2010 ST.N National Routes and Places to See Thread

[R Doug]

EDIT:  In summary, here are the various routes posted in this thread:

Luvtoride’s routes.

Her route file is right here:
http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/

Lewisburg Clover Leaf Routes

And here are Doug's route files, too.

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/STN_National_2010_Clover.gdb

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/STN_National_2010_Clover.gpx

WV/VA Ultimate Twisty Route

And as if on cue...

(right click, "save link as...")
http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/stn_2010_ultimate_wv_twisties.gdb

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/

[R Doug]

As follows are places of interest along the Clover Leaf Route above:

NE loop –

*  Skyline Drive

*  Blue Ridge Parkway

*  The Homestead Resort  http://www.thehomestead.com

*  Jefferson Hot Pools  http://www.virginiawind.com/virginia_travel/warm_springs.asp

*  Natural Chimneys and Grand Caverns   http://www.uvrpa.org/


SE loop –

*  Natural Bridge, Virginia  http://www.naturalbridgeva.com/

SW loop -

*  Indian Creek Covered Bridge  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Creek_Covered_Bridge

*  Hungry Mother State Park  http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/hun.shtml  

*  Virginia and WV Route 16 – the main reason to do this loop.  If you’ve never ridden this road, BE CAREFUL!  It’s tight and technical.  

NW loop –

*  Gauley Bridge, WV

*  New River Bridge   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_River_Gorge_Bridge

*  Hawk’s Nest State Park  http://www.hawksnestsp.com/


Around the Lewisburg area:

*  Lost World Caverns  http://www.lostworldcaverns.com/

*  Greenbrier Resort Congressional Bunker  http://www.greenbrier.com/site/bunker.aspx

[Scratch33]

Smoke Hole Road?

[R Doug]

Smoke Hole Road?

SHR is not included in the routes above, but one could certainly work SHR into a nice day ride.

Using a fairly direct route to and from, the shortest loop to include SHR would be ~260 miles.

FYI, Smoke Hole Road is between via points "B" and "C" in the interactive map below...


View Larger Map

[Oilhed]

Smoke Hole Road?

Dolly Sods?

[R Doug]

Dolly Sods?

Dolly Sods isn't included in the routes above either.  That area is slightly north east of Smoke Hole Road.  And, FWIW, a dual sport bike would be better for it's all gravel up there.  

Both Dolly Sods and Smoke Hole Road are wonderful places.  I'm didn't include them in my proposed routes mostly because these areas are usually more associated with rides from the Canaan Valley Resort area and since we picked Lewisburg over CVR, I left them out.  

But, that's not to say they are not worth including in a proposed day ride loop.  If there's enough interest, I would be happy to propose a ride covering those areas.  And, I'm sure you and a few other members here know the area very well too.  

[sprint_st]

Doug, ya know I may be a bit biased ---- well no, I AM biased , but maybe a list of bad roads in WV would be easier to deal with .  There are going to be so many old hand WV riders at this event, I'm sure no one is going to be lacking for tour guides.

[Oilhed]

That hot spring looks good!

[R Doug]

I hope others will post up routes with details.  Selfishly, these four routes are the ones I plan on taking and I posted them up as options.  

I plan on offering maps and GPS files that people can use if they want to use any of these suggested routes.  My only hope is if other suggested routes are posted, the author provides details sufficient that anyone can get the information and ride the route w/o problems.  I'm hoping SWRiverstone shares some of the hidden gems he's found in this area with us.

[Grove Rat]

Thanks for posting the routes.  

[hillbilly]

I am going to throw out a route that I know but don't have it mapped out yet. It's south out of the Brier to Ronceverte WV. Then west to Hinton WV. Route 3 is some really good riding as far west as you want to go. Check out the Bluestone Dam for one of the stops. Anyone wanting more info give me a shout.

[R Doug]

I am going to throw out a route that I know but don't have it mapped out yet. It's south out of the Brier to Ronceverte WV. Then west to Hinton WV. Route 3 is some really good riding as far west as you want to go. Check out the Bluestone Dam for one of the stops. Anyone wanting more info give me a shout.

A friend of mine who lived in Bluefield, WV just recommended this road too.  Thanks  

I'm going to modify my NE loop to this which includes Rt. 3 and the ever-so-popular New River Bridge.

[chornbe]

I hope others will post up routes with details.  Selfishly, these four routes are the ones I plan on taking and I posted them up as options.  

I plan on offering maps and GPS files that people can use if they want to use any of these suggested routes.  My only hope is if other suggested routes are posted, the author provides details sufficient that anyone can get the information and ride the route w/o problems.  I'm hoping SWRiverstone shares some of the hidden gems he's found in this area with us.

Doug, I'd love to steal your route files. I've been on all those roads but never as a ride leader, so I'd rather follow someone else's established route than to try to blunder my way through making some routes and end up missing a class-a gem.  


I'm taking a slightly different approach to riding this year... I'm going. If people wanna come along, that's fine. I'm not officially leading any rides and I'm not following in any groups. If we see folks on the road, great. If not, that's fine too. I had a lot of fun leading the ride in Lake Placid, but I felt like I had to always check my six to make sure I had the whole group together and there were no issues. I'm happy to do that locally, but in an area I don't know that well, I found it very stressful.

[bungie4]

A friend of mine who used to live in Bluefield, WV just recommended this road too.  Thanks  

I rolled video on Route 3 (Creamery Road) during the FJR Forums EOM08. Great road and at the time, it had just been repaved.

Enjoy!  http://bungie4.blip.tv/file/1310652/

[falconati]

Those look awesome.  Here's a dumb question: will any GPS understand the same file formats, or are they brand specific (e.g. TomTom files cannot be read with a Garmin device, vice versa)?

I plan on putting Garmin GPS' on both my bikes this Spring, but am just trying to learn more about them before I actually go out and make a purchase.

PS - DonkeyBallz (maybe I'll call you DBz...) - are you planning on bringing the Uly, or still up in the air?

[chornbe]

Those look awesome.  Here's a dumb question: will any GPS understand the same file formats, or are they brand specific (e.g. TomTom files cannot be read with a Garmin device, vice versa)?

I plan on putting Garmin GPS' on both my bikes this Spring, but am just trying to learn more about them before I actually go out and make a purchase.

PS - DonkeyBallz (maybe I'll call you DBz...) - are you planning on bringing the Uly, or still up in the air?

I'm definitely bringing the Ulie, and you're certainly welcome to take it for a ride. My bikes are always available for test rides if someone doesn't prove themselves a complete tool. I *might* bring both. That's the only point I'm up in the air about.

As for the GPS, the GPX file format is considered the universal interchange format. Most GPSes, or at least their PC-side software and import and export GPX format.  

[falconati]

Awesome - thank you!  I think I'm going to make a GPS thread now..

[R Doug]

I am going to throw out a route that I know but don't have it mapped out yet. It's south out of the Brier to Ronceverte WV. Then west to Hinton WV. Route 3 is some really good riding as far west as you want to go. Check out the Bluestone Dam for one of the stops. Anyone wanting more info give me a shout.

I rolled video on Route 3 (Creamery Road) during the FJR Forums EOM08. Great road and at the time, it had just been repaved.

Enjoy!  http://bungie4.blip.tv/file/1310652/

I revised my NW loop to include Rt. 3 now.  Thanks!

[R Doug]

For those of you traveling to the National in from the west (especially through the eastern parts of Kentucky and Tennessee), I have worked out some roads for my return trip home from Lewisburg which includes some insane twisties!

(of course, I plan on taking several days to get home to Morgantown, WV from Lewisburg, WV   )

Here are some Google Earth shots of some excellent sections of road I plan to travel on Day 6 of my return trip home.  The thumbnails are clickable for the larger image.



Various shots of Rt. 160 (yes, it's two lane double yellow road).  





Various Roads in eastern KY



KY 1679 - reportedly a lane to lane and 1/2 of twisty goodness (10 mile section below)

[Dark Knight]

Hey guys...I'm new to this forum so i'll apologize for any mishaps or misques up front.  I own an '09 FJR and I just found your site and registered. Is this a rally for anyone on this forum and is Lewis... VA the site for this year? I like to join ya'll.

[R Doug]

Hey guys...I'm new to this forum so i'll apologize for any mishaps or misques up front.  I own an '09 FJR and I just found your site and registered. Is this a rally for anyone on this forum and is Lewis... VA the site for this year? I like to join ya'll.

Welcome to STN.  

The meet is for everyone  but don't looking for Lewis, VA on the map.  You may miss the event.  


Here's where you can find all of the details.

http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/index.php/topic,49627.0.html

[Huron52]

But if you do come to this event you will have to park beside all the other FJR's.... It's a rule......
somewhere

[sprint_st]

But if you do come to this event you will have to park beside all the other FJR's.... It's a rule......
somewhere

Triumph will lead the way  First out, last back, another rule???      No bias here, don't care what we park next to because we don't stay parked long  

[maddjack]

Triumph will lead the way  First out, last back, another rule???      No bias here, don't care what we park next to because we don't stay parked long  

Hey Rod , I think that the FJR guys get a late start because they are arguing with the Connie guys over whose farkels are better. Then half the day is gone and the Triumph guys still just riding.  

[SWriverstone]

 I'm hoping SWRiverstone shares some of the hidden gems he's found in this area with us.

Hi Doug---yes! I'm stoked to put together a good route or two. As usual you've hit a lot of the best roads in your routes.   What I might do is put together a route covering some excellent alternate roads in VA (sort of in your SE route area) I've discovered. I'm pretty sure there are some (like VA Rt.40 through Woolwine) that are awesome and few (if any) riders know about.

Stay tuned, and I'll post some maps soon.

Scott

[sprint_st]

 I'm pretty sure there are some (like VA Rt.40 through Woolwine) that are awesome and few (if any) riders know about.

Do Squirrel Spur, Tuggle Gap, Pipers Gap, and US58 all sound familiar?  The guys out Winston-Salem and down into SC are very familiar with them. Excellent roads.  

[st2sam]

Hi Doug---yes!  As usual you've hit a lot of the best roads in your routes.    I'm pretty sure there are some (like VA Rt.40 through Woolwine) that are awesome and few (if any) riders know about.

Stay tuned, and I'll post some maps soon.

Scott

  Can't wait Scott! I'll bet there are quite a few awesome twisties that I've yet to ride. The more routes the better.

(and Doug, great job on your routes, thanks.)

[luvtoride]

I hope others will post up routes with details.  Selfishly, these four routes are the ones I plan on taking and I posted them up as options.  

I plan on offering maps and GPS files that people can use if they want to use any of these suggested routes.  My only hope is if other suggested routes are posted, the author provides details sufficient that anyone can get the information and ride the route w/o problems.  I'm hoping SWRiverstone shares some of the hidden gems he's found in this area with us.

R Doug, I have all of the routes ridden by the FJR folk that had a meet in this neighborhood in Garmin format. I even have one route which is fairly similar to your ride that goes out Rte 250 & takes some 600 roads, Goshen Pass, etc. It also includes Rte 56 in VA which is highly recommended & shouldn't be missed.


It has been awhile since I've had my hands on those routes but sure that I can get a hold of them if you are interested. PM me if you want them.

[chornbe]

R Doug, I have all of the routes ridden by the FJR folk that had a meet in this neighborhood in Garmin format. I even have one route which is fairly similar to your ride that goes out Rte 250 & takes some 600 roads, Goshen Pass, etc. It also includes Rte 56 in VA which is highly recommended & shouldn't be missed.


It has been awhile since I've had my hands on those routes but sure that I can get a hold of them if you are interested. PM me if you want them.

I would love some of them, too.

I'm happy to host them if you want to make them generally available for download.

[luvtoride]

Will take a look for routing when I have time, Chris. Will PM you when I get my hands on them, Heidi

[luvtoride]

Chris, you've got mail.

[R Doug]

luvtoride, it would be great if we could see your routes.  Thanks!

Is there anyone out there who is willing to host your server for us to upload GPS files of routes?

[chornbe]

luvtoride, it would be great if we could see your routes.  Thanks!

Is there anyone out there who is willing to host your server for us to upload GPS files of routes?

I would love some of them, too.

I'm happy to host them if you want to make them generally available for download.

Her route file is right here:
http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/

[luvtoride]

Chris, take a look @ your Lewisburg route file link. Don't know if it's just me, but all I see is text garble. No downloadable files.

[chornbe]

Chris, take a look @ your Lewisburg route file link. Don't know if it's just me, but all I see is text garble. No downloadable files.

When you click it it should offer to download the file.

Hmm... right click, select "save as..." or "download as..."

I guess the browser is offering to "help" you since GPX files are XML it's probably doing a mime type conversion and helpfully displaying it rather than downloading it.

Stupid browsers!  

[luvtoride]

When you click it it should offer to download the file.

It doesn't... but that's me. I'm not worried about it. & I forgot to mention, those route files MAY have points of interest within the file.

[luvtoride]

Another place of interest may be Beartown State Park... located right off of 219 near Droop Mountain, Beartown offers a look at the natural environment... including very cool rock formations. Development is limited in this park just so that the natural flavor of the area is preserved. It's a very cool place.

& for anyone that has never ridden Rte 219 over Droop Mountain, along with other pieces of 219, is in for a huge friggin treat!

[chornbe]

It doesn't... but that's me. I'm not worried about it. & I forgot to mention, those route files MAY have points of interest within the file.

They do, indeed. All sorts of goodies. I have them imported, renamed and ready to push to my GPS next time I connect it. Thanks again!  

[SWriverstone]

Hi All...

Since we're almost close enough for Nationals to begin flickering on my "mental radar,"   I'm starting to think about routes. I'll pull a couple together of my own, but they'll almost be overkill since Doug, you've put some serious winners together!  

One thing I'm planning to do—I think for the first time ever at an STN Nationals—is print out and assemble a GINORMOUS, detailed wall map of the entire region (at least a 100-mile radius from Lewisburg) to post somewhere in the hotel (hopefully they'll be cool with that—I can call and ask). I'm talking BIG...like a 4-foot high x 8-foot wide map!  

We all love to geek out over maps, and it would be cool if we had one big reference map people could gather around, point at, swig their beers, and say "Yeah, let's ride THAT road!"   (It's also great fun AFTER the big ride for everyone to stand around, swigging beers, and say "We rode THIS road and it was friggin' AWESOME!")

I have access to high-quality color laser printers at work...so I could easily print and tile maps...or I might also look into having some huge maps printed on large-carriage inkjet printers (36"-48" wide paper).

Scott

[maddjack]

Some of the  Places I am gong to see, the Swinging bridge rest. on Rt311 ( good food), The Tazewell gap on Rt16 (again) the views from Rt501 up through Big Island Va. The transportation Museum of Va in Roanoak Va. Va/ WVa Sr 61 through rocky gap SP

[chornbe]

I'm just going to follow the squiggliest route or the follow whomever sounds like they're making the coolest runs on each given day. I might strike out on my own one of the days.

[luvtoride]

Some of the  Places I am gong to see, the Swinging bridge rest. on Rt311 ( good food

I'm assuming you've been there before? If not, it's a must. The ride over Potts Mountain (between Paint Bank & New Castle) on 311 is one of my favorites.

The routes that I sent Chris contain roads that were planned by a local. I highly suggest that everyone take a look at them if you haven't already.

[chornbe]

And here are Doug's route files, too.

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/STN_National_2010_Clover.gdb

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/STN_National_2010_Clover.gpx

[R Doug]

Thanks for hosting the files JustCallMe....  

[SWriverstone]

In addition to Doug's routes...luvtoride's routes (that Chris posted) are pretty excellent too.

BTW, if anyone needs a quick/easy way to view a GPX file with routes, do this:

• Download the GPX route file Chris posted.
• Go to GPS Visualizer online:
http://www.gpsvisualizer.com/map_input?form=google
• Under "General map parameters" set the size to 1024x768 pixels (or larger—so you have a nice big map to view)
• Under "Waypoint Options" choose "None" from the dropdown (you don't need these to see the routes)
• Upload your GPX file
• Click "Draw the Map"

This results in a nice interactive Google Map with each route color-coded. A the top-right corner of the map is a legend wth all the route names. Clicking each route name hides/unhides that route on the map...so it's best to click each one (to hide them all)...then selectively click to see each one.

Might seem complicated...but once you've done it, it's easy—and I actually prefer this to viewing the routes in Garmin MapSource.  

GPS Visualizer is an AWESOME tool—it's worth exploring some of the site's other functionality. (Like there's one option where you can upload a GPS track, and it will print a 3D visualization showing elevation along the route—very cool.)

Scott

[jimmy]

Thanks for that, guys.  I just tried it!!

[Fudge]

Thanks for the GPS routes.  Question for the locals, how does WV compare to VA in terms of law enforcement?  

I usually run radar on the bike and I know in VA I can't which makes me a little paranoid.  I was planning on primarily riding in WV to improve my odds of minimizing performance awards.  

No I don't ride like a wild man, but I do enjoy a spirited pace.

[SWriverstone]

In short, there's no comparison—VA is the Gestapo, WV is "Whatever."   (And detectors are illegal in VA, of course.)

But in my experience, your risk of encountering LE on small twisty backroads in ether state is extremely low. I've almost never seen police on any small back road in thousands of miles of riding. They just don't have the time to be patrolling back there.

If you stick to all the main US highways, the likelihood of LE goes up a lot. So stick to back roads!  

Scott

[zer0netgain]

Thanks for the GPS files.  

[chornbe]

In short, there's no comparison—VA is the Gestapo, WV is "Whatever."   (And detectors are illegal in VA, of course.)

But in my experience, your risk of encountering LE on small twisty backroads in ether state is extremely low. I've almost never seen police on any small back road in thousands of miles of riding. They just don't have the time to be patrolling back there.

If you stick to all the main US highways, the likelihood of LE goes up a lot. So stick to back roads!  

Scott

I was on a ride with a few friends in WV one time and we were doing a group-pass over the DY and a few of the guys were lollygagging it at the back, but still made the pass. The road was straight (how often can you say that in WV?   ) and a cop crested a hill about a 1/2 mile out and watched the last three guys finish the pass. Never bothered coming after us. I guess he had better things to worry himself over. We thought for sure the group was getting a roadside lecture if not actual citations.

[Fudge]

Thanks for the replies.  I've heard about the 'Gestapo' VW reputation that's why I asked.  I'll probably stay in WV most of the time.

[ScooterPie]

I've loaded up the "Clover Leaf" routes in the computer and previewed in Google Earth.  Admittedly, I'm not adventurous enough to make my own routes.  It appears that most of the map-dot towns are population less then 500

Since I've never been to WV (where is WV anyway? ), does anyone know if the map-dot towns offer gas stations?  Lunch options?  Cell phone service (for coordinating with other riders, emergency calls for help)?

I'm mostly worried about gas stops.  The Burgman can go about 180 miles on a tank, but if I'm preoccupied with the scenery (that's why we are going to WV, correct?) I'm afraid the odometer will be ignored.

If lunch options are limited, that would be nice to know too.  I have plenty of trunk space with the Burgman to pack provisions... cup cakes, Twinkies, cold sodas...

[garry]

I manage to ride all over WV with only 140 mile range (to dry) on my KTM SMR. You just need to plan your gas stops. Lots of these little towns have a gas station, a Subway and a family restaurant/bar, but certainly not all of them. Bring some cash (some places don't do credit cards). I haven't looked at the routes,  but I'm sure someone can chime in where the well-known gas stops are.

Bottom Line: be opportunistic if you're not sure.

Cell coverage can be limited, especially north of Lewisburg due to the Greenbank Observatory (jct 28 and 250).

My experience with LEOs in WV is that there are very few of them out there. Behave yourself in towns and on major highways (the fun is on the twistier state highways and back roads anyway). You might pass one driving along, but hiding on the side of the highway type speed traps are rare on the twisty roads. Route 19 near Summerville Lake is a nationally known speed trap, but in general, you just don't see police out there all that much. Many of the roads that have miles of 25 MPH marked corners actually have a 55 MPH speed limit. 60-65 MPH on those mountain passes is a pretty spirited pace, so you can stay in the 0-10 over range and be having a ball.

[zer0netgain]

Since I've never been to WV (where is WV anyway? ), does anyone know if the map-dot towns offer gas stations?  Lunch options?  Cell phone service (for coordinating with other riders, emergency calls for help)?

I'm mostly worried about gas stops.  The Burgman can go about 180 miles on a tank, but if I'm preoccupied with the scenery (that's why we are going to WV, correct?) I'm afraid the odometer will be ignored.

If lunch options are limited, that would be nice to know too.  I have plenty of trunk space with the Burgman to pack provisions... cup cakes, Twinkies, cold sodas...

GAS

Every planned route is over 300 miles.  I presume everyone has at least a 150 mile capacity for fuel before needing to stop.  I've done a few rallies in WV, and I can say that in any larger town there will be at least one place for gas.  Each group needs to be fueled up before departure and decide when is a good common place (mile-wise) to stop and refuel based on what the group can handle.

Be forewarned....you can't be a gas snob.  Did a rally at Canaan Valley two weeks back and the closest gas station was out of everything but regular and would not get more in until pretty much the last day of our rally.

However, my glance of the routes indicate plenty of gas stops along the routes.  If you have your laptop/netbook, be sure you know at what range people need gas and decide where to stop before you leave.

FOOD

Many places have food stores (Subway, BK, etc.).  The bigger problem is how many are in your group and if you plan to stop for a group lunch.  Some places just can't handle a big crowd.  Personally, I prefer to just pack snacks and eat a good meal in the evening when we get back.

PHONES

WV has fairly poor cell coverage.  In a "major" town, you MIGHT get service.  The more generic your carrier (e.g., Tracfone), the more likely you'll get a serviceable signal.  However, once you are out of those towns, you get nothing.

Marlinton (an example) has good cell coverage, but get about a mile out of town and it's gone.  VA might be a bit better, but cell coverage has more to do with mountains and population.  You can be near Roanoke but get no signal because you're on the wrong side of the mountain or in low population area that's flat with no signal.

There is a radio telescope in Green Bank, WV and there is a cell signal blackout in that region so it won't interfere with the telescope.  This will most prominently affect the NE loop and maybe some of the NW loop.

Needless to say, this is why your pre-ride meeting should cover what to do if someone is pulled over, has a breakdown, get off, etc.  You likely will not be able to call someone else in the group and let them know what happened to you or someone else.  Other groups I ride in will slow down or even pull over to account for everyone when they realize some have fallen behind.  If someone is pulled over, breaks down or goes down, at least one from that part of the group keeps on going to notify the others waiting up ahead.  If someone goes back to check for stragglers, it's only two riders at most (one who will stop and render aid while the other goes back and lets everyone else know what's happened).

COPS

WV is pretty cool.  VA are generally male sex organs.  VA state police have little better to do but go to court anyhow, so if they pull you over, expect a ticket.  They won't pull you over for a little over (generally needs to be more than 10 mph over), but don't chance it if you think one is nearby.  Radar detectors are illegal in VA, so although it's not illegal to have one (if you are from out of state), if it's permanently mounted to your bike, expect a hassle even if you can prove it's not plugged in and isn't turned on.

That's not to say WV won't pull you over.  We had that happen a couple weeks back.  Pushing more than 20 over the limit WILL get their attention.  Passing on double yellow WILL get their attention.  So, if you want to pass a jerk poking along and you know you have enough space to do it safely on a double yellow, be sure there's no cops nearby.  The general rule for WV is that if you're outside the towns, they aren't too itchy, but some of these roads might be the "major" roads between towns and have a higher rate of patrol than others.

VA patrols are harder to gauge.  In my neck of the woods, all the county cops are working the interstate.  The state police are the only ones you might see on the back roads...usually only if they were responding to a call.  I can't vouch for any of the roads on the routes because the guy I know who last got pulled over by a VA state trooper was on a back road I would not have expected him to be on.

The SE route that goes by Roanoke looks like it hits the Blue Ridge Parkway.  You gotta do the speed limit there.  They do enforce strictly there.

NOTE

The section of VA-16 coming up from Marion is one of the BEST roads in VA, but I'd advise hitting it northbound.  Gravel is not uncommon in some curves, but a lot depends on what has been up that road lately.  Large trucks are prohibited from going on that road.    You'll likely never leave first gear until you get closer to Thompson Valley.  There's a nice sweeper curve to set up and take photos if you like.  Marion has some good eats.  The Tuscan Italian Grill (www.thetuscanitaliangrill.com , 784 North Main Street, (276) 782-1707) has some of the best Italian food in Southwest Virginia.  I'd call ahead to be sure they'll be open when you are to come by and ensure they are ready for the number in your group, I'd expect an hour or so for meals due to prep time.  Their prices are reasonable for the quality of what you get, but it might be more than you want on a group ride.

[sprint_st]

Hey Zer0, do you mind if a draft in the wake of that Blackbird?  I figured I'll chit can my GPS and let you be my tour guide, just pulling your leg, good info    On the gas thing, I've sweated running out of gas many times only to find a station pop up out in the middle of nowhere, BUT, and that is a real big BUT, I always start looking for a fill when I hit half my range.  WV ain't NV, CA, or UT, I don't know of anyplace in the state where you are more than 25-30 miles from gas.  At least we'll be riding mid-week.  You can be SOL on Sundays and in these days, don't count on a gas station "being there" when you are on fumes unless you confirm its existence.

[R Doug]

If I have more than 100 miles on the clock since the last fill up and I run across a gas station in rural Appalachia, I'm filling up.  Like Garry said, it's all about the opportunistic fillups.

[zer0netgain]

Hey Zer0, do you mind if a draft in the wake of that Blackbird?  

Sure.  I'll be on a low-lactose diet so I don't choke you out.

[SWriverstone]

Life has been incredibly busy lately—I usually show up with an epic ride route planned...but that might not happen this year. (Sorry!  ) But...Doug's routes (and luvtoride's routes) are excellent, so nobody can go wrong with any of those.

Having said that, Doug and Garry both have far more endurance than I have!   300 miles on twisties is just too much for me to have fun and stay relaxed (especially this year, when I'll have a passenger aboard).

So I plan to work up a route that's more in the 200 miles (max) range...mostly on unlined backroads...some of which I haven't ridden yet—so there's always the possibility of the pavement ending and a forced turnaround (but exploration is part of what makes it fun for me!). A 200-mile route allows for plenty of stops at interesting sights and for photo opps, gas, snacks, whatever.  

So if anyone else is up for a "smell the roses" ride we welcome the company! (Pace will be sporting, but I'd call it a "relaxed sporting."  )

I'll definitely post a planned route this week!

Scott

[chornbe]

So if anyone else is up for a "smell the roses" ride we welcome the company! (Pace will be sporting, but I'd call it a "relaxed sporting."  )

I'll definitely post a planned route this week!

Scott

Scott, the wife is coming with me.

One day I'll be strafing, leaning and going nuts and she'll be off in the car doing touristy stuff, or enjoying the pool without the kids or whatever. The other day she'll be riding with me for the day, so maybe I'll join you for that day if that's cool.

[SWriverstone]

Scott, the wife is coming with me.

One day I'll be strafing, leaning and going nuts and she'll be off in the car doing touristy stuff, or enjoying the pool without the kids or whatever. The other day she'll be riding with me for the day, so maybe I'll join you for that day if that's cool.

Sure Chris, that would be fun. We won't arrive in Lewisburg til Monday afternoon/evening (taking the long way down, of course!). So we'll do the ride I mentioned on Tuesday (then take the long way home Wednesday).

Scott

EDIT: Maybe ours can be the official "2-Up Couples' Ride."  

[Mrs. DantesDame]

Random question for those who know the area: do the roads generally go through? Meaning, if I'm rolling around on the pavement, which then turns to gravel/dirt, are the odds in my favor that the road will continue along and meet up with another road further on? Or do most/some of the roads dead-end at some shack in the woods?  

I'm interested in a "smell the roses" ride, but I don't want to turn back at dirt or gravel (that's why I have a GS, after all). But I also don't like backtracking if I can help it. Your knowledge is appreciated!  

[SWriverstone]

Hi Colleen...in my experience exploring...most roads go through/up/over (though many are gravel, as you pointed out). The most typical exception I can think of is when you're following a road that runs along a valley parallel to a ridge...and you see lots of little roads running off the road you're on (heading toward the ridge). Most roads like this will dead-end at (or just before) the ridge.

But in general, if the road has a state route designation (6xx in VA, or one number over another number in WV), it usually goes somewhere. (But don't hold me to that if you hit a dead-end!)  

I've found knowing where the paved vs. unpaved roads are to be a MUCH harder thing. I can't say how many times I've headed down what looks like a nicely-paved road (one you'd think surely must stay paved) and a few miles later the pavement ends. There's NO pattern to this...it's really random, and I've found no reliable source of info on what's paved and what isn't. (Even county-level road maps—which *do* show paved vs. unpaved—are typically very out-of-date.)

Scott

[Mrs. DantesDame]

Thanks Scott  

I like to "get lost" by just making random turns onto likely-looking roads (an advantage to being an adventure-tourer rather than a sport-tourer   )  Sounds like WV is a good place to do so!

[SWriverstone]

Thanks Scott  

I like to "get lost" by just making random turns onto likely-looking roads (an advantage to being an adventure-tourer rather than a sport-tourer   )  Sounds like WV is a good place to do so!

I hear you. I hate riding along some backroad and passing some other enticing-looking road without turning to explore it.   We might do a little of that Tuesday (in case you want to tag along).

Scott

[Mrs. DantesDame]

I'm making a short week of it, heading there Tuesday morning, enjoying the area on Wednesday and coming home on Thursday. But thanks for the offer  

[R Doug]

UPDATE!

On my South East loop, please note Cedar Creek Road going north of the Natural Bridge State Park may not actually exist.  If it does, it appears you will want a dual sport bike to go across it.  If it's not passable, simply stay 1 mile on US 11 heading west before you reconnect with the GPS route.

Also, the following crossing is just off of Craig Creek Road on this loop:



This is NOT PART of the road, it's a turn off which You'll ride by.  Craig Creek Road is paved.  I only bring this up for a potential photo opportunity.  I know I plan to cross this on my ride and if someone is riding with me, I'll request a picture of it.  

[R Doug]

Also (DD, you may like this...), here's a detour for folks on dual sport bikes from the SE loop.

Just past Barbours Creek, VA, it appears you can turn right on Hwy 685 and climb the following fire road to the top of the ridge traveling NW.



At the summit, you can take this fire road to travel back down to 611 (just before the 611 / 617 intersection)



I'm going to hit this road for sure!

[R Doug]

FYI... anyone on a dual sport bike that would like to explore some fire roads, I'm considering modifying my SE loop to cut out a portion of the BRP in order to spend more time on fire roads.

I plan on doing this either Monday or Tuesday if anyone would like to join me.  I always prefer to travel in small groups when exploring dirt roads.

[Mrs. DantesDame]

I won't be there on Tuesday, but I'll pick your brain that night to get me to some good stuff on Wednesday  

[R Doug]

Another comment...

If the 360+ miles on the NE loop is too long for you, keep in mind there are two sections on an interstate which make up 70 of the 360 miles.  In order to get in the twisty goodness I wanted to on that loop, I had to utilize a bit of slab.  My apologies to those of you who may be offended by that.  

[R Doug]

I sent another GPS file to Chris to post up for everyone to download before you depart.  It's an alternate to the NE loop I had originally posted.  This new one is more focused on THE best twisties in the area.  I ride most of these roads from time to time and don't plan on hitting them (i.e. US 33 from Harrisonburg to Judy Gap and US 250 back the other way).  

So, for those of you who don't ride the area much, this would be my most recommended route for you to take if you like the twisties and some of the best scenery there is to see.


Also, I found a website which contains photos and Google Earth links from a local moto club called Twin Valley Riders for who's curious about the area:

http://www.panoramio.com/user/2760170?comment_page=1&photo_page=1

[chornbe]

I sent another GPS file to Chris to post up for everyone to download before you depart.  It's an alternate to the NE loop I had originally posted.  This new one is more focused on THE best twisties in the area.  I ride most of these roads from time to time and don't plan on hitting them (i.e. US 33 from Harrisonburg to Judy Gap and US 250 back the other way).  

So, for those of you who don't ride the area much, this would be my most recommended route for you to take if you like the twisties and some of the best scenery there is to see.


Also, I found a website which contains photos and Google Earth links from a local moto club called Twin Valley Riders for who's curious about the area:

http://www.panoramio.com/user/2760170?comment_page=1&photo_page=1

And as if on cue...

(right click, "save link as...")
http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/stn_2010_ultimate_wv_twisties.gdb

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/

[R Doug]

Thanks Chris.  I have updated the initial post to include all of your route links.

Thanks again for hosting the files!  I have not internet skills to so such a thing.

[chornbe]

Always happy to help out.

[Mrs. DantesDame]

So my plan is to show up Tuesday night for dinner, pull out a map and a highlighter and have someone draw out the ideal "adventure touring" ride for Wednesday    Am I asking too much? I'll buy the highlight-wielder a beer!

[Corbeau]

Remind me to stay away from you as you do that highlighting exercise, for I am not in a position to make a downpayment on an ADV bike and the internal conflict between what I have and what I want would kill me.

In a related note, I'll hang around anyone highlighting the ideal "twisties till you barf" ride...

[R Doug]

So my plan is to show up Tuesday night for dinner, pull out a map and a highlighter and have someone draw out the ideal "adventure touring" ride for Wednesday    Am I asking too much? I'll buy the highlight-wielder a beer!

If the meet were held at Canaan Valley, I would have had one hell of an EPIC dual sport ride for you.  

I don't know the "adventure" roads near Lewisburg at all.  I'll be experimenting during my days there before Tuesday's dinner.  I'll share with you what little I may have found.  

[R Doug]

Remind me to stay away from you as you do that highlighting exercise, for I am not in a position to make a downpayment on an ADV bike and the internal conflict between what I have and what I want would kill me.

In a related note, I'll hang around anyone highlighting the ideal "twisties till you barf" ride...

You would like the Southwest (SW) part of my clover route because it covers all of the good bits of Rt. 16.  Or, you would like to Ultimate Twisty route which covers the good parts of 250 and 33 with  a mix of other twisty goodness.  

[chornbe]

Remind me to stay away from you as you do that highlighting exercise, for I am not in a position to make a downpayment on an ADV bike and the internal conflict between what I have and what I want would kill me.

In a related note, I'll hang around anyone highlighting the ideal "twisties till you barf" ride...

+1

I still want an XT225  

[chornbe]

Added Rod's route file too.

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/MySTN10.gdb

http://chornbe.com/motorcycles/rides/