OK I spent yesterday and today running the roads for the route this year. it looks like it will be some where in the 175 mile range. as usual trail days will keep us out of Damascus. we will run it from the campground and the first gas stop will be about 50 miles out. met with the owner and masks are required and restrooms are closed as the comunistwelth of VA hit him hard. the second stop will again be what was our first gas stop of old and will also be the lunch stop. i have included a trip down the goat path but to do this there will be about 5 miles of the same roads to do this but i think it is worth it
I will need a head count for the BAR B Q after the ride so i can get this set up..
windy 72 combat if it aint broke fix it till it is switchbackcreek.com
Had planned to make it this year but am having some surgery on the Friday before so I won't be making it. I was ready to bring my tent and camping stuff. Even cranked the B50. Started on the first kick after sitting all winter. You guys have a fun and a safe ride and I hope to see you guys next year. Sorry to hear about the BRI not being available. The only constant in life is change.
Had planned to make it this year but am having some surgery on the Friday before so I won't be making it. I was ready to bring my tent and camping stuff. Even cranked the B50. Started on the first kick after sitting all winter. You guys have a fun and a safe ride and I hope to see you guys next year. Sorry to hear about the BRI not being available. The only constant in life is change.
Mr Mike
take care of your self and maybe we will see you next year.
windy 72 combat if it aint broke fix it till it is switchbackcreek.com
Not counting myself out yet, but according to my brother if I want to spend time with my father it needs to be much sooner rather than later. We had planned a big celebration for his 100th in August but..... The other brother will be there the week after the TSMR so my plans are now officially in flux.
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
Not counting myself out yet, but according to my brother if I want to spend time with my father it needs to be much sooner rather than later. We had planned a big celebration for his 100th in August but..... The other brother will be there the week after the TSMR so my plans are now officially in flux.
I’m sorry to hear about your father. At his age it’s no surprise but still tugs at ya. There will come a time when you won’t have him around.......cherish the time you have.
Before you know it....it’ll be next year.
Gordon in NC
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/07/2111:01 am.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
mike do what you feel you have to family is more important the this ride.
I consider some of y'all family. The list of people that I'm willing to go on any kind of group ride with is pretty small but everybody thats in so far is on it. I was in Philly for my mothers funeral 4 years ago, a week or so before the TSMR when, I got the news about Ben Strain's passing. Sounds strange, but I'm not sure which hit me harder. My mother was 99 and had not been 100% for a while, it was expected. It's harder when somebody goes out on an errand and never comes back.
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
All loaded up this morning I am on my way just decided to come early came through a small town in Missouri has two colleges which means lots of college girls. Got myself invited into an apartment for a cup of coffee. anyway, must have a structural problem, there is this poleholding the ceiling up.
Rich "It's not always about going fast. Sometimes it's nice to slow down" (Wendy E.2016)
69 bonney 72 commando 75 commando a ducati Another couple triumphs and no Honda? but another triumph
I always finish a pot of coffee. I have a rule that I can't drink until the coffee pot is empty. Only applies at home though. I don't usually drink coffee at rallies.
Sure is lonely here. The trip out was a total bit h, today is typical mounttain weather.
Just took Gordon's bike for a ride up the mountain. Turned around half way up. Cold and fogged in so went to the general store for lunch. Food wasn't bad and they now serve breakfast.
Rich "It's not always about going fast. Sometimes it's nice to slow down" (Wendy E.2016)
69 bonney 72 commando 75 commando a ducati Another couple triumphs and no Honda? but another triumph
In attempt to arrive in camp on the R3 without a worn out tire, I discovered a broken rear spoke! Trying to get it fixed before Wednesday here in Atlanta. I’m kinda miffed about this. It’s heavier duty than stock and it still broke. Also Buchanan would not answer the phone or return my messages. They must be on vacation.
My apologies for not arriving sooner Richard. Tomorrow looks like a nice day up there?
Last edited by Semper Gumby; 05/10/2111:08 pm.
Have a basic plan and then let life fill in the blanks.
Hope they've got it to sell! The independent stations around here (Blairs, Brookneal) are running out of gas, the big stations (ExxonMobil etc) are being prioritized. Windy, let us know if it starts getting short in the Valley ....
