Gap Roads

It was suggested in the Convention thread that I lead a ride or two down there. I have a few very favorite roads I always ride when I am there. They are away from the dragon and span across NC, GA and TN. I am doing some route planning and organizing some rides so that if I do lead a ride or two, I have a good game plan ahead of time. What I want from you guys are a couple roads that you like to ride. Maybe I have missed a couple there. That being the case, I will incorporate some of the suggestions into a ride. Just jot me down some of your favorites. Preferably NOT the dragon, Cherohala or foothills, those are obvious ones. :rant I am looking for out of the way places and roads you consider hidden treasures. Feel free to PM them if you do not want to publicly advertise them to the world. I know some of the ones I ride are not real well known to outsiders. So I keep them a little hush hush as to not draw the squids and upset the locals that would have to deal with 5 million bikers a year. :thumbup Meeting Place We will meet on Shuckstack Rd. I can't give an address, I don't know which unit Stormtrouper has for us. I will find out and post it here. Riders Interested In Going: Tuesday (I am taking it upon myself to officially call this the Elvis Memorial Ride. Though I didn't know him personally, many of you speak highly of him and that is good enough for me. :thumbup This will be 1 year aniversary of his untimely passing, so rather than be sad and miss a brotha, I find it most appropriate to share in what the man loved and remember the good times. God Speed Elvis!) Tuesday Ride Map: http://r1calendar.gunmd.com/cal/view_entry.php?id=3&date=20080617 kynetguy crazywolf450r Stormtrouper Kyle M (Maybe) RichsGSXR (Maybe) Olymp!A SuperDave Shyster Thursday Thursday Ride Map: http://r1calendar.gunmd.com/cal/view_entry.php?id=4&date=20080619 kynetguy Irish01 Stormtrouper Kyle M RichsGSXR Olymp!A SuperDave Shyster

28 is fun! I think that's my favorite ride down there..

Cool idea

Sounds like a great idea! Thanks for offering this! :thumbup

The convention will be my first time to THE GAP so I don't have any suggestions but would like to tag along. Sounds like you know area well, thanks for planning some rides to show the newbs and non-locals some good roads!

The convention will be my first time to THE GAP so I don't have any suggestions but would like to tag along. Sounds like you know area well, thanks for planning some rides to show the newbs and non-locals some good roads! With the roads out there you can stick a map under your seat, and just get out and ride. I haven't found many that were disappointing, but I don't live out there. This is going to be an awesome time :thumbup.

maybe Blood mountain will be a good ride.. http://www.bloodmountain.com/directions/ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpEc8F2yQCg&feature=related http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbGMbw1XS-Y&feature=related

maybe Blood mountain will be a good ride.. http://www.bloodmountain.com/directions/ Hey mefistofeles, how's it going? I think Chad and a few are planning a Blood Mountain run. May want to check with him.

maybe Blood mountain will be a good ride.. http://www.bloodmountain.com/directions/ I have a 280ish mile ride that would include Blood Mountain as well as a few others. It would be cut down into a two day adventure. But we would still get back in time for dinner if we took 15 min breaks every hour and took about 1 hour for a long lunch break. I don't need directions to blood mountain. . .:secret:

Sounds like a great idea! Thanks for offering this! :thumbup I think it was you who first suggested it. So I ran with it. I love the area. With the roads out there you can stick a map under your seat, and just get out and ride. I haven't found many that were disappointing, but I don't live out there. This is going to be an awesome time :thumbup. No shit huh? You can take a map of the NC/n. GA area and just close your eyes and point. Your finger will land on a good road.

Hey mefistofeles, how's it going? I think Chad and a few are planning a Blood Mountain run. May want to check with him. Hey Dan, yeah Id like to go, never been there, look fun too, I don't know the day of that trip, but Im in ,,:rock

I have a 280ish mile ride that would include Blood Mountain as well as a few others. It would be cut down into a two day adventure. But we would still get back in time for dinner if we took 15 min breaks every hour and took about 1 hour for a long lunch break. I don't need directions to blood mountain. . .:secret: Im in bro, just let me know the day...

28 is fun! I think that's my favorite ride down there.. 28 is an awesome run!

With the roads out there you can stick a map under your seat, and just get out and ride. I haven't found many that were disappointing, but I don't live out there. This is going to be an awesome time :thumbup. Like Dan said anywhere you ride up there is nice.

Im in bro, just let me know the day... OK, I will be looking for you! If I call you "me Fist fellos", just laugh, because I have no idea what your screen name is. I am Eric. . .I have a blue 07 and wear black/white/gunmetal joe rocket gear.

