TWT Smoky Mountain Rally Sept 17-23rd

[Tourmeister]

Howdy,

This will be the second week long rally for the 2005 season. It will be six full days of riding in the Smoky Mountains in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Northern Georgia. The roads here make the flat spot in the center of your tire a thing of the past!! For the dual sport enthusiasts, there are endless miles of twisting forest roads that run deep down into the woods and over mountain ridges.

TWT Smoky Mountain Rally (http://backroadmotorcycletours.com/05-EVENTS/NC-080705/index.htm)

The rally dates have beed pushed back to Sept 17th-23rd.

This will be a week of riding that you will never forget!

Adios,

[Tx Rider]

Franklin is such a good anchor spot for a week of riding.

Are you going to be leading the DS routes Scott?

[Tourmeister]

Are you going to be leading the DS routes Scott?

Of course ;-)

[Tx Rider]

I'm so torn, I've only ridden that area on 2 different harleys.

Part of me wants to thrash the FZ1 through the mountains with wild abandon for a week, the other half is thinking there's gotta be some awesome offroading there I haven't seen.

[Thermalser]

I'm so torn, I've only ridden that area on 2 different harleys.

Part of me wants to thrash the FZ1 through the mountains with wild abandon for a week, the other half is thinking there's gotta be some awesome offroading there I haven't seen.

Trailer up and take both! ;-)

[Tourmeister]

:tab If you have something like the KLR, F650GS, XR650L, you can still have a blast on the pavement and the offroads areas. Some of the best paved roads dead end into dirt roads that go on up and over the mountains then become great paved roads again on the other side. The dirt/gravel roads are great because the wander deep into the woods to some really cool places.

Adios,

[Tourmeister]

Teaser Pics!

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[Tx Rider]

Scott, what brand are those knobbies you have on in that pic? Do they handle on the road very well?

[Tourmeister]

John, they are Continnental TKC 80's. They ROCK on the road but only last about 4K miles of agressive riding (for the rear) maybe 8K for the front. They aren't great in rain on pavement, but they aren't terrible either. They are good on the dirt and loose stuff but not a true knobbie. Should be able to get them for around $200 a set.

Adios,

[Tx Rider]

Those TKC80's look like a good dual sport tire, 5000 miles is good on any kind of knobbie. :)

Where did you get yours at? I think I want to try one on the rear.

The Karoo I put on is a nice tire, but it looks like it's showing significant wear at only 400 miles.

[Tourmeister]

swmototires.com

Free shipping if you buy two or more tires.

Adios,

[Tourmeister]

Bump ;-) Debbie needs more people to go so she has someone to ride with on the street while others of us are off playing in the woods... :-P

[Tx Rider]

Well I'll be there, and I may do a road day or so with the new KTM in motard trim. 8-)

Definately have to try out the gap with it.

[Tourmeister]

John, I will be trailering out with the 18' trailer. It can hold five bikes. I can carry extra rims, tires, etc,... For that matter... if you want to take the FZ-1 AND the KTM... ;-)

For everyone wanting to go, don't forget to get hotel reservations. The info is here:

Smoky Mountain Rally (http://backroadmotorcycletours.com/05-EVENTS/NC-080705/index.htm)

[ThirdCoast]

[quote="Tourmeister"]John, I will be trailering out with the 18' trailer. It can hold five bikes. [quote]

What kind of trailer do you use? I have a single axial landscape type trailer, easy to load with the big ramp, but the thing is heavy and the ramp catches a lot of air. There must be a better way to haul a bike around that doesn't cost a bunch of money. What do you suggest.

This ride sounds very interesting to me. My work schedule will be tight since you are leaving on Sunday rather than Friday. I might try to make this ride. I have a brother in North Carolina that I don't get to see very much and have been wanting to get over that way. :chug:

Looks like some very good quality riding over in NC!

[Tx Rider]

Well I have a trailer that will carry both KTM's. I'm thinking about bringing both of them.

I got new forks for the 620, custom offset clamps and underbar damper mount now. Both KTM's will be ready to rock.

[Tourmeister]

:tab We are actually leaving here on either Friday evening or Saturday morning. The riding will start on Sunday. Then we will leave to come back on the following Saturday morning.

:tab Generally, a heavier trailer will haul better because it does not bounce around as much. Other than putting a bike in the bed of a truck, I think the trailer is the best way to go. However, some people use a single bike platform that attaches to the trailer hitch and hangs off the back of the vehicle.

Adios,

[woodman]

Great pics, make me want a dual sport bike again.

[Tourmeister]

You live in the perfect place for a DS bike Louis!! Can't believe you don't have something, at least a dirt bike!?

Adios,

[woodman]

My last dirtbike was about 5 years ago,YZ400F. I kept crashing and that did'nt agree with a 52 year old body. Now I have a Kawasaki 650 Prairie, don't crash that near as much.

[Tourmeister]

:tab This trip is not too far away for those interested going. I will be trailering and still have room in the truck and on the trailer. As always, first come, first served ;-)

[Wasabi]

[quote="Tourmeister"]:tab This trip is not too far away for those interested going. I will be trailering and still have room in the truck and on the trailer. As always, first come, first served ;-)[/quote

I am going and want to reserve a trailer space and truck seat. :-D

Bill

[Tourmeister]

No problem.

[Tx Rider]

Which bike are you bringing Bill? I'll be trailering out in my 4runner.

Your welcome to ride out as long as your not one of those types that sleeps all the way out there snoring. ;-) Colorado too for that matter.

[dower]

Which bike are you bringing Bill? I'll be trailering out in my 4runner.

Your welcome to ride out as long as your not one of those types that sleeps all the way out there snoring. ;-) Colorado too for that matter.

Bill knows the secret to making time fly by while traveling... AUDIO BOOKS.

8-)

[Wasabi]

Which bike are you bringing Bill? I'll be trailering out in my 4runner.

Your welcome to ride out as long as your not one of those types that sleeps all the way out there snoring. ;-) Colorado too for that matter.

Thanks John.

I will probably take the VStrom, it worked well last year. It will also depend on how well the VStrom performs in Colorado. Still not sure about how my butt could handle the KLR on a week long trip.

SteveVStrom and I are riding together for the Colorado trip. Thanks for the offer.

I will plan on riding with Scott on the Carolina trip unless he needs my space for other riders. If he does have more riders than space I would be gald to accept your offer. I promise not to fall asleep and only snore when I am awake. :-D

[Tx Rider]

Ok, though I'd offer what with you being so close and all. I'm taking KTM's to both rides, I think my tush can handle it. I'll surely be squirming around on the bike or standing for long intervals before days end though.