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Did you know it's possible to climb to the top of backbone rock ?
Yes, I did. Mr Ben took the climb one year. A few others have made the hike through the years. I absolutely love that place and always thought it was a great spot for a group photo. I still think the interesting story about the tunnel is....ONLY after it was completed did they realize that the smoke stack on the narrow gauge train that was going to pass through it.....wouldn’t clear the top of the “tunnel”. I’m in construction and know what that call to the boss might have sounded like.
“Uh.......well we measured to the top of the boiler. Is there anyway they can take that smoke stack off?” 😂
I wish I was home so I could post a pic of it. But the notch that had to be put in it looks so.......oops!!!!!!
Gordon
PS. Life and work has got in the way and I won’t see you guys ( and gals) until Saturday after you get back to the camp ground. Looking forward to it.
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/11/211:26 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Neat site but it's not real-time (not that I know how it could be) ... there are stations in my county that are out of fuel that are still showing green on there.
Windy, if you can cache some fuel at the campground in case local stations aren't open, I'll chip in ... Don't want to get "caught out" here in the middle of the latest crisis/emergency that we just happen to be having ... again ....
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Absolutely. As someone's signature says "It'll be all right in the end. If it's not all right, it's not the end ...".
But it's a long walk from Willis to Meadows of Dan, hilly too. I like hiking, but I'd rather not make that one if I can do something to prepare for it ... !!!
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
asheville NC dry as bone lines at pumps here in Gasolovakia County NC about 100 miles east i got some hi-test as it was only brew available $3.25 a gallon NC Goobernator Cooper declared state of emergency yesterday which of course touched off panic buying hahah last year this time no toilet paper to be seen ..one damn 'crisis' after another sheesh! enuff to make a person go to drinkin'
1972 Triumph T120 1968 BSA A65 1968 MGB Roadster 1979 Chevrolet Camaro Berlinetta 1969 Honda Mini Trail 2004 Honda Shadow Aero 1949 Ferguson TE20 tractor 1975 yamaha xs650b 1971 SL 175 Honda military resto mod 2 olive drab WWII military bicycle replicas
This may need to be re-scheduled.......I’m not gonna make a 4 hour drive if I can’t get gas......
Maybe it'll ease up in the next couple of days. I'm 5 hours away by bike myself.
Sometimes it's worth taking a chance, sometimes not. A few years back, the Blowing Rock region was a flood disaster area during our week, roads and homes washing away, you never knew what you'd find around the next curve. I felt bad about coming down to "play" while people were losing their homes and livelihoods. Probably wouldn't do THAT again.
This is a little different, like planning a trip to a part of the world where you buy gas a liter at a time, poured out of a soda bottle in someone's front yard. Not fatal consequences if it goes south, just inconvenience....
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Wotan is full of petrol and on the trailer. I filled the van yesterday. I took Mr Jim out for a ride today, before deciding to bring the Trident. Paid $3.80 for non-ethanol premium, been a while since it took $10 to fill a small tank. I might drain a couple of gallons into a can before I depart. Nothing left to pack but the cooler. We'll see y'all around the campfire.
Only 250 miles or so from north Georgia to Shady Valley ... ought to be able to make that on one tank, carry a few spare gallons in the bed, Windy'll know a guy who knows a guy I'm sure to tank up to get home ... ?
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
General store says they should have gas today or tomorrow
And how do we fuel up several bikes through 175 miles and 3 states? Has someone got a tanker truck to follow? I’ve called several gas stations in that area, and they ALL are out....
If you love it, let it go. If it comes back, you've highsided!"
I guess there's worse times I could have missed than this. Sitting here with my dad in PA wishing I could be with you down there with you worrying about fuel bit duty calls. I have managed to get out into the Chester county area a bit on the Norton,but now I don't know what to do with those three nice Dominican cigars I have. Somebody have a beer around the fire for me, and I'll see you next time.
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
I'm going to Trailer. Bringing the rocket 3. I'm coming up I75 to I81. Marlin should be there by now. I think he found gas in Ashville of al the crazy things. I'm bringing a 5 gallon can of hightest and a 5 gallon can of Noethanol 87. I was going to ride the BMW but it just didn't seem right to not bring a britbike to a britbike rally so there.
