NC VTX Spring Gathering

[TerrySC]

The 2007 NC VTX Spring Gathering will be May 2nd thru May 6th. It will be headquartered in Franklin, NC at the Days Inn.

Days Inn Franklin
1320 E Main St
Route 441 & 23 North
Franklin, NC 28734 US

Phone: 828-524-6491
Fax: 828-369-9636

When calling for resevations tell them you are with the Roberts motorcycle group. Guitar4Him got a group rate of $79 a night including tax. We will have a private 12 room building up on the hill. These rooms have 2 queen beds in each, and refrigerator and microwave. Covered porch with rocking chairs and a separate parking area. As of now 8 rooms are still available. There are other rooms if these fill up but will not be in the same building.



Please note these plans were in the works before we knew the direction KSL was heading with Fred's illness and untimely death :cry: . I would still like to have a gathering at KSL this year to support MO.

[Bardo]

Terry, this sounds interesting...I might check into it...

[TerrySC]

Here is a link to photos of the accomidations

http://s84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/DaysInnFranklinNC/

Rather than having posts on several boards, I've created a central place for attendees to post and keep in touch.

http://www.grouprider.com/rides.php?action=displayride&rideid=925

[HotFix]

Awesome! I have been waiting for info on this group ride!

[HotFix]

Kick butt! Already got my room. (I was #5)

[VTXROD]

Sure will miss doing this, Looks like the week of Thunder Beach. Y'all have fun. Rick

[Guitar4Him]

Hotfix....good to hear that you'll be on the ride with us. :lol:

[Blackwing]

Wish we could make this Terry... 2 weeks later we would be there!

[clewis]

Terry, I wish we could work this so we could help Mo. You and I talked about this change of venue long ago, heck I was for the Franklin thing, I just hate it for the KSL. I posted this as a reply on another post, but I am (as always) with the majority vote:

I was talking to my wife about just that very thing. A ride from somewhere big to the KSL would be the thing. Do that in concert with the paypal thing for the folks that could not make the ride. It seems I remember a guy on the 1300 board that got in a bad way and was going to lose his house and bike, bad health I think. Well, last I saw, the VTXOA had almost fixed the issue. What I am saying is that we have a great group of folks on this board. I am sure that people who did not even know Fred would come for the ride if it was properly promoted. Publications like Full Throttle mag, or some other web sites that post rides will carry the add. The thing may be to use this event to kick off our spring Smoken in the Smokes run. Make it a BIG ride. I don’t know (John, this is your neck of the woods) Knoxville down 411 include the skyway maybe the dragon and somehow end up at KSL with a monster party. Charge for the ride, get some shirts donated on made cheap, lots of business for Mo and great fun. Is this do-able? Do we have time? Oh, crap- someone will have to cut that grass!

[xxxrider]

Well, I got my room booked for May 2nd thru May 6th. Looking forward to riding in this area!!!

My parents used to have a cabin on Wayah Bald Road and I used to go up there alot so I know my way around there pretty good. Lots of good riding in that area. Can't wait!!!

[TerrySC]

Terry, I wish we could work this so we could help Mo. You and I talked about this change of venue long ago, heck I was for the Franklin thing, I just hate it for the KSL. I posted this as a reply on another post, but I am (as always) with the majority vote:

I was talking to my wife about just that very thing. A ride from somewhere big to the KSL would be the thing. Do that in concert with the paypal thing for the folks that could not make the ride. It seems I remember a guy on the 1300 board that got in a bad way and was going to lose his house and bike, bad health I think. Well, last I saw, the VTXOA had almost fixed the issue. What I am saying is that we have a great group of folks on this board. I am sure that people who did not even know Fred would come for the ride if it was properly promoted. Publications like Full Throttle mag, or some other web sites that post rides will carry the add. The thing may be to use this event to kick off our spring Smoken in the Smokes run. Make it a BIG ride. I don’t know (John, this is your neck of the woods) Knoxville down 411 include the skyway maybe the dragon and somehow end up at KSL with a monster party. Charge for the ride, get some shirts donated on made cheap, lots of business for Mo and great fun. Is this do-able? Do we have time? Oh, crap- someone will have to cut that grass!

I spoke with Ken (Guitar4Him) and we are planning to at least ride up as a group to check in on Mo. The big ride idea is a good one and maybe it could happen during that time. KSL and Franklin aren't that far apart so keep the ideas flowing. I'm going to try and get in touch with VROC (Vulcan riders, Fred's group) and see if we could all do something together. Going to the KSL is like a trip home. Always felt like family.

I will not be attending this event.My 1 room block in the Roberts motorcycle group is available NOW May2 to---

[xxxrider]

RAMV, great to see you got your room booked as this area is great for riding around and we'll have a great time!!! Looking forward to seeing HotFix but is YERGI or X-BEAST coming???

[HotFix]

Looking forward to seeing HotFix but is YERGI or X-BEAST coming???
I haven't talked to XBeast in a while. I have missed too many Vortex meets. Blame school on that.

