Nice write up, Ranlee, and congratulations!
Did you mean the Number 14 Hwy instead of the Number 8?
Also, I think the bike ride downhill is the best part of the whole trip. I love going downhill–way more than uphill anyway. You do need to be careful, as with any mountain road.
I know you enjoy these events, but I still prefer going to those places on my own when there’s no event. You don’t have to try as hard to avoid the crowds when finding a place to stay, getting transportation to the site, or just when riding your bike. To each his own, though.
How did your Taroko to Wuling ride go in that other thread?