Have a basic plan and then let life fill in the blanks.
,but now I don't know what to do with those three nice Dominican cigars I have. Somebody have a beer around the fire for me, and I'll see you next time.
overnite them to windy and we will take care of those for you. problem solved!
Have a basic plan and then let life fill in the blanks.
I guess there's worse times I could have missed than this. Sitting here with my dad in PA wishing I could be with you down there with you worrying about fuel bit duty calls. I have managed to get out into the Chester county area a bit on the Norton,but now I don't know what to do with those three nice Dominican cigars I have. Somebody have a beer around the fire for me, and I'll see you next time.
Well, you're doing the right thing. I said goodnight to my Dad, hale and healthy, on October 5th 1967. Heard a few noises during the night but went back to sleep.
Never saw him again. He dropped dead in his tracks of a massive heart attack (his second one, age 39) in front of the bathroom sink about midnight. Woke up the next morning, ambulance and coroner had been and gone, no Dad.
We'll see you next time!! There's a time for everything.
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Sitting in my brothers kitchen with a nice hot cup of coffee....getting ready for a breakfast of scrapple and eggs then a ride out into that nice countryside that RichochetRider is always taking such nice photos of.. Ride safe and don't forget your gas rationing cards!
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
The Norton is packed up and ready to go, looks like a beautiful day, I'll head to Mountain City first and unload, then over the Snake to Windy's this evening ....
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
My manualGPs worked great.... My packing job didn't. Lost the blue bag with my rain gear in it somewhere around Ferrum, VA. Got to find some more somewhere. About 3 out of 4 gas stations had gas so no problems along those lines. Headed to Shady in a few minutes....
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
In attempt to arrive in camp on the R3 without a worn out tire, I discovered a broken rear spoke! Trying to get it fixed before Wednesday here in Atlanta. I’m kinda miffed about this. It’s heavier duty than stock and it still broke. Also Buchanan would not answer the phone or return my messages. They must be on vacation.
My apologies for not arriving sooner Richard. Tomorrow looks like a nice day up there?
[quote=Semper Gumby]
Stainless is for making forks & spoons. Spokes should be CAHBINN steel.
No excuse for losing that thing. It was a nice Olympia suit too, although a size 3X from the past.
I've been tying down luggage on bikes for 50 years now, I was using proper ROK straps, and I took my time this morning doing it. Didn't pull it tight enough, and didn't allow for the loops slipping along the chrome rack rails.
Brain not in gear.....
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Had breakfast at the Shady store....eggs and home fries. Marlins bike proved too cold blooded this morning. So Dick and I followed RICHARD south over the snake for about 70 miles of riding between Mountain City and Boone. I then pushed the home button and they followed the glorious BSA Rocket 3 as far as Doe Valley. Dick’s bike started loosing power which was determined to be electrical. So we left him on the side of the road (TN67) and took Cross mountain road to the back way into the camp ground. I recovered Dick ‘s pretty Suzuki 2 strike 500 twin with trusty Jeep and U-haul trailer. So all ended well. No rain so far and gas cans at the ready for tomorrow’s riding adventure.
Fire, dinner (some in camp, some for burgers in shady) and adult libations. Lies told.
In attendance: Windy, Richard, Marlin, DavidP, Lannis, Bill of the Noname variety, Tom Sanders from Florida!
Still awaiting arrival: Gordon, DPO and range targets.
Note: it’s amazing how far down the valley a britbike can be heard in the early evening.
Sincerely
SG
Have a basic plan and then let life fill in the blanks.
I won’t be coming up until later Saturday. Should be there when you all get back.
10 meter targets where the 10 is the size of a period. Looking forward to trying out a real 10 meter rifle.
Lannis.......guess it was just meant to be. The weather is looking pretty dry until Monday so you just might make it home in the dry. Those cargo nets are amazing. Bill ( aka no name man) used one big enough to cover all of his stuff. I had to get one of those too. They do not replace the straps you already use because you don’t want them being the primary fastener but they just cover everything and keeps in place. A plus is it gives you an easier way to add something to the load without undoing everything. You got 50 years of experience..... You’re also smart enough to pick up on new things.