I'm holding a bed for Yergi, but honestly we will see. That is within 3 weeks of his wedding. I'm sure he will have a lot going on around that time.

Maybe he will have a weekend, maybe he will know last minute.
I'll just hold a bed open in case the Apes can hang with us

[Scarecrow]

I told Ken I would likely make this event, although not for the entire time.

If I miss it, it will be due to moving into a new house. I am actively looking now! :D

But the accomodations are excellent and the riding, as we already know, is second to none! :mcrider:

Scarecrow

[TerrySC]

:bump:

[xxxrider]

Gotta see if X-BEAST is going to come and show us his new FXR1300!!!

Looking forward to going back to Franklin as there is some AWESOME SCENERY in that area!!!

[xxxrider]

Wonder how many have signed up for this event???

[TerrySC]

So far only 12. Not all are signed in at GroupRider yet. 6 from Indiana, 3 from GA, 2 from NC and me from SC. Lots of interest but few commitments so far.

[Scarecrow]

So far only 12. Not all are signed in at GroupRider yet. 6 from Indiana, 3 from GA, 2 from NC and me from SC. Lots of interest but few commitments so far.

It's still pretty early in the season (and cold). Plus I think that Hal's event is getting most of the ride attention. But let the weather break and things will pick up.

SC

[yergi]

Jsut a stupid question from a person who is WELL out of the loop but.... Why in the world are we headquatering this anywhere but the KSL? we are talking about sending money but we are not trying to have it there? Just a question.

[Guitar4Him]

Jsut a stupid question from a person who is WELL out of the loop but.... Why in the world are we headquatering this anywhere but the KSL? we are talking about sending money but we are not trying to have it there? Just a question.

Quite frankly....because it's too much of a hassle being somewhere for several days and not having easy access to ELECTRICITY. Some of us....I know, we're addicts......have laptops, digital cameras, video cameras, cell phones, satellite radios, mp3 players....ad infinitum.... It was just too much of a problem at the KSL trying to figure out a decent way to charge all this stuff. Also, it was the observations of both Terry and Scarecrow that lots of guys were bringing their ladies with them at the Labor Day get-together and that the accomodations at the KSL didn't tend towards those that the ladies would prefer. We like having ladies as part of the event and the accomodations at the Days Inn will be much more to their liking.

I will not be attending this event. My 1 room block in the Roberts motorcycle group is available NOW!! Meet you in the future.

[TerrySC]

Jsut a stupid question from a person who is WELL out of the loop but.... Why in the world are we headquatering this anywhere but the KSL? we are talking about sending money but we are not trying to have it there? Just a question.

Ken hit the highlights but we also didn't know what was to become of the KSL or if Fred would be in a condition to accomidate us, when we were making the plans. I would like to have another camping event there to help and visit MO. Bruce and Marty are going the weekend of May 18th. I may also but can't commit to that date at the moment.

[HotFix]

I think there is a compelling argument for the KSL. Events happened and things did change. Mo needs help and if we are spending money in NC - I'd rather it be at the KSL.

private bathrooms, TVs, basic electricity... is another compelling argument. I can certainly see that point of view.


I don't think it is an either/or situation. There may be a solution where we can all get what we want.

Days Inn Franklin is ~45 mountain miles from the KSL. It will make splitting the group very hard. What about doing a KSL / Tuskegee mix? We get to eat and party at KSL and folks would have a short/straight shot to The Tuskegee Motel (~3 miles down the street). We have done this in the past and it worked out great!


I want this to in no way distract or otherwise diminish what folks have already put into the NC ride this Spring. This should not turn into a KSL/Days Inn issue. A great room rate has been negotiated and I believe routes are being planned from Franklin, NC. No one planned one of our own passing away so quickly (diagnosed one week after Fred Fest and passing away 73 days later). I think we have plenty of time to shift rally points 45 miles and execute a strategy that will allow folks to camp and others to stay in a hotel.


btw: I talked to Mo for 25 minutes on Saturday. She is committed to keeping the KSL. This is partially due to the folks she has met in the last 1.5 years. I think we can find many creative ways to help her out. I'm waiting on some more information from someone else and then I'll post something shortly.

[yergi]

Quite frankly....because it's too much of a hassle being somewhere for several days and not having easy access to ELECTRICITY. Some of us....I know, we're addicts......have laptops, digital cameras, video cameras, cell phones, satellite radios, mp3 players....ad infinitum.... It was just too much of a problem at the KSL trying to figure out a decent way to charge all this stuff.

I could ship Mo a few power strips.

[xxxrider]

Yergi, you won't be around to ride this ride anyway, will ya??? Aren't you headed up north to Yankee Frozen Tundra Land???

We at least need to ride over to the KSL and all make a donation to Fred & Mo's Fund and then ride the Cherohala and the Dragon and then HellBender's over to Sylva and then down to Franklin.

[alabamaWing]

If I make this I am staying at the Fairfield Inn in Cherokee. Using Marriott points. Leaves more money for chrome for my new wing. Blackwing and I are staying up at KSL on the 18th and 19th if anyone wants to come up.

