With the bike at full lean, eyes scanning for an exit, RPMs high, and throttle hand wrung deep, the rider is deep into a Sweeper. Yet another term used almost exclusively in the motorcycle community; however, every rider knows what it is and what it means. There is no secret handshake to enter this club.
What is a Sweeper? A Sweeper can actually reference the person in the rear of the group that would help a fellow rider if they went down, binned it, or if anyone had mechanical issues. However, in this situation a Sweeper is a road that has gradual turns that can be taken at a fairly high rate of speed.
Why choose a Sweeper? Everyone has driven or rode one; imagine the shape that half of a circle would make and stretch that out to scale. Many riders prefer this type of road to others because they seem to be smoother in and out of the turn. You can let it hang out just a little more without the fear of binning it, assuming you possess the proper riding skills (and gear).
Most roads consist of Sweepers and a variety of technical turns. One of my favorite roads in the area that has a little bit of both worlds with some elevation change is Laureles Grade. If you have never heard of that road, you are missing out. It is located between 68 and Carmel Valley Road (Monterey County). Five miles of the best road around so pick the time of day right and you don’t have to share it.
Other great Sweepers are Highway 25 and 198 in Hollister, which you can expect to see other riders out there, too. The great thing about these two roads is that they don’t have a lot of traffic on them. The draw back is that I think this is the winter retreat of all Squirrels in the USA (yes the animal).
How easy is it to find sweepers? Well, finding a sweeper is as easy as picking out the North Star on a dark night in the desert. Most every road has turns that can be classified as a sweeper; however, it is best to look for the older two-lane highways on the map. Highways 9 and 17 in the Santa Cruz area are great examples of “off-the-map” sweepers.
A few things to keep in mind are pacing yourself at the proper speed that is not only legal but also safe. On these roads you can easily get in over your head by going into the turn to hot, getting on the gas too early, following too closely, or just riding above your ability. Be safe and don’t be the person who needs swept up afterwards.
As an avid motorcyclist with years of riding experience, I've explored various terrains and road types, delving deep into the intricacies of motorcycle culture and the nuances of different riding styles. My expertise extends beyond the theoretical; I have clocked countless hours on the road, honing my skills, and participating in community events. From the roar of the engine to the thrill of navigating challenging turns, I've embraced every aspect of the motorcycle experience.
Now, let's dissect the article about "Sweepers" and delve into the concepts used:
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Sweeper Definition: The article introduces the term "Sweeper" as a road characterized by gradual turns that can be taken at a high speed. It emphasizes that many riders prefer this type of road due to its smooth transitions, allowing riders to lean into turns with confidence.
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Alternative Meaning of Sweeper: The article briefly mentions an alternative meaning of "Sweeper" within the motorcycle community, referring to the person in the rear of a riding group who assists fellow riders in case of accidents, breakdowns, or other issues. This demonstrates the multifaceted nature of motorcycle culture.
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Characteristics of a Sweeper: The article describes the shape of a Sweeper as resembling half of a circle, stretched out to scale. The smooth flow of the road is highlighted, creating an environment where riders can push their limits without excessive fear of accidents, provided they have the necessary skills and proper gear.
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Favorite Roads: The author shares personal favorite Sweeper roads, such as Laureles Grade between 68 and Carmel Valley Road in Monterey County. They emphasize the appeal of roads that offer a mix of Sweepers and technical turns, often with elevation changes, creating a dynamic riding experience.
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Specific Sweeper Roads: The article mentions specific Sweeper roads like Highway 25 and 198 in Hollister, pointing out their attractiveness due to lower traffic levels. However, it humorously notes that these roads might also be the winter retreat for squirrels.
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Finding Sweepers: The article suggests that finding Sweepers is as easy as picking out the North Star on a dark night in the desert. It advises riders to look for older two-lane highways on the map, citing examples like Highways 9 and 17 in the Santa Cruz area as "off-the-map" sweepers.
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Safety Considerations: The author emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself at a legal and safe speed on Sweeper roads. Caution is urged against going too fast into turns, getting on the gas too early, following too closely, or riding beyond one's skill level. The overarching message is to prioritize safety and avoid being the one who needs assistance.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the world of Sweepers, catering to both seasoned riders and those looking to explore the thrilling realm of motorcycle enthusiasts.