A local forum is heading up, and I snagged a couple of these names from their itinerary. Due to the fact it's my first trip up I've never travelled any of these roads. Perhaps you can let me know if any of them are worth traveling. 1. Foothills Parkway 2. Blood Mountain ( lots of talk in this post about it already) 3. Wolf Pen Gap 4. War Women 5. Blue Hills Parkway 129 6. Richard(Scott) Russell Parkway 28 7. Franklin->Highlands Again, no idea about any of these, but throwing everyone the info I stumbled upon.

I've done Blood Mountain several times over the past years. Fun ride, but it's best to go in several small groups. It's a all day ride where you need to leave early to get back around 5PM. I didn't care to much for Wolf Pen Gap. I could ride the Robbinsville Loop, {start at the CROT to Robbinsville then back to Fontana} all day long. Nice curves and wide open roads with safe passing. Oh, the Skyway several times for sure. There are so many roads you can't go wrong.

1. Foothills Parkway Definately The road to take if you are going to Pigeon forge. Nice sweeping curves like Cherohala. Lotsa nice scenery. Great if you are not interested in working hard or dragging knees. Nice ride for a faster smooth pace. 2. Blood Mountain ( lots of talk in this post about it already) Its a must do. Yes, its all day if you go there. Takes about an hour and a half just to go STRAIGHT there. If you are heading there, you might as well make a day of it and tour the country of N. Georgia. Uphill is the best run, it's two lanes of banked heaven. You can easily be passing cars on the inside, going about 50-60mph and dragging the F* out of your knees. You won't take this run much faster than that without using both lanes. There are a couple curves on there that take a fast radius decrease, and any faster you will blow them and eat the ditch or low side. (one for certain comes to mind) 3. Wolf Pen Gap Only been on it once. Wasn't overly impressed. Not in any of my planned rides. 4. War Women Lots of people like this road. It's in my N Georgia route I am working up. Its gat a few moments, but I wouldn't ride all the way to Georgia for it. 5. Blue Hills Parkway 129 Gorgeous. Another sweeper haven. 6. Richard(Scott) Russell Parkway 28 That on is in my Bloodmountain run. Very nice road. It is 348 though, not 28. 7. Franklin->Highlands My FAVORITE section of 28 and definately on my route. You can actually leave camp, get on 28 and stay there all the way to wahalla and not be disapointed. I have a couple other roads in mind. But the ones you have here are definate great roads. Most all down at least good. The rest are just great.

A local forum is heading up, and I snagged a couple of these names from their itinerary. Due to the fact it's my first trip up I've never travelled any of these roads. Perhaps you can let me know if any of them are worth traveling. 1. Foothills Parkway 2. Blood Mountain ( lots of talk in this post about it already) 3. Wolf Pen Gap 4. War Women 5. Blue Hills Parkway 129 6. Richard(Scott) Russell Parkway 28 7. Franklin->Highlands Again, no idea about any of these, but throwing everyone the info I stumbled upon. Those are all great roads!

Here is how I am planning this: I am going to be in California all next week. I will have my laptop and MS Streets. I am going to lay out a couple rides that I can lead for us. One long run will include all of the good parts of 28, Blood Mountain and a few others. I plan for this ride to depart about 830AM and return about 6pm. Everyone is welcome to go. What I need is for you all to vote on which day works out best for the convention to give the most people the opportunity to go. Obviously we don't want to plan this on Monday (hence no option for that day) or the same day as the pig roast. (I think that day is still yet to be determined.) I am also planning a Blood Mountain run which will be a more direct flight to N Ga. I have a nice loop there I like to ride. This is usually 4 hours or so of riding. The Last ride I am planning is a 28 run to Highlands. . .maybe all the way into Cashiers for fuel and a drink. I might hit the dragon a time or two, but I personally am not a huge fan of the road. I ride it simply because it's pretty much your right of passage to the other heavenly parts of the country surrounding the area. During my ride, I ask that everyone ride their pace. I will not set a blistering pace that is dangerous. But I will try to pace so that the ride is fun even for more advanced riders. No one will be left behind. When we have to change roads, we will stop and wait for everyone to catch up.

I plan on doing the Dragon Wednesday, then an alternate ride on Thursday (28?). BBQ is on Friday, so whatever we do, it needs to involve the CROT at around noon or whatever. Saturday, no idea. Man, wish I could be there earlier. :( need more days at the gap.

