AMA Superbike, Birmingham, AL June 22-24

[Dave.TX]

At Barber Motorsports Park on June 22-24. Anyone going? I'm trying to make the trip on the motorcycle. Already have the time off, hoping I can afford it. Riding out from Austin, TX, area. Won't be camping, will stay at an area hotel.

[mesmotized]

I am planning on going.  I went to the Big Kahuna at Road Atlanta and had a blast.  Barber is a little less than 3 hours from Atlanta, so I'll probably just ride out for either Saturday or Sunday, depending on my schedule.  I'll know more as the day approaches.

[Tyrroneous]

I'll be there!  Made hotel reservations last week.  I'll be bringing the family, so not riding for me.

[motodog650]

Planning on being there Fri - Sun. Looking forward !!  

[mesmotized]

Planning on being there Fri - Sun. Looking forward !!  

Are you guys setting up a tent again?  I forgot to come looking for you guys at Road Atlanta.

[Dave.TX]

Cool! I've never been to any motorcycle races. Been to NASCAR at Sears Point (that's what it was called back then) and Outlaw races in Petaluma, CA. That's about it. Looking forward to this, looks like I'll have the dinero to go so just have to make reservations and buy the tickets. I should get out there on Thursday the 21st. Don't have to be back to work until July 2nd so have time to cruise around.

[Ga-Bandit]

Don't have to be back to work until July 2nd so have time to cruise around.

or ride with Pete the next weekend at BARBER (X-ACT Motorsports)

[motodog650]

Are you guys setting up a tent again?  I forgot to come looking for you guys at Road Atlanta.

Not sure yet but we'll be watching the races from the back-straight. We'll have to hook up !!

Cool! I've never been to any motorcycle races. Been to NASCAR at Sears Point (that's what it was called back then) and Outlaw races in Petaluma, CA. That's about it.

Different crowd than the four wheel races. You'll enjoy !!

[Dave.TX]

After the races I'll be moving on, leaving town Monday morning. I may have a week until I go back to work but can't afford to stay all that long.

May try to do the Tour Of Honor sites in Tennessee in a day. Was thinking of riding the Natchez Trace Pkwy but then found out it's 50mph speed limit the whole way. Ugh. 400+ miles would take  f o r e v e r .

Looks like I'll be staying somewhere on the SE side of Bham, around Hwy's 459 & 280 (Cahaba Mall area). Haven't made reservations yet but will soon. Any suggestions on which places to stay and/or avoid would be helpful. Being just me I'm leaning towards the La Quinta (they give an LEO discount). I can get a few places with an AMA discount but LQ would be cheaper.

[motodog650]

Looks like I'll be staying somewhere on the SE side of Bham, around Hwy's 459 & 280 (Cahaba Mall area). Haven't made reservations yet but will soon. Any suggestions on which places to stay and/or avoid would be helpful. Being just me I'm leaning towards the La Quinta (they give an LEO discount). I can get a few places with an AMA discount but LQ would be cheaper.

I always stay in that area (Homewood) when I go to Barber. Lots of dining, lodging and shopping options and only about twenty minutes from the track. Last year I stayed there at the Courtyard by Marriott for $50 a night thru Priceline...

[R Doug]

Due to a recent change of events, I may be attending this as well.  I'll know more this weekend.  

(fingers crossed)  

[Dave.TX]

R Doug, would be cool if you rode then I'd get to see that KTM (haven't seen one yet). Finners crossed! I'm sure there will be hundreds of bikes there to look at, not to mention the museum which I plan on spending all day at. I'll be getting a DSLR to take pics with, better than the point-n-shoot I have.

Made reserv's at LQ for $171 total, about $42/day. Not bad. It's by a Burger King and Taco Bell. Woo hoo. Wonder if I can roll the bike into the hotel room if I get on the ground floor?

I can always change my reservation if anyone wants to go riding before/after the weekend races. Maybe we can all meet up for dinner somewhere. I've posted on a few forums and there's plenty of people I've never met going, none that I know. I'm okay riding on my own, gives me the flexibility to do whatever and go wherever. Wish I had time to ride to NC to see my buddy and his wife. If I went that far I'd have to ride the Dragon, Cherohala and all that stuff. maybe next year.

