Arby's APRIL Sport Tour of the Southern Appalachians

[Lewis' RT]

Arby's 2nd Annual Sport Tour of the Southern Appalachians

Cafe' members and your guests are invited to join us again this April for a Sport Tour of the Southern Appalachians.

We are pleased to have a number of the Ladies returning and riding with us again this year !

Ride Headquarters: Topton, North Carolina 28781

Arrive: Thursday, April 17th

Rides: Friday, April 18th . . . Saturday, April 19th . . . and Sunday, April 20th

Monday, April 21st head home OR stay for the Dual Sport Ride *

* The Dual Sport Ride is KLR and GS friendly !


The Sport Tour routes take us on some of the most beautiful scenic highways and byways, then onto some of the twistiest, tightest, hilliest back roads in North Carolina, South Carolina, Northern Georgia, and Eastern Tennessee.

Written Directions and Ride Maps will be available at Ride Headquarters, and Garmin's MapSource "City Navigator North America 2008" GPS route plots will be available by e-mail prior to the Ride.

Last year a number of our rider friends found renting one of the many available mountain homes was not only more convenient and enjoyable, but less expensive than the motels and hotels twenty miles away from Ride Headquarters.

Website for some nearby rentals: http://www.NantahalaLakesideCabins.com

These cabins are only two miles from Ride Headquarters, and have a small Cafe' close by. Tell the rental agent you are with the "Bob Baker April Ride" and get a 10% discount off the nightly rental rate !

Hope you can join us,

Arby


.

[DarthRider]

Rats !
I'm already booked & paid for a DS "event" during that time.

[Elsie Smith]

Rats, I'm going to Nova Scotia, Cabot Trail, etc....you're in such a great riding area!

[Biff's R]

I can't wait:clap::clap::clap::clap:

[Arby]

This is a fun, laid back, kinda deal.

Everyone is invited back to Ride HQ each night for a cookout and social hour. An open house, so to speak. I think Judy's gonna have a big pot of chilli and homemade corn bread for whoever shows up Thursday night. That went over well last year. Then standard cookout food Fri & Sat evening. Very informal, with lots of BSing.

Sorry your not gonna make it Dave. You would NOT be clocking 161 mph on the Speed Triple on any of these roads. :028:

Elsie, it's only a 550 mile ride, an iron butt(er) like yourself oughta ride down for a cup of chili before running off to Canada.
Judy & I toured PEI, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Maine two up on the Buell a few years back. It was a wonderful tour. Hope yours goes well ,too.

Biff, I'm looking forward to riding with you again. It oughta be a little warmer than last time:eusa_clap:

RB

[Dirty Doug]

Two thumbs up on the chili. With the weather last year it sure warmed the bod. Looking forward to seeing the gang again.

K-Rider
Doug

[R4R&R]

Looking forward to it again. Thanks again Arby, for doing this.

[DarthRider]

Sorry your not gonna make it Dave. You would NOT be clocking 161 mph on the Speed Triple on any of these roads. :028:

RB

Yeah, I'm sorry too Arby, I'd love to be there.
161 or 61 it's all the same...fun !

[Jeff Bohl]

I can hardly wait as this will be my first time to ride the roads of NC and after the trip to Big Bend in October and all the fun I had there......well I don't see how it could be anything but fun.

Jeff Bohl

[Arby]

Doug & John, I'm looking forward to riding with you both.

Jeff, I don't think we've met yet, but I'm looking forward to riding with you, as well.

Thanks for chiming in, guys.

RB

[gypsyRR]

I really would like to make it there. I'm traveling April 5-11 though, and I don't know if I would have enough turn around time to still make it by the next week. But it sure sounds like fun!

[jb44]

Arby,

If you're keeping a count, I am planning to attend as well.

I'd like to reserve the last-in-line position.... so I don't slow anyone down. ;-)

jb

[Biff's R]

This is a fun, laid back, kinda deal.

Biff, I'm looking forward to riding with you again. It oughta be a little warmer than last time:eusa_clap:

RB

There is nothing like taming the "Dragon" at 22F. I have some electric gear now. :028:

[Deans BMW]

Arby, how far is it from Show Low?

[Biff's R]

Dean,
It is 1742 miles. The last 81 are nice through the mountains. Hope you like I-40.

http://maps.google.com/maps?client=safari&rls=en&q=show+low,+AZ+to+Topton,+NC&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl

[DarthRider]

Dean,
It is 1742 miles. The last 81 are nice through the mountains. Hope you like I-40.

http://maps.google.com/maps?client=safari&rls=en&q=show+low,+AZ+to+Topton,+NC&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&um=1&sa=N&tab=wl

And I-40 will take you by here...if I'm in town when you come through, we can shack you up !
If I'm out of town on my DS ride, Mz. Betty can shack you up.
That didn't come out right...

