in South OC canyons back in '94, we went off a cliff and we both lived because we were wearing our seat belts.

I guess its hard to admit that your son died of terminal stupidity

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV
Hmmmm, me thinks I'll be staying away from that road for a while.:-?

Dammit...

Well, there goes another favorite... Time to ride out to Idylwild again, probably...

[LaPiñaLoca]

i'm pushing for stepped up patrols at night, even if they have to pull officers off of the usual sat/sun morning patrols to do it :D

aaron

[LaPiñaLoca]

GMR is closed again . . . stupid fires :sad:

[Kurt'sSV]

Poop, but you can't say you're surprised.

[Shügbüg]

I heard they were thinking of closing it permanently. Maybe the fires will give them cause enought to do so? I hope not, I heard it rocks, and I still haven't had a chance to ride it! :sad:

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/Stories/0,1413,206%257E22097%257E1694898,00.html?search=fi lter
Article Published: Sunday, October 12, 2003 - 10:43:25 PM PST
County mulls forest road closure
Recent fatality, concerns over speeding prompt traffic-safety review
By Diana L. Roemer, Staff Writer

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST -- The county is considering closing Glendora Mountain Road following a recent traffic fatality, officials said.

Supervisor Michael Antonovich opened an investigation into accidents and deaths on the 15-mile-long mountain road, after 17-year-old Johnny Diaz of Azusa was killed Sept. 21.

‘‘When the supervisor has all the information and recommendations, he will make a decision in the interest of public safety,'' said Tony Bell, Antonovich's communications director.

Diaz was a passenger in a Honda driven by another 17-year-old when the car veered off the road and plunged 380 feet down a canyon 9.8 miles above the Valley around midnight.

Since about 1980, at least 13 deaths and more than 60 accidents have been reported on the road, which travels north into the Angeles National Forest from Sierra Madre Boulevard near Valley Center Avenue in Glendora.

In the past two months, four cars have gone off the road, said David Smail, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Search and Rescue coordinator.

The road has been closed at least twice before, once in 1986 due to complaints of reckless driving and during repairs after the September 2002 Curve Fire.

Bell said county public works and law enforcement are assessing the road to determine what could contribute to a high level of accidents on it.

Diaz's mother, Lourdes Diaz, said the road should be closed on weekends to protect teens who want to drive it.

‘‘That will be the least that we would want, if not close it permanently,'' she said.

California Highway Patrol Sgt. Mark Worthington said the CHP would accommodate the county's investigation.

‘‘Obviously, the Highway Patrol is concerned with the engineering of our highways to make sure they are as safe as possible for the motoring public,'' Worthington said.

CHP officials have said any problems on Glendora Mountain Road are typically the result of poor driver behavior, not the road, and such problems happen on all mountainous, curved roads.

But Glendora resident Ed Knapp calls the road a veritable raceway.

Knapp, who runs with the Glendora Ridge Runners club, said motorcyclists ‘‘buzz'' the group and often speed along.

Nearly 200 motorcycles flooded the road the first day it was reopened in August, he said. ‘‘We were really, really scared. We have seen so much carnage up there -- kids down on motorcycles ... skid marks ... it's pathetic. On weekends, it's a three-ring circus up there,'' Knapp said.

[doub1etap]

The greedy bicyclists and runners want it all to themselves! :mad:


But Glendora resident Ed Knapp calls the road a veritable raceway.

Knapp, who runs with the Glendora Ridge Runners club, said motorcyclists ‘‘buzz'' the group and often speed along.

Nearly 200 motorcycles flooded the road the first day it was reopened in August, he said. ‘‘We were really, really scared. We have seen so much carnage up there -- kids down on motorcycles ... skid marks ... it's pathetic. On weekends, it's a three-ring circus up there,'' Knapp said.

[sandie]

anyone have any guesses?
or is there a close date scheduled somewhere every year? or is it based on weather?

any ideas?

[Iyindo]

:confused: what's GMR?

[stough]

Sacrilege!!! Heretic!!! Kill the infidel for they know not the power of GMR and GRR!

For this you must travel north of Clairmont and ride Glendora Mountain Road to Glendora Ridge Road and have lunch at the Inn in Mount Baldy. They make a great tri-tip steak wrapped in bacon! :D

Later,
Tim.

[Kurt'sSV]

So it's open? It didn't get shut down due to the fires?

It won't ever close due to seasons. It's not high enough to get affected I don't think.

[sandie]

i didn't think it got hit by the fires...hmmmm...i hadn't heard that

i was thinking about scheduling a "girl ride" up there, and i want michelle to come, and she's only available the end of this month...and i'm thinking it might be closed by then...but geez, if it's already closed!

[slowpoke]

The forest service seems to have closed all non-essential roads.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/news/2003/news-2003-10-27-angeles-forest-closure.shtml

Good luck.

Have fun. If I were closer to that road, I'd be up there all the time!

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by stough
They make a great tri-tip steak wrapped in bacon! :D


Thanks a lot, Tim...

Now how the hell am I going to clean this drool off my desk at work!!!

Bastard...

;)

[LaPiñaLoca]

Newspaper says Angeles National Forest (GMR included) will be opening today. It also warned of mudslides because of the rainfall predicted for later this afternoon, blah.

aaron

p.s. sandie, count me in for that "girls ride" :D

[dnakase]

More news of Cagers Out of Control!!!

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/Stories/0,1413,206%257E22097%257E1769968,00.html

[TIE_Pilot]

"Law enforcement may not be able to help soon enough. Sometimes we have to save people from themselves,' Acevedo said.


Um, no, Mister Sheriff, your job is not save anyone from themselves. By the same token, I hope none of you LA folks are fond of riding out on this road at night... sounds pretty scary.

[Dom]

it is I did it once:D with a smoked visor because it was kinda unexpected:eek: I was very slow, more so than usual that is:p

[AdamR]

I know where you can squeeze through the gate to get onto GMR. I'm wondering what the fine would be running on a closed road IF one were to get caught.


Adam

[LaPiñaLoca]

I know where you can squeeze through the gate to get onto GMR. I'm wondering what the fine would be running on a closed road IF one were to get caught.

Gate has been fixed, with grade 8 hex bolts no less. It was dirty up there anyway with no regular street cleaning :)

aaron

[AdamR]

Well, I was refering to a spot on Glendora Ridge Road where it comes up off Mt Baldy. There is definitely enough space there to squeeze a bike through on the right side.

You said the roads were dirty, is this from prior experience or have you been on the roads since the October fire?

Adam

[LaPiñaLoca]

Well, I was refering to a spot on Glendora Ridge Road where it comes up off Mt Baldy. There is definitely enough space there to squeeze a bike through on the right side.

aaahhh, the gate i went through before is near Camp Williams. I haven't tried to get in through the Mt. Baldy side.

The last time I was up there the gate was closed and it was starting to rain so I stopped after about a mile.
I saw three bikers up there, they said it was dirty farther up and also that they had tried to get out another way but the gate was closed, i assumed they meant the Baldy gate, but i guess I was wrong.

I ride with some guys who swept GMR/GRR off in it's entirety on a friday, when we rode it that sunday it was sandy in the usual places and had rocks on the road. After not being cleaned for almost a month I don't think it would even be worth riding.

Aaron

[AdamR]

If other people are sneaking in, I'm really tempted to try it. My only concern is that my V&H exhaust
is quite loud. I wouldn't want to get trapped by rangers and/or police. Although if there is room to get through both at Mt. Baldy and Camp Williams, it might not make it such a big deal.

Might be worth scouting it out soon.

Adam

[Dom]

it's the rocks that scare me

[LaPiñaLoca]

adam, I went up mt. baldy last night, you're right about the big gap between the mountain and the gate, but the camp williams gate has no gap and has been fixed up pretty well. The only thing that would worry me about sneaking in the baldy gate is that it's pretty populated near the entrance so there is a high likelihood of getting the cops/rangers called on you.

aaron

[AdamR]

Is GMR open again? I checked another forum and someone apparently crashed there on Saturday which makes me think thats its open again.

Adam

[bwarbiany]

I heard another teenager made a death leap off the edge recently... We'll see if it stays open...

[cyclox]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
I heard another teenager made a death leap off the edge recently... We'll see if it stays open...

http://www.pasadenastarnews.com/Stories/0,1413,206%257E22097%257E1785352,00.html?search=fi lter

great. driving on a narrow, winding road with steep dropoffs in a truck with its lights off. If, as suggested in the article, the lights were off accidentally, then this is tragic.

seriously, if people keep doing stupid shit like this, the road will be closed due to outcries of "that road is too dangerous for anyone to drive on". grrrrr....

[dnakase]

For Christ' sake there is a gate at both ends, they could lock it at sundown and unlock it at dawn.

For the cost of 2 patols a day they could save... wait a minute if they are that stupid to drive with there lights off... f**k it, let 'em die. Get 'e out of the gene pool.

[AdamR]

I've ridden GMR the last two weeks and it's been getting progressively cleaner, although now with the rain today I don't know. I've been going up mid-week and I basically have the place to myself.

One time I only saw one car on the Ridge Road and no traffic at all on GMR.

[Kurt'sSV]

Well now the son of a bitch is closed again. Shandra and I went up there today and it's all blocked off. Must have been some big mud slides or someone is just wanting to be a dick.

[Unit 91]

That sucks. That road has ruined more of my fun than any one road has a right to. OPEN UP YOU BASTARD!!

[AdamR]

I have good news and bad news about GMR. The bad news is that GMR is closed from Glendora to Glendora Ridge Road. The good news is that as of today, Jan. 8, GRR is completely open and GMR is open between GRR and East Fork Road. I rode around East Fork and San Gabriel Canyon Road today (Highway 39) and enjoyed no traffic at all! Unfortunately my crankcase filter decided to spit oil up onto my airfilters, so I had to make some roadside repairs.

All in all though, a fun day of riding, and 75 degrees! (Just came back from the East coast)


Adam

[Tillers_Rule]

Adam, so hows your new "track only:rolleyes: " bike running:D

[Knightshade]

people riding this weekend down in sd may find this info useful....

[AdamR]

Jeff,

The little GS is running pretty well. My trackday at Cal Speedway Infield went really well until rain ended the day early. I just bought an Aprilia 250 upper fairing for it and I plan to mount some small auxiliary lights to it. I think I'll definitely be back out at the track in February, probably at Streets.


Adam

[redline]

GMR was closed yesterday at the base of Foothil Blvd.

The Forest Service website says it's currently open:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r5/angeles/conditions/conditions-road.shtml

Anyone have a clue what's going on?

[AdamR]

The forest service page is not reliable. If you want to run the backside of GMR, you have to take Sierra Madre to Highway 39 and then go up East Fork Road. This worked for me as of mid Jan. I haven't had time to ride since then.

Adam

[redline]

So if you take 39, and East Fork Rd, where do you end up? At the gates on the back side by the river? Or are you able to go up the back side to the top?

Thanks.

[AdamR]

As of mid January you could take GMR up to Glendora Ridge Road to Mt Baldy Road.

Adam

[sandie]

anyone been up to GMR recently and have any updates as of today?

[LaPiñaLoca]

The 39 is apparently open, possibly all the way to the 2. There's dirt/rocks in the road in some places and it's dam-ned cold past crystal lake.

aaron

[dnakase]

Open to the 2???

Did they rebuild the places where the road disappeared into space?

[LaPiñaLoca]

Did they rebuild the places where the road disappeared into space?

My friend who went up there on monday said he went past Crystal Lake, where the road used to be closed a few years back. He said he got about 17 miles up and then got too cold and turned around.

There could be another gate between Crystal Lake and the 2, I don't know.

Aaron

[AdamR]

GMR is still closed from Glendora to Glendora Ridge Road but everything else is open. I saw maybe 12 bikes up there today, and saw virtually no traffic on Highway 39, which is quite rare.


Adam

[LaPiñaLoca]

39 is closed just past Crystal Lake, but it's still worth the ride :)

aaron

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by LaPiñaLoca
39 is closed just past Crystal Lake, but it's still worth the ride :)

aaron

Anyone ever gone past the closed gate to try to find the Crest? I've always wanted to try that :D

[redline]

Originally posted by AdamR
GMR is still closed from Glendora to Glendora Ridge Road but everything else is open. I saw maybe 12 bikes up there today, and saw virtually no traffic on Highway 39, which is quite rare.


Adam

So when you say you saw 12 bikes up there, are you talking about on HW 39, or between Mt. Baldy and GRR?

[AdamR]

On GRR and Baldy Road. Everyone was coming down as I was coming up. No bikes or other traffic on Highway 39 except for a couple VW tuner cars that were headed north as I went south near Azusa.

[Tillers_Rule]

Originally posted by AdamR
On GRR and Baldy Road. Everyone was coming down as I was coming up. No bikes or other traffic on Highway 39 except for a couple VW tuner cars that were headed north as I went south near Azusa.


Adam, I thought you converted your bike to a track-only bike...ya know, that day we ripped of the headlight and turn signals.

Did you get a new ride or what??:confused:

[AdamR]

I've come close to picking up different bikes, but I still have the GS. I also have auxiarly (fog) lights for the front. I don't have turn signals. However my canyons are only two left turns and a right turn from my apartment on lightly traveled roads. Everything else is pure twisties.


Adam

[Silver6]

I ride up through there almost every weekend... either on an EX500 (which I traded for my new SVS! 2003) or a Blue ZX6R 636. GMR is closed, everything else is open. Road conditions on GRR are OK right now, you just gotta watch out for gigantic rocks in the middle of the road here and there and some gravel. Other than that it's OK. Hwy 39 is great, as usual... not too many problems there.

I'm in San Dimas if anyone is up for a ride.

[AdamR]

I'd be up for a ride through there at some point. (my local canyons too) However, I'm having electrical system problems with my old CBR and I'm waiting for a regulator/rectifier unit to arrive.

[Silver6]

E-mail me when you're ready for a spin. Gotta take it easy on me, though... I'm not quite fully comfortable with this SVS yet. It's much more sensitive to steering input than my 636 and the engine response and throttle applications take a while to get used to.

[LaPiñaLoca]

GMR IS OPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!! The whole thing. The road condition looked dusty, but only one rock and only a few spots of gravel.

:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[redline]

thanks for the update! This has been a long time coming. :D :D :D :D

[SUCATI]

Good news!

I want to try that road again. When I was out there in 2002 I managed to bluff my way past a guard at the Foothill gate. As it turns out they were filming a commercial or something up on one of the curves. (bicycle race bikes were all around)

The guard just waved me through as I started to stop and ask if I could go up the road. So I get part way up and see the film crew and 2 CHP cruisers hanging at one of the big pull off areas eating lunch under a big catering tent. I continued up until I got to the other gates at the top and had to turn around. On the way back as I got close to the film crew area I found one of the CHP guys blocking the road. He was surprised to see me to say the least. He wanted to know how I got up there. So he radios down to someone and tells them I'm up there. They made me wait for about 10 minutes then let me tiptoe through the "scene" and get off of the mountain.

I had the whole road to myself the whole time!

Mike

[dnakase]

I've been seeing GMR on the WRX commercial that's been airing recently.

Need to get off ass and get up there.

[sandie]

crowlaw and i rode GMR and 39 this weekend, it was great! a little debris on the roads, but still nice...perfect weather once we got up the hill.

there was a biker down...i couldn't tell what kinda bike he was on, because i didn't see the bike :eek: but he was wearing jeans (ouch, that musta hurt). the emergency crews were just going up the hill when we got there...very sad. he was conscious, but they had him laying on his side with a jacket under his head

we also ran into two girls on r6's (yay!) one in full leathers, one in jeans and a baby t :rolleyes: i can't remember her name, but we told her about this site...hopefully she'll check it out

[sandie]

gmr closed now? zzzwillzzz just posted this on another thread...anyone have any details? i was gonna ride out there this coming weekend (damnit!)


edit: jsut checked the forestry service website...GMR closed, GRR open and azusa open. although i don't know how you'd get to GRR without going up GMR

[LaPiñaLoca]

Sandie, take Mt. Baldy Rd. up, hang a left after you get to the village. You may also be able to get the by taking the 39->East Fork (across the bridge) -> hang a right onto GMR (this also has a gate which will probably be locked).

aaron

[sandie]

yeah, east fork is open too...so there's still plenty of riding to be had up there...anyone interested in a saturday morning jaunt up there?

[LaPiñaLoca]

i'll go :)

[cosmo]

Planned a sweet loop for the day. Got up nice and early so I could get down from crestline and across hwy 2 and loop back to GMR and baldy rd.

HWY 2 is stll closed about 5mi west of Wrightwood so I back tracked to the fwy and headed over to GMR its still closed too. dam.
I guess I should have checked
anyway, hwy 18 coming back home to crestline was crazy crowded.

The mountain is full people......
Stay in your homes.
nothing to see in Arrowhead or Crestline but traffic jams. :mad:

[dnakase]

I hear the road from Baldy to The East Fork is open.

Have yet to check it out personally.

Also read where they don't expect to rebuild parts of 2 that are still under snow or were washed out this year. :-(

[motodude]

Back side is open, as of last weekend....no traffic either. Woohoo!

[cosmo]

I grew up in La Mirada
Manzanares and Badlona by the park

I've got the best porno name (street you grew up on and your first pets name)

Pepe Manzanares....Yea! :D

[enos79]

Glendora Ridge Road was still closed when I went up Baldy last Sunday 7/3/05.

[soulofadra6o]

when are we gonna get together as a biker community and just build our own private road, heck even a makeshift mountain and carve a road in it! that would be totally kick ass...cameras to watch if anyone goes down to send help...foam side railings for protection...yes that's the life hehe

[illustr8dman]

Originally posted by motodude
Back side is open, as of last weekend....no traffic either. Woohoo!

Thanks for the notice! I rode that on Tue. and had a Blast! Kinda missed having a line down the middle of the road but didn't mind too much since there was NO Trafffic. Went up to Mt. Baldy Then back down and took Route 66 home. Absolutely Beautifull!!

[enos79]

D'oh! I guess I missed the opening of the back side by about one day, lol! Well good to know thanks!

[sandie]

what does backside mean? from mt baldy?

[illustr8dman]

Originally posted by sandie
what does backside mean? from mt baldy?
What are you saying? You want this baldy to mount your backside? :eek: :p ;) :D :o :angel:

[Jerm]

Originally posted by dnakase
I hear the road from Baldy to The East Fork is open.

Have yet to check it out personally.


The Ridge Road was awesome, single lane throughout, w/ other vehicles non-existent. Experienced gravel early on coming from GMR side then seem to be well swept after that.

I was there in late June.

[GTKrockeTT]

excellent news! went up there a couple months ago and east fork was still closed. hopefully remains open when i make a trip up there. does east fork go all the way to the 39?

[Gibbolamappa]

Originally posted by sandie
what does backside mean? from mt baldy?

me :confused: too

[enos79]

just went highway 39 to glendora ridge road, then to baldy. Weather and road were in great shape, but GMR still closed. Oh and we had to go slow the 2nd half because my riding buddy went down....AGAIN, bah.

[GTKrockeTT]

took mountain ave towards baldy, and the GRR to 39, very light traffic, but some sandy patches. watch out for those lance armstrong wannabes!

[dnakase]

Article Last Updated: 11/20/2005 10:59 PM


County to reopen mountain roadway

By Marianne Love Staff Writer
Pasadena Star-News

ANGELES NATIONAL FOREST - Julia Gosnell and her family have been enjoying the peace and quiet in the 10 months since Glendora Mountain Road was closed because of damage from last winter's rain storms.
Gosnell said her stomach sank after hearing last week that county supervisors approved

$1.6 million to repair and reopen a major stretch of the road by next summer.

"We're very happy with it closed. I suppose if I was a motorcycle rider, I wouldn't be, but the noise generated on our street on a weekend morning is horrendous and extremely loud," Gosnell, 42, said. "My husband is a road bike rider and he gets to ride the mountains without being cut off by motorcyclists."

The affected area is at mile marker 10 between Glendora Ridge Mountain Way and Big Dalton Canyon Road, which lead north into the forest from Glendora.

The road is known for its closures due to rain and fires.

"There was a pavement failure, sharp drop-offs and a potential for rock and mud slides. They'll build a retaining wall, correct the drainage and build new guard rails," said Ken Pellman, spokesman for the county's Department of Public Works.

Bids for the project on the 15-mile road will be opened Dec. 13 with construction slated to begin in January and completion estimated for June.

The road closure has had little impact on most forest users because they can access the Angeles National Forest through Highway 39 or Mount Baldy Road, said forest spokeswoman Sherry Rollman.

"It's a winding, curvy, slow-moving road. Bicyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts will be happy to get it back. It's mostly known for its scenic value," Rollman added.

Glendora Mountain Road, which leads to Mount Baldy ski slopes, has around 100 hair-raising curves as high as 4,000 feet above sea level.

Prevailing speed laws apply, meaning drivers should use a pace that's reasonable and prudent based on road and weather conditions.

The road, nicknamed "GMR," has a reputation for its roller-coaster ride of switchbacks from Glendora to East Fork Road in the Angeles National Forest.

Some call the road damned; others curse it.

Thrill seekers have been known to press the pedal to the metal, while teens drink on its banks and then careen down its turns, usually in the middle of the night.

Just last week, a woman attempted suicide by driving off a portion of the road that was not closed. She survived, but police were still looking for her car two days later.

Several attempts by county officials and law enforcement to shut down the road have failed.

Others argue it's not the road, but those who use it. "It's only dangerous if you don't drive the speed limit," Pellman said.

http://pasadenastarnews.com/news/ci_3237773

[Willdahthril]

WOOOHOOOO!!!!!!!! That road is awesome! been closed for too long.

As for bicyclists, the road's there for motorized vehicles which we are. And that lady's house was cheaper for being on the main drag which is probably why she bought it/could afford it, so she has no reason to complain.(unless people have illegal exhausts which I know is not the case:p ) but in that case she can complain to the police about cracking down on noise pollution instead of trying to make us riders look like bad people.

[Jerm]

Originally posted by Willdahthril
WOOOHOOOO!!!!!!!! That road is awesome! been closed for too long.

As for bicyclists, the road's there for motorized vehicles which we are. And that lady's house was cheaper for being on the main drag which is probably why she bought it/could afford it, so she has no reason to complain.(unless people have illegal exhausts which I know is not the case:p ) but in that case she can complain to the police about cracking down on noise pollution instead of trying to make us riders look like bad people.

She reminds of the ppl that bished and moaned by the Pomona Drag strip ending the Street Legal Drags there :rolleyes:

BTW, those bikes have a dedicated road just for them that runs from Hwy 39, on the base of the mountain to the coast. A much safer place for them to ride.

[devildog]

AS A RECREATION MOTORCYCLIST AND 16 YEAR BICYCLE RACER I CAN SEE BOTH POINTS.

THE GREATER RISK TO BOTH TWO WHEELED VEHICLES IS THE BOY RACERS IN THE FULL RACE AUTOMATIC CIVICS AND SUCH.

I HAVE BEEN OVERTAKEN BY MOTORCYCLISTS GOING UP AND DOWN GMR WHEN THE ROAD WAS OPEN. IT GETS A LITTLE HAIRY BECAUSE WE BOTH USE SIMILAR APEXES AND THE SPEED DIFFERENTIAL, MOSTLY GOING UP.

THE LA RIVER TRAIL IT IS ANYTHING BUT SAFE. THE NORTHERN HALF IS EITHER UNDER CONSTRUCTION,COVERED IN BROKEN GLASS AND HORSE SHIT, OR PATROLLED BY VERY UNSAVORY FOLKS. THE SOUTHRN HALF IS IN MUCH BETTER CONDITION BUT POPULATED BY EVERY SLOW MOVING WOBBLER AND THEIR UNCOORDINATED SPAWN.

AS FOR THE POINT OF SAFTEY ON MOUNTAIN ROADS...HOW MANY POSTS ARE THERE ON THE FATALITIES THREAD FOR MOUNTAIN ROADS? 39,EAST FORK, AND BALDY ARE NOT RACE TRACKS. THEY HAVE SPOTS OF WATER RUN OFF, LARGE FALLEN ROCKS AND WIND BLOW SCREE FROM THE WALLS ABOVE.

DO WE WANT TO PIGEON HOLE ONE TYPE OF ROAD USER? ISN'T THAT WHAT THE CAGERS HAVE BEEN TRYING TO DO TO US FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS?

HAVE FUN BUT BE CAREFUL...TO ALL

[Willdahthril]

Originally posted by devildog

DO WE WANT TO PIGEON HOLE ONE TYPE OF ROAD USER? ISN'T THAT WHAT THE CAGERS HAVE BEEN TRYING TO DO TO US FOR THE LAST 20 YEARS?



Yes and Yes heheh just kidding. My complaint is largely in regard to speed. I don't use these or any other roads as a race track. However with speed limits at 45-55 mph when your going up hill and come around a corner to see bicyclists riding two wide in the road going 1.5 mph because it's so steep, but they want to be able to talk to each other. That's just irresponsible, they're risking my life without my knowledge or consent. I don't think bicycles should be entitled to use of the entire lane pretty much at all. Downhill is obviously much safer because they are moving much faster, but on level or uphill portions it's not safe for eitehr party. It's even harder for cars to go around them and a car has to swerve into opposing traffic because of a bicyclists lane position it could cause a major accident, one that I don't want to be anywhere near. Minimum speed laws are there for a reason too and I don't think bicycles should be exempt from them ( i'm not sure they are either, when bicycles are on the road they have to follow the rules of the road no? stopping at stop signs, lights etc.) Don't want to start an argument here. I respect both sports, just keep 'em safe so we can enjoy them longer.

[devildog]

WILLDAHTHRIL

I HEAR YOU ABOUT THE RIDING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. WHEN EVER I HEAR A BIKE COMING I ALWAYS SHOUT AND EITHER SCOOT OVER OR GET OFF AND STAND ON THE SHOULDER. (THIS IS DEPENDENT ON THE VOLUME OF THE EXHAUST NOTE.

AS FOR TALKING WHILE RIDING UP GMR...ME AND MY 1/2 HORSE POWER ARE JUST TRYING TO CATCH MY BREATH.

BICYCLES AND PEDESTRIANS ARE EXEMPT FROM MIN SPEED LIMITS AS LONG AS THE ARE TO THE EDGE OF THE ROAD. NOW THERE ARE A FEW ROADS THAT I HAVE ENCOUNTERED THAT ARE OFF LIMITS TO BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC.

[biggalvan1]

Is gmr open now would hate to ride out to find it closed ahh gmr good time :love:

[rwalterk]

A rider on another board was up there today:

I did Azusa Canyon and East Fork today - didn't bother with GMR, even though it was open at the bottom by East Fork, since I figured it would be crappy - guess I should have ridden it just to give you guys a report - I know, insensitive of me .

Anyway, the lower elevation roads were fine with ocassional areas where they scraped mud and rocks, but I wouldn't expect good conditions higher up. Could be wrong though.

[speed_dmon]

Well I probably have only 2000 or so miles under my belt on the SV and I mostly commute and very small canyon ride (Carbon canyon). Today I had my first taste of some serious stuff. My cousin likes driving his coupe and lives in Glendora so he invited me to ride as he showed me the way up 39 driving in his car.:eek: GOSH DAM! It was a mix of exhiliration and being scared. Maybe I was going a lil beyond my own pace as I was pretty much keeping up with him 50-60 mph range. It was all pretty much really fun but DAMN SCARY for me. On the way down in one of the long sweepers I think I was the most frightened, going through it I really wasn't trusting my stock rubbers that are pretty worn might I add. I just didn't feel planted and comfortable enough for my liking, the occassional dirt on the road wasn't helping either. Hopefully after I get my balls back where they're suppose to be and mount my pilot powers I'll be back up there.
ahh thats it for now

[soulofadra6o]

ya..those 220s suck even when they have full thread...just dont try to go fast.speed will come on it's own...you must've rode GMR, I like the road up azusa to get to GMR but i didnt like GMR the few times i rode there..it was to tight for my taste at my riding level (at the time)

[speed_dmon]

"Too tight"
Thats a perfect way to put it. At some points the lane seemed reallllly slim. Even tighter when some dumbass truck with a trailer crossed the median just to pass a freakin bicyclist!

[Tom]

Wait till you go ride Palomar with the San Diego people on the board. :)

[Dragonhawk]

Originally posted by speed_dmon
:eek: GOSH DAM! It was a mix of exhiliration and being scared. Maybe I was going a lil beyond my own pace as I was pretty much keeping up with him 50-60 mph range. It was all pretty much really fun but DAMN SCARY for me.
Scaring yourself by admittedly riding beyond your comfort-level just to keep up with someone else?

Mmm, hm.

:|

[sandie]

i love GMR :love:

[soulofadra6o]

Originally posted by sandie
i love GMR :love:

and GMR loves you back :love:

[Jerm]

Originally posted by speed_dmon
Well I probably have only 2000 or so miles under my belt on the SV and I mostly commute and very small canyon ride (Carbon canyon). Today I had my first taste of some serious stuff. My cousin likes driving his coupe and lives in Glendora so he invited me to ride as he showed me the way up 39 driving in his car.:eek: GOSH DAM! It was a mix of exhiliration and being scared. Maybe I was going a lil beyond my own pace as I was pretty much keeping up with him 50-60 mph range. It was all pretty much really fun but DAMN SCARY for me. On the way down in one of the long sweepers I think I was the most frightened, going through it I really wasn't trusting my stock rubbers that are pretty worn might I add. I just didn't feel planted and comfortable enough for my liking, the occassional dirt on the road wasn't helping either. Hopefully after I get my balls back where they're suppose to be and mount my pilot powers I'll be back up there.
ahh thats it for now

Ride at your pace next time ;)

[Mohawk]

even mention GMR and get merged into a thread 4 years old.....:rolleyes:

[enos79]

Originally posted by speed_dmon
Well I probably have only 2000 or so miles under my belt on the SV and I mostly commute and very small canyon ride (Carbon canyon). Today I had my first taste of some serious stuff. My cousin likes driving his coupe and lives in Glendora so he invited me to ride as he showed me the way up 39 driving in his car.:eek: GOSH DAM! It was a mix of exhiliration and being scared. Maybe I was going a lil beyond my own pace as I was pretty much keeping up with him 50-60 mph range. It was all pretty much really fun but DAMN SCARY for me. On the way down in one of the long sweepers I think I was the most frightened, going through it I really wasn't trusting my stock rubbers that are pretty worn might I add. I just didn't feel planted and comfortable enough for my liking, the occassional dirt on the road wasn't helping either. Hopefully after I get my balls back where they're suppose to be and mount my pilot powers I'll be back up there.
ahh thats it for now

GMR is my all time favorite. Yeah it is very technical, but thats some of its charm. I have run this road more times than I can remeber back in the days with the car club, in fact I have wrecked the car 2 times on that mountain. (Hey 2 times out of prolly like 25 aint bad, lol) So far on the bike all good experiences so far.

Long live GMR! :D

[Jerm]

GMR was closed at East Fork Rd. this morning (assume it's closed at the Mt. Baldy end [GRR] now also). Hwy 39 had high CHP presence. 4 CHP Crown Vics and 1 Tahoe, but more then likely just a closure for the holiday weekend and a step up in patrol.

[Willdahthril]

ahh bummer....i was hoping to hear wonderful tales of the perfect new asphalt on GMR and how it's now open, but no one knows so there's no traffic.:sad:

[Jerm]

Originally posted by Jerm
GMR was closed at East Fork Rd. this morning (assume it's closed at the Mt. Baldy end [GRR] now also). Hwy 39 had high CHP presence. 4 CHP Crown Vics and 1 Tahoe, but more then likely just a closure for the holiday weekend and a step up in patrol.

Was just a holiday deal, was up there this morning. GMR is open at East Fork (still closed at the split up top though till Aug. 31st, linky (http://ladpw.org/rmd/roadclosure/results.cfm) )

There were quite a number of large rocks on the Ridge, w/ sand patches on some of the corners, so take it easy on the Ridge.

This public service announcement brought to you by:
Jerm :)

[quiklids]

Here's a map of the closure -

[slowpoke]

:( Was checking on the status and now it's pushed back to 2007:sad:

http://ladpw.org/rmd/roadclosure/results.cfm

[karlow]

No way man, the best part is above the bridge & past the resturant.

[04RoyalBlue]

Just went to check if it was open, still not open from Glendora but you can take the 39 to E fork up GMR then take GRR to Mt. Baldy. Careful on GRR, just layed down my bike when a sheriff suburban met me on a blind turn. Need new fairing, damn!

[quiklids]

CalTrans is up on GRR fixing some of the asphalt curbing today...thinking they might be up there for a while...lots of loose stuff and a CHP unit...was a pretty mellow ride.

[smokescreen]

Tony- don't say mean things like that. I need them gone by the weekend.

[quiklids]

GMR was an absolute MESS today. Rocks, gravel, trees blocking one lane numerous times. Got to the saddle by the grace of God, and turned back home. Stopped to talk to a two-up cruiser on the way down, and he dropped it!

Beware-

[enos79]

When I was up there 2 weeks ago, GMR was still closed. East Fork was OK, but Glendora Ridge to Baldy was bad. Rocks, loose asphalt, and ICE.

[motorgroove]

rode up Azusa, to East Fork then up GMR today. There was a couple of small patches of ice near the top of GMR and when i spoke with a few people that had driven from Baldy to Glendora Ridge they reported there were big patches of ice on that portion of the road.

Also there was some loose gravel on GMR mostly on the inside lane (the lane going back down the mountain)

Otherwise it was cold but rewarding ride.

[quiklids]

Fairly decent roads today...little debris, no wind (it was early), and a couple small ice patches. Lots of new asphalt curbing on GRR with small dirt berms...some of the berms were taller making vision a problem. Saw your deer, Will...he's doing fine!

Saw results of a car crash on GMR...followed the flatbed all the way up 39/East Fork....a couple groups of bikes on GRR using the entire road like a friggin' race track.

On the way back down 39 I had clear sailing...it's SO rare, now...I forgot how much fun that road can be!:D

[smokescreen]

Man am I relieved to hear it!!

Did Bambi give you any dirty looks? I'm sure he doesn't like bikers any more.

[Jerm]

Originally posted by quiklids


On the way back down 39 I had clear sailing...it's SO rare, now...I forgot how much fun that road can be!:D

W/o a cage to impede your rhythm coming down 39, that road is the :cool: Love the way it flows.

[Jerm]

http://ladpw.org/rmd/roadclosure/results.cfm

Only a few days away, I'm trying not to get overly excited... but I seriously have my fingers crossed. I may have to pass on the ACH ride on the 2nd for GMR if this holds up :D

[Jerm]

" VERY HIGH WILDFIRE POTENTIAL- CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE"

Wow, they are coming up w/ all kinds of crap, might as well close the ridge road for that reason :rolleyes:

[Tom]

Originally posted by Jerm
" VERY HIGH WILDFIRE POTENTIAL- CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE"

Wow, they are coming up w/ all kinds of crap, might as well close the ridge road for that reason :rolleyes:

You can jog up there all day long, or go on a bicycle. :)

I hope they never open it back up so all you valentino rossies won't run my ass over. :D

[bristolbird]

Does anyone know if GMR is open?

[slowpoke]

LA Department of Public Works' web site still shows it closed.

http://ladpw.org

New reason is high fire danger. I expect the front side to be closed until the next rain.:rolleyes: (back side should still be open, as normal)

(maybe we should all go up there and pee, so the vegetation will green up:angel: )

[bristolbird]

Bummer, thanks Peter.

[slowpoke]

http://ladpw.org/rmd/roadclosure/results.cfm

WooHoo!:groove:

Checked the web site and it says 7/9/2007!!!

I guess people have gone up there and pee'd to turn things green.

[topse7en]

i've never ridden that side. i can't wait.

[Ka2Ter]

Just rode GMR this am (8-10am). Gosh it's been 2+ years.
Road is sweet. I saw maybe 30 bikes of all classes enjoying the asphalt.

Someone plan a group ride ASAP! There's an In-n-Out in Glendora @ the 210 and Lone Hill next the roadhead....hint hint..

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by Ka2Ter
Just rode GMR this am (8-10am). Gosh it's been 2+ years.
Road is sweet. I saw maybe 30 bikes of all classes enjoying the asphalt.