[raptor2a]

I think I'm heading over on Sat morning...unless something comes up and I may go on Friday...but I'll look into booking into the LQ as well and maybe we can hook up for dinner or whatever...no worries though...I'm like you though...no pressure to be anywhere - other than the races...
Rob

R Doug, would be cool if you rode then I'd get to see that KTM (haven't seen one yet). Finners crossed! I'm sure there will be hundreds of bikes there to look at, not to mention the museum which I plan on spending all day at. I'll be getting a DSLR to take pics with, better than the point-n-shoot I have.

Made reserv's at LQ for $171 total, about $42/day. Not bad. It's by a Burger King and Taco Bell. Woo hoo. Wonder if I can roll the bike into the hotel room if I get on the ground floor?

I can always change my reservation if anyone wants to go riding before/after the weekend races. Maybe we can all meet up for dinner somewhere. I've posted on a few forums and there's plenty of people I've never met going, none that I know. I'm okay riding on my own, gives me the flexibility to do whatever and go wherever. Wish I had time to ride to NC to see my buddy and his wife. If I went that far I'd have to ride the Dragon, Cherohala and all that stuff. maybe next year.

[R Doug]

What's the LQ, is it the LaQuinta?  

[Dave.TX]

Yeah, LQ is short for La Quinta.

I'm on the Two Wheeled Texans forum and a group of us meet for lunch every Thursday. Today two of the guys said they want to go, one of them confirmed later that he will be able to. He has a Honda ST1300. The other guy has some things that need to fall into place before he can commit, he rides a Moto Guzzi Quota 1100ES. So I'm riding out with at least one guy and Melody is very happy about that (my girlfriend).

I also picked up a nice DSLR camera so won't have to fiddle with the point-n-shoot. I'll be really happy with better quality pictures at the museum and the track.

Yeah, we'll have to get together for dinner and such.

[Tyrroneous]

Years ago, the STN contingency that attended the races at Barber used to meet for dinner at Superiors Mexican Grill (located on Hwy 280) on Saturday night.  It sounds like it might be time to reinstate this long lost tradition?



And for those staying in the 450/280 area, there are some cool backroads that can be taken all the way to the track.

[mesmotized]

Years ago, the STN contingency that attended the races at Barber used to meet for dinner at Superiors Mexican Grill (located on Hwy 280) on Saturday night.  It sounds like it might be time to reinstate this long lost tradition?



And for those staying in the 450/280 area, there are some cool backroads that can be taken all the way to the track.

I am interested.  I am not springing for a hotel though, so it would depend on what you mean by Saturday "night".  I could probably stay until 9 pm (at the latest).  That way I could make the 3 hour trek home to Atlanta and still make it home at a sensible hour.

[R Doug]

I've booked a room at the LQ for Friday and Saturday nights.  I'll miss the activities on Friday at the track.  But, I'll be there all day Sat and Sun.  

Unless something comes up, I'll see you then.  

[raptor2a]

Anyone know what time the races start on Sat?  aren't they at like 2 or 3? I want to be sure I leave in plenty of time to get there on Sat...if they are early, I may come over on Fri as well.

I've booked a room at the LQ for Friday and Saturday nights.  I'll miss the activities on Friday at the track.  But, I'll be there all day Sat and Sun.  

Unless something comes up, I'll see you then.  

[R Doug]

Anyone know what time the races start on Sat?  aren't they at like 2 or 3? I want to be sure I leave in plenty of time to get there on Sat...if they are early, I may come over on Fri as well.

I believe all of the races are in the afternoon but there is qualifying in the morning.  Also, there's the museum.  

[kyzrex]

Years ago, the STN contingency that attended the races at Barber used to meet for dinner at Superiors Mexican Grill (located on Hwy 280) on Saturday night.  It sounds like it might be time to reinstate this

Superiors...........

Ty....JoAnn and I hit it a couple of months ago.....it is still EXCELLENT!


I think it's time to go back!

[Tyrroneous]

I am interested.  I am not springing for a hotel though, so it would depend on what you mean by Saturday "night".  I could probably stay until 9 pm (at the latest).  That way I could make the 3 hour trek home to Atlanta and still make it home at a sensible hour.

By "saturday night" I mean evening time...6: 30 or 7.

KYzrex is one of the O.G.'s.  If Pat is there, the party is on!

[R Doug]

By "saturday night" I mean evening time...6: 30 or 7.

KYzrex is one of the O.G.'s.  If Pat is there, the party is on!

We are so old.  That's a perfect time for me to have dinner.    