[Arby]

Gypsy, Leave home on the morning of the 16th, Weds, arrive Thurs PM . Just in time for Dinner at ride HQ. Or trailer both bikes, & ride the dual sport on Monday with us. It'll give you a chance to practice riding tight switchbacks, you don't seem to have too many of them in Texas:028:

jb, I'm looking forward to your being there. Make sure the GS650 is in NC so you can ride the dual sport ride on Monday too. (The TW200 will work too, as long as you don't mind some ribbing:028:) It'll be the same KTM guys as last year, plus Rick from Md on a DR350 & me on the DRZ, plus whoever else shows up. Actually, the GS650 would be a good choice for the road ride part too, I bet.

Dean, bring Miz Pam with you. Most of your east coast pit crew will be there, I believe. And we'll work on getting Frank & Bonnie there too. You could have a mini reunion, as well as some great riding. As long as you're back east, mosey on up to the DC area and get BobFV to give you the tour of DC that I remember he offered you. Trailer both bikes, & do the dual sport on Monday.
And bring some other westerners with you.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

As it stands right now, Alan "Jamais", Jeff "Jeff Bohl", Russell & Nancy, and I are coming for your ride.

Dave "The Canadian Harley Guy" & Anita are coming down from Ontario.

Thanks for the rental tip! We were able to rent a great two story mountain home close to Ride HQ.

Dean, come for the ride . . . we would be honored to have you stay with us.

Gypsy, we would be honored to have you stay with us also !

RB, really looking forward to seeing you again, and meeting Judy & your friends.

Lewis


.

[gypsyRR]

I rode behind RB in Arkansas on the Pig Trail. The guy is incredibly fast in the turns (and passes illegally!!!! - wait, can I tell that, RB?). I can only imagine what he is going to be like on his own turf!!! I can't even think that fast!

There is a very good chance I will be getting a tandem trailer pretty soon. If it arrives before mid April, I'll seriously consider trailering out.

[Arby]

Lewis

I'm really looking forward to hanging out and riding with you, Alan & Dave again. You all make a person feel like an old friend, even when you've just met them. I'm looking forward to meeting Russell & Nancy, Jeff & Dave's wife Anita too. It's going to be fun!

Gypsy, I think you can think plenty fast. And the only reason I turned it up a little coming down the Pigtail was, with you & the rest of the crew behind me, I felt like a rabbit be chased by a pack of hounds. :linzi: I rode behind Gypsy & the rest of the crew all day in the NW Arkansas Ozarks. Believe me, they gave me riding lessons all day.

Gypsy, back when I was a kid (along time ago), you would've been called a Tom boy. Come out and bang elbows with the boys, win all the marbles, then go home smiling & acting all prim & proper.

Hope you can make it to North Carolina.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Thank you for your kind words. We're excited about coming for your ride.

I am confident you will enjoy Russell & Nancy, Anita, and Jeff's company. They are all polite and courteous. They put up with me . . . so you know they have big hearts.

Please let me know if there is anything that I, or "we" can do to help you and Judy.

Lewis

PS We WILL have good weather for your ride !

.

[gypsyRR]

Gypsy, back when I was a kid (along time ago), you would've been called a Tom boy. Come out and bang elbows with the boys, win all the marbles, then go home smiling & acting all prim & proper.

RB

I had older brothers, and it was sink or swim with them. If I wanted any company, I had to learn to do what they did so I could hang out with them and their friends. And then going home and dressing up for parties and going out on a date with a boy I just beat in a race was always a nice ending to a great day (for me, anyway)!

Y'all are going to have a great time. Be safe!

[PhotoMoto43]

Just wanted to say "Hi"....we met in Oct. 06 at a gas stop in FL when you were on your way back from Big Bend. I was on a white Gold Wing headed for Sarasota from Mississippi. I am going to sell my Gold Wing and am looking for a clean, low mileage R1150GS at a reasonable price. Will take a week or so to get financials ready. Let me know if you see anything for sale. May be interested in the GA Mtn Rally this year.
Thanks,
Wayne Archer(Photomoto43)
Mississippi

[dee jones]

Arby, Have to see which way the wind blows. Don't think Denise will make it this year. If I can get out of the trees I'll try to shoot up for a day.

I'm starting to really enjoy the Cagiva Grand Canyon so I may try to ride the beast up. Thanks for the Email sorry I haven't responded sooner. Thanks Dee

[Arby]

Hey Wayne.

Good to hear from you. You were haulin' frieght on the GW that day. That was the best time I made on that whole trip. :icon_redface:

If you get the itch to ride that new GS somewhere, or the GW for that matter, you are more than welcome at our April ride. It's just a bunch of friends getting together for some riding in the mountains and a little socializing in the evening. You would feel right at home.

There was a GS 1150 in the classified section here. Did you look there?

It's good of you to check in and say hi. We all make fun of everybody's motorcycle here, especially if it's not like ours, but it's (mostly) tongue in cheek. Hope to hear from you again.

Dee, thanks for checkin' in. Hope you can make it up our way. If you travel solo, and you're just spending the night, check in here first, somebody might have room for you. Even if it's just
room for a sleeping bag. Tell Denise that she'll be missed.

RB

[Elsie Smith]

....am looking for a clean, low mileage R1150GS at a reasonable price. Will take a week or so to get financials ready. Let me know if you see anything for sale. May be interested in the GA Mtn Rally this year....