Gordon in NC.
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/14/2112:38 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
CAHBINN...........it took me a bit to figure that one out!!!😂😂😂
But knowing who it came from.........I’ll take that one to the bank. The only reason I’ve never used SS is because I’m cheap......now I can claim it’s because I knew better!!!
“ Don’t chip a nipple........”
Gordon.....who can post but has reached his daily limit on “likes” ??????? So let me say I “like” that Jack Adams and friend are on their way to the event.
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/14/211:17 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Little chilly here the past few mornings but it looks like a nice day for riding.
Of course I can make a pot.........anything else I need to do or bring?
Wilkes got resupplied over night and most of our stations have gas now. I figure the ones out your way should get resupplied soon if they haven’t already.
See ya Saturday afternoon.
Gordon
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/14/212:19 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
I'm going to post these as quick as I can. I deleted some campsite photos thinking I had sent them to myself ( I barely made it through high school so be easy on me) ..........this tech stuff nowadays is over my head.
I'm not there....I'm 80-100 miles away from where they might be. I "think" this is Dick The Deer Slayer? Mr Tom ( from Florida) and my guess is a local who will have a cool story to tell about the old bikes he saw.
I think Bill (aka Gumby) is taking the photo. (Who's taking the photo but at the same time...... thinking "Damnnnnn I bet that gravel road would be fun....wonder where it goes?"
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/14/218:27 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
These are photos of the campsite this morning. I'm not sure how to input comments between the photos......yet....but let me edit back through this and I'll try to describe what's in the photos. I need some help here.....but I'll do it this way for now.
Photo 1 - L to R Richrd, Marlin, Bill (aka no name man) and I think Dick. Photo taken at one end of the campgrounds bath house, laundry and field kitchen.
OKAY........File Captions!!! Just noticed that so I'll try that next time. One more step up the learning ladder.
Photo 1 - Lannis's BEAUTIFUL Norton......counting Windy's there are some really nice Nortons up there.
Photo 2 - Bill's (aka no name man) TBolt. Now I really get fuzzy about this....I think he's had it since new???? Which is a story I keep telling about Greg's (aka GaCracker) Triumph and he keeps reminding me that is not true.......damnit.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Tom Sanders (Fla)... no spark. Gumby Recovery (aka Bill) at the ready!
Ah, the stories we'll have to tell.
Tom's Norton quit sparking near Damascus.
Gumby rides back to camp to fetch his Jeep and trailer to rescue him.
On the way there, Gumby's Jeep transmission, after 250,000 miles of service, dies in the middle of Damascus, surrounded by 15,000 blue-haired hippies and girls with hairy armpits smelling of patchouli.
Gumby calls in, and No Name Man hooks up HIS trailer, Lannis hops in for the ride, and they get back to Damascus, and pull up next to Gumby's broken car in a miraculously open parking space.
NNM then discovers that his tailgate is open, and a full 5 gallon can of diesel has fallen onto Tennessee 133 at speed, presumably splattering all over the highway, not only creating a EPA SuperFund site and causing multiple motorcycle crashes, but causing the enraged Greens to organize a lynch mob to deal with the perpetrators.
However, our readers will be relieved to hear that this was the low point of the ill-starred series of events.....to be continued...
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Just then, Tom pulls up on the Norton, which, once he realizes that no help is coming soon, has his motivation kicked into overdrive and manages to coax it back to life. All of Gumby's stuff along with the trailer, is transferred to NNM's truck and everyone heads for camp.
And then, wonder of wonders and miracle of miracles, after a 15 mile drive listening to NNM cursing himself with every hard name in the book for not securing that fuel can, THERE IT WAS, lying in a grass ditch, intact and unravaged by savage diesel-hungry Tennessee hillbillies, just a half mile from camp.
And once Windy, the Norton Whisperer, tightened up the loose EI trigger screws, the adventure was at an end.
And the ride hasn't even started yet.... Stay tuned.
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Windy did a bang up job again and everyone seemed to have a good time.......typical breakdowns and such. Some VERY nice motorcycles in that bunch.......wow. Been a while since I saw a group of Norton's that looked that good.
Windy got a chance to take the group down the "Goat Path"this year, good on him. Not sure if you remember but we placed Mike Carters ashes along that entire section........it was one of Mike's favorites.
There were mixed emotions for me........I felt for Bill for having car trouble. He's not the first vehicle to bite the dust at a TSMR. I lost an engine in a Ranger one year and I swear.......only made it home because it's downhill all the way. Mr Ben.....I think he had a Trans go bad???? I delivered auto parts to Don Roe along 421 one year.......it's part of the tradition but Bill's a long way from home, has a ride back but I'm not sure what the fate of the Jeep is. I didn't get to talk with him much at all.
Enjoyed watching the fire and talking with old friends.
The weather for the ride was amazing.
I'm sure there'll be photos?
Gordon
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/16/215:04 am.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Great weekend, great friends, great ride! Although 175 miles of devious twisty roads just about wore me ragged. I need to get in better shape before next year, Wotan handled the ride much better than I did. Even so, a triple could definitely benefit from a close-ratio box on these roads. So, I finally rode the Snake, twice, and survived. Next year I wanna ride it toward Bristol too. A family photo.
I am glad some of you stalwarts continued the tradition. Sounds like the normal amount of mechanical difficulties and the willing support of others to make it a good day. Weather looked great. Gonna make a major effort to make it next year. I'll bring my tent that pitches on the bed of my truck. I think I made the first dozen rides or so at BRI and haven't made one since. That's pretty sorry!
So after riding in the “rescue vehicle” with Greg and NNM, which was a adventure in itself, and enjoying the barbecue, I retired to my shelter pretty whacked. Was awoken around 4-4:30 by a distinct noise just outside my tent. Cans being rummaged through by SOMETHING. Having visions of being mauled by something BIG kept me awake and alert. Seen daylight and feeling a bit safer, I fell back to sleep for a bit.Found Richard and Gumby picking up trash that was scattered all about. A raccoon was the general suspect, but COULD have been Bigfoot, right!!!!
If you love it, let it go. If it comes back, you've highsided!"
Well I had all good intentions but it wasn't happening this year. Spent a couple nice days with my father, rode the Norton out into PA Amish country a bit and enjoyed family time. Next year for sure.....but I hope to see a few of you in upstate PA this fall.
On another note, was any recon work done as far as a new base of operations (motel/inn) for next year? I'm all in on Switchback Creek myself but I know it's not everybodys thing.
Last edited by MikeG; 05/17/2111:20 pm.
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
I would be more than happy to return to Windy's next year. That being said, I am going to try to lay out a ride in this area should a more southerly venue be chosen. Personally, I'd like to see two events, one in the spring, and another in the late summer/fall. But then, I'm retired, so every day is Saturday here!
I have to give a ton of credit to Windy for a really kick ass ride. 180 miles of beautiful scenery, some really nice roads, and the chance to be a bit of a hooligan on the way back. The Country Store does a pretty good breakfast, even if they have a few issues. The cabin was a must every night, it got cold! It was great to see the stalwarts again, and I even (unintentionally) provided some comic relief. Twice. I'll let my literary betters tell the whole tale. I can't wait for next year, to do it all over again.
THANKS! to everyone.
Hugh: Proof the Dodo is not extinct 1974 Daytona project A couple others
On another note, was any recon work done as far as a new base of operations (motel/inn) for next year? I'm all in on Switchback Creek myself but I know it's not everybodys thing.
Well, since I was staying at the "Americourt" near Mountain City, that meant that I had to ride "The Snake" from Mountain City to Shady Valley a total of about 10 times; what a problem to have! I'm getting to know it pretty well.
The Americourt is fine for sort of camping in; it was clean, but pretty worn down. Only $64 a night + tax, and the staff was attentive, so that's good news. Always some "unconventional" (I'll leave that to your imagination) but friendly folks hanging around in the parking lot for unclear reasons, lots of them asking about the Norton. Towels are frayed at the edges, and they don't come in and make up your room or bring new towels during your stay, you have to go and fetch them if you want them.
So it was OK for me, but it definitely won't be everyone's cup of motelling tea for sure ... I KNOW that Fay wouldn't put up with it, and she's fairly tolerant about motels as girls go. So probably not a successor for the BRI. Experience with and reviews of the only other motel in Mountain City (the Mountain Empire) are uniformly bad. The search continues.