I plan on doing the Dragon Wednesday, then an alternate ride on Thursday (28?). BBQ is on Friday, so whatever we do, it needs to involve the CROT at around noon or whatever. Saturday, no idea. Man, wish I could be there earlier. :( need more days at the gap. Fix it man! Find a way! Gotta be there the whole week. Chad's even got a bicycle ride going during the week. This is going to be a complete blast! I understand there may not be much you can do to adjust, but I'm trying to give you something to reply to for your :moto:efforts :thumbup. Actually, I need to slow down for a bit and get the FZR clean for my 1991 post. :lol

Fix it man! Find a way! Gotta be there the whole week. Chad's even got a bicycle ride going during the week. This is going to be a complete blast! I understand there may not be much you can do to adjust, but I'm trying to give you something to reply to for your :moto:efforts :thumbup. Actually, I need to slow down for a bit and get the FZR clean for my 1991 post. :lol Hmmm, how about instead of me heading down the eastern side of KY, I swing down the 65 side and grab him by the hair of the head and drag his ass down monday? :rock

Fix it man! Find a way! Gotta be there the whole week. Chad's even got a bicycle ride going during the week. This is going to be a complete blast! I understand there may not be much you can do to adjust, but I'm trying to give you something to reply to for your :moto:efforts :thumbup. Actually, I need to slow down for a bit and get the FZR clean for my 1991 post. :lol Dude, you have no idea how I would love to show up Sunday night. However, I've already committed to being with the family that weekend at a different function, plus our anniversary is the 17th and, well, you can figure out the rest.

During my ride, I ask that everyone ride their pace. I will not set a blistering pace that is dangerous. But I will try to pace so that the ride is fun even for more advanced riders. No one will be left behind. When we have to change roads, we will stop and wait for everyone to catch up. Great post thus far. I like your style. I plan on accompanying you on some of these rides, as it sounds like you have your act together when it comes to planning. It's also reassuring as first time visitor to know that you aren't going on a balls to the wall pace.

Here is how I am planning this: I am going to be in California all next week. I will have my laptop and MS Streets. I am going to lay out a couple rides that I can lead for us. One long run will include all of the good parts of 28, Blood Mountain and a few others. I plan for this ride to depart about 830AM and return about 6pm. Everyone is welcome to go. What I need is for you all to vote on which day works out best for the convention to give the most people the opportunity to go. Obviously we don't want to plan this on Monday (hence no option for that day) or the same day as the pig roast. (I think that day is still yet to be determined.) I am also planning a Blood Mountain run which will be a more direct flight to N Ga. I have a nice loop there I like to ride. This is usually 4 hours or so of riding. The Last ride I am planning is a 28 run to Highlands. . .maybe all the way into Cashiers for fuel and a drink. I might hit the dragon a time or two, but I personally am not a huge fan of the road. I ride it simply because it's pretty much your right of passage to the other heavenly parts of the country surrounding the area. During my ride, I ask that everyone ride their pace. I will not set a blistering pace that is dangerous. But I will try to pace so that the ride is fun even for more advanced riders. No one will be left behind. When we have to change roads, we will stop and wait for everyone to catch up. One thing is sure,, you will be the most wanted that week,,:lol:scoots:

Great post thus far. I like your style. I plan on accompanying you on some of these rides, as it sounds like you have your act together when it comes to planning. It's also reassuring as first time visitor to know that you aren't going on a balls to the wall pace. Yeah......What he said!! :thumbup

One thing is sure,, you will be the most wanted that week,,:lol:scoots: Until you see me riding in my suzuki new rider starter kit. . .kevlar baseball hat, Ti reinforced wife beater and CE rated flip flops. . .:hammer::hammer::hammer:

:lol:lol Now that's some funny schtuff!!!!!

Great post thus far. I like your style. I plan on accompanying you on some of these rides, as it sounds like you have your act together when it comes to planning. It's also reassuring as first time visitor to know that you aren't going on a balls to the wall pace. Thank you sir. I feel if you want to ride balls to the wall, there are better places for that. (tracks) I don't know the roads well enough to blast them balls to the wall. If I were a local and road them regularly it would be different. Too many variables in road condition that we cannot possibly account for and its just not worth the risk of finding out too late that half way through a blind curve is some sort of debris. I like to leave enough room in my speed that I can compensate by going wide or tightening my turn to avoid things which we cannot see. Besides, if you go down in N Ga, it is an ALLLLLLLLLL day adventure to get back. I had a buddy go down last year on blood mountain and broke his collar bone. (rider error) That happened about 2pm. It was almost 3AM by the time we got back to Robbinsville. Needless to say on a 4 day trip, we lost a day of riding. As far as planning, I have enough trips under my belt that I know what roads are good. Now I will admit that sometimes I have gotten turned around and made a wrong turn. There are some areas down there that the road markings do not make any sense or are confusing or non-existant. But that is half the fun. :thumbup

:rockCould not have said it better myself, will definately be joining you on them rides. The last thing I want to do is wreck and mess up my whole trip out there, that would not be cool.

You cycle sluts mis me? I been in San Francisco at the RSA Convention. (computer nerd thing) The convention was great. SF sucks though.

You cycle sluts mis me? I been in San Francisco at the RSA Convention. (computer nerd thing) The convention was great. SF sucks though. SF sucks for straight folks...BBBBBUUUUTTTT for the Bogies of the world that's MECCA!

SF sucks for straight folks...BBBBBUUUUTTTT for the Bogies of the world that's MECCA! :argue Price just went up bish!! :finger :lol

:argue Price just went up bish!! :finger :lol :lol:lol:lol:lol:lol:lol:lol

:lol

:argue Price just went up bish!! :finger :lol PUHHHLEEEZEE...you two bishes get a room. No :butt:sissy::lhumper: in my thread. . .:lol

Subscribed!

Subscribed! YOu beter be there!

I had a thought. This may be a sensitive subject, so you are hereby warned. June 17th happens to be the aniversay of the loss of a fellow brother. This happens to be the Tuesday we are going to be at the Gap. My HUGEMONGUS ALL DAY loop, I would like to lead on Tuesday in memory of a fellow brother, Elvis. What better way to celebrate a life than to spend all day in motorcycle mecca doing what he loved? Just a thought. Feedback requested.

No NO ONE has ANY input on the Elvis memorial ride?

My anniversary is also the 17th, so there's a good chance I won't be showing up a day (or more) early... I will sure give it the good ol' college try though.

My anniversary is also the 17th, so there's a good chance I won't be showing up a day (or more) early... I will sure give it the good ol' college try though. You aren't very experienced at this marraige thing are you? That or you suck at it. :lol You take the little lady, arrange for a nice getaway SATURDAY night. Take her to a nice hotel for the night. Treat her to a dinner and a movie or some other activity she likes. Make mad passionate sex that night. Sleep in Sunday morning. Order her room service, or sneak out and bring breakfast to her while she is still sleeping. And you have a free ticket. :rock Now, Friday night you pack and be set to roll out. Or at least have your stuff ready to pack, but don't make it obvious if possible. You don't want it to be blatently obvious you are kissing up for the getaway. You will be :fire if you make it obvious. Just make Saturday ALL about your aniversary. Then Monday morning you are set to roll out. Are you trailering ir riding? If you are riding we should hook up for the journey. I plan to take the scenic route down. Then I will probablly blast I75 home and maybe cut through williamsburg. . .there are some wicked curves there. OMG.

You aren't very experienced at this marraige thing are you? That or you suck at it. :lol You take the little lady, arrange for a nice getaway SATURDAY night. Take her to a nice hotel for the night. Treat her to a dinner and a movie or some other activity she likes. Make mad passionate sex that night. Sleep in Sunday morning. Order her room service, or sneak out and bring breakfast to her while she is still sleeping. And you have a free ticket. :rock Now, Friday night you pack and be set to roll out. Or at least have your stuff ready to pack, but don't make it obvious if possible. You don't want it to be blatently obvious you are kissing up for the getaway. You will be :fire if you make it obvious. Just make Saturday ALL about your aniversary. Then Monday morning you are set to roll out. Are you trailering ir riding? If you are riding we should hook up for the journey. I plan to take the scenic route down. Then I will probablly blast I75 home and maybe cut through williamsburg. . .there are some wicked curves there. OMG. LOL good advice! There's a chance I can make it up earlier - see, we had already had plans for Fri-Tues, but they got cancelled. Now, the week is pretty open... and I'm entertaining the idea of getting them to go to Gatlinburg with their family, so I can go to Fontana.... maybe dedicate one day with her and put up with shopping and stuff. We'll see...