[Bardo]

If I make this I am staying at the Fairfield Inn in Cherokee. Using Marriott points. Leaves more money for chrome for my new wing. Blackwing and I are staying up at KSL on the 18th and 19th if anyone wants to come up.

You went to Wing World????

[alabamaWing]

You went to Wing World???? yep, Beth and I want to do some long distance traveling and the 1300 was working too hard carrying both of us plus the trailer to pull all her stuff. I always wanted a Wing anyway and the planets aligned so I went and got one. Would loved to have been able to keep the X but with 2 kids in collage wasn't possible.

[xxxrider]

What exactly is C.R.A.P.???

[xxxrider]

Blackwing and I are staying up at KSL on the 18th and 19th if anyone wants to come up.

What month would that be???

[alabamaWing]

That would be May.

[alabamaWing]

What exactly is C.R.A.P.??? a bunch of cheap muthas. Check it out

http://crapmods.com/phpBB/index.php

[Blackwing]

What exactly is C.R.A.P.??? a bunch of cheap muthas. Check it out

http://crapmods.com/phpBB/index.php

You know Bruce, since you have come to the world of wings... your going to find out, if you havent already, that theres nothing cheap about mods to them!
guess your going to have to turn your CRAP membership in. :4is: :mcrider:

[alabamaWing]

You know Bruce, since you have come to the world of wings... your going to find out, if you havent already, that theres nothing cheap about mods to them!
guess your going to have to turn your CRAP membership in. :4is: :mcrider: you just wait, I'll come up with some good stuff. I'm a good fabricator

[xxxrider]

Too bad the tank on the wing is plastic and not metal cause you can't attach a magnetic tank bag to it!!!

[alabamaWing]

Too bad the tank on the wing is plastic and not metal cause you can't attach a magnetic tank bag to it!!! I attached a bag to the fuel door. :D

[Blackwing]

I just use the bags that came with the bike!

[alabamaWing]

I just use the bags that came with the bike!

I wanted the little bag on the fuel door to keep my arsenal badge in. When you want to put in a CB?

[Blackwing]

Im open on that.. let me know when u want to do it.

[xxxrider]

Well, we are losing Yergi due to a job and now maybe Scarecrow, this really sucks!!! Well, we will have a hell of a bash at the BBQ!!!

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

Well, we are losing Yergi due to a job and now maybe Scarecrow, this really sucks!!! Well, we will have a hell of a bash at the BBQ!!!

I'm not sure Yergi is going...

[xxxrider]

I hope Yergi is not going!!! What would the VORTEX be without YERGI & SCARECROW!!! Just a burger place!!!

[xxxrider]

What is the STATUS of this event??? How many are signed up???

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

Well, we are losing Yergi due to a job and now maybe Scarecrow, this really sucks!!! Well, we will have a hell of a bash at the BBQ!!!

actually, I think we're losing him due to love...

[D-Mac]

What is the STATUS of this event??? How many are signed up???

I'll be there but will be staying just off the Hellbender, about 12 miles from franklin

[TerrySC]

What is the STATUS of this event??? How many are signed up???

I've got 14 that I'm aware of. I'm trying to get everyone to log in at
http://www.grouprider.com/rides.php?action=displayride&rideid=925 so we can keep all attendees in one place instead of scattered throughout the VTXOA forum. Several have yet to sign in there. Pass the word. You can also click on the banner in my signature and look for my rides. This event will be VTX Riders Spring Gathering

I'm also posting possible ride routes and maps and GPX format files there as well.

D-Mac, you and Har aren't there yet. XXXrider, you are so stop back in.

[D-Mac]

What is the STATUS of this event??? How many are signed up???

I've got 14 that I'm aware of. I'm trying to get everyone to log in at
http://www.grouprider.com/rides.php?action=displayride&rideid=925 so we can keep all attendees in one place instead of scattered throughout the VTXOA forum. Several have yet to sign in there. Pass the word. You can also click on the banner in my signature and look for my rides. This event will be VTX Riders Spring Gathering

I'm also posting possible ride routes and maps and GPX format files there as well.

D-Mac, you and Har aren't there yet. XXXrider, you are so stop back in.
I can't get logged in on the site. :?

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

working - - sorry, guys - - have fun... wish I could join you all!

D-Mac, tear it up for me, will ya???? :shock:

[alabamaWing]

I can't make it. I am resting up cause some nut is draggin me to 4 corners New Mexico on motorcycles :D

[Bardo]

I can't make it. I am resting up cause some nut is draggin me to 4 corners New Mexico on motorcycles :D
Why don't you just follow him on your wing??? It would be much more comfortable... You got any black chicks goin with ya???

[alabamaWing]

I can't make it. I am resting up cause some nut is draggin me to 4 corners New Mexico on motorcycles :D
Why don't you just follow him on your wing??? It would be much more comfortable... You got any black chicks goin with ya??? I got to admit, that picture was funny. Going solo on this one. Beth is going to the CRAPfest with me in Fayetteville, AR.