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Maybe we could all go help Windy build more cabins? I'm still scrolling on Google Maps trying to figure out where we went. What's the real name for the Goat Path?
i would like to thank all of you for taking the time to come to this ride. so far it looks like it will stay as is for several reasons and motels is one of them. i hope every one was well entertained be around the camp fire or the roads. looking forward to next year.
hope all made it home safe.
windy 72 combat if it aint broke fix it till it is switchbackcreek.com
You did good Windy. I didn’t hear one complaint about the campground or the ride.
I agree with you 100% that the dynamics of the ride would change if you tried to start the old loop from your place.
Did anyone try looking for a motel in Elizabethton? Wonder what the time difference really is between Mountain City and Elizabethton. I know what the mileage is but for a rider like me ( lame and slow) my bet is I can “almost” make Elizabethton in about the same time. BUT...... ( and that’s a big ole hairy Shaun kinda but) I’ve never tried it. Always seems like that road to Elizabethton goes on forever.
Anyway there will always be folks that don’t mind camping.
Job well done and bless you for keeping it alive.
Gordon
PS: Someone fill us in on Marlin’s comic relief please
Richrd thank you for the good deal on your B44. It’s gone to a loving home. The poor thing didn’t even look like a real motorcycle compared to those other bikes in attendance. Also thanks for letting me try out a real 10 meter rifle.
Our Northern friends were sorely missed....you folks keep an eye out for Mike Gs OSMR in the fall. If you’ve never attended...you have been missing out. Great area all around. We all motel camp and the place is perfect for it.
AND......bless Mr Tom ( Fla) for being there and for being a volunteer for the vaccine study. He did kinda glow in the dark and walked with a limp but I’m attributing that to the “apple pie” that was being passed around and that other stuff he kept in his glass.
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/18/2112:21 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Good to be home, my fears about the States self induce gas shortage proved to be a non issue. I chose to be the 5th bike out on Saturday morning when the ride began, no particular reason. Didn’t take long to realize I was in trouble. I’ve only owned my little BSA for a couple of months now, and had gotten somewhat familiar with the bike here in Cleveland on the RBR parkway and Wolfpen Gap, but have never taken curves like that, that fast. Since my fall at work back in December of 2019, I have not been the same in some areas, I suppose proficiently riding on challenging roads is one of them. Not sure who was on one of the bikes in front of me, but he was a MAJOR factor in my nervousness. Adamantly splitting lanes, standing, and waving arms was a big distraction for me. I admit, I was splitting lanes on one of the past 3 state rides, and was thoroughly reprimanded for it, but not a word mentioned in this incident... Guess it depends on demeanor or something. By the time my higher power took my clutch cable, I was exhausted and relieved. I would have finished the route, but probably 2 hours later than everyone else...The ride in the truck was very entertaining and educational.... Greg was a freakin HOOT! Didn’t know that lakes had fingers and thumbs, and that cow that wandered into the road could have been really bad! I LOVED Wendy’s property, and hope the best for him. Was good to see Gordon, Marlin, David, Bill, Mr. Richard, Lannis, and meeting all others. I will be attending the BIBR as it’s only like 30 miles from my home, and will GLADLY bring both bikes if someone needs to borrow the little BSA..... New clutch cable arriving this weekend....
Last edited by DPO; 05/18/212:04 pm.
If you love it, let it go. If it comes back, you've highsided!"
Good to be home, my fears about the States self induce gas shortage proved to be a non issue. I chose to be the 5th bike out on Saturday morning when the ride began, no particular reason....
Mark, it was good to see you again after all this time. I was riding two bikes behind you, and you looked like you were doing fine, if you were uncomfortable you were hiding it well!
Group rides are funny things and you have to get used to them, and make little adjustments as you go. We all brake at slightly different places, we all ride at slightly different places in the lane, we have different ideas about what a good speed is through a curve.