[Dave.TX]

http://www.amaproracing.com/rr/events/event.cfm?year=2012&eid=2012011230

http://barbermotorsports.com/park/

I'm old and don't know how to insert hyperlinks so if you can copy and paste...

Dinner at Superior's on Saturday is the ticket, then. For us old farts maybe we can do the early bird special...

As far as the hotel location we'll just hit Blue Lake to Sicard Hollow which will take us to the track, no highway involved. I've been told Sicard Hollow is a good little ride.

As for seating at the track, do most bring blankets to sit on or are there stands to sit in? Chairs? If I can bring a chair it'll be strapped to the bike.

[R Doug]

Does anyone know if Barber has a gear check area?  I don't want to shlep it around and I'm not a fan of leaving it with the bike (even with a security cable).  

[leeo45]

I am interested.  I am not springing for a hotel though, so it would depend on what you mean by Saturday "night".  I could probably stay until 9 pm (at the latest).  That way I could make the 3 hour trek home to Atlanta and still make it home at a sensible hour.

I've done the return to Atlanta on Friday or Saturday night at least a couple of times (including heading back after dinner at Superiors ) due to other commitments, but staying in the track area makes more sense than 5 or 6 hours of interstate riding if you're going back on Sunday.   I think there are usually some pretty good deals over on 280 and Ty is right, there are some good backroads over to the track from there.    It is a great spectator track; and definitely set some time aside for the museum.

Don't think I'll be able to make it this year due to work.  

[kyzrex]

Does anyone know if Barber has a gear check area?  I don't want to shlep it around and I'm not a fan of leaving it with the bike (even with a security cable).  

Don't know about gear checking at the track, but there IS a room to check gear inside the muesum.

[mesmotized]

I've done the return to Atlanta on Friday or Saturday night at least a couple of times (including heading back after dinner at Superiors ) due to other commitments, but staying in the track area makes more sense than 5 or 6 hours of interstate riding if you're going back on Sunday.   I think there are usually some pretty good deals over on 280 and Ty is right, there are some good backroads over to the track from there.    It is a great spectator track; and definitely set some time aside for the museum.

Don't think I'll be able to make it this year due to work.  

Thanks for the advice!  I hadn't really thought about the fact that it adds up to 5-6 hours of interstate in the same day  For $42/night at the LaQuinta it sounds worthwhile.  I'll have to check my schedule and see how I can move things around.  I've been to the museum before, but would love to see it again.  Also, maybe I can stick around for race 2 as well

EDIT:
Also, it sucks that you can't make it!  Job over racing?  Clearly your priorities are not in order

[Dave.TX]

 Job over racing?  Clearly your priorities are not in order

There may come a day when the government subsidizes tickets to the races (at the expense of us taxpayers). It could be considered therapy. I guess be thankful you have a job, as do I. I'm very happy I can make this trip.

[Tyrroneous]

There are no stands at the track.  Or at least there weren't any of the times I've been (haven't been since DMG took over).  So bring a blanket or camp chair.  

I don't remember seeing any gear checks either.  I always just stung a cable lock through my jacket and helmet and hoped for the best (never had issues).

[R Doug]

I may need to hit wal mart and pick up a cheap lawn chair when I arrive on Friday.  

FYI... I have to head back on Sunday because I need to make it back to the office on Tuesday.  Because I have decided NOT to slab it back, I'll be taking Sunday and Monday to ride home via the mountains.  

I look forward to catching up with everyone Friday and Saturday evenings.  

Regarding gear check, I found out my helmet can fit in one bag with my jacket in another (when the BMW factory bags are in the awkward looking expanded mode).  So, I'll have a place to stow my gear for the day.  

[raptor2a]

I've got one of those small tri pod chairs I am going to try and bring...somehow...

If anyone in Atl is going over Sat morning and wants to hook up let me know. I am going to slab it some and take some back roads too.  I'll figure out a route in the next week or so...still have to book at LQ...will do that tomorrow.

I may need to hit wal mart and pick up a cheap lawn chair when I arrive on Friday.  

FYI... I have to head back on Sunday because I need to make it back to the office on Tuesday.  Because I have decided NOT to slab it back, I'll be taking Sunday and Monday to ride home via the mountains.  

I look forward to catching up with everyone Friday and Saturday evenings.  

Regarding gear check, I found out my helmet can fit in one bag with my jacket in another (when the BMW factory bags are in the awkward looking expanded mode).  So, I'll have a place to stow my gear for the day.  

[Dave.TX]

Don't forget dinner at Superior's on Saturday!

[R Doug]

Is this the place?

http://birmingham.superiorgrill.com/

[Tyrroneous]

Is this the place?

http://birmingham.superiorgrill.com/

Yup...and I'm hungry just thinking about it!  

Anybody know what time the last race is run on Saturday?  What time should we try to meet at Superiors?

[R Doug]

The AMA website has TBD beside the timing of the events.

http://www.amaproracing.com/rr/events/event.cfm?eid=2012011230

But, I found somewhere (just can't find it now) that the final race on Saturday starts at 3PM which means it should be over by 4PM.

I believe the dinner time motioned of 6:30 could be a little early as it would give us 90 minutes to leave the track, stop by the hotel and shower, and show up for dinner.  

Should we call it a time of 7:00 PM?

[R Doug]

Update, the final race starts at 3:15 PM according to the following PDF:

http://www.amaproracing.com/assets/2012-Barber-AMA-Pro-Schedule.pdf

The XR qualy would get fun to watch.  

[Tyrroneous]

7 works for me. Even if you stay until 5, the traffic will have greatly diminished by that point.  I don't think it would be hard to leave at five, head to the hotel, clean up and still make to Superiors by 7.

[Dave.TX]

That's the place and 7:00 is fine with me, they don't close until 11:00.

[mesmotized]

7 works for me too.

[leeo45]

A few pics from an STN @ Barber weekend many, many moons ago......

[motodog650]

That's the place and 7:00 is fine with me, they don't close until 11:00.

I should be able to be there. I'm staying at the Courtyard by Marriott near I-459 & 280. Looking forward !!

[R Doug]

This is shaping up to be a nice little STN mini-meet.  

Attendees, hotels, and who's in for dinner?

Let's start a list...

Dave.TX –  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)  + 1 or 2 or 4  

Raptor2a – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Tyrroneous – hotel (Holiday Inn Express) – dinner (yes)

Mesmotized – hotel (LaQunita) – dinner (yes)

R Doug – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Kyzrex – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Motodog650 – hotel (Courtyard) – dinner (yes)  

loadedmind -  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

[Dave.TX]

Thanks R Doug for putting together that list.

There's another Austin rider that will be joining us for dinner (also on the TWT forum), Alan, who will be coming from Arkansas and staying in Leeds for the races.

I'm also on the FZ6 forum and a few of those guys are going to the races, I've also told them about dinner at Superior so hopefully we can get a little bike night of sorts there. I used to have an FZ6 so still visit their forum. It's funny that several of us on that forum no longer have FZ6's. I still miss mine sometimes.

http://www.fz6-forum.com/forum/usa-southeast/44257-birmingham-al-ama-races-june.html

[kyzrex]

Can't say that I WILL be there for either the races or the dinner, but still a possibility.  Family obligations may get in the way, but we'll see closer to the time.

[Tyrroneous]

We're staying at the Holiday Inn Express in Irondale.  Its about 10 minutes from the track right off of I-20.


Also, I just ordered our tickets through the Barber website.  If you enter promo code "Superstore", when you check out, you get a free paddock upgrade via motorcyclesuperstore.com

[Tyrroneous]

A few pics from an STN @ Barber weekend many, many moons ago......

Way to break out the 'way back' machine Lee!

[mesmotized]

My plans have changed!  It looks like I'll be staying Saturday night  I'm booked at the LaQuinta with most of the other guys.  I'm definitely in for dinner!

[R Doug]

Updated.  

This is shaping up to be a nice little STN mini-meet.  

Attendees, hotels, and who's in for dinner?

Let's start a list...

Dave.TX –  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)  + 1 or 2 or 4  

Raptor2a – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Tyrroneous – hotel (Holiday Inn Express) – dinner (yes)

Mesmotized – hotel (LaQunita) – dinner (yes)

R Doug – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Kyzrex – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Motodog650 – hotel (Courtyard) – dinner (maybe)  

[raptor2a]

I'm confirmed at LQ (Cahaba park circle)- hope that's where everyone is.  I'm in for dinner as well.  Also after that, I'll probably park the bike at the hotel and walk or grab a cab to someplace where they will be showing the UFC fight that night and grab a beer or two.  If anyone's interested in going, that's cool too.  

I tried that "superstore" upgrade and don't see on my tickets about a paddock upgrade, so hopefully I can just buy them there...anyone know if that's possible?

