Fear Not The Dragon! (Long)

[Serendipity]

**OK....I typed this up to post on a couple of sites and to friends, so if some of the info is redundant, you know why.**

So we packed the War Mare, my ’82 Yamaha Vision, into the back our truck and hit the road after work on Friday July 21st. We didn’t take Dave’s Vision as it has some “issues” at the moment and he didn’t trust it. Plus, it gave him a good excuse to make reservations to rent a Street Glide at the HD dealer in Maryville, TN. We drove until around 9:30 and stopped in Savannah for the night. Had an awesome way-too-much-seafood-for-two platter at a cute little restaurant near our hotel. Got back on the road bright and early and made our way to Fontana Dam, NC. We originally planned on staying at the very family oriented Fontana Lodge till Tuesday morning, but we liked the resort and the area so much we didn’t leave until Friday. As I understand it, the resort had fallen into disrepair for quite awhile until about a year ago. The new owners have since redone most of the rooms and plan to finish them all. They redid the old gas station on 28, so that it now not only provides gas to passing bikers and cagers but also serves as a Biker-themed bar and gift shop. It seems as if the resort is really trying to promote itself to the Biker world (as well as to the Family Reunion crowd), even promoting the VERY curvy, VERY fun road they are on as the Hellbender 28. And according to some locals I chatted with, many find it more fun than the actual Dragon. The resort also has a couple of pools, a well stocked general store, a fancy and a casual restaurant and lots of other activities. It was a great place to stay if you want to be in the thick-of-things as far as great motorcycling roads, but also have beer and pizza at easy reach at the end of your day. FYI: this area is dry so most of the campgrounds/hotels can’t sell liquor, since Fontana is a “resort” they can.

So on to the riding…..let me preface my story by reminding my readers that I have been riding for only 4 months now…in Florida. Therefore, my experience with elevation changes of any degree and curves/twisties is a big fat zero. The ride through the ‘Hellbender’ to get to the lodge on Saturday afternoon about gave me heart failure! “There’s no way I can do this on my bike!” I thought. I had assumed (HA!) that before I tackled the Dragon or any of the other more challenging roads I could surely find some roads near the resort that would be relatively flat without any really tight curves. Ya know, get myself Florida-butt warmed up a little. If you have been to this area you are already laughing, as I can assure you there were no “easy” roads. Talk about trial by fire!!

But I’m getting ahead of myself. Sunday morning we headed out to go pick up Dave’s rental. Did I mention you have to go through the Dragon to get there? Dave offered to go two-up (with him driving of course) on my Vision to Maryville. I said, “I’ll be damned if I’m going to ride bitch on my own bike, my first time through the Dragon!” So off we went in the truck. My first time through as a passenger in the truck, I wasn’t too impressed, yeah it’s curvy, yeah there’s a lot of up and down, but it’s not that scary! Then I had to drive the truck back through after picking up Dave’s HD. Ugh! My sides hurt after going through all those curves! And I swear a couple of times I almost felt kinda sick. The sport bikes scared the poop out of me a couple of times when they passed, but I got used to them. Dave being the sane, calm rider that he is made it through with flying colors making it look easy. My thoughts at the time were that it was definitely going to be a challenge, but that I could do it.

That afternoon, considering all of the weekend traffic on the Dragon and my still total lack of experience in regards to all things twisty, we decided to wait until Monday morning to tame the Dragon. So we headed out and did about 50 miles, heading out to Deal’s Gap, but then heading South on 129 instead of into the Dragon then onto 143 (I think) and back to 28 (Hellbender) and on to the resort. Dave assured me that the torquey-ness of the Vision would be a great asset in controlling my speed up and down the mountain. And boy was he right!!! I kid you not when I tell you I barely ever touched my brakes. I started out real slow, needless to say, but by the end of our first ride the War Mare and I were dancing. Yes!!! Once I started getting the feel for her, there was no stopping us! Dragon here we come!