For example, there are some folks who are willing to ride into a blind hairpin turn with a rock ledge on the inside at a speed where, if there were a stalled truck, a fallen rock, or a fallen tree in the road just around the curve, they could not POSSIBLY stop in time to avoid a crash and getting hurt or killed. I just have a different idea about the risk vs. benefit ratio ... in other words, the pleasure of laying it over hard in blind turns does NOT compensate for the risk of damage and pain IF there is an unexpected barrier or gravel wash in the road. For some people, it's obviously worth it. For me, even though I know I'm taking an unnatural risk just by BEING on a motorcycle on a twisty mountain road with a 200 foot drop on one side, THAT particular corner-speed risk is not worth it, so I do not ride around a turn at a speed that does not allow me to stop in time if there's something there.
So just because THEY are willing to take the risk, or enjoy standing on the pegs and leaning into a turn, that should not bother me too much. I will not ride close enough to them to get hurt with them if the worst happens, and ESPECIALLY I will not consider my manhood at risk if I do not ride as fast as they do or otherwise try to keep up with what they are doing. Everyone ride their own ride.
Next time, we can be at the "back of the line" and ride whatever speed makes it into a relaxed tour, where you can enjoy the ride, and enjoy hanging out with everyone at the gas and lunch stops. Sort of adjust as you go along and don't do anything uncomfortable. The chase truck isn't going to pass you, doesn't matter how far back you drop.
And I've got plenty of experience, when I finally pull into the gas stop where the rest of the group is hanging out, with their drinks half empty and their cigarettes smoked all the way down already, of listening to "Well, you finally got here!" and "What, did your bike quit on you?" or "You'd think a BSA could go a little faster than THAT; you need a tune-up?" Most of that is just good-natured raillery and doesn't mean a thing, and the part that isn't, is just guys swinging their big balls around to see if you'll notice what a bull-goose rider they are. Just ignore that bit, it doesn't hurt and there isn't much of it .... !
There is something to be said to either say or think "PLEASE don't cross the double-yellow on a blind curve to make a pass. If you end up in a Dodge Ram grill, it's going to ruin it for the rest of us!" Just gotta be tactful if you can ... !
My 21st year in a row, I think, and I enjoy every ride regardless of who else is there ...
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
Mark/DPO-Ride your own ride, not the other guys. It was years before I ever knew that Bob AKA Howard Inough, had a working headlight cause all I ever saw was his tail light. But we have fun just the same.
1960 BSA A10 2007 Suzuki Bandit 1957 A10 (Used to be a Triumph here) 71 Norton Commando 17 Triumph Bonneville
on the lane crossing i sure dont condone it and when i see it the offender will get an ear full and i hope the riders that do see it speak up to the offender also. like has been said ride your own ride as you will not left to fend for your self.
windy 72 combat if it aint broke fix it till it is switchbackcreek.com
Like herding cats! Ought try it when riders number 300+! LOL!
anyways, input for southern route lodgings... In addition to Big Lynn Lodge in Little Switzerland, there is another place I have frequented to add to the mix.
Pineola Inn in Pineola NC. Tidy affordable motel, bike friendly, ON SITE camping with bath house! Fairly sure they sell coonskin caps at the store! Cabins as well, situated with the camping. Some even have jacuzzi baths... Site of an ADV ride that proceeds go to MD Anderson cancer research that I have attended many times. {anyone wanna ride the Gravel Dragon? 22 miles without an intersection or driveway!} (can also access other more paved routes}
on the lane crossing i sure dont condone it and when i see it the offender will get an ear full and i hope the riders that do see it speak up to the offender also. like has been said ride your own ride as you will not left to fend for your self.
Guilty as charged. But I only use the whole road when I can see clearly through the whole corner. I rarely ride fast enough to be tempted to pass on the double yellow. I'm actually relieved sometimes to get 'stuck' behind a slow vehicle, unless it's a gravel truck.
I only have one problem with most group rides. While I love riding with others, I like to stop and take pictures when I see a nice view from the road. Most times whoever planned the ride keeps going until we hit reserve. Then I get home with no pictures to post for Shaun.
Rode the Rocket 3 home with minimalist camping gear. Met a unicorn in Damascus waiting for the tow truck. She used to ride a Ninja, knew what a BSA was and took this picture.
I've got some video of us riding but don't know if any of it is good.