[Tx Rider]

So do we have a list of who definate for this trip?

For me this is the one trip of the year to make sure not to miss. Wyoming was great, I'm sure Colorado will be too, but it'll be hard to beat this area of north Carolina for riding for me.

[hcope1]

How 'bout some more street bikes signing up. The dirt roads in North Carolina are just as crappy as those in Texas. Snoopster, you still coming? I'll be glad when you DSers get tired of picking those pigs up out of the mud! :chug:

[Tourmeister]

So far we have:

Dyna Sport
Wasabi
Dower
Snoopster
Tourmeister & Blue Bomber

I don't consider anyone "definite" until I see the money ;-) So far, no one is definite.

The DS riders will be doing quite a bit of street riding as well. Lots of awesoem roads run up the side of a mountain only to become gravel for the run over the ridges or along the ridges, then on the downside the are paved again. This makes for some great loops.

[dower]

How 'bout some more street bikes signing up. The dirt roads in North Carolina are just as crappy as those in Texas. Snoopster, you still coming?
I'll be doing the street thing in NC. Riley will be staying home.


I'll be glad when you DSers get tired of picking those pigs up out of the mud! :chug:
IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN!!! :lol:

:chug:

[Tx Rider]

If I can get my 17" street wheels set up and tires on em by then I'll probably be wanting to run the gap and maybe a day of street riding on the DS bike too.

I'm wondering how weird it'll feel to be on a light enduro bike with small wheels and sport bike grip on it, liable to take a little getting used to.

[bobcat]

Scott, please add me to the list of attendees. Just made my hotel reservation. As of right now, I'll be riding there and back. I'm planning on taking at least two weeks total for the trip, so I can hopefully scoot up into VA and WV for a bit as well.

Are most of the DS routes going to be on roads like the ones mentioned here: http://www.tailofthedragon.com/dualsport.html? That kind of DSing I can handle, but I will need to avoid the routes that are on muddy trails. :-)

[hcope1]

Scott
What will the daily rate be for "the pleasure of your company". I don't know if Pat will be able to go (she has a real job). I know I'll be able to ride up for 2-4 days.

[Tourmeister]

Cool! Glad to hear you will be able to go with us. Regarding the routes, we will be doing many of those routes. While there was not much mud, even in wet conditions, there is a lot of loose rocks and gravel. I would recommend the TKC-80's for your bike if you plan to ride any of the DS routes. Also, many of those routes have very steep portions on them which can be challenging, but the 650 should be fine on them.

[bobcat]

I would recommend the TKC-80's for your bike if you plan to ride any of the DS routes. Also, many of those routes have very steep portions on them which can be challenging, but the 650 should be fine on them.

I definitely want to try the DS routes. I think I'll be doing at least 4,000 miles on this trip, do you think the TKC 80's will last that long? Will 1,000 miles of slab between here and there ruin them? Should I wait until arriving in NC to have a set mounted? So many questions....

[Tx Rider]

I would put the TKC's on in N.C personally.

Your experience might be a little different than mine, but mine were pretty worn at 1000 miles of 1/2 pavement, and about shot by 2000. I understand folks without real twitchy right wrists that ride slower get more miles from them though.

Send them to someone who is trailering and we should be able to pop em on at the hotel. I'd like to see Scott's tire changing technique anyway and see how he does it without scratching rims. ;-)

I only change my tube tires and my rims always show it. Takes less than an hour though.

[Tourmeister]

Uh... who said I never scratch rims...? :lol:

I have seen some people get 6K out of a set of TKC's on a loaded GS, but they were TOASTED at the end of that. On your bike, given the light weight and the likelihood that you are probably not hamfisted on the throttle, you would probably make 4K.

:tab The guys at Deal's Gap can do tire changes real quick and for a very reasonable rate. Since we will be getting in late the first day, we probably would not have time to get them changed in time for the first day of DS riding. If you got there before us and had your tires sent to the Crossroads of Time, they could change them. You might want to give them a call to see what they think of that plan. There is another place down US 125 just outside of Robbinsville that could do the changes. I just can't remember the guys name... Wheeler maybe?

:tab If you have them mounted there, we could bring them back to Texas for you and you could finish the trip on the regular tires.

[bobcat]

Thanks for the ideas. I've got some friends in Asheville that I'll probably be visiting before the rally, so I've contacted a mom and pop bike shop there, Strick's Cycle Shop: http://www.strickscycle.com/. The guy on the phone said he usually has TKC 80's in stock, but can get them in one day if not.

The plans are falling into place, I can't wait! :twisted:

[Gilk51]

The plans are falling into place, I can't wait! :twisted:

Claire, are you riding by yourself or with some friends?

[bobcat]

Claire, are you riding by yourself or with some friends?
By myself. Planning to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway on the way there, I've wanted to ride that road for a loooong time. I'm interested in the historical aspects of that route, plus the fact that there's little traffic and few intersections. It does have very few curves and a 50mph speed limit (I think), which could get annoying, but I'm going to just relax and enjoy the ride. Then depending on the timeframe, hopefully go up to Virginia either before or after the rally, maybe visit some friends up there as well.

I've got about 2 or 3 weeks of vacation time I've been saving for years, specifically for a long ride, this seemed like a good opportunity. Perhaps August isn't the best month to ride through the south, but I'll manage... ;-)

[FlatDogOne]

Scott, add my wife Peggy and I to the list of "definites" for the North Carolina trip. The motel reservations are in place and we're ready to go! No dual-sport roads for us, please, we'll be riding two-up on my Viffer.......I've backpacked from Elkmont up to Clingman's Domes and have participated in a bicycle tour from Cherokee up to Blowing Rock on the Blueridge Parkway and I'm REALLY looking forward to a "powered" tour of the area........We'll be trailering up Friday afternoon late and plan to start the riding on Sunday morning. We look forward to seeing everyone in Franklin.

[Tourmeister]

Great news Tom! Glad to have you aboard!

[st driver]

Planning to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway on the way there, I've wanted to ride that road for a loooong time. ;-)

Claire
While riding my weeStrom back from Alabama I rode "The Trace" from Tupelo back in to Alabama. While the scenery is really nice I feel compelled to advise you to keep your eyes on the road at all times. Just a mile or two before reentering Alabama there is a state park on your left. As I approached the state park I noticed a "redneck" standing on a high bank with his back to the road...just as I passed he bent at the waist ,dropped his pants and "mooned" me. :roll: I briefly thought about a quick U and chasing him down with the Strom but remembering what happened to Ned Beaty in Deliverence....I just laughed and kept going.
I spent the night in Iuka at the Iuka Inn( a real dump, but cheap) excellent Mexican food across the street and a good cheap breakfast at a drive in place on 25 the next morning. Enjoy your ride!