Welcome Wayne, check out www.ibmwr.org classified section

[PhotoMoto43]

Thanks RB and Elsie. Hope to see you on the road.

[The Canadian Harley Guy]

RB
I am really looking forward to seeing Judy and you again, and everyone that braved the elements last year.
Anita is excited that she's able to join the group this year.
All the bad weather chased me out of Texas last week so it should be somewhere over the North Pole by the time we get to mid April.
And as Lewis mentioned, if there is anything we can do to help please let us know.
Dave

[Arby]

Hey TCHG, how's it goin'? Lookin' forward to meeting Miz TCHG in April. Come on down, the weather's going to be fine, trust me!!:028:

How many miles do you have on the HD now? Still going strong I bet.

See ya in a few weeks. Thanks for checking in.

RB

[Dirty Doug]

Hay Dave,
Looking forward to seeing you again. I'm coming up with George , Scott, again this year and a new cafe member Eric. Lets hope we get better weather. I understand Arby has an in with the weather man this year. Glad you're bringing Anita this time. Don't worry we wont tell her any stories about last year, but I do have the 8x10 color photos for sale to the highest bidder.:icon_redface:

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[The Canadian Harley Guy]

Thanks guys
I won our local Hog chapter mileage contest last year. It is funny that up here we don't have kilometer contests. Anyway it only took me 3 rear and 1 front tires to do it. Last years total 44,000 KM (27,000 Miles) and a bike toatl of 192,000 KM (120,000 miles). I know I really need to get out more.
First prize for top mileage, a new rear tire, you do the math. If any of you were at Big Bend you may have noticed that I do have a tendency to let the rear tire go beyond the call of duty before changing it, not always a good thing.
Great to hear George and Scott will be there again.
As for the pictures, no problem, I think I can outbid everyone. I will make sure I have a Canadian quarter in my pocket, (that was worth 26 cents US yesterday), and if anyone needs to bid higher they have lots more to hide than I do.
Elsie, April can be very cold and wet on the Cabot Trail, but if you have to be there, rather than the sun soaked Appalacians, make sure you stop in Baddeck to go through the Alexander Graham Bell Museum.

Dave

[Elsie Smith]

....
Elsie, April can be very cold and wet on the Cabot Trail, but if you have to be there, rather than the sun soaked Appalacians, make sure you stop in Baddeck to go through the Alexander Graham Bell Museum.

Dave

I know, the guys I'm going with are nuts (mostly) but it was the only time we could get the four of us together.
'Couse when I did the ALDERS rally a few years ago June 23, rained the whole 24 hours :- and the
Cabot Trail was a timed portion, in the fog...thank goodness the GPS gave a small clue of the twists/turns :-)
They wanted to go earlier....YES, the Alexander Graham Bell Museum is on the list!

[Arby]

Don't know if there's any one considering our April ride, but thought I'd post answers to questions fence sitters might have.

Money.

All you need is what it costs you to travel. Everything that's being provided for the cookouts in the evening at Ride HQ is free. No donations accepted. If anyone wants to pick up something during the day to supplement the cookout rations, that'll be great. (Pecan Pie comes to mind :028:). We've got two refrigerators, so we should be able to store perishables.

Bike brand.

All kinds. I seem to recall last year we had everything from two Rocksters, a Vstrom, VMax, G/W, a couple HD's, an LT, a couple R1150R's, a R1200R, a Ducati. an FJR1300, 3 or 4 1200RT'S, plus other assorted bikes.
Not to mention 5 dual sport bikes.

If it's got two wheels, or maybe three, it's welcome.

The pace.

No CHiPs riding here. Mostly a brisk sport touring pace. It's been my experience that we all spread out pretty well. Stay close enough to feel you're riding with the group, but not crowding others, or being crowded, either. If I'm leading a ride, I'll stop at all turnoff's or other places where the route changes, to give everyone a chance to catch up. I think other ride leaders will do the same.

The ride routes

Last year, I found there to be two basic groups. Even though we had (have) excellent route sheets, with maps, one group basically said, we don't need a map, we know where we're goin', see you later. The other group said, we're riding with you RB, wait up at the turn offs. Both methods seemed to work well.

We'll do whatever works. And it's OK for everyone to do whatever works for them. We'll help lay out alternate routes for anyone who needs it. The route sheets from last year cover NC, No Ga, the tip of SC, & eastern Tn.

Dual Sport ride

Monday the 21st. No single track, mostly dirt/gravel roads, and back country pavement. KLR & GS friendly.
So far, I know of these bikes signed on, DR350, DRZ400S, EXC250,EXC520 &640LC4. But we're looking for more. This is a "No one gets left behind" ride.

Plus, if you see a light on in the kitchen of Ride Hq in the AM, that means the coffees on, come on in.

RB

[wncbmw]

I must confess, I have neither posted nor visited this site for a while but hearing RB via email about the ride, I planned to attend - then family business intervened.

But it appears now I may be able to sneak over on Friday for a day of riding. Hope it works out and I can see some folks I know and meet some new ones.

