Two motorcyclists injured in crash on Sonoma Coast

Two motorcyclists were injured Saturday afternoon in a crash on the Sonoma Coast, including one who suffered a head injury and had to be airlifted to a Santa Rosa hospital.

The accident happened around 3:30 p.m. when a group of seven southbound motorcyclists was traveling on Highway 1 near Goat Rock, just south of Shell Beach.

One rider near the front of the group was traveling at an unknown speed when he lost control on a left-hand curve and went down, suffering head injuries, according to CHP Sgt. Erik Egide.

The rider of the 1993 Suzuki GSX was identified as Ulmer Applin Jr., 56, of Vicksburg, Miss. His injury did not appear to be life threatening, but he was taken by helicopter to Memorial Hospital. His condition was not available Saturday night.

The second motorcyclist was injured when he tried to avoid the downed rider and his 2008 Honda CBR hit a guardrail. Gilbert Roque, 47, of Vallejo, broke his left leg, according to the Highway Patrol. He was taken by ambulance to the hospital.

Both men were wearing helmets. Alcohol was not considered a factor.