[Tourmeister]

:tab Watch for deer and wild turkeys!! They are everywhere on the Trace. It is also heavily patrolled so you really need to watch your speed. Last time I was out there, the Trace was not open North of Jackson so you may want to check into that.

[bobcat]

...just as I passed he bent at the waist ,dropped his pants and "mooned" me. :roll: I briefly thought about a quick U and chasing him down with the Strom but remembering what happened to Ned Beaty in Deliverence....I just laughed and kept going.
...Enjoy your ride!
Thanks for the tip Paul, I was wondering at what point on the trip I would start to hear dueling banjos. :lol:

:tab Watch for deer and wild turkeys!! They are everywhere on the Trace. It is also heavily patrolled so you really need to watch your speed. Last time I was out there, the Trace was not open North of Jackson so you may want to check into that.
I had read that the final section that was under construction near Jackson was opened in May, the entire Trace is now complete. Is this the section you're talking about? I should probably start checking for road conditions along my entire route. Thanks TM.

[smithr]

I am going up to ride this area the last two weeks of July. Sorry but I have to go in July because that is when I have my son. I would like to get any paved routes you have ready to post by the 15th of this month but if none I understand. I bet I can find a road or two on my own.
I am also thinking of using the last of my current tires up on the way there and getting new shoes while I am up there. Anyone know of a shop between Cleveland, Tn. and Ashville NC. that they would trust to shoe up my Connie? I hate to waist 25% of life or more by buying new tires here and making them have nice flats driving up there on new tires.

[Tourmeister]

:tab Regarding good roads, grab your map, look for anything squiggly, and it will be a great road. It really is hard to go wrong over there as so many of the roads are incredible and in good shape. If you are going to be there for two weeks, I would explore every road in Western NC, Norther Ga, parts of Northern SC, Tennessee and on up into Virginia.

-Blue Ridge Parkway end to end
-Cherohala Scenic Byway between Tellico Plains, Tn., and Robbinesville, NC.
-Deal's Gap (US 129)
-Hwy 28 South from Deal's Gap all the way to Hwy 107 in Northern SC and then cut back North on 107.
-Most of the side roads off the BRP are great! Hwy 215, 276, 151, 80, 226 A/B at Little Switzerland, 128 to Mt. Mitchell, etc,...

:tab Some roads may show paved but in reality they are not paved as they crest a ridge, Hwy 197 Northeast of Asheville is a good example. I would not try to ride a street bike over this ridge as it is pretty rough.

:tab Take Hwy 209 up to Hot Springs, then US 25 to Hwy 208 over to Big Laurel Rd. (1318) and finally to US 23. Then run Windy Gap Rd. (1503) over to US 19. This is a street ride to remember!

:tab If you don't already have one, I would highly recommend getting a GPS and the Topo Maps. They have a LOT of detail for that area that the City Select software lacks.

:tab If you drop down into Georgia, be sure to check out the Two Wheels Only resort. It is on Hwy 60 in Suches. Great place to stay and the roads in the area are awesome!!

:tab As much as possible, you will want to avoid US 64 running East/West across Southern North Carolina. It is a nice drive, but there is usually a LOT of traffic, few places to pass safely, and lots of towns with stop lights. You should also be wary of US 441 running North through the Smoky Mountain National Park. It is a parking lot of RV's with smoking brakes. There are no places to pass, and even if there were, you'd just be stuck behind the next RV in line.

:tab You can get tires at the Crossroads of Time at Deal's Gap. Call ahead to make sure they have the right sizes. There is also a big Honda/Kaw/Suz type dealership in Waynesville but I can't recall the exact name. There is also a place called Wheeler's on US 129 just outside of Robbinsville as you head North. They can do tires as well. If you are going to be out there riding every day for two weeks, you will definitely use up a set of tires from edge to edge!

:tab From Cleveland, you can run US 64 to Hwy 68 and head North to Tellico Plains. This is a fantastic ride. At Tellico Plains, head East on Tn 165 which becomes the Cherohala Skyway. It becomes NC 143 and runs into Robbinsville, NC. Head North on US 129 to get to the Crossroads of Time at Deal's Gap. Be sure to check the TailOfTheDragon.com site as it has tons of info on roads/lodging in that area.

:tab Take LOTS of pictures. We want to see a big trip report after you get back ;-)

[Snoopster]

So far we have:

Dyna Sport
Wasabi
Dower
Snoopster
Tourmeister & Blue Bomber



Scott, you need to update your list -- looks like we have a few more people. :-D Can't wait for the trip.

[Tourmeister]

Add:

Tom & Peggy
Claire "Bobcat"

Am I missing anyone?

[Cagiva 549]

I was looking at old MC mags. for bike test and found an article of intrest in Rider magazine june 2004 , Ribs and Roads around Franklin NC . It sure looks good. If you cant find the book you will have to find somebody smarter than me to get it in this computer . I held it up to the screen ,rubbed it all over and nothing happens.SEYA

[Snoopster]

Scott: Please save a spot for me on the trailer. I know you are getting ready for the trip to Colorado now ..... but do you know when we'll be leaving & coming back from North Carolina?

[Tx Rider]

By myself. Planning to ride the Natchez Trace Parkway on the way there, I've wanted to ride that road for a loooong time. I'm interested in the historical aspects of that route, plus the fact that there's little traffic and few intersections. It does have very few curves and a 50mph speed limit (I think), which could get annoying, but I'm going to just relax and enjoy the ride. Then depending on the timeframe, hopefully go up to Virginia either before or after the rally, maybe visit some friends up there as well.


I did the parkway from Jackson to Natchez last year, you'll see a ton of wild turkeys down the sides if you look for them.

I advise not speeding, it seems to be constantly patrolled by unmarked cars. A local warned us when we stopped, and sure enough a few miles later a guy who passed us got nailed.

Also be aware there's no gas on the trace or anything else but a few historical spots, not many good exits out to towns (at least that southern section), so be sure to get off and get gas before you really need to. I almost ended up pushing. :)

But on the weekday we rode, almost no traffic and a great scenic ride.

[Tourmeister]

Deb, We'll probably leave Friday evening so Sarah can sleep through the night most of the way there. I assumed you and Will would be trailering with us, so that still leave room for one more person/bike.

[Wasabi]

"I assumed you and Will would be trailering with us, so that still leave room for one more person/bike."


Don't forget me. I was expecting to ride with you also. Right :-)

Bill

[Tourmeister]

oh yeah... and Bill. We are full ;-)

Bill, we will be trying to leave here Friday evening around 7pm. That would put us up there around 10pm or so. Then we want to just drive straight through that night. This means Sarah can sleep more of the trip which would hopefully make things easier on everyone. We should get into Franklin pretty early in the day on Saturday so we can recover or put around and get in some extra riding.

[Wasabi]

oh yeah... and Bill. We are full ;-)

Bill, we will be trying to leave here Friday evening around 7pm. That would put us up there around 10pm or so. Then we want to just drive straight through that night. This means Sarah can sleep more of the trip which would hopefully make things easier on everyone. We should get into Franklin pretty early in the day on Saturday so we can recover or put around and get in some extra riding.

I did not want you to have to come to Arlington at 10 at night just to pick me up. John, Dyna Sport has agreed to let me ride with him. Besides, it might wake the baby :-D :-D :-D

See you in 5 days :chug:

[Tourmeister]

Okay.

[bobcat]

Scott, just wondering if you have a link to the GPS files for both the Street and DS routes yet? I'm leaving this Sunday at the crack of dawn, and won't be able to download them once I'm on the road. If you don't have them ready yet that's no problem, but if that is the case, can you please bring printed copies for me? :-D

[Tourmeister]

Doh! Don't have them yet. Sorry. However, John usually has his laptop and we can dload them to your GPS once there. He'll have his GPS as well.

[Tourmeister]

:tab This trip is being postponed until mid Sept. If you have hotel reservations for the August dates, please don't forget to cancel them. I will post up the new dates shortly. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. As usual, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

[bobcat]

I was unable to change my vacation to coincide with the rescheduled Smoky Mtn rally, so I've decided to head west instead. I've gotten some route suggestions from Tourmeister and Gotdurt, and will likely be going thru Arizona, Utah, and maybe even to northern California. I hope to take lots of pics and provide a long trip report when I get back. I'm outta here on Sunday! Bye ya'll! :-D

[Gilk51]

Wow, Claire, I was going to tell you that you were one brave young lady heading out to NC by yourself... :clap

Will you still be riding solo out west?

Now, I hope that your route goes through NORTHERN Arizona (Flagstaff, etc.) 'cause it is cooler up there.

OK, I'll say it, I'm jealous... :-(

[Snoopster]

I was unable to change my vacation to coincide with the rescheduled Smoky Mtn rally, so I've decided to head west instead. I've gotten some route suggestions from Tourmeister and Gotdurt, and will likely be going thru Arizona, Utah, and maybe even to northern California. I hope to take lots of pics and provide a long trip report when I get back. I'm outta here on Sunday! Bye ya'll! :-D

Be safe & have fun. 8-) Hope to meet up w/ you sometime in the near future.

[Squeaky]

Have fun Claire!
Be sure to post up your report w/ pics when you get back!

[bobcat]

Thanks ya'll. Yes Chuck, I'm going solo. I'm a little nervous, but I've learned that being cautious is a good thing. At least I won't have to watch out for Alabamans dropping trousers on the Natchez Trace. :moon:

[Gilk51]

Uh, Claire, you said you might go to northern California! God knows what they will do! :shock:

[smithr]

Just got back from up there. Sorry to see the trip is delayed but wow is it worth it. It rained every afternoon so we just got up early every day and rode till about 3.

[Tourmeister]

Alright, got the new dates:

Sept 17th thru the 23rd. Same location. We will get there Saturday evening and check out the following Saturday morning (24th).

Perhaps the delay might enable a few more people to go?

[Wasabi]

Alright, got the new dates:

Sept 17th thru the 23rd. Same location. We will get there Saturday evening and check out the following Saturday morning (24th).

Perhaps the delay might enable a few more people to go?

Count me in. :chug:

Bill

[Snoopster]

I've changed my vacation & I'm still in as well. :-D Unfortunately I lost my roommate (Bobcat) who is currently off on her own adventure out West. Is there anyone else I might know who is wanting to split a room?

[Todd in LC]

I am a very strong "tentative" for this trip. Is anyone riding there or is everyone trailering?

[Tourmeister]

Todd, right now there would be room in the truck for you and room on the trailer for your bike.

[Todd in LC]

Thanks Scott. Hopefully it will still be there once I get my vacation time finalized. I missed the Colorado trip and won't be able to make the Fall Hill Country ride so I am really hoping to make this one.

[Snoopster]

I just booked room & can't wait for North Carolina. :-D Hope everyone can still make the trip.

Bobcat: Did you make it back from your trip yet?

[bobcat]

Bobcat: Did you make it back from your trip yet?

I did, thanks for asking! I left on the 31st, and returned on the 9th. I was home for a day, then off to Alabama and New Orleans (on 4 wheels), and just got back from that trip last night. I've been working on getting the pics ready for posting, it was a good trip, mostly without mishap. 3260 miles in 10 days. :-) I was actually glad to get off the motorcycle when I got home...

[Tourmeister]

Glad you made it back without incident! Wish you were coming with us in September :-| I look forward to seeing the pictures.

So we could still use a few more people to go on this trip to North Carolina... Anyone... Anyone...? I still have room on the trailer for two bikes and two other riders in the truck. Diesel is split by the bikes. So if you are riding two up, you only pay diesel for one of the people. The truck can hold five adults relatively comfy. It's an F250 Crew Cab.

[Gilk51]

So we could still use a few more people to go on this trip to North Carolina... Anyone... Anyone...? I still have room on the trailer for two bikes and two other riders in the truck. Diesel is split by the bikes.
Who is currently going? - I checked the list but it was before the dates were rescheduled and Claire had to cancel.

I may consider it but I need some approximate costs (I would like to trailer & ride in the truck, if possible) - diesel, room, food (ya'll eat cheap on the road?), and fees. I am a very looooong shot but would like to get the details, uh, please...

Thanks.

Claire - there had better be a report soon!

[Tourmeister]

So far:

Debbie "Snoopster"
John "Dyna Sport"
Bill "Wasabi"
Tom "FlatDogOne" and his wife Peggy
Scott "Tourmeister"

The hotel is $50 + tax per night. Expect the total round trip diesel bill to be around $450-500 at current prices. Food on the road there and back is generally stuff like Burger King, Mc Donald's, etc... Once there, there are several nearby places where you can get cheap breakfast. While riding we usually do light lunches but that will be up to the group riding on the street. The DS people are apt to eat power bars and such depending on where we are when we get hungry. Then each evening, the group usually gets together for dinner at local places, seldom expensive.

[Cagiva 549]

We spent 575$ on diesel 25 cents a gallon higher coming home . We stopped in Charlott on the way over then back to Maggie Valley. we stopped at Barber museum , if there is any way you can spare the 3 to4 hours I highly recomend it . You will see bikes you have only dreamed about. Mississippi had the cheapst diesel. SEYA

[Tourmeister]

:tab Well, if we can get four bikes on the trailer, we'll just about break even on the price of driving the truck compared to the bikes. Diesel has finally become cheaper than the 87 Octane gas again...

[hcope1]

Scott,
Are you the one that booked ALL the rooms in the new (two story) section?

[Tourmeister]

Don't know. They did not say anything about that. However, I believe last year, they had us all in the two story section.

[Tourmeister]

:tab Tom, are you and Peggy still on for this trip? If so, are you still interested in trailering out with me. Right now, it is just me and Snoopster that will be in the truck. It would be nice to have a few more folks to help split the cost of diesel.

[FlatDogOne]

Yep, we're still in.......Peg and I would rather take our own truck on the trip. Not that we like paying a huge gasoline bill, but we'd prefer to have the transportation available to us in NC, especially if the weather turns against us.
What's the latest headcount? Any new takers?

[Tourmeister]

Dyna Sport
Wasabi
Snoopster
FlatDogOne and Peggy
Tourmeister

Buzz "hcope1" may join us for a few days of riding depending on how things go with the hurricane clean up efforts.

Would be nice to have a few more. I am working on Soloman since he admitted he has lots of vacation time. With this few people, Beth will likely stay home.

[Soloman]

Scott, the pressure is just to much. I'm really thinking about, I'm just not sure how much the ole CEO would appreciate me taking a week off right now. Do you know if the establishment you're staying at has high speed access? That may be the only way I could do it. I'll let you know soon.

J

[Tourmeister]

:tab Jason, It is an older hotel so I don't really know. I will call them and check on it. How long would you need to be on? I would imagine there are some places in town that would have Wi-Fi networks :shrug: It's not a real big town ;-) It would be awesome if you can go with us!

[Soloman]

I already called and checked, and all they have is dial up. It's about what I expected. I have a trip Charlotte coming up, so I'm going to see if I can do that during the trip week and just skip a day and ride out to charlotte and back for a meeting. I would probably need to be on a few hours each night to check email and do stuff for work.

Well with just a few calls, I found out the Macon County Historical Society & Museum has WIFI and is the only place in town with it. So the pieces are coming together, if I could just get that new rear tire, and maybe some new sprockets and chain put on. It's looking better, but still no decision.

[Tourmeister]

if I could just get that new rear tire, and maybe some new sprockets and chain put on.

Hmm... I can help you with all of that ;-)

[Soloman]

Yeah, well I have the approval to go now. I think I have the skill to take the rear off and change the sprocket. I'm a little nervous about the front sprocket, but think I could do that. I do not have the tools to remove the chain or change the tire. The only days I would have available to do any of this would be this Sat. or Sun. I think I can get everything I need by Friday.

[hcope1]

Scott,

Check your e-mail. Pat & I will be in Highlands from Tuesday on - with WiFi. We'll come down to Franklin and see what the plans are for the rest of the week.

[hcope1]

Yeah, well I have the approval to go now. I think I have the skill to take the rear off and change the sprocket. I'm a little nervous about the front sprocket, but think I could do that. I do not have the tools to remove the chain or change the tire. The only days I would have available to do any of this would be this Sat. or Sun. I think I can get everything I need by Friday.
There will be another cursed copper SV1000 staying at the Franklin Motel - With FULL Fairing - very nice looking. Maybe ya'll could have wheelie contest

[Tourmeister]

Jason, I have the tools to do the sprockets, chain and tire. I'll be around all weekend if you want to bring the bike up. If you are ordering a tire, you can have it shipped to the house here so you won't have to bring it with you. You have to take the old one home though because my garage is overflowing with tires already...

Buzz, how is the cleanup effort progressing?

[Snoopster]

Scott: If you have time this weekend, I'll need help changing my front tire. Can you borrow your Dad's straps for me again to hang from the rafters? I'll need to do an oil change as well & then I'm ready to go. Can't wait for the trip to N.C.

[Soloman]

Scott,

What's your address? I'll either get the tire from swmoto or from cycle gear up here. So I may just have to bring down with me. Either day and time works for me, so whatever works best for you. I greatly appreciate your help. I will contact the hotel this evening and send you money via paypal.

Snoopster,

I can bring some straps down with me that you're welcome to use.

[Squeaky]

Jason, I have the tools to do the sprockets, chain and tire.

Scott, just remember to keep the back tire on while you change out the front sprocket - and have fun with that 5 ft cheater bar! (We did this on my SV right before a trip last year, and I think we managed to finish before the sun came up...) :p

If you need the 32mm socket, I can get it up there to you.

[Tourmeister]

Jason,

1617 Woodland Lane
Huntsville, Tx. 77340

Squeaky, I don't think I still have a 32mm, perhaps Jason can hook up with you to get it?

Looks like we will be doing another Maintenance day :mrgreen: Any laborers want to show up to lend a hand?

[Squeaky]

Squeaky, I don't think I still have a 32mm, perhaps Jason can hook up with you to get it?

Looks like we will be doing another Maintenance day :mrgreen: Any laborers want to show up to lend a hand?

I can guarantee you don't have it - because I do! I still have to change out my front sprocket and check on my air filter, and I'm thinking my spark plugs could use some attention.

Name the time & place!

[Tourmeister]

Saturday, no earlier than 9:00am.

[Soloman]

You got it, I'll check the distance from Plano and will plan to arrive sometime after 9:00 and probably closer to 10:00. I'll need to be very careful with my existing tire, and there is no doubt in my mind a lot of cord will be showing by the I get down there.

Squeaky, are you sure it's a 32mm that's needed for the rear? I thought it was closer to 34. Either way, I think I have both. I'll check the service manual this evening. I just changed my plugs at 8,000 and one had a ton or carbon on it while the other looked pretty good.

