Fl Keys bound

[MangoMike]

While eating lunch with Mouthpiece and Cindy, Chris mentioned that he'd like to ride to Key West. Well, with the weather getting into the low 80's this week, Sis and I decided we'd do just that. Since we haven't ridden any distance in awhile, we started late this afternoon and made it to Bonita Springs, which is about half way to Islamorada, where I found an inexpensive Mom & Pop motel. We've done the Key West thing many times and decided this time we'd stop and spend a couple of days exploring the upper keys.

Only rode 170 miles this afternoon, but I feel it. And we came down I-75, which really sucks! Tomorrow we'll get off the super-slab and back on the side roads so it should be a much better ride.

Cheers,

Mike

 

[SpyderAnn01]

Sounds like a fun ride. I used to go to Islamorada often when I lived in Homestead. Ride safe and have fun.

 

[ARtraveler]

I have not been back to FL since 1978. There are some nice places to go. But agree--the super slab is not a great ride. Hope you enjoy the rest of the ride. Have always wanted to go back and do the FL Keys.

 

[rcdurango]

Great Trip

Wife and I did that last year and we loved it! Be sure to put on some Jimmy Buffet and kick back and enjoy the ride. When you get to Key West have some Conch Fritters and beer for us. Peace!

 

[NancysToy]

I love the upper Keys. I haven't visited there in years. Enjoy some exploring for me. :thumbup:

 

[MouthPiece]

I'm pissed that you didn't say anything to me. LOL. Cindy & I would have loved going with ya'll, Mike. Hope ya'll have a great time and perhaps our group can make a trek down that way for a two or perhaps three day ride.

Chris

 

[MangoMike]

Wow Chris, I'm sorry. I was going to call, but figured you and Cindy had to work and I didn't want to make you feel bad. The weather has been perfect. We're leaving in the morning and plan to follow 41 all the way home, more relaxed.

Talk to you soon.

Mike

 

[johnnyg]

Way to go Mike you an Sis have a good time and enjoy the company of one another down there. Wish we could do it.

 

[MangoMike]

Left Islamorada at 9 Fri morning, and arrived home at 5:30. Long day, but we were able to do it with minimal discomfort. It's been a long time since we've done any serious riding, and while a 400 mile day won't get any attention in the Long Distance/ Iron Butt community, it showed us that we haven't totally lost it. And, to make it even better, Sis and I are still talking to each other! :clap:

A few more trips and we'll be ready for Cuba

Mike

 

[MouthPiece]

Glad y'all made it back safely. I'm envious.

Chris

 

[MangoMike]

Chris,

This is certainly the time of year to ride to the Keys. Coming back via Hwy 27 I was grateful that it wasn't in the summer heat. Don't be envious, you and Cindy just retire and we'll take off for Alaska :clap:

Mike

 

[Desert Spyder]

The Keys are on my bucket list. I hope I live to see it. I LOVE Key Lime Pie! Not knowing the area, whats so brutal about the super slab and is there an alternative road from the mainland to then other end?

 

[MangoMike]

The Keys are on my bucket list. I hope I live to see it. I LOVE Key Lime Pie! Not knowing the area, whats so brutal about the super slab and is there an alternative road from the mainland to then other end?

Nothing especially bad about I-75 down the west coast of Florida, it's just another boring interstate with often heavy traffic. You can use Hwy 41 just west of I-75. In fact, when you reach Naples, where I-75 turns east and heads to the east coast, go south on 27 to 41 and take that across the state. Still not a lot to look at, but it puts you in touch with the Everglades and has a lot less traffic. From 41, head south through Homestead and into the Keys on Rt 1.

I'd recommend going to Key West at the southern (western) end of the Keys so you will experience the entire chain. Old Town Key West is for tourists, but if you've never been there it can be fun, but hotels are very expensive, even more so during Fantasy Fest.

You should try to go, it's a different world, very laid back.