I don't have too many secret roads over that way but if we get closer to Asheville, I might be able to help in that department!

Maybe I need to start visiting here more often!

[Arby]

Hey wncbmw, thanks for checkin' in. And, of course you need to check in and say hi more often.

If you're willing, I've got some ideas for a ride over your way.
Of course, I'd delegate the details to you:028:

Try to come over Thursday evening for dinner and social hour.
Bring a sleeping bag, we'll make room for you for a night.

Looking forward to the visit and ridin'.

RB

[wncbmw]

RB - I am thinking of doing the Thursday night thing if I can. Easier than getting up too early to meet up!

I will need to split sometime late Friday afternoon to head out for a wedding!

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

We're down to the last three and a half weeks before your Ride . . . how's the weather shaping up in your mountains this far out ?

The long range weather "guessers" are suggesting cool mornings, pleasant day time temperatures, and no rain.

Really doesn't matter though, our group will come prepared for whatever kind of weather Mother Nature wants to give us.

Lewis

.

[Arby]

Lewis

I'm not too good at long range weather research, but what I'm finding is pretty much the same as you've reported.

It's going to be good.

RB

[Dirty Doug]

Good , Bad, either way I'm coming. That's why they invented rain suits.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[Biff's R]

3 weeks from today.

I can't wait.

[Arby]

We're looking forward to everyone's visit. it's getting close!!

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

It's just 18 days from today that Dave & Anita from Ontario, and Texans Russell & Nancy, Alan, Jeff, and I will be knocking on your door for a bowl of Judy's chili.

We are excited about the ride, seeing you again, meeting Judy, meeting a number of our eastern Cafe' friends in person, + + + a number of your other friends.

Thank you AND Judy for all your time and work (past, current, and upcoming) putting this ride together . . . we appreciate it very much !

Lewis

.

[Arby]

We'll be watching out for you and the gang, Lewis.

http://shutter03.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/07/008/73/7F/6F/EB/nd6BOHnig82hvLBqS2oHQjXeJj3joSDS0300.jpg

Y'all drive safe.:)

RB

[Dirty Doug]

Good , Bad, either way I'm coming. That's why they invented rain suits.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider


I guess I should have listed surgery. Seems like the doctors want to go back in the old ticker one more time. They have me set up for April 14th. I tried to argue the point that I had friends to meet but they along with the wife say NO. I'll really miss seeing old friends again and meeting new ones. I was so looking forward to Lewis and the gang. It'll have to wait until Big Bend now. The good news is this puts me closer to catching Stinkin' Frank.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[Lewis' RT]

It'll have to wait until Big Bend now.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

Doug,

I was very much looking forward to meeting you in person, and riding with you.

I am holding you to the Big Bend ride !
We have lots of things to talk about, and many more miles to ride !

My thoughts and prayers will be with you my friend . . .

Lewis

.

[DarthRider]

We're all with you, Dirty Doug !
Keep us posted.

[Arby]

Well, dang, Doug. That's good news and bad news. Bad news cause we're gonna miss you not being there in the mountains, but good news that your doctor is staying on top of what ails you.

You will be in our thoughts and prayers.

RB

[Arby]

A few photos of past rides out of Ride HQ.

Canadian Dave

http://shutter06.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/10/007/7B/FB/34/27/XBqIRbtwZRkEjUMEA8O-mEZD3ZKXZuw60258.jpg

It ain't like herding cats, but it's close :)

http://shutter08.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/13/00A/57/7E/3B/02/IOCfz1Rs4CWX+FnllG4KCWM5S73epB1E0258.jpg

A few notorious customers, RB, geechi and KRider

http://shutter09.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/15/004/6B/FE/00/F0/yMojDI+I0RHoXgn8rT6SizOTr1B2gku60258.jpg

Typical road

http://shutter05.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/06/007/7F/BB/E2/E2/tl65AAzDKtkwI1j4XPAngBIDQ3CVjk1U0300.jpg

RB & Judy on the Rockster

http://shutter02.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/04/008/7B/CF/C7/EC/gMQF93MxIze-PXBgvK-C8RhJn0JH2R5R0300.jpg

http://shutter02.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/06/005/7E/77/07/3D/CxqL8LV4kVQpiQ5WhGfaWxF6qH3MsyH00300.jpg

Dual Sporting

http://shutter07.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/07/009/75/A8/53/F9/UVjQpNvRrwlMJbU910P01oRRNG2EyH6+0140.jpg

http://shutter02.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/12/009/3F/FD/68/B4/YXyywarLhRgQDiiyEl--XgeXCL6+PFPj0300.jpg

Anyone that's coming, please bring your camera. And use it, too!

Looks like we should have a pretty good turn out for the dual sport too. Five or six local guys from ADVrider said they want to do the dual sport on Monday. These guys will know the off road/dirt roads better than me. It should be good.

jb, you gonna do the dual sport?? We would like to have you along.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Your photos exceed my imagination many times over . . . awesome roads and beautiful scenery !

