extrememarine
Well-known member
[SIZE=12pt]Cross post - Trip Report: VFRDiscussion.com TMAC trip 19 – 24 May 2010.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]This trip is centered around the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]VFRDiscussion.com TexasMac[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] 2010 Memorial ride. A good friend of mine (Adam) from SC rides a VFR and I’ve attended this meet in the past. The sun, moon, and stars aligned and plans fell into place to allow Annette and I to attend this year. The meet is headquartered in Franklin, NC at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Franklin Motel[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] and happens every spring as a memorial to a VFRDiscussion member (TexasMac) who lost his life while riding NC-28 near Fontana in 2003. We would head south on Wednesday, 19 May and return home by Monday evening, May 24th. So come, Ride There with us…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 1, Wednesday, 19 May 2010. We got a later start than originally planned due so somebody submitting his leave request for the wrong day. We departed around 1:30pm, with reservations in London, KY for the evening. Nothing but slab, this has become the curse of living so far north. Looking back, I should have moved the hotel north about 100 miles or so. We soldiered on, arriving at the hotel around 10:30pm that night. Annette’s only remark later would be, “How many horses can you see at night in Kentucky? ZERO.”[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Dinner stop in Dayton, Ohio at Panera Bread:[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 2, Thursday, 20 May 2010. This was to be a much more enjoyable day. We had a short run on the slab to get us to Knoxville, From there, we ran US129 through Maryville, TN, and onto US411 towards Vonoe, TN. Our patience was rewarded in the form of TN-360. Our first taste curvy goodness that fuels our passion for the road. TN-360 took us into Tellico Plains, TN, and a quick left on TN-165 put us on the climb across the Cherohala Skyway. The Cherohala stretches east towards Robbinsville, NC, crossing 36 miles of motorcycle heaven of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Traffic backup on I-75. There was a semi being pulled out of the ditch. As we were sitting there, you could clearly see the blue strobe lights of a patrol car at the head of the line. Out of the blue, someone behind us starts honking their horn. That really helped to clear out the traffic…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made a stop south of Knoxville to visit some of Mr. Happy’s relatives, the Rollback’s. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]See the resemblance?[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made a quick side trip to visit Bald River Falls. On a Thursday, we just about had the road and falls to our selves. Water volume was definitely up, most likely due to the recent rains. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Back on the road, we climbed up out of Tellico Plains on the Cherohala Skyway towards Robbinsville.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Mailbox art outside of Tellico Plains.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Ah, this is why we ride.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We hit Robbinsville, NC in time for a late lunch. The lunch special at Phillips Smoky Mountain Restaurant was fresh catfish. Yum.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Catfish and Hushpuppies.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]After lunch, we continued to make our way south towards Franklin. We rode US-129 to US74/19. A left there and a quick right ( actually, another left after a u-turn because I missed the turn onto Wayah Road) had us southbound on Wayah Road. The road was fairly clear of debris and traffic, taking us over Wayah Bald, past Nantahala Lake and down into Franklin. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Construction on Wayah Road.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Nantahala Lake viewed from Wayah Road[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We checked in, I unloaded the bike, and headed south to intercept the rest of the crew who were northbound on NC-28. I only got a few miles down the road when a familiar trio of bikes zipped past; a red VFR, followed by a Moto Guzzi, and a FJR could be no one else but Adam, Jada, and Charlie. I was looking forward to tackling NC-28 south with no luggage, but even more so to seeing our friends from down south. Another u-turn, and a few minutes later I caught up with them. They had pulled off to wait, we exchanged hello’s and quickly made our way back to the hotel.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]The 5th member of the gang was delayed enroute due to a closure of a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). We walked up to the Motor Co Grill on Main Street, and before long we were joined by Jeff and Karen.