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0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

Great Ride and like many have said very technical. I am from the area and anyone who rides makes their way to Palomar, almost as a "right of passage". Both novice and experienced alike take this road head on, but I'm writing this review to caution the novice. Two friends of mine both newer riders tried to prove themselves on this road and were killed. Just be safe and be careful on Palomar Mountain and don't under estimate it.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

This is a windy road, particularly South Grade. People live on this road, it should be respected. You should obey traffic laws and do not cross ove the lines. Each year, at 26 to 30 riders are killed or greatly injured on this road. Please don't victimize the residents and visitors to this beautiful place to satisfy your need for adrenalin.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

Great ride up the face of Palomar Mountain on the S6 side. Well engineered road, so once you get your turn line, you're good to go on each of these bends. The downhill side - S7 towards Lake Henshaw - is a little rougher in places. Looks like SD county is a little behind on maintenance, but still in all - a nice stretch of road. I did take a few breaks to check the scenery - several excellent Scenic Overlooks that are worth checking out. Recommended!

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Touring

I live in San Diego and the local Goldwing chapter rides this at least six times a year. going up the east side and comming down the west seems to be the best because you get the technical part going up and the speed comming down. Just watch out for the rice-rockets there are a lot of them up there

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

Outstanding road! My brother and I did this route the middle of last summer and were blown away. The scenery was awesome but we didn't see much of it because we were so focused on the road and staying on it. It was a beautiful day and there were alot of other riders out enjoying road. The only downside is that when you are on a cruiser with floorboards, you can't lean into the corners like those on crotch rockets and duel sports. HIGHLEY RECOMENDED!!

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Enduro

Just wanted to point out an alternate route for the dual sport guys. You can take the Nate Harrision Grade route up the Mountain. From there you have your choice to take the short or long way down... or just turn around and take the Nate Harrison Grade route back down. Keep an eye out for hikers.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

Riding it the second time was as exciting as the first. Like being in love all over again. If you ride for white knuckled twisties that have you flicking your bike back and forth, you'll never leave. Top off before you pass the casino.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

Did this ride today as my first ride in the state of california. I'm a new resident and thoroughly enjoyed this route.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

Best twisty road in Southern California!!! Went out there in May 09 and was among a group of 20 sport bike riders that were all Palomar Mtn virgins. Half of us have been back there twice since then and will be adding this to our list of annual must rides.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

I have seen an heard comparisons to Deal's Gap, and though this is a fun road, I have to give the nod to the Gap. The pavement is not as well maintained here and the curves not as tight. that said my biggest problem with the Palomar Road is the traffic. I would only bother on weekdays. On weekends there are too many cars and trucks going way too slow. Still a worthwile ride if you are in the area.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

NEW INFO!!! They have gouged grooves in the center line all the way down the west grade. Don't go in too hot on the decreasing radius turns... ;) Anyhow, this is a great road.

2 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Standard

I rode Palomar when I was about 16, I was with my dad. He was on a 52 Panhead and I on an 76 sportster. I remember it as being a little challenging but I was a wild kid, not easily phased. I didn't drop the bike and remember having a great time. This would have been about 30 years ago.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

This is an absolutely beautiful area, not far from where I was born (in Orange County). One quick note on Mother's Kitchen -- it's not open Monday-Wednesday, but you definitely want to stop there while you're out there, so plan your trip for Thursday-Sunday!

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

This is a great run. if you stay on the 76 for a few miles past the turnoff u will see the hideout kinda hidden off on the right side of the road. Great biker stop . burgers dogs n chili. only open on sat.& sunday

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

Took the ride on New Years Day and had the road to myself. Drive was super and I took it all the way to the Mt. Palomar observatory. They have a great tour and museum there - don't miss it. Great chili at Mother's Kitchen!

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

I am here visiting from Tucson, AZ. I rode Palomar Mt. today and it was awesome!! I came out here just to ride that road. I was lovin it !!
I'm going back tomorrow!!

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

That skyline view is absolutely beautiful! I'm going to safely assume that THAT is an early morning view. I've never actually rode my bike in the early, early morning for leisure. I'll have to do that sometime. :) Rebecca Used Cars Indiana

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

One of the most fun roads I have had a chance to ride. We went during an off season and we only saw a few other bikes.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Touring

I rode the Tail of the Dragon in Deal's Gap and I have to say that the Palomar Mtn Road is every bit as technical if not more so than The Dragon. The change in height is also far greater making for two completely different rides going up and going down. A definite must fo those who's goal is to ride America's best motorcycle roads

2 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Standard

This road is extremely technical. First time i have ever scraped pegs and i have about 1-2 mm of chicken strips left. Be careful and take it slow at first.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

I live in Southern California and saw this listing on MotorcycleRoads.com and decided to check it out. I was absolutely blown away by this road! --went up and down the west side of the mountain about 4 times, then hung out at Mother's Kitchen for a while, hooked up with some other riders and headed down the east side to the lake -- incredible ... can't believe I lived only a few hours away from this area/road and never tried it. I'll be doing this one a couple times a year!!