15 days left and counting down :041::041::041::041::041::041::041:

Lewis


.

[jb44]

jb, you gonna do the dual sport?? We would like to have you along.RB
I'll give it try on the TW, but I'm more into slow trail riding than motocross.

Will be heading north this weekend, with a few stops along the way, Penasacola and LaGrange, then Murphy by the 17th or 18th.

jb

[Sir Limpsalot]

Anyone that's coming, please bring your camera. And use it, too!


RB


And post your photo's here. Please!

Si.

[Biff's R]

RB,
Do you have the picture of the pancakes we had in November? That was a days worth of food.

[Arby]

Here you go, Biff.

if you order pancakes at the cafe down the road from Ride HQ, only order one pancake. It was enough food for three people.

http://shutter11.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/13/001/3F/D6/76/1E/fR0UEqJmyUi6kr0vEeAzOj6qKEXtZCVa0300.jpg

Biff & RB stop to let the pancakes settle. We're on top the earthen dam on NC 281. Don't remember the name of the lake in the background.

http://shutter09.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/19/005/77/F7/18/14/xp8JFdDXP8qee18wtLgUpbnOZOTKnj+c0300.jpg

I see the sign in the background says Wolf Creek.

RB

[The Canadian Harley Guy]

A picture says a thousand words and Arby's last two postings have lots of stories. I'm glad Anita will be with me to improve any picture that I am in.

I agree that a camera is a must. The roads, scenery and comradery were all fantastic.

Dave

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Your photos are having the same effect on me that a hungry dog would have watching you eat a juicy 15 oz. Rib Eye :eusa_drool:

I'm really looking forward to riding with you in your mountains ! :045:

Lewis


.

[Boxer]

I was just informed of this ride by our friend from Murphy via Florida. His initials are J.B. It is with great sadness I report that I may not be able to do it. You see, I have spring break from school/job this coming week and then the week after it might be hard to play sick on Friday....But GEE! I'll give it a good ole college try.

RB, Sparky is still having problems with her leg from that Arkansas spill. She's had several more x-rays and still no signs of cracks, but she says it hurts like hell sometimes and is tender in odd spots around the area. She has an appointment with a specialist next week. We're guessing maybe a muscular blood clot or something. To make a long story short, she can't/won't ride until it feels better. I can't blame her. And frankly it scared me so much I'm not sure I want her to ride anymore. But it's her call, not mine.:shog:

Maybe I'll see you in Topton in a couple of weeks. Sure looks like fun.

[boxermania]

RB

I just talked to Boxer today and he mentioned your April get together. It so happens that I have been away from this site for a bit and your neck of the woods is one of my favorite riding places.

I wish I had the time to go, maybe some other time. It looks like you have a good bunch coming and should be fun....post a lot of pics.

Good luck to all and stay healthy......:icon_cool:

[Arby]

Guys, I appreciate you checking in.

Boxer, that was a damn shame that Sparky (aka Mrs Boxer), had that little get off. She's a real trooper and I hope they get to the bottom of her pain.

Boxermania, I know everyone would have enjoyed your company. Maybe next time I'll be more aggressive in letting folks know.

Boxer, I forget exactly where you are, but I remember thinking it's about 2 hrs south of Topton. Come out to play Sat morning, return home Sunday evening.:020::eusa_clap:

RB

[Boxer]

RB,
Sounds like a good plan. Yes, I'm north of Atlanta, about 35 miles. Do you have some GPS coordinates of Ride HQ, and a departure time for that morning...Saturday? I might come on up Friday evening. JB said I could crash at his bivouac for the evening. Maybe I'll take him up on it.:ymca:

[Arby]

Boxer, PM sent.

RB

[Arby]

Just found out friends of ours, who live near us in Fla, but also have a place 8 miles from us in NC, just took delivery of a yellow Spyder with the electronic clutch control.

They plan on doing the April ride with us, and are super excited.

It'll be fun hearing what they think of it. Uh, I don't think they'll be doing any demo rides though.....

RB

[Arby]

Accuweather is calling for almost perfect spring weather in the mountains next weekend.

http://www.accuweather.com then type in 28781 for zip code

http://shutter03.pictures.aol.com/data/pictures/04/004/6F/DB/43/B1/rasiGh845uhMrRQ7z+WyGngjJogTjteU0300.jpg

RB

[Dirty Doug]

Accuweather is calling for almost perfect spring weather in the mountains next weekend.


Oh sure, kick a guy when he's down. Why don't you just cut me and rub salt in the wound!!!!!!1

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[Arby]

Well dang, Doug. No way was I trying to rub salt in the wound. I'm sorry if it sounds like I am.

But we still have folks coming in from Ontario, Ohio, Va, Md, Texas, FL, SC, Ga, & maybe some other places. I thought a little encouraging news regards the weather forecast might be in order.
Especially in light of the forecast we had last year.

RB

[DarthRider]

Arby, you better save me a slot for next year !