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 3, Friday, 21 May 2010. Day three brought less than favorable riding conditions. I walked out side to check the current conditions to find one of Franklin’s finest circling the parking lot. Obviously, word was out that Jeff was in town. He has an uncanny ability to attract law where ever he travels. In typical FJR (freakin’ Just Ride) fashion, we reviewed the weather forecast and patterns to formulate our plan. West would be our escape from the extreme humidity (aka rain). Our group consisted of 3 FJR’s (Jeff, Charlie, and I), 2 VFR’s (Adam and Eric), a Moto-Guzzi (Jada), and a BMW F800GS (Brian). We circled the hotel parking lot once or twice in an effort to bait some other wayward souls to join the chase, but there were no takers. We headed west on NC-64 in the rain towards Hayesville, NC. We made a quick detour so Jeff could check in on his family’s cabin. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Word must have gotten out that Jeff was in town for the weekend; look who was trolling the parking lot when I stepped out to check the weather.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]While fueling up near Hayesville, we discovered that there was a UA bolt on the Guzzi kick stand bracket. Turns out, kickstands are pretty important component to a motorcycle, especially when it comes to parking them. However, we found Moto-Guzzi sliders to be adequate enough to lean the bike against a stone pillar. Mr. Ashe steered us to a local shop in hopes of finding a replacement bolt for the Guzzi. We have to give two thumbs up to Smith Power Sports of Hayesville. The parts department gave us a couple of bolts to try for size along with a socket set to get the job done. Everyone pitched in and we were ready to roll in no time. Oh, and the rain was letting up…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Lean it on bricks, anyone got some JBWeld??[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Tools, bolt, locktite courtesy of [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Smith Powersports[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] of Hayesville, NC[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We turned north on NC-294, and the roads were beginning to dry. There was a moment of sphincter clenching as one bike lost traction mid corner in front of me; we would later admire the slide marks on both front and rear tires. A right onto TN-68 revealed dry roads, clear skies, and smooth rolling. We stretched our legs north on TN-68 towards Tellico Plains, TN. Once in there, we stopped at Tellico Motorcycle Outfitters. Annette found a pair of gloves that she couldn’t live without, so we cashed out and when in search of lunch. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Tellico Plains.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We landed at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Tellico Grains Bakery[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] for lunch. Great sandwiches and atmosphere. I love finding the local small town watering holes.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Food Porn. Cheesecake Brownie, must have been good because this was all that was left by the time I sat down.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We headed east from Tellico Plains towards Robbinsville across the Cherohala Skyway (again!). We made the same side trip to Bald River Falls again, too. At this point, Adam attached his new GoPro video camera to my bike. The idea was to shoot some footage of everyone as we crossed the skyway. We took a side road (Whiteoak Flat Road) out off of River road to get back out the Cherohala. After a couple of miles, Mr. Ashe was the first to come around for candid camera. As he came around, I rolled on to match speed. It took all of about 3 seconds for Annette to decide she had had enough. It took another 30 seconds for that to register with me and shut down the warp drive. So, we got a few seconds of Mr. Haulin’Ashe before he disappeared. Eric was next; he gave chase to Jeff and soon disappeared along with Brian on the BMW, then Charlie on his FJR. Once everyone cycled by, we settled into a nice pace with Adam and Jada, cycling back and forth with the camera. I ran for a little bit where I closed in on Adam in hopes of some real good camera footage. We would later find out that the camera had timed out and shut down well before that. Oh well, practice for next time.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We circled the wagons for a fuel and refreshment stop outside of Robbinsville at the corner of NC-143 and US-129 at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Skyway Convenience Store[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]. By this time, fatigue was setting in amongst some, so we headed south back towards Franklin. Once out of Robbinsville, we were greeted with dark skies and rain drops. The clouds opened up on us as we traversed Wayah Road, turning what is normally a fun road into a white knuckle experience. Of course, just as we came down off the mountain and into town, the rain stopped, clouds cleared, and the roads dried. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]More proof of Jeff’s LEO attraction arrived shortly after. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made the hike up the street to have dinner at the Tokyo Restaurant. The sushi chef was out of town, but the selections were very tasty none the less. We spent some time socializing back at the hotel, and then hit the rack to rest up for tomorrow.