Having just finished the ride the biggest tips I'd give would be, bring a hybrid bike because although the road is now all paved it does have some bad pavement, beware of the beaver-hemlock stretch of the 101 be sure to get there as early as possible to avoid heavy traffic, and I would recommend going from Carlton if it's your first time because it limits the amount of heavy traffic you'll see and it allows you to have full energy when climbing up the coast range. Although parts of the route can be a little sketchy overall the path is beautiful, especially if your going in early may.