[fganger]

Arby lad,

I know I've been kind of low key about all of this. Please do not take my silence as disinterest. Rather take my silence for overwork. My daughter and her two babies came down from Wisconsin for a week of spring break. All I can say is, "How does she do it?" The answer is mostly by herself. Her husband, while a nice guy, really does not know what do do to take care of little ones.

To make a long story short, they are going back this Sunday and I'll rest for a couple of days, then off to North Carolina. I'm sorry to say the Pit Tootsie will not be going this year - perhaps for next year she will have some seniority.

When I leave you on Monday, I'll be heading North to Detroit. I need to make a connection with a precision metals caster. Then I'll be heading over to the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York to visit with a good friend.

My plan is to race like the wild gazelle for Palm Coast, do a bit of maintainence, check out my tires and then head west. I will mostly be following the direction of I-10, if not actually I-10. It all depends on the wheather, the traffic, and the biker spirits which move us all.

I'd like to stop by Dean, Will, SJBMW, and my in-laws in Arizona,near Mexico. I'm hoping to roll over to check out Darth and then up the California Coast to Wild Will.

Someplace in that mix, I may be looking for another bike. Who knows?

What I do know is that the road is calling me, calling me quite strongly, perhaps stronger than ever before. I must heed the call of the road.

I intend to pack light, but save room to take most of my Nikon photo stuff, enough to take a great, award winning, money generating shot. Who knows? Perhaps all of this hoping and wishing may produce a good shot. One can never tell.

If I pass your way, please avail upon me to shoot pictures of your family, your life, your future. Please do not worry about the other "stuff" interfering with your shots and your life. Taking care of that is my business, and I take it seriously, very seriously.

Stinkin; Frank

[Arby]

Dave, slot saved!!

Frank, I only invited you to go on a ride up in the mountains. I didn't realize it was going to turn into the search for truth, justice, and the perfect photo!!!:)

Uh, er, that is, Have you cleared this with Bonnie?:018:

I'm just kidding you, of course. I'll do what I can to make the first 3 or 4 days of your journey a success.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

The weather is going to be PERFECT :jkam:

WOW . . . when Frank goes for a ride, he goes for a looooong ride :nod:

Our gang will see you in Topton the 17th !

Lewis


.

[fganger]

"I didn't realize it was going to turn into the search for truth, justice, and the perfect photo!!!"

Arby lad, sorry to have to correct you but . . . It's "Truth, Justice, and the American Way." :pot:


"WOW . . . when Frank goes for a ride, he goes for a looooong ride."

Well you know when one has not had something for a while, the tendency is to overdo it. Well at least for me that's the way it seems to go. My stinking body has been telling me that I need to put on some miles. Instead of listening to my body I listened to my surgeon and my physical therapist (Ha! What do they know?). No more says I.

Stinkin' Frank

Err . . . umm . . . please say nothing to the Pit Tootsie. :icon_redface: At least not until I leave the house. :)

[Biff's R]

Err . . . umm . . . please say nothing to the Pit Tootsie. :icon_redface: At least not until I leave the house. :)

Nice. :028:

Look forward to meeting you Frank.

[Deans BMW]

Frank, work your way to I 40 for your first stop at Bro Daves, 485 miles from Daves to the MC B&B. Lots of traveling suggestions. Looking foward to seeing you.

[jamming]

Frank, be sure yell when your in Arizona. Like to buy you dinner.

[R4R&R]

Getting phsyched up for this! Less than a week, I'll be prepping the bike for the trip tomorrow: swap city lids for standard lids and um...I guess that's it? The bike's ready to go.

[Biff's R]

I am looking forward to seeing everyone at dinner on Thursday night.

[R4R&R]

I'm planning on leaving Northern VA around 8:30am, so I hope to be there by 6:00pm. Sheesh - I guess I should start packing, huh?

[Arby]

John

We're here in Topton, and waiting for you. The weather's perfect.

Come on down!!

RB

[Biff's R]

What a great weekend of riding, with some great people and great hosts.:eusa_clap:

The road to RB's house(Wayah Rd), may have some of the best scenery I have been witness to. It also has a gagillion curves.

[Moose]

Oh..... this is just swell. I'm with Doug. We both slogged through last year, now we have to sit back and take in all the reports of fabulous wx and curvaceous rides. :028:

[Dirty Doug]

That's O.K. Moose Man, we'll get them at Big Bend!!!!! Besides my spies tell me someone got a fast ridding award. My lips are sealed, but if I was there I'm sure I would have been right behind him and got one also. The Cafe' brotherhood forbids me saying who.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[DarthRider]

That's O.K. Moose Man, we'll get them at Big Bend!!!!! Besides my spies tell me someone got a fast ridding award. My lips are sealed, but if I was there I'm sure I would have been right behind him and got one also. The Cafe' brotherhood forbids me saying who.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

What an honorable gentleman.
If we guess will you tell us ? :028:

[BobFV1]

So come on, did any of you take any pictures you'd like to share with the rest of us?

[Biff's R]

Bob,
I took 4 pics, and they are still on the camera. I was having too much fun riding. :028:

I think that Frank took several hundred.

Somewhere between 1550 and 1600 miles in 4 days. over 500 on real good twisties.

