Departed Santa Ana on Hwy 15 and headed north. Hwy 15 was a good road and fairly fast.
30 miles later we turned NE following Hwy 2 again and began crossing the mountains. The road would not take on a totally different character.
The road began to climb and descend on the curves that snaked their way through the mountains. Darkness soon fell so no more pictures. Traffic increased to an almost stop and go rush hour style. No way to pass, no way to go above 25-30 mph. You could hear the clock ticking as it wound down.
Finally arrived at check point 6 in Auga Prieta and left the traffic behind us. We were met with the usual amenities and even had our wind screen and face shield washed for us.
Filled the gas tanks, a very short break and headed south on Hwy 17 to Moctezuma.
Auga Prieta (Check Point 6) to Moctezuma (Check Point 7) to Hermosillo (Check Point 8 / Finish)
Back into the curves again. 235 miles to go to finish the ride. Of this, 180 miles were curves.
Reached Check Point 7 in Moctezuma, got gas and receipts. Took Hwy 14 back to Hermosillo.
Finished in Hermosillo with about 40 minutes to spare.
2015 International Rat Ride Motorcycle Rally "Highway to Hell" Sonora, Mexico
1 August 2015
Hermosillo, Sonora
Exhausted and yet still hyped at the same time. The sense of achievement and pride engulfs you and suddenly the hardships of the last 24 hours completely fade. You realize that your efforts were well worth the sacrifices that you demanded from your mind and body. You have truly earned your certificate and the privilege to be known as a "RAT"!
Took the bike down to the hotel room and put her to bed. After her performance she deserved a nice long rest.
Still hyped from the ride I walked back up to the finish line. Couple of hours later all riders were in and I began to feel that it was time for me to get some rest. Returned to my hotel room for a few hours of sleep.