[TerrySC]

D-Mac did you get sent to this page?
http://www.grouprider.com/register.php
If not sign up here then click on MEMBERS and do a search for TerrySC. The ride is posted on my page under Upcoming Rides. There is also a VTX group. PM me if you still have trouble.

[TerrySC]

I can't make it. I am resting up cause some nut is draggin me to 4 corners New Mexico on motorcycles :D

I take it you are going. 8) Just PM'd Marty and Paul. I can't wait :pepper1: :pepper1::pepper1::pepper1::pepper1:

[har]

Hey Terry, you need to put some information up on the Al. board. wE might get some more takers other than me and Dmac. 8)

Harry

[xxxrider]

Har, are you going to this event??? I'd like to ride with you & your wife again!!! Have you bought her any Frogg Toggs yet!!!

[har]

Yeah XXX, Im going , myself and Dmac will be staying off Hellbender (Hwy 28). Glorias not gonna make it so Ihope to do a lot more riding and have a few more cold ones!

Harry

[xxxrider]

Har, that's great and I am trying to fit a keg of beer into my trailer!!!

Even though I don't drink beer I like to accomodate others who do so!!! Particularly if you are in a DRY COUNTY!!!

Looking forward to this event as I experienced alot of great vacations in this area as a young lad!!

[TerrySC]

Hey Terry, you need to put some information up on the Al. board. wE might get some more takers other than me and Dmac. 8)

Harry

It's already there. I bumped it though. Talk it up. 8)

[har]

My bat Terry, missed it on the Bama board! :oops:

[xxxrider]

Looking forward to this event and seeing you HAR and the other Xers as this is a GREAT AREA to RIDE around and see the GREAT SMOKIES!!!

[heartscrub]

Bought my 2006 GL1800 in October. Ridden my 203 VTX 1800R 6 times since then. When the weather warms up, I'll be riding my "X" a lot more. I heard our "wings" are hot in the summer. I'd love to hook up with some of y'all soon. Question is, what bike do I ride. BTW, I have a 2004 Honda Acoord for sale. Don't drive the cage enough to keep it! Y'all be good. Hope to see you soon...steve

[xxxrider]

You can ride either one of those and we don't care because it is all about the 2 wheel experience and I have a 2003 VTX 1800R and it may be a little cooler!!!

This will be a great riding & visual experience along with alot of great commaraderie!!! Come with us & enjoy!!! A great bunch of guys & girls here in this forum!!!

[heartscrub]

I've met great people here but have been out of the loop for a while. I look forward to being more active. I really, really miss riding with y'all. And nothing's keeping me from hooking up with y'all now. I need to look at my calender. The only thing I have going on is my daughter's getting married March 31st. Look forward to spending road time with everybody! Steve

[Blackwing]

Heartscrub take the wing to them hills..... you wont be sorry u did!!!!

[har]

Hey Blackwing, the website for those cabins is on Terrys Grouprider site. They are on hwy 28 halfway between Bryson City and Franklin. Looks like a good place to stay! :P :P

Harry

[heartscrub]

Hey Blackwing, I take to them hills at least once a week! Helen is only 45 minutes away. I can't believe how well the "wing" handles up there.

I always enjoy y'all's posts...yours and "pinky's"...lol...that is. I'm gonna make it down south one of these days soon and look forward to meeting y'all!

[xxxrider]

Can't wait for this ride, Spring is just around the corner!!! How many have signed up???

[HotFix]

Looks like I may have to join the ride a day later than I planned. Terry, I'll keep in touch with you and try to find a good place to meet mid day May 3rd.

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

OK, Sports fans... I'm in.... had a work trip cancel out on me and I am now IN!!!!!! Will ride up with HotFix on the 3rd... been riding so much with him this last week I feel like his wing-man...

http://assets.espn.go.com/i/magazine/new/goose_maverick.jpg

[Enforcer]

"That's RIGHT...Ice...Man...LittleJohnnyfromNJ is dangerous..." Maverick, Top Gun.

[HotFix]

And I feel like the shaken up Maverick. "the turn doesn't look good, need to slow down".

Mean while LJNJ "It doesn't look any better than this!"

I'm thinking of getting new pegs. I feel uneasy that my frame and pipes will hit before the pegs. I like keeping as much rubber on the road as possible. My throttle response is also iffy as of late. I need to roll on it sooner coming out of the turn. Instead I have been easing up and having to straighten and slow. :roll:

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

And I feel like the shaken up Maverick. "the turn doesn't look good, need to slow down".

Mean while LJNJ "It doesn't look any better than this!"

I'm thinking of getting new pegs. I feel uneasy that my frame and pipes will hit before the pegs. I like keeping as much rubber on the road as possible. My throttle response is also iffy as of late. I need to roll on it sooner coming out of the turn. Instead I have been easing up and having to straighten and slow. :roll:

Dude - - if you feel like Maverick THAT AIN'T GOOD!!!!!! (Man, I LOVED Melanie Griffeth in that flick! HOT)

[TerrySC]

Looks like I may have to join the ride a day later than I planned. Terry, I'll keep in touch with you and try to find a good place to meet mid day May 3rd.

Sounds good, looks like about 18 riders so far, my guess is more, I'll have to check the hotel and see. Know of a couple that are staying elsewhere and 2 that haven't got a place yet. HotFix feel free to send me some ride files, nothing in concrete yet. May just have several to pick from, and have a couple different ones each day. Nothing saying we have to all ride together.

[HotFix]

HotFix feel free to send me some ride files, nothing in concrete yet.
Cool. I have a few ideas and I'm sure guitar4him will have a few as well.

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

can we do this ride???

http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willo ... 78435&om=1 (http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=Willow+Creek+Golf+Club&daddr=beechertown,+nc&f=d&hl=en&sll=35.213368,-83.589478&sspn=0.207288,0.391045&layer=&ie=UTF8&z=12&ll=35.211405,-83.566818&spn=0.207293,0.278435&om=1) we could also do National Forest Road and make it a total loop in there...

[TerrySC]

Wayah is a given, is NFR paved if so we'll do it too.

[xxxrider]

I just love that Wayah Bald Road. My parents used to have a cabin on that road about half way up on the left and it was even more beautiful back then.

[HotFix]

Bumpidy Bump, bump, bump.

I'm starting this trip 12 hours later than I wanted.

I'm heading up out of Atlanta with LJNJ on the morning of May 3rd. I'll work with Terry to find a lunch spot to merge with the group.

I just love that Wayah Bald Road. My parents used to have a cabin on that road about half way up on the left and it was even more beautiful back then.
They really screwed it up two years ago. In 2005 it had strips of gravel where they where tearing up the road to run more services. The road is pretty rough after the patch job repave they did in 2006 (after adding all those rental cabins along the river). I haven't been in 2007. It would be nice if they paved the whole thing over.

[xxxrider]

When my parents were there about 15 years ago it was newly paved and didn't get that much attention because only the locals knew it existed so it was a blast to drive on. There is a great campsite with bbq grills up top with a 2 story observation tower that you can see 4 states from up top.

However, it is gravel and not fit for a bike unless you know how to ride on gravel (no front brake) but a FANTASTIC VIEW!!!

[TerrySC]

My new Zumo loves gravel roads, the X tolerates them. May have to put a GS in the stable in the future. Great scenery on those roads.

I was very pleased to learn that your group was going to have a spring fling based in Franklin. I moved here several years ago because Franklin's location is perfect for exploring the major and minor roads in the tri-state area. The oc in ocXrider stands for old coot, and as such, I like to ride where the roads are good and safe. Even if you ride the same roads often around here they are different because of the seasons and ever-changing mountain views. I would recommend a less-traveled road for you. It is Elljay Road which crosses over the mountain from Franklin to Sylva. Slow ride with beautiful vistas. Not as much traffic as Wayah Road. If any of you need any local info, suggestions for great dining, etc. please feel free to email me at ocXrider@msn.com.

BTW...I am entering into my 39th year of being in the wind!

[xxxrider]

OCXRIDER, join us for the ride and let us know of any other roads that you like. I like the road from Franklin down to Highlands but I can't remember the number ( I think it is Hyway 28) but you get to see Dry Falls, etc. and it is breathtaking.

Welcome to the forum and keep posting.

Hi XXX! I would love to join your group to ride. There is also a road leading out from Clayton, GA (just south of Franklin) called War Woman, that takes you to forest in South Carolina. You can then cut back to Cashiers, NC and round to Sylva, NC and back to Franklin. Lovely ride!

[TerrySC]

OcXrider,

Welcome, we'd love to have you join us. Thanks for the Ellijay rd tip. Warwoman is already on one of the routes. Hwy 180 Wolfpen Gap is too. Hoping the guys will be interested in riding down to the Dillard House for some good eatin too. PM me a list of the lesser known good roads you are aware of and I'll try to include some in our routes.

XXXrider, I'm planning on including a Waterfall route or two for the gathering as well. Most will be a short easy hike of less than 1/4 mile. Stops will also include some scenic overlooks and or course lots of curves. I'll try to get them finished and fine tuned this weekend.

[xxxrider]

Terry, a good ride would be to go from Franklin down to Highlands on Hyway 28 and then on to Sky Valley and Dillard and then eat at the Dillard House. There are several waterfalls on this road but the best one is Dry Falls because you can walk less than 1/4 mile to it and you can walk underneath the waterfall and the sound is deafening.

One of the most scenic routes in that area if not the NUMBER ONE ROUTE as far as scenery!!! Definitely include it if you can!!!

[TerrySC]

Hey XXXRider,

Put that GPS and Mapsource of yours to work and create some routes. Two that I have done include 28 past DryFalls. One is an alternate return route the other is at the beginning. One is actually a waterfall and scenic overlook tour I think you'd enjoy. Send me your e address and I'll send you the files. We're not putting anything in concrete so we can let those who are there decide what they'd like to do. Maybe even have multiple routes/groups each day. So like I said put some together, the more we have to choose from the better.

[xxxrider]

I'll be working on some routes today on MapSource as the rain is moving into the Atlanta area this afternoon so I can't ride, can't play golf & can't work outside in the yard so I guess that leaves me indoors with MapSource.

Really looking forward to this ride.

[TerrySC]

Hey All,

Worked long hours today and will be tomorrow, so here is a partial quote of an e-mail I sent to Soundman and Guitar 4 Him.

I’ll be quick but I’ll try to get more info out weds when I’m off. Mark (Hotfix) was wanting to meet us in N. GA on Thursday the 3rd since I’ve planned a route that direction anyway. The route is similar to what you and Ken and I rode. I said I’d throw it by you and Ken first but didn’t see any problems with that. Drop me a line and let me know. Stuvtxer said he would be in Gatlinburg Friday and I have a route past there too, that we can use.

I’ll be posting the rides on http://www.sundaymorningrides.com/ as soon as I get them tweaked, probably Weds. This is a great site for ride sharing.

I’ll also post them at http://www.grouprider.com/rides.php?action=displayride&rideid=925 the site I think you are referring to wanting a link to.



Everyone please send me a PM with your anticipated arrival and cell # if you don't mind. That way we don't miss anyone. Thanks.

[xxxrider]

Your routes look pretty good already but I again want to mention the Jarrett House in Dillsboro if you are in that area.

[TerrySC]

I've added Jarrett House as a waypoint to the routes that pass by or thru Dillsboro. We'll see who wants to stop there. Those that don't have an easy ride back to Franklin. Hopefully I'll get the routes posted tonight. Some may need options based on return time. One I've laid out is 7hrs without stops, so it may need to be shortened.

[xxxrider]

Great job Terry and thanks for all your hard work & efforts!!! Let me know if I can help in any other way!!!

[HotFix]

How about a lunch stop in Helen, GA on May 3rd (Thursday). I know the Indiukys want to ride through N GA and a stop in Helen on Thursday is better to beat the crowds. (also makes it easy for the ATL folks joining the group on that day).

[TerrySC]

HotFix,

Do you have a place in mind?

[HotFix]

HotFix,

Do you have a place in mind?
The one with the steak and wings and beer and all the bikes in the front.... you know 'whatchamacallit'

[TerrySC]

No I'm sorry I don't. Only been to Helen a couple times. Find out and let me know cause it sounds good.

[xxxrider]

HotFix,

Do you have a place in mind?
The one with the steak and wings and beer and all the bikes in the front.... you know 'whatchamacallit'

Oh, you mean that place on the left as you are going out of town with all the bikes hanging around out front!!!

[TerrySC]

That's the one but I thought they called it "The Something or Other"

Is it under new management now?

[TerrySC]

OK here are the rides I've put together so far.


Smoky Mountain Star
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/SmokyMountainStar.jpg

Hellbender-Dragon-Skyway-Wayah loop
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/Hellbender-Dragon-Skyway-Wayahloop.jpg

GA NC Waterfall Tour
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/GANCWaterfallTour.jpg

GA-NC-BrasstownBald-DillardHouse
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/GA-NC-BrasstownBald-DillardHouse.jpg

Carolina Waterfall Tour
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/CarolinaWaterfallTour.jpg

BRP Hot Springs Clingman's Dome
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k21/TerrySC/VTX%20Gathering%20Spring%202007/BRPHSCD.jpg

Mark (HotFix) has requested meeting in Helen on Thursday for lunch to pick up some of the GA riders coming up. So either the GA NC Waterfall Tour or GA NC Brasstown Bald Dillard House routes should work well. The Smoky Mountain Star route is similar to the BRP Hot Springs Clingman's Dome route but in reverse, a few mods made it an even better ride. I’m suggesting this for Friday cause two bikes will be in Gatlinburg and would like to join us. I also created a great route including Caesar’s Head, Pretty Place, and Dupont State Forest which is the Carolina Waterfall Run 1, which might be a good choice for Saturday. The Dragon and Skyway loop is also included if anyone wants to do that.

[xxxrider]

When will we ride the Franklin to Highlands route??? When will we do the Warwoman Ride???

I just rode Wolf Pen Gap and that was very curvy & twisty and really nice!!!

TerrySC, you could also add the Lake Burton route that Orange/Crush took us on if you are going to be down around Dillard/Tullulah Gorge area as it is really scenic with alot of beautiful homes on the lake and lots of twisties!!!

[TerrySC]

When will we ride the Franklin to Highlands route??? When will we do the Warwoman Ride???

I just rode Wolf Pen Gap and that was very curvy & twisty and really nice!!!

TerrySC, you could also add the Lake Burton route that Orange/Crush took us on if you are going to be down around Dillard/Tullulah Gorge area as it is really scenic with alot of beautiful homes on the lake and lots of twisties!!!