Then a little bit of drama: as Dave and I are pulling into the parking area near our room a teenager in a golf cart runs into another teenager on a scooter and then runs into the back of our little truck! Of course Dave and I hurriedly put our bikes up; he putting the War Mare on her center stand on what he thought was a solid piece of left-over cement. We deal with the poor kids and the authorities. Luckily no one was hurt. The scooter kid had a bit of road rash on his elbow but Thank the Lord he was wearing his helmet or it could have been very ugly. We decided to be like Earl and let karma take care of the golf-cart driver’s father. We met him and he seemed like a nice guy but we’ll let him decide how he’s going to “make it up to us”. Our thought is that we wouldn’t bother getting it fixed, but then again we didn’t come here with that dent either. I’ll update ya’ll on whether we ever hear from him again. So after much pleasant chatting with the staff, some beer and a pizza later, I walk out onto the balcony to take a peek at the bikes….and the War Mare is down!!!!!! I let out this wheezy-screechy-panic noise my mom makes that drives me crazy and go running outside. Evidently, the bit of old cement was not as stable as we thought and it gave way on one side under her weight. Thank the Lord once again though, as when Dave picked her up we realized nothing had been broken! Hurrah!!! She did take a little coaxing to wake up the next morning but no worse for wear. Phew!

So on Monday morning around 8:30 we headed down to Deal’s Gap. We stopped and fueled up at the Campground; I gave Dave a kiss and said, “See you on the other side!”
So now ladies and gentleman, I can say to you with impunity, “Fear not the Dragon!” Yes, it was challenging and yes, I would advise going during the slower periods to avoid the aggressive riders…..but honestly….it just wasn’t that big a deal. It was like being in an advanced MSF course. Believe me, if I, with absolutely zero twisty experience 24 hours beforehand, could do it, so can you!

Having survived the Dragon we took the Foothills Parkway, making a detour at a really awesome cavern. It is owned and operated by the family that discovered it and it is definitely worth a visit. I’ve actually been to quite a few caverns in Upstate NY, PA and even ones in France and Curacao and this was one of the most impressive I have ever seen. From there we rode through the Smokey Mountain National Forest. I will warn you this part of the road, some 30-40 something miles is very twisty, but very busy this time of year. To be honest, the first few miles of this road weirded me out more than the Dragon. The curves weren’t quite as tight as the D’s but close, and there was just car after car coming the other direction. But I got used to it and it was a nice ride. Except that my wrist/elbow and neck started killing me. But being an Endurance Horseback Riding participant, I’m used to working through the pain to enjoy the things I love. (Crazy, huh?) Anyways, we ended up in Cherokee at the Harrah’s Casino where Dave just had to play a little video poker. So he did while I enjoyed a cinnamon pretzel. Aaaaaah! Instant gratification!

After Cherokee we headed back towards home through Bryson City on 19, which is an open, relatively straight, four lane road. As much as I loved the twisties it was nice to open her up a little bit and not have to be quite so mentally “on”.

Tuesday afternoon we needed to be back in Maryville so Dave could trade rentals. He liked the Street Glide but also wanted to try an Ultra-Classic as we will be getting him something new within the next year, so what better time to try ‘em out? We decided to go the long way, via the Cherohala Skyway. From one motorcyclist to another, I will tell you not to be afraid of the Dragon. If you are at all inclined don’t let the fear of getting hurt stop you from going. However, I can also tell you, that you could still die happy without ever having done it. The Cherohala on the other hand, is a different matter. You MUST ride this road. Words can’t describe the scenery, the beauty and amazingly fun sweepers, that let you lean it on, but aren’t too technical. The Cherohala rocks, there’s no other way to say it.

After stopping at the HD dealer (very nice people there) we had lunch in Maryville and headed to Knoxville. Turns out that two of our cyber-friends from the Riders of Vision site live in the area. One of them, DaveTN, invited us and one of the others guys over for his wife’s famous burgers and boy were they good! The trip there required me to ride for a bit on the interstate, another first for me, but no problem. The interstate in TN is in soooo much better shape than ours in FL so it wasn’t scary at all.

