Saturday–Sunday, Sep 18–19 2021
Rob writes
Saturday
The property
Rob and Pumpkin
Scottie Sharpe with bbq and Makers Mark!
Restoration
Staring
Ebbetts pass over 8000 feet
Camping
Departed SF riding solo as Chris Weld and Ran Bush left separately out of San Rafael, Ca. Harry Bahlman had a honey do list at home. Had breakfast at the Black Bear Diner in Tracy and headed up through Stockton to Highway 4.
Toured around Copperopolis and saw the whole town in about a 5 minute loop. Angel’s camp looked like a scene out of 1960’s Sausalito. There are quaint shops and dining out doors. There are wineries everywhere up there and, on this weekend, we had to camp as all motels were booked. REO Speedwagon and Styx were performing in a 3000-person amphitheater in the area. Slid through the old town of Murphy’s and it too had shops, wineries and outside dining for the tourists. A single shot latte is over 5 bucks.
Scottie’s pad is about 3 miles up Highway 4 from town and he prominently displayed one of his collectible BMW’s to show us where to turn into his almost 3-acre parcel. I knew immediately this site would have to be added to the SMBC schedule for future use. Scottie Sharpe, owner and master mechanic bought this farm from folks who use to have weddings on site. Several people set up camp after admiring the many raised beds of produce and one giant pumpkin. (see photo). We toured the large shop where he restores classic BMW’s. (photo).
He hosted a Hamburger BBQ and we sat together in the shade and fought over the beer bottle opener. The weather was good and the high was around 80. Three of us decided to go up the mountain to the summit of Ebbett’s Pass. This was about 50 miles up the road one way. Stopped on the way down 4 at Bear Valley Ski area and it looked desolate. The only thing open was the sheriff’s office.
Returned to the farm and admired the views. In addition to his large motorcycle repair shop, there are two homes, storage structures, several fruit trees, flower and vegetable beds, a green house, and a wood storage barn. I also have to mention the pergola which is not to be confused with a gazebo. Scottie plans to convert some land to designated camping sites and may add showers and a laundry area. His first project coming up soon is to insulate and install solar panels on his work shop area.
Good camaraderie ensued with about 7 of us camped overnight on the grounds. Makers Mark showed up and helped make the evening laughable. We had a sprinkle of rain during the night but no big deal.
Sunday
5 on BMW motorcycles took Scottie to a thank you breakfast in the town of Arnold. He was on a KTM. That was odd. Returned to his mini oasis and broke camp.
Thank you Scottie and see you next time!