[jb44]

NC Hillbilly (Mark) has posted some pics of today's dual sport ride on AdvRider.

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?t=321726&page=3

I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. And thanks to all for not making fun of me on my TW 200.... at least, not to my face. ;-)

jb

[BobFV1]

Somewhere between 1550 and 1600 miles in 4 days. Feh, child's play :blbl:

[R4R&R]

Somewhere between 1550 and 1600 miles in 4 days. over 500 on real good twisties.

I had a final mileage of like 1759 when I got home - and that was via GPS, not the optimistic OEM odometer. I was going to take pictures, but my wife went to see the pope Thursday and took the camera. My other camera was dead.

Like Jeff said, Frank took eleventy-billion pictures. I'm waiting for him to post them.

[Arby]

Well, we're down to the last couple of guest, and they'll be on their way shortly.

What a great weekend. Everybody was great company, not a sourpuss in the crowd.

The 'Cafe (or friends of the cafe)who made it were;

Lewis RT (1150RT)
Dave & Anita from Canada (Harley Softtail)
Allan (Jamis)(1200 GS)
Jeff (1150R)
Russell & Nancy (GW)
Biff's R (1150R)
R4R&R (1150 R)
jb44 (650 GS & TW200)
F Ganger (1150R)
Nitro Mike & Carol (VMax & 1000 VStrom)My neighbors from FL
Black6 (Yamaha 600)

Locals from ADVriders
NC Hillbilly & Mrs NC Hillbilly(950 KTM)
Slash (DR 650)
EVader (DR 350)
Baglein) (KLR 650)
name unknown (KLR 650)
MGarret (1200GS)

RB's friends
Rick & Beth (Rockster & DR 350)
Dave & Ruth (FJR 1300 & 640 KTM)
John & Laura (1200 RT)
Tom & Karen (1200 RT & 525 KTM)
Don (Harley Ultra Classic)

I did not take one picture the whole weekend. Somehow I just stayed too busy. I'm hoping that Frank or someone will post pics, or send 'em to me so I can do it.

I want to thank everyone for making the long trip to the mountains. Judy & I enjoyed everyone's company.

And, regards the fast riding award Doug mentioned, I'm happy to report that it was not me. In fact, this is the first I've heard of it.

RB

[Arby]

Frank, will you please report in asap. I didn't get to see you when you left for parts unknown, so please check in and let us know how you're doing. Either here, or PM if you prefer.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Thank you and Judy very much !

Our "gang" truly enjoyed your mountains, meeting and riding with so many of our eastern Cafe' friends, meeting and riding with your great long time friends, and meeting and riding with a number of your North Carolina local friends.

Great time, great ride, great group of riders . . . life time memories !

Here's a couple of photos . . .

Lewis

http://sweetwilliam.smugmug.com/photos/283436937_gGAsc-M.jpg

Alan

http://sweetwilliam.smugmug.com/photos/283436800_rfNem-M.jpg

Jeff

http://sweetwilliam.smugmug.com/photos/283436099_BJ3Gc-M.jpg



http://sweetwilliam.smugmug.com/photos/283436595_LJYBF-M.jpg

Lewis

.

[Biff's R]

Feh, child's play :blbl:

Bob,
you had more miles, but I had more curves going to the gas station than you did on your whole ride including turning into parking lots.:pot:

[BobFV1]

Bob,
you had more miles, but I had more curves going to the gas station than you did on your whole ride including turning into parking lots.:pot:

:eusa_drool: Oh yeah - well I passed more 18-wheelers.

You win! :eusa_clap:

[Arby]

Biff

That is an amazing motorcycle road. One person told me if they only got to ride that road all day, it would be OK with them.

RB

[Arby]

I'm happy to report that I talked to Frank yesterday evening (Weds PM). He was about a 100 miles from home and doing OK (as far as his travels were concerned).

Hopefully, we'll hear from him here, today.

RB

[fganger]

I do indeed have some shots.

Just go to the Motorcyclist Cafe and look for "Gator Ridge." The title came from your beautiful wife, and the name of the property you live on. :) Actually I just changed the URL to go right into the Gator Ridge Album.

http://firstcoastphoto.smugmug.com/gallery/4789684_8gFx4#284431130_x7qwC/

Stinkin' Frank

[Wild Will]

Really enjoyed the pics, Stinkin' Nikon abuser. Some pretty familiar faces, all glowing with joy. Keep on keeping on!

[Elsie Smith]

Nice shots; everyone sure looks like they're enjoying themselves.
Good shots of the guys kayaking -- is that along the section where they
ran the Olympics?

[Arby]

Elsie

No, those pics are of the Nantahala River. They put in at the intersection of Wayah Rd & 19/74, and go down to the NOC.

RB

[Biff's R]

Here is the best pic I have(I only took 4-5). :icon_redface:

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/285809260_q4qzN-M.jpg
It is (l-r) Scott, RB, John(R4R&R), and Don.