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 4, Saturday, 22 May 2010. When I opened the room door Saturday morning, I was greeted by fog and overcast. We grabbed breakfast and got suited up. We picked up two additional riders today, Chris and Joline (VFR & GSXR). Our destination was [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Riders Hill[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] in Dahlonega. Due to the size of our group, we split into two smaller more manageable groups; Jeff taking point with the quicker, me taking the trailing group a few minutes behind. In my mind, I really didn’t think I was ready to lead a group again. In a lot of ways, I’m still dealing with ghosts from our spill in Sept ’08. But, the only way to deal with such tings is to either kick them in the testicles or be kicked. I prefer not to be kicked anymore. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We headed south on NC-28, stopping at Bridal Veil Falls outside of Highlands for a quick break and photo op. We continued south and took a right onto Warwoman Road towards Clayton, GA. This is a another great hidden treasure of a road. Minimal traffic and switchbacks opening up to flowing sweepers is the type of road the FJR was made for. We stopped for fuel in Clayton, then headed out onto Bridgecreek Road, then Burton Dam Road, then back north on GA-197. A couple squiggelly roads later had us at Riders Hill. We toured the service and sales floor, grabbed lunch and refreshments at their [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Six Gap Café[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Refreshed, we headed north, back up Calhoun Road, pickup of GA-60 towards Suches, GA. We stopped in Suches for fuel. At this point, Jeff’s concern for the thinning tread on his rear tire got the best of him and he headed back to Cycle Hill for a pit stop. That left me with leading the group back to Franklin. We rolled northeasterly on GA-180. We pickup up US-129 into Blairsville, GA, then east on GA-76, north on GA-75, and finially east on NC-64 back into Franklin. Dinner was taken in at Main Street Pizzeria, nothing better than pizza & wings at the end of a good ride. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Pit stop in Suches, GA[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]As we finished dinner, Jeff looks over at me with that chesher cat grim and says, “let’s go for a ride…” [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]A few minutes later, I was geared up and we rolled north on NC-28 as the sun was setting. We had an interesting encounter with a guy on a KLR650. Described as some “trust fund, crack head boy”, he was wound tight, possibly from years on a powder diet… I let him go by after a few minutes of his high beam in my mirrors, and Jeff entertained him the rest of the way north. I could tell the Avon Azaro was wearing as the FJR was beginning to overpower it on corner exits. Dialing it back just a hair, I settled into a smooth pace. We returned south along the same stretch of NC-28, now totally dark. I led, slowing Jeff considerably, I’m sure. Riding a tight and twisty road at night has become something I enjoy. In the dark, all the distractions of what is off the road are gone. You only focus the road and what is illuminated by your headlights. It allows me to ride smoother, quicker, and more relaxed. Boy, am I jacked up in the head or what??[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Here’s what NC-28 looks like at night, I case you were wondering…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 5, Sunday, 23 May 2010. I was greeted again by fog when I opened the hotel door. We said our good byes and headed north with Jeff & Karen and Charlie. Breakfast was a bust because the restaurant was closed. We ran north on NC-28, then east on NC-74/19 towards Ashville. We stopped off for breakfast at a Waffle House outside of Ashville. From there, we broke contact and headed north on I-26, everyone else turned south.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We worked our way north through North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky along US-23. I made a detour onto VA-72 through Jefferson National Forest. This was a very nice road, with many switchbacks and rolling sweepers along the way. I’m pretty sure we hit this road at some point last September during EOM. The other road of note this day was OH-93 which cut through the Wayne National Forest. This was a 450 plus mile day. Note to self: I need to plan a rest day into these trips. We got to our hotel in Chillicothe, OH by 6pm. A quick dinner at [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Roosters Wings[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt], mainly because we couldn’t walk any further than the parking lot! We were both exhausted. The mileage and heat had taken its toll today. While unloading the bike, I had popped the Givi loose on its mount and while reaching to close the side bag, the Givi slipped out of my hand and bounced across the asphalt. The bike was showing signs as well; in the form of wear bars on the front and rear tires. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]It was a long day; at this point, neither of us wanted to get back on the bike…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Wayne National Forest in SE Ohio[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]This is what happens when you’re exhausted.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 6, Monday, 24 May 2010. Last day. Final leg. Home stretch, yada, yada, yada. We made a short pit stop in Columbus to visit the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Ironpony.com[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] store. This is a true motorcycle junkie’s candy superstore. The checkbook was spared, escaping with only a package of Snider’s paint guard deducted from the balance. We continued north, watching the roads straighten out and the hills flatten out. I mentioned to Annette over the intercom that I didn’t much care for this part of Ohio; she agreed. We made a final stop just inside the Michigan state line, then one last cannonball run through Detroit, catching the beginning of rush hour traffic.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]What do bored passengers do?[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Annette found a new back seat at IronPony.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Mileage milestone of the trip.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Products of a good trip; dirty bike and worn out tires…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Home safe and sound. 6 days, 2000 miles, can’t wait to do it again.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Profound statement of the trip: “you can’t get traction on squirrels.” – Jeff.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Parting thoughts. Boy, the miles sure are a lot harder now. Tuesday afternoon and even Monday I fought the increasing pain in my lower back. I spent the better part of Tuesday recovering. I’m determined to get into better shape. The bike performed as expected, not a hiccup. A HeliBars triple clamp riser will do wonders to improve my comfort, I’m sure. We enjoyed having the Scala Rider Teamset Bluetooth intercom. Annette never complains on the bike, but it is easier to tell when she is getting close to being done by the tone of her voice. I was able to dial in a comfortable pace for both of us by talking. She can let me know when I’m being too aggressive with throttle, brake, and steering inputs. The only downside to the intercom is that I kept tripping the vox when I was coaching myself through corners. I have continued to have an issue with regaining my confidence on the bike. This trip managed to stretch my comfort zone again, bolster that confidence, and I owe a big thanks to all involved. I can’t wait for the next trip… [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]-Wayne[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]This trip is centered around the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]VFRDiscussion.com TexasMac[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] 2010 Memorial ride. A good friend of mine (Adam) from SC rides a VFR and I’ve attended this meet in the past. The sun, moon, and stars aligned and plans fell into place to allow Annette and I to attend this year. The meet is headquartered in Franklin, NC at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Franklin Motel[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] and happens every spring as a memorial to a VFRDiscussion member (TexasMac) who lost his life while riding NC-28 near Fontana in 2003. We would head south on Wednesday, 19 May and return home by Monday evening, May 24th. So come, Ride There with us…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 1, Wednesday, 19 May 2010. We got a later start than originally planned due so somebody submitting his leave request for the wrong day. We departed around 1:30pm, with reservations in London, KY for the evening. Nothing but slab, this has become the curse of living so far north. Looking back, I should have moved the hotel north about 100 miles or so. We soldiered on, arriving at the hotel around 10:30pm that night. Annette’s only remark later would be, “How many horses can you see at night in Kentucky? ZERO.”[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Dinner stop in Dayton, Ohio at Panera Bread:[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 2, Thursday, 20 May 2010. This was to be a much more enjoyable day. We had a short run on the slab to get us to Knoxville, From there, we ran US129 through Maryville, TN, and onto US411 towards Vonoe, TN. Our patience was rewarded in the form of TN-360. Our first taste curvy goodness that fuels our passion for the road. TN-360 took us into Tellico Plains, TN, and a quick left on TN-165 put us on the climb across the Cherohala Skyway. The Cherohala stretches east towards Robbinsville, NC, crossing 36 miles of motorcycle heaven of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Traffic backup on I-75. There was a semi being pulled out of the ditch. As we were sitting there, you could clearly see the blue strobe lights of a patrol car at the head of the line. Out of the blue, someone behind us starts honking their horn. That really helped to clear out the traffic…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made a stop south of Knoxville to visit some of Mr. Happy’s relatives, the Rollback’s. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]See the resemblance?[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made a quick side trip to visit Bald River Falls. On a Thursday, we just about had the road and falls to our selves. Water volume was definitely up, most likely due to the recent rains. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Back on the road, we climbed up out of Tellico Plains on the Cherohala Skyway towards Robbinsville.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Mailbox art outside of Tellico Plains.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Ah, this is why we ride.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We hit Robbinsville, NC in time for a late lunch. The lunch special at Phillips Smoky Mountain Restaurant was fresh catfish. Yum.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Catfish and Hushpuppies.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]After lunch, we continued to make our way south towards Franklin. We rode US-129 to US74/19. A left there and a quick right ( actually, another left after a u-turn because I missed the turn onto Wayah Road) had us southbound on Wayah Road. The road was fairly clear of debris and traffic, taking us over Wayah Bald, past Nantahala Lake and down into Franklin. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Construction on Wayah Road.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Nantahala Lake viewed from Wayah Road[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We checked in, I unloaded the bike, and headed south to intercept the rest of the crew who were northbound on NC-28. I only got a few miles down the road when a familiar trio of bikes zipped past; a red VFR, followed by a Moto Guzzi, and a FJR could be no one else but Adam, Jada, and Charlie. I was looking forward to tackling NC-28 south with no luggage, but even more so to seeing our friends from down south. Another u-turn, and a few minutes later I caught up with them. They had pulled off to wait, we exchanged hello’s and quickly made our way back to the hotel.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]The 5th member of the gang was delayed enroute due to a closure of a section of the Blue Ridge Parkway (BRP). We walked up to the Motor Co Grill on Main Street, and before long we were joined by Jeff and Karen.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 3, Friday, 21 May 2010. Day three brought less than favorable riding conditions. I walked out side to check the current conditions to find one of Franklin’s finest circling the parking lot. Obviously, word was out that Jeff was in town. He has an uncanny ability to attract law where ever he travels. In typical FJR (freakin’ Just Ride) fashion, we reviewed the weather forecast and patterns to formulate our plan. West would be our escape from the extreme humidity (aka rain). Our group consisted of 3 FJR’s (Jeff, Charlie, and I), 2 VFR’s (Adam and Eric), a Moto-Guzzi (Jada), and a BMW F800GS (Brian). We circled the hotel parking lot once or twice in an effort to bait some other wayward souls to join the chase, but there were no takers. We headed west on NC-64 in the rain towards Hayesville, NC. We made a quick detour so Jeff could check in on his family’s cabin. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Word must have gotten out that Jeff was in town for the weekend; look who was trolling the parking lot when I stepped out to check the weather.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]While fueling up near Hayesville, we discovered that there was a UA bolt on the Guzzi kick stand bracket. Turns out, kickstands are pretty important component to a motorcycle, especially when it comes to parking them. However, we found Moto-Guzzi sliders to be adequate enough to lean the bike against a stone pillar. Mr. Ashe steered us to a local shop in hopes of finding a replacement bolt for the Guzzi. We have to give two thumbs up to Smith Power Sports of Hayesville. The parts department gave us a couple of bolts to try for size along with a socket set to get the job done. Everyone pitched in and we were ready to roll in no time. Oh, and the rain was letting up…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Lean it on bricks, anyone got some JBWeld??[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Tools, bolt, locktite courtesy of [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Smith Powersports[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] of Hayesville, NC[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We turned north on NC-294, and the roads were beginning to dry. There was a moment of sphincter clenching as one bike lost traction mid corner in front of me; we would later admire the slide marks on both front and rear tires. A right onto TN-68 revealed dry roads, clear skies, and smooth rolling. We stretched our legs north on TN-68 towards Tellico Plains, TN. Once in there, we stopped at Tellico Motorcycle Outfitters. Annette found a pair of gloves that she couldn’t live without, so we cashed out and when in search of lunch. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Tellico Plains.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We landed at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Tellico Grains Bakery[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] for lunch. Great sandwiches and atmosphere. I love finding the local small town watering holes.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Food Porn. Cheesecake Brownie, must have been good because this was all that was left by the time I sat down.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We headed east from Tellico Plains towards Robbinsville across the Cherohala Skyway (again!). We made the same side trip to Bald River Falls again, too. At this point, Adam attached his new GoPro video camera to my bike. The idea was to shoot some footage of everyone as we crossed the skyway. We took a side road (Whiteoak Flat Road) out off of River road to get back out the Cherohala. After a couple of miles, Mr. Ashe was the first to come around for candid camera. As he came around, I rolled on to match speed. It took all of about 3 seconds for Annette to decide she had had enough. It took another 30 seconds for that to register with me and shut down the warp drive. So, we got a few seconds of Mr. Haulin’Ashe before he disappeared. Eric was next; he gave chase to Jeff and soon disappeared along with Brian on the BMW, then Charlie on his FJR. Once everyone cycled by, we settled into a nice pace with Adam and Jada, cycling back and forth with the camera. I ran for a little bit where I closed in on Adam in hopes of some real good camera footage. We would later find out that the camera had timed out and shut down well before that. Oh well, practice for next time.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We circled the wagons for a fuel and refreshment stop outside of Robbinsville at the corner of NC-143 and US-129 at the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Skyway Convenience Store[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]. By this time, fatigue was setting in amongst some, so we headed south back towards Franklin. Once out of Robbinsville, we were greeted with dark skies and rain drops. The clouds opened up on us as we traversed Wayah Road, turning what is normally a fun road into a white knuckle experience. Of course, just as we came down off the mountain and into town, the rain stopped, clouds cleared, and the roads dried. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]More proof of Jeff’s LEO attraction arrived shortly after. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We made the hike up the street to have dinner at the Tokyo Restaurant. The sushi chef was out of town, but the selections were very tasty none the less. We spent some time socializing back at the hotel, and then hit the rack to rest up for tomorrow.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 4, Saturday, 22 May 2010. When I opened the room door Saturday morning, I was greeted by fog and overcast. We grabbed breakfast and got suited up. We picked up two additional riders today, Chris and Joline (VFR & GSXR). Our destination was [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Riders Hill[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] in Dahlonega. Due to the size of our group, we split into two smaller more manageable groups; Jeff taking point with the quicker, me taking the trailing group a few minutes behind. In my mind, I really didn’t think I was ready to lead a group again. In a lot of ways, I’m still dealing with ghosts from our spill in Sept ’08. But, the only way to deal with such tings is to either kick them in the testicles or be kicked. I prefer not to be kicked anymore. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We headed south on NC-28, stopping at Bridal Veil Falls outside of Highlands for a quick break and photo op. We continued south and took a right onto Warwoman Road towards Clayton, GA. This is a another great hidden treasure of a road. Minimal traffic and switchbacks opening up to flowing sweepers is the type of road the FJR was made for. We stopped for fuel in Clayton, then headed out onto Bridgecreek Road, then Burton Dam Road, then back north on GA-197. A couple squiggelly roads later had us at Riders Hill. We toured the service and sales floor, grabbed lunch and refreshments at their [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Six Gap Café[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Refreshed, we headed north, back up Calhoun Road, pickup of GA-60 towards Suches, GA. We stopped in Suches for fuel. At this point, Jeff’s concern for the thinning tread on his rear tire got the best of him and he headed back to Cycle Hill for a pit stop. That left me with leading the group back to Franklin. We rolled northeasterly on GA-180. We pickup up US-129 into Blairsville, GA, then east on GA-76, north on GA-75, and finially east on NC-64 back into Franklin. Dinner was taken in at Main Street Pizzeria, nothing better than pizza & wings at the end of a good ride. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Pit stop in Suches, GA[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]As we finished dinner, Jeff looks over at me with that chesher cat grim and says, “let’s go for a ride…” [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]A few minutes later, I was geared up and we rolled north on NC-28 as the sun was setting. We had an interesting encounter with a guy on a KLR650. Described as some “trust fund, crack head boy”, he was wound tight, possibly from years on a powder diet… I let him go by after a few minutes of his high beam in my mirrors, and Jeff entertained him the rest of the way north. I could tell the Avon Azaro was wearing as the FJR was beginning to overpower it on corner exits. Dialing it back just a hair, I settled into a smooth pace. We returned south along the same stretch of NC-28, now totally dark. I led, slowing Jeff considerably, I’m sure. Riding a tight and twisty road at night has become something I enjoy. In the dark, all the distractions of what is off the road are gone. You only focus the road and what is illuminated by your headlights. It allows me to ride smoother, quicker, and more relaxed. Boy, am I jacked up in the head or what??[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Here’s what NC-28 looks like at night, I case you were wondering…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 5, Sunday, 23 May 2010. I was greeted again by fog when I opened the hotel door. We said our good byes and headed north with Jeff & Karen and Charlie. Breakfast was a bust because the restaurant was closed. We ran north on NC-28, then east on NC-74/19 towards Ashville. We stopped off for breakfast at a Waffle House outside of Ashville. From there, we broke contact and headed north on I-26, everyone else turned south.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]We worked our way north through North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky along US-23. I made a detour onto VA-72 through Jefferson National Forest. This was a very nice road, with many switchbacks and rolling sweepers along the way. I’m pretty sure we hit this road at some point last September during EOM. The other road of note this day was OH-93 which cut through the Wayne National Forest. This was a 450 plus mile day. Note to self: I need to plan a rest day into these trips. We got to our hotel in Chillicothe, OH by 6pm. A quick dinner at [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Roosters Wings[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt], mainly because we couldn’t walk any further than the parking lot! We were both exhausted. The mileage and heat had taken its toll today. While unloading the bike, I had popped the Givi loose on its mount and while reaching to close the side bag, the Givi slipped out of my hand and bounced across the asphalt. The bike was showing signs as well; in the form of wear bars on the front and rear tires. [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]It was a long day; at this point, neither of us wanted to get back on the bike…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Wayne National Forest in SE Ohio[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]This is what happens when you’re exhausted.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Day 6, Monday, 24 May 2010. Last day. Final leg. Home stretch, yada, yada, yada. We made a short pit stop in Columbus to visit the [/SIZE][SIZE=12pt]Ironpony.com[/SIZE][SIZE=12pt] store. This is a true motorcycle junkie’s candy superstore. The checkbook was spared, escaping with only a package of Snider’s paint guard deducted from the balance. We continued north, watching the roads straighten out and the hills flatten out. I mentioned to Annette over the intercom that I didn’t much care for this part of Ohio; she agreed. We made a final stop just inside the Michigan state line, then one last cannonball run through Detroit, catching the beginning of rush hour traffic.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]What do bored passengers do?[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Annette found a new back seat at IronPony.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Mileage milestone of the trip.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Products of a good trip; dirty bike and worn out tires…[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Home safe and sound. 6 days, 2000 miles, can’t wait to do it again.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Profound statement of the trip: “you can’t get traction on squirrels.” – Jeff.[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]Parting thoughts. Boy, the miles sure are a lot harder now. Tuesday afternoon and even Monday I fought the increasing pain in my lower back. I spent the better part of Tuesday recovering. I’m determined to get into better shape. The bike performed as expected, not a hiccup. A HeliBars triple clamp riser will do wonders to improve my comfort, I’m sure. We enjoyed having the Scala Rider Teamset Bluetooth intercom. Annette never complains on the bike, but it is easier to tell when she is getting close to being done by the tone of her voice. I was able to dial in a comfortable pace for both of us by talking. She can let me know when I’m being too aggressive with throttle, brake, and steering inputs. The only downside to the intercom is that I kept tripping the vox when I was coaching myself through corners. I have continued to have an issue with regaining my confidence on the bike. This trip managed to stretch my comfort zone again, bolster that confidence, and I owe a big thanks to all involved. I can’t wait for the next trip… [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt]-Wayne[/SIZE]
[SIZE=12pt] [/SIZE]
Last edited by a moderator:
