Riders hit the road Memorial Day

Hundreds of bikers spent this Memorial Day doing what they love -- hitting the road. And this year, the motorcyclists got a special treat. For the first time in four years, the Angeles Crest Highway has reopened, and that meant a good ride, and an even better day for some local businesses.

Instead of heating up the grill they're heating up their tires. And rather than taking in the newest blockbuster at the theater, they're taking in the scenery of a National Forest.

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Hundreds of motorcyclists spent their Memorial Day on Angeles Crest Highway -- what some call one of the best roads in the country, if not the world.

"It is like the cream of the crop. Roads like this is what gets people addicted to riding and become a rider for life," said David Minsky, motorcyclist.

"You want to get off the freeway. All of the twists and turns make it exciting," said Niles Slotsky, motorcyclist.

With its gentle switchbacks, smooth pavement and pine-filled terrain the "Crest" as it's often known has been a rider's dream for decades. Even those who haven't ridden it know of it.

Riders had another reason to enjoy themselves this Memorial Day. Angeles Crest Highway had a bridge washout, about four years ago near Wrightwood, turning it into a long dead end. The bridge is now repaired and the road is wide open.

So with the once damaged section back in service, you can now travel all the way from La Canada to Wrightwood.

While riders are happy the folks who operate Newcomb's Ranch restaurant are thrilled.

"Not to be arrogant, but out of the 59 miles of state highway this is the only private property," said Dr. Fred Rundall, Newcomb Ranch owner.

The table's were packed at Newcomb's on the sunny holiday and the parking lot was full of everything from sport bikes to cruisers.

And while this road can be fun, it also has a reputation for crashes, and worse, fatal crashes.

The CHP keeps a tight lid on speeders and we didn't really see any bad biker behavior. Most riders told us they keep it safe.

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