I don`t know how I missed this thread:dundun: but count me in, I have never been so I don`t have any input on roads except a few friends have told me to make sure I ride the skyway:rock I will probably only ride the dragon on monday while its still pretty open. I`d like to go as many places as possible:thumbup

I don`t know how I missed this thread:dundun: but count me in, I have never been so I don`t have any input on roads except a few friends have told me to make sure I ride the skyway:rock I will probably only ride the dragon on monday while its still pretty open. I`d like to go as many places as possible:thumbup I think I am going to post up a list of people who want me to not leave them behind. I have never been with this group so I know NO ONE other than screen names. SO I need a list of my own. I will look for you. Oh, SOrry, I have a Blue 07...you will have to bring some other color. :hammer::hammer: Cherohala Skyway is FABULOUS. Cruise it at a 80-90mph and its a really smooth ride. Its almost effortless. I have been through a lot of it in the tripple digits. There are two decreasing radius curves that will get you if you are not careful. They don't look decreasing. So I won't push the skyway anymore.

I think I am going to post up a list of people who want me to not leave them behind. I have never been with this group so I know NO ONE other than screen names. SO I need a list of my own. I will look for you. Oh, SOrry, I have a Blue 07...you will have to bring some other color. :hammer::hammer: Cherohala Skyway is FABULOUS. Cruise it at a 80-90mph and its a really smooth ride. Its almost effortless. I have been through a lot of it in the tripple digits. There are two decreasing radius curves that will get you if you are not careful. They don't look decreasing. So I won't push the skyway anymore. You won't have any problem identifying or finding several of us. Heck... you'll probably see Gawarrior, SpidermanSS, GPD270 and myself as soon as you hit Shuckstack. Yes, the Skyway is something else. But there are more than two turns that can raise concern :lol Heck... the road from Robbinsville worries me more than the Cherohala itself sometimes! :lol

Heck... the road from Robbinsville worries me more than the Cherohala itself sometimes! :lol Heck I was there last fall and the road over to Cherohala was being repaved and was a death trap.

Just found this thread but count me in. First time down there and definitly would like to do the group rides :thumbup

Heck I was there last fall and the road over to Cherohala was being repaved and was a death trap. Probably the same road I am referring to from 2006. It was in BAD shape and coming back through after the ride (we turned around and came back through) was about treacherous by the river once it started to get dark.

I voted for Friday kinda thinking it would be nice to avoid the gap on the weekend. Saturday we have our group ride up the gap, and Sunday most people hit the road. So if we can spend the weekdays on the gap then Friday seems like the logical day to start hitting the back roads

Wooohoooo :yesnod

I voted for Friday kinda thinking it would be nice to avoid the gap on the weekend. Saturday we have our group ride up the gap, and Sunday most people hit the road. So if we can spend the weekdays on the gap then Friday seems like the logical day to start hitting the back roads +1 I don't think I'll go near the Dragon after Thursday, aside from the Saturday ride.

+1 I don't think I'll go near the Dragon after Thursday, aside from the Saturday ride. 100% agree. I usualy avoid the dragon a lot anyway. I have far more fun outside the area. I am sure I will make multple 28 runs and blood mountain runs. Friday is not a bad though actually.

100% agree. I usualy avoid the dragon a lot anyway. I have far more fun outside the area. I am sure I will make multple 28 runs and blood mountain runs. Friday is not a bad though actually. Last year Friday was like amateur night at a strip club. Every kook with a bike was out there and the Harleys were being beyond rude. Couple of them caught some interesting moves by some of the faster, smoother of the group :sing:

Well, I certainly saw a few of their interesting moves early on in the week, and they were not very appealing - to say the least. :rant:

Well, I certainly saw a few of their interesting moves early on in the week, and they were not very appealing - to say the least. :rant After I heard the comments about "jamming the rice rockets" and stuff like that at the CROT in the middle of the week, I just stayed away. Except for once, I was passing through a group going about 25 and the leader decided to be a complete retard about it. No thanks.

So being new to the whole Dragons Tail/R1 Convention am I to guess that the Harley riders have a tendancy to show the less the civil side side of themselves?

So being new to the whole Dragons Tail/R1 Convention am I to guess that the Harley riders have a tendancy to show the less the civil side side of themselves? Mostly, they're cool. SLOW, but cool. Most of the HD riders will let you pass if they see you behind them, but hell - they're easy to pass if they don't let you. At the CROT, the HD crowd doesn't usually mingle with the sportbiker crowd, but it's pretty laid back unless something weird happens. The ones you have to watch out for are the tards who blow the DY (not that this is strictly a HD trait, but well, you know). I had one come straight at me last year who was so far over into my lane that I passed him ON THE LEFT without me going over the DY. Ask MartynA - he was following me. To top it all off, the cocksmoker blamed ME for almost causing a wreck.

Mostly, they're cool. SLOW, but cool. Most of the HD riders will let you pass if they see you behind them, but hell - they're easy to pass if they don't let you. At the CROT, the HD crowd doesn't usually mingle with the sportbiker crowd, but it's pretty laid back unless something weird happens. The ones you have to watch out for are the tards who blow the DY (not that this is strictly a HD trait, but well, you know). I had one come straight at me last year who was so far over into my lane that I passed him ON THE LEFT without me going over the DY. Ask MartynA - he was following me. To top it all off, the cocksmoker blamed ME for almost causing a wreck. +1 with what Skanky said. Most will not present a problem, and are courteous enough to leave room. We had an odd band of folks on the road at the same time last year. But I think in retrospect, they would be more polite. On top of that... on 129 there are plenty of places to pull over and wait for a while. If attitude starts to get the better of it, pull over and enjoy the sights for a few minutes.

Gotcha, either way I know it's gonna be a blast:thumbup

+1 with what Skanky said. Most will not present a problem, and are courteous enough to leave room. We had an odd band of folks on the road at the same time last year. But I think in retrospect, they would be more polite. On top of that... on 129 there are plenty of places to pull over and wait for a while. If attitude starts to get the better of it, pull over and enjoy the sights for a few minutes. :thumbup Good advice DQ. I find that area the personalities are about like this: Local Cagers: Pull over and let you by. Tourist/SiteSeer cagers: Are so wrapped up in THEIR interest, they will never notice you are behind them. Even when you turn your brights on and ride in the left part of the lane and stare into their mirrors. Cruiser riders: Man this is a mix. Some will move far right and let you pass in the left part of the lane, some you have to be aggressive with, some will even move over to the left as you are passing. There aren't too many places on the dragon to pass aggressively unless you spend a LOT of time there. Local Sportbikers: Don't worry about them, just more over and let them by and don't try to keep up. :rock I try not to be a cock smoker when I pass. I try not to jam it down 3 gears and blow by at 14000 rpms unless they are being total asshats. The things to remember is "Situational Awareness." This is extremely important for people new to the gap. There are LOTS of opportunities to turn yourself into road pizza. Don't be a statistic. It is beautiful there. Don't get wrapped up in the beauty and lapse on your responsibility to ride safely. Be aware of people in front and behind you. If you are new, don't be suprised if you get passed by locals on cruisers. Ride your ride and ride it safely. This is NOT the place to push your limits. Especially on a week long trip. Jest extend the courtesies you would expect. Let faster people by, pass slower people safely. Try to warn before you pass. Watch cagers too, they will often wave you by if there is no where to pull off. And please please please, pass only when YOU are ready to pass, not when they wave. They don't always wave at the best times. Just basic stuff, but stuff to not forget.

How does one nicely say "GO ahead and Pass"? :dunno

Another thing, roads like cherohala are FUN FUN FUN for following closely with a trusted riding buddy. Me and my best bud would ride across there at a decent pace and play follow the leader. Probablly riding 10 yards apart, sometimes closer. While I generally discourage this, I know him. I know how he rides, I know his ability and I totaly trust him. If you partake in such fun, what they guy in front of you. I know generally you look beyond in front of you. Be aware. See HOW he is riding. See if he is smooth, rides well and exhibits skills. If he looks sketchy, back off. Don't let his disaster be yours.

How does one nicely say "GO ahead and Pass"? :dunno You proceed a wave with a double bird and a smile? :hammer: When I am riding or driving I move right and give a gentle wave. Versus a psychotic swatting at a bee wave.

Wow - awesome responses kynetguy!!! You certainly do have to be careful passing - it was certainly a factor when I highsided last year at the Gap. Some asshat in a POS honda would not let me pass, and I simply got frustrated and burned it just before a sharp left hander - went in too hot, and well, the rest is history. Totally my fault - should have just chilled and let the dude think he was fast. That will certainly not happen again. Ouch. The Gap is definitely where you will learn to "look through the corner" cause if you don't, you'll find yourself blowing curves left and right. Don't want to ruin the mood of the thread - yeah, it's technical, dangerous, sometimes scary, but I would do it again and again. It's so much fun.

You proceed a wave with a double bird and a smile? :hammer: When I am riding or driving I move right and give a gentle wave. Versus a psychotic swatting at a bee wave. Here's a great guide. Make sure to watch the whole thing. :lol http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbZLHMv-218

Here's a great guide. Make sure to watch the whole thing. :lol http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MbZLHMv-218 :lol :lol :lol :thumbup

You proceed a wave with a double bird and a smile? :hammer: When I am riding or driving I move right and give a gentle wave. Versus a psychotic swatting at a bee wave. :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol :lol

Hot Springs has some really nice roads up and back. Anyone consider a ride to Hiawassee or Helen GA. There's some really nice roads out that way.

