I don't see how I can add much to what you've got here already, Willy. I recently crossed thru Yosemite on 120 (Tuolumne Meadows via Tioga Pass) and did 108 from 395 on the return leg--the first time I've taken that road. I was KNOCKED OUT! 108 was just FUN. Twisties, gorgeous views, steep climbs and descents, more gorgeous views, and very, VERY light traffic. Didn't see a single CHP either, but you'd better not take that as a guarantee.
I did it west-to-east but now I want to go back and try the other direction. (The western 40-50 miles of the road between Sonora and 395 is the really gorgeous part.)
As to 26, it's a great, fun road too, but CAJW was right; too many good choices to ever worry about having to nail down one "best" ride in those parts. I can't recommend anyplace to stay up that way; too close to home. The wife and I did have a nice stay at a B&B in Quincy a few years back though, if you get up that way. I recommend that area as well, but if you decide to try the Quincy-LaPorte Road, contact Old Michael (he knows a
special short-cut). Once you leave the Sac-Tahoe corridor (50 or 80), or get away from Yosemite and the Hwy 49 tourists, the roads are much much more open. As to Tahoe-Sac on 50, though, an hour and a half is a very reasonable estimate, at least on an FJR.