We got to his neck of the woods a little earlier than planned so we stopped at a cool motorcycle gear shop called, “Biker Rags”. All kinds of neat stuff. I finally bought myself a “Cramp Buster.” What a world of difference this little piece of plastic has made in eliminating my wrist/elbow pain! And once I started paying more attention to my back posture my neck pains eased up considerably too.

So after a great dinner and much Vision talk with DaveTn and Lucky (The Vision Guru) we headed home. Did I mention we had to ride through the Dragon to get home? It was really starting to get dark as we came through, but the traffic was just about non-existent again so no biggee. As I’m rounding Curve #275 (just kidding) I see a man standing on the side of the road. “Hmmmm,” I thought, “Wouldn’t think Killboy would still be out here.” Then as I get closer I see the sport bike with its’ rear wheel hanging off the cliff. Turns out the guy was just fine but just as I am pulling up, and before he realizes I am a girl, he yells, “Dammit!” then makes eye contact with me and says “I’m sorry.” I said, “Guy, if anyone has a right to curse right now it’s you.” Dave, the guy’s friend and he pulled the bike off the cliff and it looked like it would be ok. I couldn’t help but think, “Man, your wife is going to kill you when you get home!” But I kept my thoughts to myself, didn’t think he had too great a sense of humor at the time. But he did thank us both profusely for stopping and away we went.

By the time we hit the Hellbender it was dark, my first ride in the dark ever. Though my headlight wasn’t adjusted correctly, I managed, thanks in part that I had gotten a little familiar with this part of 28. This part of the ride was breathtaking, there was some fog drifting across the road and the fireflies were everywhere. I felt like I was in a fairytale. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so at one with my bike, weaving in and out of the twisties through the light fog and sparkling lights.

On Wednesday we decided to head towards Robbinsville for breakfast and then do a big loop south on 129 through Murphy, onto 68 back up onto the Cherohala, doing it in the opposite direction from last time. We just had to stop by the little airport in Murphy for Dave, and in general just took our time traveling some of the most beautiful roads I have ever seen.

It was during the last 5 or so miles of this ride when I realized that it was probably for the best that we were leaving soon. I was starting to have waaaaay too much fun. For most of the trip I couldn’t keep right up with Dave. I would never get real far behind him (he wouldn’t let me, he’s awesome to ride with), but I could never quite match him turn for turn at the same speeds. It wasn’t my bike’s fault, mine is actually more agile than the HDs he rode, it was just about my comfort level, which I refused and he never asked I exceed. But, those last 5 miles, I was soooo ON him. All through a very twisty-turny-rollercoaster-like road. I actually thought to myself, “Dude! I got this now! Get out of my way!” But I behaved myself, nothing like cockiness to humble your-butt real quick. But I did happen to glance down at my leg once or twice (really, really briefly) and thought “Damn! That road is awfully close to my knees!” Woo-hoo!

And then a little more drama: I’ll preface this by saying two things. 1. I had never dropped my bike before, not in MSF class, not while first learning to ride the Vision, not getting it in and out of the hangar with the 3” drop off, not on my dirt road, etc. But I know “There are those who have and those who will” and the fact that I haven’t, but I will has been eating at me. 2. There are just about no flat places to park at Fontana Village. Especially if you the bikes parked up onto the sidewalk on the side of a steep hill so teenagers on scooters and golf-carts won’t hit them. You see where this is going? All week I had let Dave park my bike for the night because he is MUCH more experienced than I and the whole area there is very challenging to park in. Well, this evening I think I have it figured out and I’ll try to do it myself. Mistake. Hop the front wheel onto the sidewalk, no problem do it all of the time at home getting into the hangar…course I don’t have a huge drop-off on one side at home. So sure enough the bike starts to tip a bit, which for my size on a level surface would have been no biggee, but since we are trying to park on the side of a mountain over she goes. I clonk my head and land on my hip. Yes, my spaghetti-strap shirt, no helmet, shorts with flip-flops wearing FL sisters there is a reason why I wear all of this gear. It’s not just because I ride a “Vintage Sport bike” and I’m trying to look the part.  What could have been a good bruise or cut on my hip, thanks to my padded pants is nothing at all. The clonk on the side of my head that could have been who knows how bad (I really did bop it) is not even a light headache because of my full-face helmet.

And the War Mare? Ok, yes, I did crack the left directional lens, but that’s it. The old girl takes a licking and she keeps on ticking.

Oh, and have I mentioned the weather? Or lack there of? We got so very lucky. Never saw a drop of rain until Thursday morning just before Dave was getting ready to bring the HD back to Maryville. Thankfully, the rain stopped before he left, and though the road was still wet in most spots he had no problems. Temperature wise, the locals claimed to be hot, but the humidity was much less than in FL so I loved it!

After lunch in Maryville we caged it back towards Fontana and stopped for a hike at the Twenty Mile Ranger Station off 28, between Fontana and Deal’s Gap. Very nice hike even got to take off the shoes and wade through a stream where the bridge had gone out.

Afterwards I dropped Dave off at our room so he could take the War Mare out on the twisties for a bit, while I did some last minute souvenir shopping. When he came back he said that she felt like a dirt bike to him, since he had gotten so used to riding the HDs all week. Then I took her out to Deal’s Gap for one last run on the Hellbender. Stopped and had a soda and watched the show for a little bit. Do not underestimate the entertainment value of just hanging out at the Deal’s Gap Campground and watching all of the zillion types of bikes coming and going. Not to mention the people! HD “Biker” types, sport bike guys, every age, every color, and everyone got along. A lot of mutual respect. A I-may-not- want-to-ride-what-you-ride, but-because-you-are-on-two-wheels, you’re-ok-attitude. After hanging out a bit I begrudgingly headed back to Fontana. I tell you, it took all of my willpower to turn her back into the resort. I thought, “Well, maybe I’ll just run down to the Dam real quick” But I knew Dave was waiting on me and I didn’t want to worry him, so I came home.

We loaded up the War Mare that evening and had a lovely relaxing night in the room, including room service. Did I mention it was our 10th Anniversary? We headed out at about 7:30 am Friday, July 28th and got home at about 6:30 pm.

It was a truly awesome vacation. Both Dave and I were worried that I may “overdose” on the riding within a day or two, being so new to it and all. But honestly, the more I rode the more I wanted to ride. And to be honest the more the War Mare was run, the better she ran, if that makes any sense…even despite her unfortunate experiences with gravity in the parking lot. But then again that’s why I call her the War Mare!!!

After all of the riding I did I still have a healthy respect for all of the dangers that are involved, but my confidence has SOARED! There’s pretty much no (sane) motorcycling situation I’m afraid of at this point. Just like when Dave convinced me to take up scuba diving, he has created a monster. I love riding, especially the kind of riding to be found in that area of NC/TN, even more than I ever thought I would. And I am so proud of how well I rode on this trip, using my head, and riding my own ride.

Yes, in fact, I do rock.

Patti

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l188/RiderofVision/7-28-2006-17.jpg
Dave and I on the Cherohala Skyway

http://i96.photobucket.com/albums/l188/RiderofVision/7-28-2006-18_edited.jpg
Me on the Dragon Tuesday night. It wasn't really as dark out at the time, as it looks in the pic.

[YellowJacket!]

Great story Patti, you are a great writer.  Vicki and I are really glad that we got to meet you and Dave.

David

[h2olawyer]

Fine read!  Glad you had such a fun & safe trip.  I'll second your opinion - YOU ROCK!

H₂O

[MotorPlow]

Yee-Haw!! No longer a Dragon Virgin!

[Lucky]

Which is why i voted for you as ROVer of the year!