Geez getting this tire from SW moto sure is time consuming but easy. They shipped out 10 Pirelli stradas today and wouldn't get any more until tomorrow so I going try a metzeler z6 this go around.

[Soloman]

Maybe ya'll could have wheelie contest

Buzz, there will no wheelies on my part. I'd sure hate to abuse that new aluminum spocket any more than I really need to.

I just saw my first fully faired sv1000s this past weekend up in Eureka Springs. They had some fancy pillion seat with a back rest and luggage rack.

[Squeaky]

Squeaky, are you sure it's a 32mm that's needed for the rear? I thought it was closer to 34. Either way, I think I have both. I'll check the service manual this evening. I just changed my plugs at 8,000 and one had a ton or carbon on it while the other looked pretty good.


Unless the 1000 is different than the 650 (and mine was an '03 also) the front sprocket and top triple are both the 32mm. The rear axle is a 24mm I think, but I always just stuck with the wrench in the toolkit.

I will try to be there before noon. Last time I said that, I rolled in at 11:58.... :rolleyes:

I guess I have to go looking for whatever I need to do my plugs and air filter now. Otherwise, I'll just lend a hand and learn a few things.

Do we get to go riding after we're done (if we finish while the sun is still out) ?

[Soloman]

I was just going through the manual and it's a 36 mm for the rear wheel and 32 for the countershaft. I ended up using a 1 7/16" the last time I adjusted the chain, it's not exact but it worked and didn't round the nut off.

I assume changing the plug on the strom is very similar to mine so it should be a cinch. You'll spend more time removing/moving plastic, seat, and the radiator than you will taking the plugs out.

[Gilk51]

Saturday, no earlier than 9:00am.
So, is this going to happen? I am considering caging down (with tools) so I can see how some of this is done...

Will Sarah be there? :rolleyes:

[Tourmeister]

It is happening. Don't show up before 9:00am. I won't answer the door :-P Of course Sarah will be here ;-)

[Snoopster]

Scott,

When will be leaving for the trip? Friday night (09/16) or Saturday morning (09/17)? I'll be coming by tomorrow needing help with my front tire. Thanks for grabbing the straps for me.

[Tourmeister]

:tab Deb, regarding when we will leave... it depends ;-) Right now, you and I are the only ones slated to trailer out in our truck. I would REALLY like to have four bikes on the trailer to help defray the cost of diesel. If I can convince any of the DFW folks to trailer out with us, then we would head up there Friday night, load up their bikes, then head out EARLY Saturday morning. If it is just you and me, then I am not sure what we will do. I'll be thinking about that real hard ;-)

[Soloman]

Scott, I'd sure like to be on that trailer as well. If not I suppose I'll just turn on the cruise control and slab it out. I think once your on 20 I could put my foot on the bars and take a nap. Anyone is certainly welcome to stay at my place on Friday night.

[Tourmeister]

Jason, where do you live?

[Soloman]

The tollway and George Bush. It's called Dallas, but it's really Plano. From my door to your door is 189 miles. I'm maybe 35-40 max to I-20

[Tourmeister]

Got a place to park a long truck and 18 foot trailer? Room for two/three sleepers?

[Soloman]

It's a huge apartment complex. We could park the truck and trailer over by by garage or elsewhere no problem, or I could put my car in the garage and you could park the truck in my parking spot.

As for sleeping, I have one queen bed that I do not use, one sofa, and one love seat. I also have 1.5 baths. Now don't laugh anymore than you really have to, but I sleep on the floor as it's more comfortable for me. So overall I'd say no problem.

[bobcat]

Even though I had a good time on my trip, ya'll are making me jealous with thoughts of the Smokies! :tears:

[Gilk51]

Well, at this point I am planning to come down and watch the carnage. I will be bringing some tools and I have 30, 32, and 36mm 1/2" sockets.

I am also planning to visit Plano tonight to deliver some stuff to my brother and pick up some stuff from my son. Jason, if I could help you by lugging some stuff down there (I'm caging), then let me know. I am headed to Park & Ohio and Spring Creek & Ohio, so I think I could easily swing by where you are.

My other reason for going is that the "missing" section of the GBT opens today & I have to try it out! :D
(also add up how much toll it will be from Irving) :-(

Shooting for arriving in H-ville around 10 AM.
Anybody need me to bring them anything from DFW?

[Tourmeister]

:tab A tire arrived today by FedEx. However, they did not leave it on the porch. Instead they left a note saying come get it this evening by 7:00pm in Conroe (30 miles away) or they will deliever it by Monday... Is this your tire Jason? The UPS guys just leave them behind the bushes out of sight ;-)

[Soloman]

Chuck,

Most everything I'm taking will fit in my tankbag, but I'd love it you'd bring my used tire back up here if I can't get it adequately strap it to the back of my bike. I'd be able to pick it up on Sunday no problem.

I can only imagine how much the toll will be.

Jason

[Soloman]

Scott, I had a tire coming to you from SWMoto via Fedex so it probably is mine. I know it was in Conroe this morning at 6:00 am. Stupid Fedex, this is why I use DHL; my favorite carrier.

[Tourmeister]

No biggie. This gives us an excuse to go down there and have dinner ;-)

[Soloman]

You sure, I was getting ready to leave work and fly down there in my car. I greatly appreciate it.

[Tourmeister]

You'd never make it here by 7:00pm :lol: and still have time to find the place. Snoopster was heading down to one of the bike shops in Conroe anyway so we are just making an evening of it.

[Soloman]

Ah the VW 1.8t can do some amazing things. As for finding the place that another story. I used to live in Lufkin for a few years and new my way around there, but never ventured to far south.

Once again I really appreciate you and Snoopster helping me out. I'll see you in morning.

[Gilk51]

but I'd love it you'd bring my used tire back up here if I can't get it adequately strap it to the back of my bike.
That shouldn't be a problem. However, I think Scott gave us a clue - we'll just hide it in the bushes... ;)

[Soloman]

I was going to get back to my garage and get my favorite tool; the Sawzall, and cut it up into pieces. Of course I would only if I can't a suitable and legal place to dispose of it.

[Blue Bomber]

Hey Jason,

I just got back from Conroe with one back tire. I hope that was all that was shipped. ;-) See you tomorrow.

[Soloman]

Beth,

Yep, I just go one tire from SWMoto. Thanks again, I can't tell you how much I appreciate everyones assistance. I received my sprockets and chain today so I'm really looking forward to tomorrow. See ya.

Jason

[Squeaky]

.... if I can't get it adequately strap it to the back of my bike.


I've managed to get almost anything attached to the back of a bike at some point or another. I lugged two used tires home from Scott's the last time I was there. ;)

Heck, I'll even volunteer to test ride the SV after you've completed the maintenance. You know, just in case something is wrong, I wouldn't want you to get hurt. I'll bring it back in about an hour or so... :cool:

See y'all tomorrow! Should be there between 11 and 12.

[Soloman]

[QUOTE=Squeaky]

Heck, I'll even volunteer to test ride the SV after you've completed the maintenance. QUOTE]

Sure, so long as I can ride the strom. After seeing how Letsride handled his strom last weekend and how much more comfortable it looks, I'm becoming a bit more interested in it.

[Tourmeister]

The only issue with the chain may be that someone broke a few of the pins in my breaker/rivet kit... As long as your chain is the right number of links and we don't have to remove any links from it, we are fine.

[Soloman]

Chain shouldn't be a problem then, need 108 and bought 108. I'll be leaving around 6:30 so I'll see around 9:30 or earlier.

[Tx Rider]

So what are the plans for getting out to N.C.?

I was planning to try to take both my KTM's but I haven't been able to get the handlebar clamps for the custom triple tree yet for my '96 so it looks like just one.

If you folks are going to come up to Plano Friday night Wasabi and I could meet up Sat morning and load em up.

[Tourmeister]

:tab We will be coming up Friday evening. I would prefer to get all the loading done Friday night so that Saturday, we can just get up and get moving. It is approx 900 miles from I-45/I20 to Franklin if we just run 20 all the way to Atlanta. We will be getting in quite late on Saturday. I would not be opposed to leaving Friday night and driving through like we did for the Colorado trip. We are looking at close to 18 hours drive time. Beth and Sarah are coming with us.

:tab John, are you and Bill trailering together?

[Soloman]

I'm not opposed to leaving Friday night either. That would let me see the one thing that seems to be missing from my life right now one day earlier.

[Tourmeister]

Bwhahaha... We told you to hug her before you left :-P

[Soloman]

Yes, but I thought I was stronger than that, now barely two days later I'm falling into deep despression.

[Snoopster]

Yikes .... I don't get off work until 6:00 on Friday. :-|

[Tourmeister]

If you come straight over after getting off, no big deal. It is unlikely that we would be getting away much earlier anyway.

[Tx Rider]

We were talking about riding with you if you have trailer space available and are going through Dallas to cut some gas costs. It would be about $270 round trip for my truck at $3 a gallon.

Almost makes me just want to zoom out there on the FZ.

[Squeaky]

Bwhahaha... We told you to hug her before you left :-P

Yeah, but just in case he didn't I gave her a big hug before I left :rolleyes: . I don't know why I get so sentimental when I see a copper SV...

[Tourmeister]

I have room on the trailer for all the bikes, but not in the truck for all the people. I can only carry three extra people. Right now, I have Jason and Deb, so there is room for one more.

[Gilk51]

Yes, but I thought I was stronger than that, now barely two days later I'm falling into deep despression.
I thought that you were going to call Huntsville every night to talk to your bike...
:rolleyes:

[Tx Rider]

Well it looks like I may have both KTM's along now, or likely to anyway.

One will be TKC80 rear with a similar front, other will be motard wheels with more streetable tires.

Looks like I'll be towing me and Bill.

Can't believe there's not more folks coming on this one, great time of year, great roads, great scenery, I can't think of a better place to ride for a week.

[Soloman]

Chuck, no need to worry about my little copper baby, I've been riding this green and silver monster this week

[hcope1]

Scott,

Will ya'll be using your Chatterbox's? If so, what channel?

[Tourmeister]

Buzz, no. All I have are Collet communicators and they won't work with other brands. Also, no one else has communicators. So we're going incommunicado :mrgreen:

[Tourmeister]

Other than Dyna Sport and Wasabi, anyone else have a Garmin GPS?

Adios,

[STrider]

I do have a non moto-specific one (no mount) that I don't mind loaning. I believe its an "E-map" model, I don't have it in front of me right now to confirm. It's a coupla years old, non color, but it does have all major and most minor streets included. Typical functionality with routes, waypoints,and tracks, lat, long, elev, and trip computer. I've only rarely used functions other than lat & long & the trip computer, anybody who does borrow it will be left somewhat to their own devices to figure out how/ what functions to use. The serial cable that came with it didn't work, & I've never been interested enough to track down a proper USB, so it is currently a strictly stand alone unit, although according to the manual it should have full up/download capabilities. If anybody wants to use it & can meet up with me pre-trip, it's available.

I am not entirely confident, however, in its functionality as a kickstand.

[Soloman]

Scott/Matt,

If everyone but Snoopster and I go out on a DS route, it might not be a bad idea for one of us to borrow your GPS Matt. So long as I have a decent map I'm not concerned about my ability to navigate.

Jason

[Tourmeister]

:tab Well, I also have detailed text route descriptions. I plan to print out the maps. We'll be riding in four different states: Tennessee, Georgia, North and South Carolina. The best bet might be to grab a local state map in a gas station or chamber of commerce. The GPS maps that I print aren't the best for large area detail.

:tab Let me know if you would like me to email the text route descriptions.

Adios,

[Soloman]

I'll also see if I can grab some AAA maps tomorrow as a starting point. If you don't mind emailing me the text descriptions, I'll go ahead and mark it on maps before hand.

You should see the rain here now. My office is on the 23rd floor with what is normally a nice view of a huge portion of the metromess, now I can see very little.

[hcope1]

Scott,
I have the Garmin V and have been on most of the roads up there. I'll ride Wed and Thurs; so please save the Hot Springs ride for one of those days. I've looked at it so many times, I have it memorized. It's also in the GPS.

When you set the Tuesday ride, let me know how you will be returning to Franklin. We'll probably get to Highlands before noon and I might ride the route in reverse 'til I see you.

Weather looks great!

[Tourmeister]

Good news. I have an extra Garmin 60CS. I'll load it with all the routes and maps. Someone in the street group can use it. The only power chords I have for it fit the cigarette lighter or the BMW style plugs.

Buzz, I have not decided which routes for which day. I think we'll discuss that Saturday evening over dinner. The problem is I want to do ALL of the street and ALL of the DS routes :-P It really is hard to decide... Most of the DS rides overlap the ST rides so there is a chance we'll be running into each other during the week. PM me your cell info so I can call you.

[Soloman]

I havea BMW or cigarette style in my tank bag, I just need to run the wire up under the tank which wouldn't take but a few minutes. I'll bring the wire along if no one else wants to use it.

[Tourmeister]

Jason, I emailed the route descriptions. Did you receive them?

[Soloman]

Yes, thanks. I'll be picking up some more maps at lunch tomorrow and I'll draw pretty yellow lines all over them.

[Tx Rider]

I'll be bringing my laptop for loading/unloading routes etc. if we need to. I'll also have a spare 276c RAM mount if we need it.

I also want to ride down to Highland and back through that river gorge at some point in the week as well as the gap. :)

I had some motard tires put on some 17" wheels for my SXC, haven't put em on yet so I hope they fit, and I haven't ever tried these tires so I hope they stick to pavement ok. I wanted to keep some off road ability and had to get what they could get to me in time so I got some pirelli motard radials MT60 corsa radials (http://www.pirellimoto.com/en_96/tires/template_categorie.jhtml?selected=desc&catid=96ENDST&productid=16889&nome=MT60_R_CORSA)

[Tourmeister]

We'll definitely be doing that stretch of 64 down to Highlands! Bring the ram mount! I might need it ;-)

[hcope1]

John

Any chance of your laptop having a "memory stick" so I can transfer to my laptop then GPS?:confused:

[Soloman]

Buzz,

'll be bringing my laptop and I can bring the dongle that accepts compact flash cards if that would work.

Jason

[Tourmeister]

Buzz, if you have a serial cable (on that OLD GPS of yours :-P ), then you can just hook directly to John's computer.

We are about to head out. Just waiting on Snoop to get off work. I expect everyone to behave while we are gone ;-) I'll be watching... *cue black helicopters*

[Bagwell]

No doubt they are monitoring this thing on the tv up there in NC, but it must kinda suck not to be here to prep and all. I wonder if anyone needs anything checked or done while they are gone? Wonder if they are making their way back here in time for the fireworks?

Just wondering,
Vaughn

[Texas T]

I'd guess that Scott's dad would take care of checking on Scott's place; I think Snoop lives in an apt (don't know for sure) and have no idea where anyone else lives.

[hcope1]

North Carolina was a blast. Great roads & great weather. I think all the Texas people had the homefront taken care of. I know they all hated to have to stay for an an extra day of riding.:rolleyes: I just hope they didn't have too much trouble with the traffic returning to the Houston area. I guess if anyone knows a "back way", it's Scott.:hail

[Soloman]

Indeed it was a great time, it was just painstaking to have to stay for one more day. We ended up with somewhere between 1500-1600 miles in 7 days of riding on what is without a doubt some of the best roads in the country. Buzz, that's quite a group you ride with. They dropped me off in Plano around 10:30 and they were planning on going down 45 Huntsville. It was a fairly uneventful ride back. We passed no less than 100 utility and tree service trucks in large convoys headed to TX.

[Tx Rider]

Made it back To Dallas and dropped off Wasabi at about 8:30 or so. Was an easy trip back. Hope they made it to Huntsville all right, but I'm sure Scott knows plenty of ways to get around I45 traffic.

What a great week, great weather and great roads and dirt.

I think I burned almost everyone's pics to CD for Scott before we left, so be ready for plenty of pics and even video clips when he gets time for a trip report.

[Wasabi]

Oh yeah , another memorable ride crafted by Scott the Tourmeister. Got some great pics (and vids) to stir the daydreams on those cold winter days when you can’t ride. Thanks to Buzz, we met a group of very special and funny riders. Kind of like the Rat Pack on bikes. Thanks Buzz also for the invite to house for hamburgers and some good laughs.

The dual sport route was perfect with just the right balance of dirt and street. Both the street and dirt had wonderful switch backs and hair pin twistys. The dirt route had the added bonus of several water crossing, lots of elevation changes, almost no traffic to speak of and the near perfect weather. When we took a break while on the dirt roads it was an almost magic feeling while listening to the wind blow through the trees and at almost every stop was a waterfall or stream near by to add the serenity.

Thanks Scott

Got my bags pack for the next years ride.

[Tourmeister]

:tab Traffic was mostly a non issue getting home. There were four idiots running in a pack with their hazzards on in the fast lane. They would not move over or let anyone break into their little party. It took a few ticked off Semis to convince them to move over! They had traffic backed up pretty bad. We got honked at a bit. Thought perhaps a bike had fallen over and checked the mirrors. It turns out that one of the 6 foot long steel ramps that stow under the back of the trailer had come loose and was sticking out about 5 feet from the right side of the trailer by the time we got pulled over :shock: I cannot believe it did not hit anyone as we passed in the left lane!! I smashed the ever living !@#$% out of my right index finger tip when sliding the ramp back in place. Won't lose the fingernail but it makes typing, writing, booger picking, etc,... a painful experience!

:tab About ten miles North of Huntsville, traffic slowed to a crawl and stupidity spiked! Tempers flared, people tried using the vehicles to intimidate, got stuck in the mud trying to get over to the feeder road, screamed down the shoulder at 50-60mph past stopped traffic, and on and on... Took about 45 minutes to clear that nonsense and get to the house. We hit the sack about 4:00am. It's good to be back.

:tab No damage to the house. We have some branches down. Beth's parents came up from Alvin and stayed here during the storm. They did a great job of taking care of the place for us while we were busy goofing off! I have wonderful inlaws ;-)

:tab The trip was awesome. Sorry, no pics of the GS upside down :-P However, there was no shortage of bikes going down on this trip... Only minor injuries flowing from the Motard Woes :lol: Gas was pricey and scarce all week long. The weather was perfect!! Awesome scenery, roads, and company! I picked up some real estate brochures...

[kurt]

You guys are famous! This is in the Austin paper.


http://img.coxnewsweb.com/C/07/04/45/image_1845047.jpg

[scratch]

It's good to hear ya'll made it back O.K.! As the hurricane approached, I was wondering if you would cut things short and rush back or extend the trip and wait it out up there. Silly me. ;-)

[Tourmeister]

:tab Tom and Peggy left EARLY Thursday morning to get back and had few problems getting to their home. We tried to talk them into staying over with us but, unlike us, they did not have someone watching over their place.

[letsride]

Pichers please. Great decision to "ride" out the storm :)

[Tourmeister]

I'll try to get my pics up this evening.

[Soloman]

Here's one, I haven't even looked at the ones I took yet. I see if I can upload some of mine this evening.

[Tourmeister]

Pics and reports here:

http://www.twtex.com/forums/showthread.php?t=5510

Adios,