Rich,

When ever you want. There will be a lot of people there and all will have their own preferences and choices to make. I've just laid out some suggested routes. I don't know if everyone will want to go the same direction the same day. I'm planning on North GA on Thurs and both routes pass by Lake Burton. Both include Wolf Pan Gap. One includes Warwoman and 28 thru Highlands. The Carolina waterfall tour I posted includes 28 thru Highlands as well. I'm thinking Saturday for that, as a group from VTX Cafe will be coming to Ceaser's Head which is also included. Friday I'm thinking about the Smoky Mountain Star route. But I know there will be people that want to do the Dragon and the Skyway, sometime. Ken has routes posted at Kickstand lodge's site too.

My routes are posted and downloadable in GPX format at
http://www.4shared.com/dir/1827158/c340dec3/sharing.html

and can be found on SundayMorningRides site by clicking the link in my signature. There are some photos and videos there too. I've been asked to submit a featured ride of the month and I asked to delay it so I can make it of our gathering.

Help us out and create some too. The more we have to choose from the better. We can keep them for future years too, since we don't have time to do them all.

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

Guys, I have a dilema... I booked my room and unfortunately will not be able to go... my son's soccer team is in the Georgia Cup and it's this weekend. I called the hotel but am told that my room is non-refundable... would anyone be willing to help me here? Is there anyone that would take my room and pay me directly for it since mine is already paid for??? I'd be happy to make the arrangements to add a name to the hotel reservation and provide you with a copy of the reservation confirmation that was emailed to me from DAYS INN... If anyone could help me I'd greatly appreciate it!

[HotFix]

I'd cancel mine and take yours, but with less than 4 days - I doubt they will do it. I'll call tomorrow and ask.

Sorry you can't make it dude. This is one of may favorite rides of the year!

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

I'd cancel mine and take yours, but with less than 4 days - I doubt they will do it. I'll call tomorrow and ask.

Sorry you can't make it dude. This is one of may favorite rides of the year!

I'm sorry I can't make it as well... wife is putting screws to me on it... I was just told about it yesterday and when I told my wife that I was planning on going away and had a non-refundable hotel reservation, it hit the fan... so, I guess it's better to lose a few hundred bucks on this??? not to mention that I;v ebeen lookign forward to this for some time now and have been incredibly stressed out... ahhh, the joys of marriage...

[HotFix]

Looks like they wanted at least a week notice. I could probabily just get buy with paying the first night, but didn't want to push it. Sorry man. At least you saved $8 a night! :D

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

At least you saved $8 a night! :D

no kidding, right? if anyone needs an extra room let me know...

-j

[HotFix]

Yergi leaves for his honeymoon in a couple of days and SWL has some prep he needs work on 5/7-9am. So it looks like it will be just me coming from Atlanta. Looks like this year will be a small group... I'm cool with that. :D

[HotFix]

Isolated T-Storms the whole trip... wouldn't be a mountain ride otherwise :?

[xxxrider]

I may ride up Saturday morning for one of the rides in my BMW Z3 MRoadster. At least I can put the top down and enjoy the scenery and the wind blowing thru my hair as well as some good old fashion fellowship with fellow VTXers and other 2 wheel nuts!!!

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

I may ride up Saturday morning for one of the rides in my BMW Z3 MRoadster. At least I can put the top down and enjoy the scenery and the wind blowing thru my hair as well as some good old fashion fellowship with fellow VTXers and other 2 wheel nuts!!!

atta boy, xxx!!! good for you!

BTW - - Z3 is a niiice car... we had a 2001 Z3 3.0 and traded it for a 2004 Z4 3.0i but actually liked the feedback of the smaller, lighter Z3, even though it was a smaller, lesser expensive car than the Z4! Finally got rid of the Z4 and bought a Charger (yes it had a HEMI) last year when they came out... that was real fun for a year... now I sold it, bought a JEEP and the bike, and wondering what to get next! That CHARGER WAS FAST!!! May hold out for the new Challenger or the Camaro... not sure yet... I kinda like the looks of the Lincoln Pick-ups or the New Tundra... I change cars like others change socks....

enjoy the ride, man!

[GTvtx]

LJ

I bought a Nissan Titan crew cab a couple weeks ago. Had never driven anything but a Ford truck

this machine is heads and shoulders above the competition.

its got all the bells and whistles.

GT

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

LJ

I bought a Nissan Titan crew cab a couple weeks ago. Had never driven anything but a Ford truck

this machine is heads and shoulders above the competition.

its got all the bells and whistles.

GT

neighbor just bought the titan yesterday... sweet ride... funny thing is that he had a Murano and then bought a boat which he is keepign docked at the lake. He called me to use my Suburban to tow the boat from the place he bought it to the lake... since I was out riding, he went to Nissan and traded the Murano in for a Titan! All in a day's work, I guess!

[Michael]

Pam and I will be in Young Harris Sat -Mon. We are heading back home to Brunswick on Tuesday. I'm sure we will get a late start riding Sat as we won't arrive until the wee hours Sat am. We will be riding and would really like to put some faces w/ some names. PM me with some contact info so we can connect. I signed up on Grouprider.com but didn't see a ride schedule. We are flexable so just let us know where to be.
Mike Smith

[xxxrider]

My Z3 MRoadster has a Supercharger and outputs 375 HP to the flywheel with Koni Suspension, Brembo Slotted Racing Rotors and Performance Friction Racing Pads with an Alpine FM/XM Radio and Xenon Headlights so it is alot of fun to drive. I drove it last year at the Smoking in the Smokies Event thru the Dragon and that was a BLAST!!!

[HotFix]

...
I drove my wife's Volvo down US 129 during FredFest :?

[HotFix]

Meet the group in Helen and just pulled into Franklin. This Days Inn is pretty nice. Hope all is well down in GA. Please pray that the rain stays away!

[xxxrider]

Looks like rain for Friday & Saturday with a chance Sunday but you never know. Terry where are y'all riding Saturday??? Where is this Days Inn???

[HotFix]

Terry's ass is sitting next to me in this coffee shop. Rain is off and on. I'll probably head home in a bit.

[Guitar4Him]

Terry's ass is sitting next to me in this coffee shop. Rain is off and on. I'll probably head home in a bit.

Did you happen to see Harold? :shock:

[HotFix]

No 'Harolds' were seen this time. Coffee did make me feel a little funny though. :)

[xxxrider]

So, how was the Event??? I guess the rain must have dampened the spirits a bit!!!

[TerrySC]

No 'Harolds' were seen this time. Coffee did make me feel a little funny though. :)

Funny queer or funny haha? :lol:

Even though Ray and Joe didn't drink any coffee, the place had a profound effect on them. HotFix, shortly after you departed the weather cleared, hope you rode into the clear stuff. Thanks for the call letting us know you made it. Back to Ray and Joe, the rest of the evening the topic remained the Gay Coffee Shop. We went to a steakhouse and laughed so hard it gave me and Joe a headache and all of us were wiping tears from our eyes. The other patrons must've thought we were drunk or stoned. Back at the hotel was more of the same until almost Midnight. Ray's quit wit and Tina's saying things before thinking how they would be twisted kept us howling all night. Rumor has it that Ken and Wayne departed just in time, the woman at the front desk said "Harold" came by looking for Ken. :shock: She told him Ken would be back in Oct.

[TerrySC]

So, how was the Event??? I guess the rain must have dampened the spirits a bit!!!

A lot of folks bailed out do to weather and personal matters. Weds and Thursday were great riding days, and Friday wasn't bad except that it began to sprinkle when we got to Hot Springs to begin riding the good twisties on 209, 63 and 151. When we got to the BRP we had trouble seeing the taillights of the bike in front, so we detoured off onto 276 back into Waynesville. Saturday we didn't ride due to on/off rain all day. Did a little geocaching outside the Gay Coffee Shop and located a popsickle stick and watched Harold run across the parking lot with both arms in the air to hug his boyfriend. :shock: Rumor has it he's now looking for Ken.

Small group but we had fun.

[littleJohnnyfromNJ]

Did a little geocaching outside the Gay Coffee Shop and located a popsickle stick.

now there's a surprise! :shock:

[HotFix]

I had a good time. I found a few more caches in and around our rides. That 'stick' outside the gay coffee shop was lame. This was my favorite cache of the trip. I found it 10 miles from the hotel while everyone was still sleeping (sorry about the K2s). I found a GeoCoin not far from my house for a fallen rider/cacher. I took the coin with me on the ride and placed it here.

This was about as 'good' as Saturday looked.

http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_de ... 5e8271c5e5 (http://www.geocaching.com/seek/cache_details.aspx?guid=21350734-7288-4913-8d76-7c5e8271c5e5)

http://img.geocaching.com/cache/log/0fad94c8-7496-47a4-8058-bdd737baf181.jpg

[Motorcycle Mike]

And just why are you guys hanging out at a gay coffie shop? :roll:

[HotFix]

And just why are you guys hanging out at a gay coffie shop? :roll:
There are too many reasons to list. Apparently Garmin doesn't differentiate between gay and straight coffee.

Why we ended up there a second time was completely our fault. Although 'Harold' wasn't in there the second time around. Tina did find an ad in the bathroom for a Lube service that has 'the best prices in town."

:lol:

[xxxrider]

Gosh, I didn't realize this was a Ride To Benefit Gay Coffee Drinkers, maybe that is why God didn't allow me to show up, LOL!!! Not that there is anything wrong with being GAY as was portrayed in one of the funniest SEINFELD EPISODES I have ever seen. They must have used that expression 50 times!!!

Is GAY COFFEE different than STRAIGHT COFFEE??? LOL!!!

Too bad the weather sucked but that happens up there this time of year which is why Scarecrow and I discussed having it later in the year to avoid cold dreary wet rides!!!!

Take care y'all!!!

[HotFix]

Too bad the weather sucked

Just want to clarify... it was only the weather that sucked...

...not that there is anything wrong with that.

[Guitar4Him]

FWIW....Wayne, Terry, Tina, Mark and I had great weather on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday morning wasn't bad either. However, from Friday mid-day on, it was nasty.