Had a great time riding with the gang of English missfits. All britbikes this year I think. Weather was Flawless and gas was to be found despite all the fearmongering. I still have 2/3rds of a bottle of Gumout Octane booster. This converts 87 oct into Britbike fuel.
Thank you Gordon for posting my pics. Much appreciated!
Last edited by Semper Gumby; 05/20/212:24 am.
Have a basic plan and then let life fill in the blanks.
Five Nortons, four Triumphs, and three BSAs on the ride.
We were chuckling a bit about the fact that two of the BSAs came home on the trailer ... BUT ...
One of them was due to a dead Trispark electronic ignition. If it had still had proper Lucas points and condenser, it's unlikely that they would have died to the point that it couldn't be ridden home. And the other was a broken clutch cable, which can be chalked up to either aftermarket parts or "I'll check it before I go next time", not anything dodgy about Birmingham Small Arms' quality or design. I can tell you that I had my Norton's clutch cable off yesterday, carefully checking it for broken strands and lubing and greasing it liberally (lubing the inside with non-petroleum graphite and the barrel end with grease).
So, we'll all learn for next year ... !!
Lannis
Patriotism is supporting your country all of the time and your government when it deserves it.
I finally get a chance to put in my 2 cents. been busy around here, confusor and photo host problems, and I need to get going on a bike trip. so this will be quick
Not much to say that hassent been said already, The campground is looking betterr this year, Don't know if its the big new mower or better looking clientele met this very "interesting" lady there. had a lot of fun talking to her but she scared the hell out of me when she told me she had been riding only 3 weeks, had a new Honda 1300 cruiser, and her boyfriend brought her up to ride the mountain. We road up to backbone rock and did a bit of "rock climbing."
This year can be remembered for the lack of. bad weather, and the lack of good weather. actually the weather changed every 5 minutes. but there were plenty of pepsis cans to kill, as Marlin is demonstrating
the relaxed pace on this years ride was kind of nice. other than that the only thing different this year was the missing faces and one day gas shortage. No one died and a good time was had by all.
found this in W.Va. not sure, but I think this is one of those time portals I've heard about. other pics in no certain order or purpose
this is what Gordon calls campground tv.
latest in tribal tats
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Last edited by Richrd; 05/27/214:29 pm.
Rich "It's not always about going fast. Sometimes it's nice to slow down" (Wendy E.2016)
69 bonney 72 commando 75 commando a ducati Another couple triumphs and no Honda? but another triumph
Afterward, I went home with Lannis to spend a day investigating civil war history. Lannis was a hell of a guide, knowing what each man was thinking, who was riding which horse and what color it was. It was educational for someone whose only exposure to it was from movies.
Rich "It's not always about going fast. Sometimes it's nice to slow down" (Wendy E.2016)
69 bonney 72 commando 75 commando a ducati Another couple triumphs and no Honda? but another triumph
I'm glad you had a guide and I can't think of a better one for that area than Lannis. I've got a deep history in that conflict......I'm interested in it but at the same time horrified by it. I've reenacted it.....but you can't really duplicate the circumstances.......not that anybody in their right mind would want to. It had to be horrible.
More photos????
Gordon
Last edited by Gordon Gray; 05/27/219:02 pm.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
Gordon, that tattoo was the first comic relief I provided. I was trying to fit a chain, and everyone else was laughing! They finally told me about it, so I could laugh too. Come to think of it, that is the second time the back of my head made me famous! Ron Howard might even recognize it.
Now if Rich can post the video of the bike being loaded into my truck....
You know, if you can't laugh at your friends, who can you laugh at?
Hugh: Proof the Dodo is not extinct 1974 Daytona project A couple others
Amen my friend........I like to think of it as “ laughing with” instead of “at”.
Oh we’ve all had our share of laughable events happen to us. Thank goodness my brother wasn’t videoing me trying to ride his trials bike out of the bed of my truck.......it would have been a you tube classic.
Take care and stay healthy.......Gordon.
Gordon Gray in NC, USA........"Trees are for traction"
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I can tell you that I had my Norton's clutch cable off yesterday, carefully checking it for broken strands and lubing and greasing it liberally (lubing the inside with non-petroleum graphite and the barrel end with grease).
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