[don_vanecek]

Wow, what a trip! I also experienced on my trip to MN in July, just like you did, that it seems the more you run a Vision, the better they seem to run!

[Serendipity]

Why thanks guys!!  ;D

Yeah Don, not only does she run better, but now I am sooo inspired to get her cleaned up proper, and start doing a little customization. Dave and I were having a few drinks the other night and he said I could paint her pink (a very pale, pink, not fuchsia). I asked him the next day if he was serious or just tipsy and he tried to claim it was the beer talking. LOL

Lucky: Will you still vote for me if I paint her Pink?? ;)

[Lucky]

absolutly! (already did)

[Mutt]

Great trip recap! I was laughing hard on the "not riding bitch part"! You know pink is OK for the Vision. Maybe you should put some Mary Kay stickers on there too!  :D

Mutt

[Serendipity]

Thanks Mutt! LOL Glad to see I could inspire another avatar quote...that makes three now huh? I'm such a muse. ;)

[kiawrench]

 Ahhhhh, so grasshopper, you have faced our beloved dragon in the dark! you are truly ready to go forth and recruit other riders to our clan.

      The dragon is not a hard ride, at the well mannered speed limit, esp if ridden in a true msf style. the challenge is to develope the lean- that is where you will find the teeth of the dragon- late enters, ealy outs, and never ever using the brake, only rpm  to negotiate the run.  i could do it on the road star i had, but have worked way too hard restoring this vision to try it.
       i ride the big lizard when i can, mainly for the after dark runs- early fall, early spring, great for the wispy fog in turns, easy ride and limited traffic. sort of drives home the name Smoky Mountains. But the main draw of the run,to me , is the people, all sorts there for the same purpose- get to the end and back without a tow truck or a rope. We went there when i was a kid to watch guys ride it on bicycles, and over the years, it has gone from bikes, to cars to lowered trucks to miatas and motorcycles. not too bad of a history for an old moonshiners run,,,,, if you think it is fun on a vision,, ride her again soon, on a road glide or a gold wing with full tour kit,,,,, then the run will be so much different.

[Serendipity]

LOL Well, for the most part I did ride it MSF style, but I did start to develop some lean the second time  I did it, and a whole lot more on 28 and the Cherohala later in the week....to the point that I said to Dave that it was probably a good thing that we were leaving soon as I was starting to lose the fear and get too comfortable....a little fear is good I think.

Speaking of all that,  I almost forgot to tell you guys....I went out Saturday morning, first real ride since I got back. In my in-laws neighborhood, which technically has a 35 mph speed limit there are two "curves". Pre-Dragon trip I would always go well UNDER the speed limit, just 'cause I didn't know how NOT to....well the other day there is like NO traffic and I can see well, so I just roll it on and the during the second one especially I really had it leaned over....even for me. FUUUUUUN!!! I stop at a light and a van who was behind me catches up and I see a woman in the passenger seat grinning from ear to ear leaning out trying to get a better look at me. Made me laugh.

[kiawrench]

Serendipity,
   you managed to slay the dragon , and never even realised it!

   many think the dragon is the road, but really it is in our own heads( fear of the bike, fear of pushing our skills just to the edge, etc) you whacked the wyvren!
that set of rides through the gap has most likely added a great deal to your skills, and you just latched onto each and never saw it coming!  now you know,, the dragon keeps on giving, long after the actual ride .
   fear not the lean, as it is your friend.
and the tattoo is all drawn out,, just need to tweak it some,,,, may be time to post it , pass the slayer's badge around, lol

[Serendipity]

Thanks so much Kia! And you are sooo right, words can not describe how much my skills and confidence have improved due to that trip!

I feel like a "real" rider now, not just somebody who is managing to get from Point A to Point B without killing herself....if that makes any sense.

I would LOVE to see the tattoo! Post it!!

[MotorPlow]

Post the Tattoo... I may need to set the needle to my virgin skin....