US-180 Deming NM to Holbrook AZ

[davemoore]

I'm planning a ride in April and was looking at cutting up US-180 to get from I-10 to I-40. The map software seems to show that's it's pretty twisty. Can any local New Mexicans or Arizonans comment on taking this route? In particular,

(1) what sort of speed can I expect to average?
(2) how scenic?
(3) road conditions, construction, dangerous spots?

Thanks in advance

*posted on NM and AZ lists

[desertlizard]

That is a nice road. It depends on what you want. 180 is more high speed sweepers. If it were me, and I had a little extra time, I would go to Lordsburg and take 70 and connect with 191 and take that up to Springerville. I can't say enough good things about US-191, but it will take more time. There are a lot of 15 MPH hairpins in the beginning near Morenci. I've heard from 500 to 1000 curves in 100 miles. I have no idea, just that it is my favorite road and I can't stop smiling when I ride it. It might be a bit cold in April as it climbs to over 9000 feet.

Also, there is little traffic, no guard rails and some steep drop offs. If you get in trouble in might be a while for help. Also very little law enforcement. Did I mention I love this road.

Dale White

[meese]

Didn't 191 used to be called Route 666? I ran across that road on a Loop of Arizona tour a few years back. It was a blast, but boy did my arms get tired.

[desertlizard]

Yes, that's the one. Also known as the Devils Highway and Coronado Trail. That's the road I chose for my brother's maiden voyage on his Triumph Rocket. I figured I could keep up with that thing through those twisties. I don't think he's forgiven me yet. : ) He liked 180 much better. Last time I was there a Corvette club was making a run. Some very cool cars, and very willing to get out the way.

Dale White

[meese]

I thought about doing a BBG (1500 miles in 24 hours) ride across AZ, up 191, and then back to L.A. The mileage is perfect, but then I remembered all those corners and thought better of it. Maybe a standard BB (1500 miles in 36 hours) would do better. BTW, the copper mines near the southern end were amazing. I knew how big those truck were, but they still looked like ants.

[davemoore]

That is a nice road. It depends on what you want. 180 is more high speed sweepers. If it were me, and I had a little extra time, I would go to Lordsburg and take 70 and connect with 191 and take that up to Springerville. I can't say enough good things about US-191, but it will take more time.

Thanks for the tip Dale. Ya know, I've spent most of the past 30 years living in AZ, NM and TX and have never taken either route... Been through Globe- Miami- Superior- Safford more times than I can count.

Time, unfortunately, is an issue. I'll be trying to make Flagstaff or Kingman so I can put into San Jose the following day (for the April NORCAL ride down PCH to Cambria). I just don't want to go thru Phoenix since wife and I are stopping there on the way home to see son and sister-in-law (I pick wife up at the San Jose airport - it's complicated). I'll give 180 a shot on this ride. Thanks to all for the advice.