Hot Springs has some really nice roads up and back. Anyone consider a ride to Hiawassee or Helen GA. There's some really nice roads out that way. My big ride I am planning will be in the Helen area. Once I finalize the route I plan to take, I will post it up.

OK, here goes. I have two big Blood Mountain runs planned using different "other attractions. One is about 244 miles the other 252miles. These aren't for the faint at heart. They will be long rides. But we won't be going more than and hour without at least a small break. I think I will do one Tuesday and the other Thursday. I don't think I will give specific details, keep it a surprise. But between the two, we will hit the major roads in NC and N Ga. We will have to roll out no later than 9am to get back in plenty of time for dinner. I am certain most of us will want to shower and peel out of the leather before we eat. For each trip I may get 3 volunteers, depending on the numbers going. I am used to doing these types of rides with about 15-25 people. When numbers get that big it becomes a task just to keep everyone together and safe. So as I think I mentioned before, I like to run two blockers and 1 tail person to stand watch. I will explain that to those who don't understand before the rides. Pace is typically about a 75-80% pace, depending on the majority skill level. THere are area's (the boring parts) we will just cruise and enjoy the sites. When we get to the twisties I will lead a moderate pace that is not boring to more advanced riders, but not dangerous to our lesser skilled brethren. As always, at any intersection or road change, we will wait for the resst of the group. I will adjust the pace based on the dynamics of the group.

Regardless of your knowledge of the roards, sounds like your the right guy to lead the pack for sure!

OK, here goes. I have two big Blood Mountain runs planned using different "other attractions. One is about 244 miles the other 252miles. These aren't for the faint at heart. They will be long rides. But we won't be going more than and hour without at least a small break. I think I will do one Tuesday and the other Thursday. I don't think I will give specific details, keep it a surprise. But between the two, we will hit the major roads in NC and N Ga. We will have to roll out no later than 9am to get back in plenty of time for dinner. I am certain most of us will want to shower and peel out of the leather before we eat. For each trip I may get 3 volunteers, depending on the numbers going. I am used to doing these types of rides with about 15-25 people. When numbers get that big it becomes a task just to keep everyone together and safe. So as I think I mentioned before, I like to run two blockers and 1 tail person to stand watch. I will explain that to those who don't understand before the rides. Pace is typically about a 75-80% pace, depending on the majority skill level. THere are area's (the boring parts) we will just cruise and enjoy the sites. When we get to the twisties I will lead a moderate pace that is not boring to more advanced riders, but not dangerous to our lesser skilled brethren. As always, at any intersection or road change, we will wait for the resst of the group. I will adjust the pace based on the dynamics of the group. Ive done those runs many times. Your right 15+ can be a pain in the ass. Small groups 5ish or so is the best route.

I think I'm in :) Sounds like a blast to me. There are a bunch of rides going on down there, don't want to sign up for em all but then again you don't want to miss em either :dundun: What to do ? I'm good for bringing up the rear if needed. Pace of any type is no problem :thumbup

Cant wait, and thanks for taking the lead. let me know if I can help in any way

I would like to hit as many roads around as possible. The Dragon is a lot of fun up until late wed. Then traffic gets too hot for me. Count me in.

I would like to hit as many roads around as possible. The Dragon is a lot of fun up until late wed. Then traffic gets too hot for me. Count me in. See I am the same. I like the dragon and it is fun, but when traffic (and popo) gets heavy on it, I don't ride it. So since a few years ago when a friend showed me around to some other roads down the, I have come to like them better than the dragon. The dragon is just an essential ride to make.

Here are a few loops I've done and you can't lose - except riding through smoky national forest on a weekend - don't do that... :secret: In order from shortest to longest from the GAP... 78 Miles http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/ryn8a/New78.jpg 118 Miles http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/ryn8a/Saturday118.jpg 125 Miles http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/ryn8a/New125.jpg 137 Miles http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/ryn8a/Thursday137.jpg 191 Miles http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w14/ryn8a/Sunday191.jpg

Blue Ridge Parkway is the BOMB!!!!

Have you tried 116 over near Rockwood?

Have you tried 116 over near Rockwood? hmmmm, no I haven't dont t hat one. That is West of Knoxville right?

116 looks pretty boring, but some of the access roads west of 116 look pretty interesting. However, without being a more "major" road, it could be rough (narrow, gravel, etc.)