Rob

Updated.  

[R Doug]

I'm confirmed at LQ (Cahaba park circle)- hope that's where everyone is.  I'm in for dinner as well.

I beleive that's the one.  At least, that's the one I'll be at.  So, I'll be at the wrong or correct one with you.  



updated again.  

This is shaping up to be a nice little STN mini-meet.  

Attendees, hotels, and who's in for dinner?

Let's start a list...

Dave.TX –  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)  + 1 or 2 or 4  

Raptor2a – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Tyrroneous – hotel (Holiday Inn Express) – dinner (yes)

Mesmotized – hotel (LaQunita) – dinner (yes)

R Doug – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Kyzrex – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Motodog650 – hotel (Courtyard) – dinner (maybe)  

[loadedmind]

I'm confirmed at La Quinta Friday and Saturday nights.  Hope to see ya'll there.  

I'll probably be on the blue Triumph Trophy - coming from Huntsville.  Will most likely take back roads - 231 maybe.

[R Doug]

I'm confirmed at La Quinta Friday and Saturday nights.  Hope to see ya'll there.  

I'll probably be on the blue Triumph Trophy - coming from Huntsville.  Will most likely take back roads - 231 maybe.

Dave.TX –  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)  + 1 or 2 or 4  

Raptor2a – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Tyrroneous – hotel (Holiday Inn Express) – dinner (yes)

Mesmotized – hotel (LaQunita) – dinner (yes)

R Doug – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Kyzrex – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Motodog650 – hotel (Courtyard) – dinner (maybe)  

loadedmind -  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

[mesmotized]

I beleive that's the one.  At least, that's the one I'll be at.  So, I'll be at the wrong or correct one with you.  

I'm at that one as well.

Thanks for keeping track R Doug!

[motodog650]

Changed dinner status to yes. See you all there.

Dave.TX –  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)  + 1 or 2 or 4  

Raptor2a – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Tyrroneous – hotel (Holiday Inn Express) – dinner (yes)

Mesmotized – hotel (LaQunita) – dinner (yes)

R Doug – hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

Kyzrex – hotel (maybe) – dinner (maybe)

Motodog650 – hotel (Courtyard) – dinner (yes)  

loadedmind -  hotel (LaQuinta) – dinner (yes)

[Tyrroneous]

I tried that "superstore" upgrade and don't see on my tickets about a paddock upgrade, so hopefully I can just buy them there...anyone know if that's possible?

Rob

The paddock upgrade is supposed to come via email.  I haven't gotten anything yet either.  You can buy paddock passes at the track.  There will be a tent set up by one of the gates to the paddock area. Pay your money, sign a waiver and you are in.

[Dave.TX]

Bought our tickets online before seeing this posting for "superstore" so paid for paddock. Printed them out, mine say "General Admission & Paddock" on them. I also purchased the parade lap for Sunday. Why not? Don't know when I'll be able to do that again. Tom didn't but then he's old.  

As for dinner it'll be myself and Tom, possibly Alan and that's it.

As for UFC fights, there is a pub right next to the La Quinta called Hogan's Irish Pub & Grill. They might have it on. Across 280 from LQ is a strip mall that also has a Buffalo Wild Wings, pretty sure they'd have it. Near by there's a Tilted Kilt near the I-20 and a Hooters in the other direction so I'm pretty sure one of those places will have the fight. I can have a beer or two myself but prefer not to ride unless it's one with dinner then water after.

I won't have my laptop with me, only a 7" tablet to check emails and forums. I guess there's a contingency of us staying at La Quinta so maybe we can get together Thursday evening. We'll get in sometime in the afternoon and since I'm addicted to food will want to eat dinner somewhere.

[raptor2a]

Thanks for the info...If I don't get that email, I'll just buy paddock passes there...no big deal....Buffalo WW will more than likely have the fight and it's within walking/stumbling distance according to their website...won't be on the bike after drinking for sure.

Bought our tickets online before seeing this posting for "superstore" so paid for paddock. Printed them out, mine say "General Admission & Paddock" on them. I also purchased the parade lap for Sunday. Why not? Don't know when I'll be able to do that again. Tom didn't but then he's old.  

As for dinner it'll be myself and Tom, possibly Alan and that's it.

As for UFC fights, there is a pub right next to the La Quinta called Hogan's Irish Pub & Grill. They might have it on. Across 280 from LQ is a strip mall that also has a Buffalo Wild Wings, pretty sure they'd have it. Near by there's a Tilted Kilt near the I-20 and a Hooters in the other direction so I'm pretty sure one of those places will have the fight. I can have a beer or two myself but prefer not to ride unless it's one with dinner then water after.

I won't have my laptop with me, only a 7" tablet to check emails and forums. I guess there's a contingency of us staying at La Quinta so maybe we can get together Thursday evening. We'll get in sometime in the afternoon and since I'm addicted to food will want to eat dinner somewhere.

[Dave.TX]

I may have already mentioned before but I have a decent DSLR camera that I'll be taking hundreds of photos with. In case we want to get together and get some good photos of the group just let me know. I won't be bringing a tripod so nothing too fancy. I don't mind taking individual pics either if you want me to email them to you once I get home. I'm no pro, though, but better than your average point-n-shooter.

Looks like after Superior Grill some will head to BWW's to get the UFC fight.

A Triumph Trophy, I've only seen pictures of them in Europe. Do they sell them here in the USA now? Haven't paid close enough attention to it.

[raptor2a]

Just fyi, I got the email today and they upgraded my tickets to gen. admission and paddock, so the "superstore" code worked.  Sweet.  

[R Doug]

Kickstand up in 40 min. for me.  I will be on my way to the mountains making a nice two day ride down.

See you Friday evening.  

[Dave.TX]

We made it to Birmingham! Took this pic at lunch today in Newton, MS. It was the slowest Taco Bell on the planet. Anyway, at the LQ and going next door to Hogan's Irish Pub & Grill for some eats later.

[Tyrroneous]

I'm debating whether or not to ride out after work on Friday so that I can do the track walk with Josh Hayes.  I'd need to ride back home that evening and then bring the family out Saturday morning.  What'd y'all think?  Is it worth it?


Well, scratch that.  I was just reminded that I promised my sister that I'd help her move tomorrow after work.  See y'all on Saturday!

[raptor2a]

Same here...I'll probably head right to the track...if you see this bike, I'll be somewhere close.  Otherwise, I'll catch up w/you guys at the hotel after the races.

I'm debating whether or not to ride out after work on Friday so that I can do the track walk with Josh Hayes.  I'd need to ride back home that evening and then bring the family out Saturday morning.  What'd y'all think?  Is it worth it?


Well, scratch that.  I was just reminded that I promised my sister that I'd help her move tomorrow after work.  See y'all on Saturday!

[R Doug]

Something has come up and I am on my way home.    

[R Doug]

I am home now and not happy that I couldn't make it.  

My battery was dead this morning as I tried to leave at 6:30 AM.  The folks at the Fontana Inn showed me where a few parts retailers were located as I was going to try to find a new battery (guessing that's my only problem).  Luckily the Inn is on a hill as I let gravity help me push start my bike.

The first two dealers located on Rt 129 didn't stock my battery.  I was told there may be some dealers to the north off Rt. 74.  On my way, the bike died twice as I was coming to a stop.  Let me tell you what I learned about being on a BMW with Servo Assisted Brakes when the bike dies.  

After removing the seat from my ass, I made it to two more dealers.  Neither of which had my battery in stock.  I gassed up, got another gravity assisted push start and headed home.  

I hate that I'm going to miss meeting you guys.  Have fun!

[Tyrroneous]

Dang.  That is a bummer.  Maybe next year I guess.  

[motodog650]

Dang.  That is a bummer.  Maybe next year I guess.  

Hate that happened. We'll raise one in your honor at dinner tomorrow night...

[R Doug]

Hate that happened. We'll raise one in your honor at dinner tomorrow night...

thanks.  


 

[R Doug]

PS... I discovered the problem and while it wasn't the battery, buying a new battery helped me find the issue.

You won't believe it, but it was only a loose connection on the positive terminal.  No wonder the bike kept cutting out on me at random.  

If one of the shops I visited this morning had a battery that fit my bike in stock, I would have been there this evening.  

[Dave.TX]

Doug, that completely blows! I just added a power outlet on mine, wired direct to the battery. I made sure the connections were good because I've had that same problem you had. You'll be missed, my friend. It was in the low 90's at the track today, partly cloudy and not crowded. I took a ton of pics. Can't wait for racing tomorrow! Anyone want to text me at 512-eight two six-8473 can.

We should be parked at the top of the hill at turns 2 / 3 and hanging out there most of the day but we'll take the shuttle to the fan / vendor are to cool down and grab some food and stuff.

[Dave.TX]

[Tyrroneous]

Superior Grill doesn't/won't take a reservation, even for a largish group.  I'm going to try to get there a few minutes early to get our name on the list...it'll be under stn or sport touring. I'll have a black jorge lorenzo shirt on

[Dave.TX]

Though I was at Barber on Friday all those photos are in RAW format only and my old laptop doesn't have software to convert them. So, here's some pics from Saturday. Various places in the track and paddock.

Harley's...



Looking at the back straigt



Josh Hayes after his first win at Barber and Yamaha's first win in Superbike at Barber.



The first two bikes belong to Hayes, the other two Herrin.



The KTM entries, one being cleaned. Those bikes look so good!



Larry Pegram.



Larry Pegram's bike, the lone BMW in the AMA, and it isn't even supported by the factory.



I had a lot of fun at Barber, was my first time. Got to meet a few people off this forum and the FZ6 forum. Everyone has been cool. Dinner on Saturday night at Superior's was, um, interesting.

[raptor2a]

Nice pics Dave...How was the parade lap?  Nice meeting you all this weekend. Made it back in just over 2 hours including a fuel stop and a stop under a bridge after a torrential downpour...I couldn't see 20 feet in front....had 2 other bikes stop as well...need to find a real anti-fog visor.

Anyway thanks again and hopefully we can do it again next year if not sooner...
Rob

[Dave.TX]

A few more from Saturday, turns 1 and 2

This is the start of the SuperSport race, some 40 bikes or so. Those kids are darned good riders!



This is the start of the Daytona SportBikes...



This is probably the second lap of the SuperBike race. Both Josh's are 1-2 and the rest of the field is trying to stay with them. Notice there's already a gap forming.



If you look at the top right of this pic you'll see Hayes and Herrin with no one behind them after turn 3, still very early in the race. Those Yamaha's are something else.

[Dave.TX]

Hey Rob, it was really cool to meet you and everyone else! Thanks for coming out. Sorry you got caught in the rain, it didn't rain at all at the track

The parade lap was cool, they let us do 3 laps. I had my Contour camera on for it but my weak, old laptop won't process the video so that'll have to wait until I get home. I also turned it on for the ride back to the hotel down Sicard Hollow Rd since that was such a great road to ride on.

Definitely, I'll try to make it out again sometime. If it's just me I might do the trip in a day but it's almost 800 miles so maybe 2 is OK. Barber is such a neat place and I'd like to ride some roads around here sometime in the future. My buddy in North Carolina suggested I keep riding east to visit him! Not this time.

Again I had a blast and you guys were fun to be with, dinner and such.

[mesmotized]

There was some great racing on both Saturday and Sunday!  It was about 1000 degrees sitting on the back straight on Saturday, but sitting in the shade with you guys on Sunday was much more enjoyable.  It was great meeting you guys!

[motodog650]

Good meeting you all. Good racing with DSB race #2 being my favorite of the weekend. Got interviews with Steve Rapp, Bobby Fong & his teammate Nadr Riad (rider from Egypt !!), Jake Lewis, Geoff May & Josh Herrin. Should have them posted on the BRI site later this week.

So Dave, Now that you've attended your first motorcycle road race are you gonna go back for more ? Last race of the year at NOLA in October (new track outside New Orleans). See ya there ??  

[raptor2a]

Thought I'd post up my pics from the weekend...I'm no professional like Dave, but they're fun to look at...


The trip over on top of Cheaha Mountain, AL.


Disalvo's pit


Blake Young's


Eslick signing autographs


Talent


Westby's team bikes


This guy is enjoying the races like he is at home...

[loadedmind]

Was good meeting you all as well.  Had a blast.  And mezmo is right, Sunday was MUCH better.  What a difference a little shade and the occasional breeze can make.  Saturday was brutal!  Maybe next time, for dinner plans, we can get a table where we can hear each other talk.  At least we didn't have to wait all night for a table though.  Thanks Ty for getting one early.

Glad to hear you got home safe raptor.  Until you can get yourself a pinlock system, I'd recommend you try this stuff called Clarity DeFogit.  Google or Amazon search for it.  The bottle is small, but it only takes a few drops to take care of the inside of the visor.  I think I spent 7 dollars on it at Amazon.  Literally no fog-ups for at least a day.  I usually apply a new coat of the stuff every other day.  We're headed to Atlanta this weekend.  I'll bring you a bottle of the stuff for you to try if you want to try and meet up some place.  We'll be in the Tucker area.  Maybe we can do lunch one day Saturday if you don't already have plans?  I'll txt you my number if you're interested.

[Tyrroneous]

It was great getting to meet some more STN crazies.  Sorry about the table location.  When they asked if the patio was okay, I didn't realize Spinal Tap would be playing with the amps cranked up to 11.    Lesson learned.

So here's a few pics from my perspective:


Barber is unlike any other track in that there is so many artistic details hidden all around.  The pond and sculpture are fairly recent additions (within the last couple of years I think).  


My kids loved watching the koi fish.



Not quite big enough to ride the 675R just yet.


My wife has been a long time fan of both Bostrom brothers.  Only Ben races now.


My youngest, Milla, was worn out at the end of the day!


I'd love to have a stack of these to choose from.


Erik Buell's new 1190RS is a thing of beauty



The KTM's looked pretty sharp too.

[Tyrroneous]

Continuing on...




There's some clever engineering that went into those EBR 1190 wheels.


I love looking at the bikes all torn down and being worked on.


Hungry for air!


Crazy lookin' fuel bottle.




Right after warm-up in Sunday morning, Jason DiSalvo sat and talked to his mechanic about some set-up issues.  It was 93 deg F and he was boiling in those leathers.


Josh Hayes highsided himself to Mars during Sunday morning warm-up.  His R1 was heavily damaged.


Back in his pit, one look and you could tell Hayes was pissed about the highside.  I almost felt bad taking this picture.


What other paddock has  flower beds?  Only at Barber.

[Tyrroneous]

And now for some racing pictures...


Who knew Harley's could do this!


Somebody got caught out by Turn 5.  


DiSalvo at speed down the back straight.


The EBR 1190 has plenty of power.  Here, Geoff May demonstrates on the climb out of T5.


There was a lot of close racing this weekend.  


After it is all said and done...I am a happy man.  Barber is one of my favorite places to spend time (on track or spectating).

I had planned to sit with everybody at T2 but I found a really sweet spot in the shade on the back straight.  I could see T2, T5, the straight to T6, the entire back straight from the exit of the museum corner through the chicane and down to T9, the exit of T13 and T14.  I'll save y'all a spot next year!

[Dave.TX]

So Dave, Now that you've attended your first motorcycle road race are you gonna go back for more ? Last race of the year at NOLA in October (new track outside New Orleans). See ya there ??

Most definitely, Scott. Tom (the guy I rode with from Austin) used to do a lot of motorsport photography back in the day and he said Barber is the best track he's ever been to. Being the first it's going to suck going to other tracks, I guess.

Not sure when I'll get back, it's a long way from Austin (about 800 miles) but it is worth it! I'll make plans to attend again next year. Some guys I know went to Miller up in Utah and they had a blast. Would love to see WSBK also.

Dang, we went to the museum today and spent hours there. It was overload! Had a great time learning about all these different types of bikes and such. Now to sit down and go through all the pictures from the weekend and upload smaller versions for the forums to view.

You guys were great. Thanks, Ty, for getting the table next to Spinal Tap. Even before walking in I was preparing to go somewhere else if we couldn't get seated in a decent amount of time. Glad we stayed.

Back on the road tomorrow...

[Tyrroneous]

Back on the road tomorrow...

Ride safe Dave!  

[R Doug]

Great pictures everyone!  My biggest disappointment is more about not getting to meet you guys than missing the race.  There's always next year.  

[Dave.TX]

I bought my first street bike last September (2011) and didn't know anyone to ride with except a few Harley riding coworkers. I got on meetup.com and a few internet forums to find people to ride with. Since then I've found nothing but top notch folks in the motorcycle community! All of you that made it this weekend are no exception. I had a blast and got to meet some great folks. I have a lot more photos to go through from Sundays races and today at the museum. This was on our last exit out of the park today.

[motodog650]

Since then I've found nothing but top notch folks in the motorcycle community! All of you that made it this weekend are no exception. I had a blast and got to meet some great folks.

For sure, the camaraderie combined with the bikes, riding, racing, etc... is what makes motorcycling in general such a great experience...

Great pics guys !! And Ty, kudos to you for bringing the whole family out to the races. I love seeing families at the track enjoying the sport together...

   

[Dave.TX]