Guys,
The Coalinga-Los Gatos route was just a suggestion. I'm not sure it would actually take longer, as the route will eliminate the entire southern section of 198 and about 15 miles of 25, dropping us onto 25 about 10 miles below Pinnacles. It's definitely a twistier route than what has been planned, but more scenic w/o a doubt. Friends who have been to the U.K. say it reminds them of that area. I haven't been, so I can't say.... Not that any of the planned route is not scenic, particularly this time of year.
It truly is a beautiful canyon to ride through, but I offer this caveat: It does have some very twisty sections, so attention is required at all times, particularly the North section. Like all mountain and canyon roads this time of year, on occasion it does have some debris washed upon the road. Typically the road is in great condition though, and the pay-off for slowing down is some spectacular scenery.
As far as Ben Hur Road; it's a nice roller coaster type of road, very scenic and lightly traveled. It does have some pretty bad sections, and be careful of the blind and decreasing radius turns. Not too frequent, but they sneak up on you from time to time. It's a fairly remote piece of road, and little traveled, so be careful out there. If you stop in the little town of Raymond, you are about 15 miles from where I work.
Not sure if I'm coming or not yet Toecutter. I have some team cycling planned for the weekend and I'm still awaiting for the final agenda. It sounds like a great ride though, and would be beautiful this time of year. I'd be more than happy to lead the group through Coalinga-Los Gatos Canyon if you guys decide to go that route. We would still meet at the planned spot, but turn off just East of Coalinga on 198 and ride to the valley entrance, then ride North.