Put my name on the list for a 'dont leave without me' for the all day ride, tuesday or thursday. Wednesday I'm riding motocross. I think monday I will just put around on the dragon and surrounding roads and figure out where the heck I am. First time in the area east of pigeon forge.

Start giving me names. I am going to compile a list. . .beginning NOW. Steve, you are committed both days. LOL :fact

In for Thursday :thumbup

In for tuesday, puh lease...

116 looks pretty boring, but some of the access roads west of 116 look pretty interesting. However, without being a more "major" road, it could be rough (narrow, gravel, etc.) :fact 116 looks like a squid wheelie road. :dunno

Start giving me names. I am going to compile a list. . .beginning NOW. Steve, you are committed both days. LOL :fact Who me? What days? I'm sticking to the Dragon as long as it's not stupid crowded and/or the po-po isn't too thick. I usually do a Cherahola run too, but hey, I usually play it by ear anyways.

Who me? What days? I'm sticking to the Dragon as long as it's not stupid crowded and/or the po-po isn't too thick. I usually do a Cherahola run too, but hey, I usually play it by ear anyways. Oh COME on. YOu are missing ALLLLLLLL the good shit. The dragon SUCKS in comparison.

me and RichsGSXR tent for tues and def in for thur Also can we get an edit of the first post with meeting place and time for the rides...thanks

me and RichsGSXR tent for tues and def in for thur Also can we get an edit of the first post with meeting place and time for the rides...thanks Will do on the meeting location.

Count me in for Tuesday and Thursday but not a "do not leave without" seeing as plans always change.

so where are the rides going to? Maybe it needs to be added to the first post.

so where are the rides going to? Maybe it needs to be added to the first post. They are in my sig. . . .and now added to the first post. Jason, you should just blindly trust me. :-)

I think I'm staying out of Tenn this year. I've read too much about the cops... NC is more biker friendly...

I think I'm staying out of Tenn this year. I've read too much about the cops... NC is more biker friendly... Thus my rides. If you notice, and look at the maps in my sig, we aren't in TN long. :-)

I noticed that the poll took off for Friday after I decided on Tues and Thursday. I will gladly repeat either route on Friday. But, I will remind you that is pig roast day for those who signed up for it. I am ALWAYS up for heading to Blood Mountain or out NC28.

I noticed that the poll took off for Friday after I decided on Tues and Thursday. I will gladly repeat either route on Friday. But, I will remind you that is pig roast day for those who signed up for it. I am ALWAYS up for heading to Blood Mountain or out NC28. I think Tues & Thursday are good cause Friday morning is gona be a shit show after the boat party! I'll use the am to recover and maybe cruise around The Dragon in the AM with all the Honda Hoot and HD Squiddy then re energize mah body wit PIG ROOOOAAAASSSTTTTTTT!!!:flex::rock

Hwy 181 from Morganton to the Blue Ridge Parkway. or Hwy 213 to Hwy 25/70 from Mars Hill to Hot Springs :thumbup:thumbup

I think Tues & Thursday are good cause Friday morning is gona be a shit show after the boat party! I'll use the am to recover and maybe cruise around The Dragon in the AM with all the Honda Hoot and HD Squiddy then re energize mah body wit PIG ROOOOAAAASSSTTTTTTT!!!:flex::rock That definately sounds like the master plan right thar!

Hwy 181 from Morganton to the Blue Ridge Parkway. or Hwy 213 to Hwy 25/70 from Mars Hill to Hot Springs :thumbup:thumbup 213 or 215? Never been that far east while down there. 181 definately looks like a fun fast road.

They are in my sig. . . .and now added to the first post. Jason, you should just blindly trust me. :-) (remembers our ride) AAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! oh man, good one.

(remembers our ride) AAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! oh man, good one. *innocent look* What?

This may or may not affect these rides. From tailofthedragon.com Nancy and I took the week-end off and headed south into Georgia. Saturday at 10 am there were more than 100 bikes on the Cherohala already. There were a lot of bikes on all the roads in Tennessee and north Georgia. Sunday we came back through Suches at noon and rode 60, 180, and US 129 Blood Mountain. There were LEOs everywhere with sport bikes pulled over. A LEO helicopter was hovering overhead. If you are planning a trip to this area we suggest riding these roads during the week days. We heard this is routine enforcement on the weekends. The other north Georgia roads were clear. There is construction on NC 143 leading from Robbinsville to the Cherohala Skyway. This will likely be underway through the month of June. Use extreme caution and expect gravel, new pavement, sand, and slippery when wet conditions on the new tar.

SuperDave 344 (yellow R6) im interested in tues and/or thursday and my riding buddy shyster is too.