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If you have some extra time I would suggest going Highway 15 out of Vegas and hitting Highway 58 that will take you to Highway 101 above San Luis Obispo. Highway 58 is called the lonliest road in California and the last place wild horses ran. It's about 85 miles between gas stops so make sure you gas up before you get on it. Once on Highway 101 go south to Ventura and go to Highway 1. That will take you along the coastline into L.A. via Malibu and some very nice beach areas. Traffic may be heavy from Zuma Beach through Malibu on Saturday but you will get that on any other road on the weekends.
If your going all that way to ride in California you might as well see the best we have to offer.
Going straight from Las Vegas to Costa Mesa you will be far south of Los Angeles. You'll only need to worry if you travel north once down here.
Lot's of nice riding south of Costa Mesa so if you have no real reason to head north don't.
Been riding in L.A. area for 25+ years. Don't let some of the posts scare ya.
Primo
Your bottom line actually says alot - you've gotten used to the traffic - someone from an area with only light traffic will be in for a rude awaking in LA - best advice is to know Exactly where you are headed and read the signs...
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