The best road ride in North America?

Just north of San Simeon.

I've ridden all over the U.S.. I've been to Crater Lake, Lake Tahoe and have ridden in numerous National Parks all over the country, but the 100 miles of Big Sur coastline between Monterey and Cambria have got to be the most challenging and scenic miles I've seen.

As you ride from sea level to heights well above the water's edge perched on a road that is a marvel of engineering clinging to sheer cliffs the scenery is nothing less than spectacular for the entire distance. The views almost make you forget about the lack of shoulder and constant stream of vacationing cars, trucks and RVs with drivers just as distracted by the vistas as you are.

Rest break at Ragged Point.

The climbing is a series of rolling hills interspersed with a couple of longer sustained climbs followed by thrilling descents on a winding roller coaster that makes its way through fields of wildflowers and evergreen forests including a section of coastal redwoods at Big Sur Station. I recorded about 9000' of climbing between San Simeon and Monterey.

 Even though the route seems remote, there are services spaced at regular intervals where food and water are available (although expensive).

World Famous Bixby Bridge.

Most reports that I've found recommend riding from north to south due to the prevailing winds but I didn't have any problems other than happening to be riding during an unusual heat wave that took the temps up to around 90 degrees. The Big Sur River makes for a refreshing break along the way.

I met a lot of bike tourers along the way and have to say that the Hiker/Biker site at Big Sur Campground is absolutely beautiful nestled in a grove of redwoods. I would recommend bringing your own food though as the restaurant is rather expensive.

At the south end in San Simeon, there is a really good Mexican Restaurant with great crab enchiladas. The Best Western restaurant has a great Cajun Omelette with spiced ham and shrimp. The great thing about touring is that you can pretty much eat anything you want and you're still going to lose weight.

There is another vote for this being a great ride and that is its inclusion as a stage in the Tour of California this year. I got to watch the pros come through and it was just awesome to see them racing in such a fantastic setting.
 

Seven days from Irvine to Monterey.