Someone plan a group ride ASAP! There's an In-n-Out in Glendora @ the 210 and Lone Hill next the roadhead....hint hint..
Oh wow. Finally (not that I've missed it being closed 'cause it was closed during those years I didn't have a street bike)! I won't have a chance to ride it until the 29th, so hopefully it doesn't get closed again before then.

I wouldn't put that past CalTrans. :rolleyes:

Lets hope for no fatalities up there these first few weeks.

[sandie]

yay!!!! happy happy joy joy!

[TheForce02]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV


Lets hope for no fatalities up there these first few weeks.

No fatalities today, but some stupid crashes :mad:

[svseki]

Went Saturday afternoon and made 4 passes and only saw 2 bikes and the Sheriff SUV. Enjoyed it and going back Sunday.

[svseki]

Be careful, went up this morning and the CHP is up there.

[smokescreen]

I voted yes! Because it's open!

[TheForce02]

Originally posted by svseki
Be careful, went up this morning and the CHP is up there.

Yes we are. Might I ask if it was a motor officer that you observed? If it was then depending on what he is doing I would suggest striking a conversation with him. You'd be surprised by what you would learn.

[leannica]

I was up there yesterday afternoon... few riders... super hot. Saw squid with chick on the back in nothing but tank top and shorts.

[kpalmer]

Originally posted by leannica
I was up there yesterday afternoon... few riders... super hot. Saw squid with chick on the back in nothing but tank top and shorts.

He must have just moved to California from Florida. :D

[svseki]

Originally posted by TheForce02
Yes we are. Might I ask if it was a motor officer that you observed? If it was then depending on what he is doing I would suggest striking a conversation with him. You'd be surprised by what you learned.


As a matter of fact I did. He was impounding a R6 for the second time for no license in 2 weeks. Nice guy and encouraged riding on the track, like if I needed any encouragement.

[Jerm]

:groove:

[sandie]

slowpoke and i just did a couple runs up and down GMR...it's all clear! just a couple dust spots where they're doing road work, and a couple stray little rocks here and there, but otherwise really clear...and NO CARS! man riding during the week is FUN! didn't see one cop...just a few forestry service and caltrans workers here and there

[slowpoke]

Originally posted by sandie
slowpoke and i just did a couple runs up and down GMR...it's all clear! just a couple dust spots where they're doing road work, and a couple stray little rocks here and there, but otherwise really clear...and NO CARS! man riding during the week is FUN! didn't see one cop...just a few forestry service and caltrans workers here and there

+1

Boy my memory must be faulty, I don't remember needing to brake on GMR. The patches are smooth, rest of the road is well preserved (so many years w/o traffic will do that, I guess ;) ).

[ktkwong]

oh wow.. im goin to check it out tomorrow morning!

[sassybelle]

I don't think anyone has posted this yet- I checked on the last ACH ride post but didn't see anyone mention it.... so FYI It is actually finally open after being closed for 3+ years!!! (or close to it)

Rather than CLOSED the sign now reads ROAD OPEN, RIDE SAFE, watch out for bikes & hikers (what for:rolleyes: )

Open and clean!! If you go up from Azusa and head down GMR beware of one turn that is very sandy- its after a long hill top strech, then you pass under an oak that shades the entire road and pass over a "bridge" (not actually a bridge, but the only spot I can remember that has guard rails on both sides) the next sweeper to the right is covered in sand. And yes this is an example of girl directions :D

Aside from that just stay off the shoulder and you're good to go- although it makes sense that there will be more sand as more retards drive their cages onto the dirt and pull back out onto the road...

Yeah- fun "new" road with lots of switch backs- so heads up this weekend... something to consider for the Gathering ride:grin:

[mother]

gmr?

[sassybelle]

Glendora Mountain Ridge Road- The usual route is up Azusa and down Mt Baldy... now there is another option!

[ktkwong]

i think its been open...

http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=402&perpage=15&pagenumber=13

[racinteach]

is it open to the crest? on saturday we rode to the end of ACh and the gate was still locked.

[sandie]

i don't think it's ever been open all the way to the crest...but it is open to baldy, and over to GRR...it's been open for about a month now :D they are doing road work up there, so keep your eyes peeled for orange vehicles and a drizzle of debris they may leave behind!

[Jerm]

Originally posted by sassybelle
I don't think anyone has posted this yet- I checked on the last ACH ride post but didn't see anyone mention it....



Yea, b/c we are trying to keep it on the down low :D ... the word is out anyways.

I'll be heading up there early Saturday, like around 7:30, I believe Darth Lefty (sp?) has a ride scheduled up there the same day, not sure what his set time is :confused:

[Jerm]

la-bikepics.com is always taking pics up there, there is another one, but do not know the link off hand

[Tom]

Since it's hunting season up there this month, I'd stay away unless you are looking for a picture of you being dick cheney'd.

[Ka2Ter]

Not really-its a bit squirrley..

Cruised up GMR last Sunday Oct_11_2009. Here's a view from the lookout. For orientation: Morris Dam is top left of pic and outfall from San Gabriel Dam is top right. This viewpoint/turnout shows up almost every issue of Motorcyclist or Cycle World photo shoots with great breathtaking views of Mt. Baldy and the surrounding areas...but here's the view for now.

Oh and yes, thank goodness I was wearing my ORANGE KTM-exque Alpinestars gloves otherwise I may have been mistaken for a deer.
Geez was too many wanna-be-Ted-Nugent bow hunters walkin' 'round.
. . . Tis the season