85 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

Great mountain road, ride it many times!

15 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

Truly one of my favorite rides in SoCal. I do this ride a few times a year at least and as recent as March 2020. Epic views of lake Henshaw on your way down. Road quality is fantastic, but watch out for the metal grates and also the potential ice during the early spring months (due to the elevation).

4 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

I am a newish driver (1 year) and this route was just the best I've experienced so far! Great turns, views and long stretches. I would recommend this route to anyone who wants to enjoy themselves.
There is a cool bar & Grill by the lake at the midpoint of the route.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

really a great ride, i will do this agin .The scenery is so great you have a hard time keeping your eyes on the road ., so watch it .

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

A very technical road. I would not recommend this ride for anyone that isn't comfortable on their bike enough to get really low. We went through on two Street Glides and we were scraping floorboards on most of the turns. Plenty of other bikes out there and some good food at the small diners around there. I would for sure do that ride again.

2 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

This is a fabulous ride. My suggestion is to avoid being on the road early in the morning when the sun is rising. Visibility is horrible when sun is in your eyes. I made this mistake and ended up taking a break for an hour at a roadside taco shop to wait for the sun to not be glaring in my face. Other than this, I thought the Lake Henshaw portion of the ride was the most beautiful and fun. I can't wait to get back and do this ride again with friends. Amazing.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

This is probably my favourite route to ride in the area. The hwy in an out has one stop sign (I think) and is a long smooth road with lots of gentle turns. The run up and down Palomar mountain is one you will remember... lots of 180 degree switchbacks and a few really cool places to stop at the top and look over the valley. The far end of it has a nice overview of the lake which is nice. Also, you can reverse the ride up and down the mountain for added challenge. I could easily do this ride once a week and not get bored of it.

2 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

Absolute blast to ride this loop. As stated, many opportunities to lean your bike over and throttle out of a turn as well as straights to go real fast. Midweek is best to avoid traffic and farm trucks.

33 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

Finally made it up Palomar! I'm a new rider so I went early morning mid week and there was no one else there so it was perfect. Once you get to the top there are several other roads you can explore. Hands down one of my best riding experiences so far.

4 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

This route is awesome. Great scenery and you can stop at Mother's or the convenience store next door for a snack. Lots of twisties. I will mention that riding around the mountain is also very nice if you still want a lot of what the mountain has to offer but don't necessarily want to hit all the twisty roads. Better to go around the mountain if you are a newer rider, then conquer going up once you have more experience.

5 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Adventure Touring

From the South/West, gas up in Ramona before sunrise and your views are spectacular, and ride home puts the sun at your back.

50 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

1

14 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Touring

Be cautious on weekends. This is a popular route for young military members and sport bikes. California Highway Patrol responds to several serious enjoy and occasional fatal incidents almost every weekend. The famous Palomar Observatory is near the top and the Palomar Mtn. General Store has snacks. (palomarmountainstore.com)

104 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Cruiser

Great scenery & challenging curves up to the summit.

60 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport - Touring

THE Ride to do in San Diego County. A mountain ride with Great twisties, greenery, places to pit stop. Busy on the weekends!

28 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

South grade is a popular spot riders will meet at the bottom and ride up in groups. The east grade is a lot faster and road condition is rough in spots but still has some tight downhill turns. Not much car traffic on the mountain, only a few houses. Ride safe not stupid

28 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Sport

South grade is a popular spot riders will meet at the bottom and ride up in groups. The east grade is a lot faster and road condition is rough in spots but still has some tight downhill turns. Not much car traffic on the mountain, only a few houses. Ride safe not stupid

15 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Touring

Lots of excellent turns. Not too tight and lots of fun to ride. The scenery is also outstanding on this ride. I plan to do it again soon.

0 McR Points

Motorcycle Type : Other

Did this road last weekend (September 20, 09) after reading the description. From a road fun factor standpoint this road deserves a 5+ stars. I can not think of another road I've enjoyed more. I loved the fact that it was out there in a somewhat remote part of CA and the fact that the lake you see in the picture is pretty isolated to keep other traffic away. There wasn't much to do when it was time to take a break but Mother's Kitchen was a nice place to hang out and tell bike stories with the other riders. I'll be back again for sure and this time I'll bring sceptical friends who didn't make the trip this time with me....