[Dirty Doug]

Boy,
The things you see when there isn't a vice officer around. I think I saw that same line-up on Americas Most Wanted.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

[DarthRider]

Boy,
The things you see when there isn't a vice officer around. I think I saw that same line-up on Americas Most Wanted.

Dirty Doug
a.k.a K-Rider

Them boys been stealin' vices down to the Tractor Supply again ?

[Biff's R]

How can you not be happy at that gas station/intersection. It is 20 miles of twisties to Arby's house. I also think that this may be the closest gas station.

[Arby]

Jeff

That's another fun thing about hosting/organizing a ride like the Appalachian Tour. Photos and other good stuff keep popping up, bringing back another good memory.

Case in point is this picture. We had just completed a very spirted tour of the North Georgia Mtns, and Don, on the Ultra Classic managed to keep up. He was working his axx off, and dragging everything on the bike, but he hung tough.

When we stopped here to talk a minute before Scott (on the 600 Yam)has to part company with us, says to Don, "You Son of a Bxxxh, how do you go so fast on that thing!!! Go back and look at the pic to get an idea of how Scott likes to ride. I guess you had to be there to fully appreciate it.

Then another case in point. The other day I received a package from Australia. In it was one of those neat little BMW medalions that fit in the center of the rear wheel on the R1150R. Looks like something BMW should have done. I have no idea who sent it.
I'm assuming it is a thank you gift for hosting the April ride. A very nice & thoughtful gift.

Then, this morning the mail lady drops off a package.
In it is a real nice and thoughtful thank you note, along with other goodies. Four very thoughtful gifts in one package. I do know who sent this package.

Any how, Jeff, thanks for keeping the fun going, at least for me (by posting the photo). That is a fun twenty miles up to ride HQ, isn't it?:028:

RB

[Biff's R]

Glad to see the wheelcap made it to you. I ment to let you know it was coming, but I forgot to send an email.

Thanks again for a great weekend.

[Arby]

Thanks Jeff. It's great gift, and a pleasant surprise. I'll be installing it this weekend.

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Three months have passed since our ride in your mountains and my memories of the beautiful scenery, awesome roads, the wonderful group of riders still run deep.

I am very much looking forward your April 2009 ride ! :045:

Lewis


.

[Arby]

Lewis

Thanks for the "bump".

I've done some leg work towards next years ride, both on and off road. There'll be something for everyone.

Some of my friends bring two bikes, one for road riding, one for dual sport/off road. I've got enough off roading lined up to do a couple of days now.....:028:

When I get time (or ambition), I'm gonna send you a new road ride route I've preridden, complete with gps info. I think you'll like it.

Keep late April in mind, everyone.

RB

[DarthRider]

Arby, I'm in for sure as I said.
Now Betty may come too...not sure if we would ride the bike, or take the truck with two.
Looking forward to it.
Man, I love living in the middle of the country...I can find Cafe' Bros & Rides in any direction! :ricky: :beer:

[Biff's R]

I am looking forward to April 2009 already.:biggrinbandit:

[Arby]

Arby, I'm in for sure as I said.
Now Betty may come too...not sure if we would ride the bike, or take the truck with two.
Looking forward to it.
Man, I love living in the middle of the country...I can find Cafe' Bros & Rides in any direction! :ricky: :beer:

Dave, the wives seem to enjoy the April get together as much as the guys do. Miz Betty is most welcome. And gals who are not wives are most welcome as well.

Biff, you're a regular, now. If you weren't coming, I'd have to send someone to get you!!!!:)

RB

[Lewis' RT]

RB,

Before I left North Carolina I told you that our Sunday ride on my "10 scale" was a 50+

If your new ride route were to be "only half as good" as the Sunday ride, it will be another awesome ride !

A day doesn't go by that I don't think about our amazing rides in your mountains ;-)

Very much looking forward to seeing you again at Big Bend. You were missed by all of your friends last year.

Lewis

.

[Nail24]

Arby et al. It's time to post the '09 Arby Spring Tour. Where is it.

[Deans BMW]

Just posted this in the other Spring Tour thread,

Well Guys and Gals.........watch out, Bro Dave and Mz Pam convinced me that I must attend, so I'll be riding out with Dave and Moose, don't have a clue where I'll stay or whatever, don't know if I'll bring the R1200ST or the CLC, lets see.....go fast or go not quiet so fast and ride in luxurious comfort.......

Hope there is room somewhere.............

Arby, looking foward to seeing you all.

[Deans BMW]

I just looked on street and maps, 1750 miles the shortest route, prolly more like 2,000 miles each way following Moose and Dave.

Should be fun.

[Arby]

Dean, you'll have great ride.

It's 1600 miles one way for me to get to Alpine Texas for the Big Bend ride. I find that trip to be worth the effort and I'm certain that you'll find your visit to our mountains worth the ride as well.

Looking forward to your visit.

RB

[DarthRider]

Dang it, Arby...would you quit posting about your ride!?
You have me so fired up and antsy I spent all day of our blizzard in the shop sitting on the BMW going, "Vroom - Vroom!"
And if I tell Beezer about it one more time I think he'll bite me. Betty already did.
15 days to blast off & counting...:webers: