Nestled on the banks of the serene Yadkin River, the town of Elkin resembles many small North Carolina towns: a main street lined with older buildings, a movie theater, a bank, various shops. One of the joys of motorcycling is discovering these time-capsule towns. It’s even more joyous to see them thriving in the 21st century. “About eight years ago, we were stagnant. The mill … [Read more...] about Exploring Elkin: From Mill Town to Motorcycling Mecca
Elkin’s Angry Troll Brewing: A must-stop for riders and foodies alike
If the intriguing name doesn’t convince riders to stop into Angry Troll Brewing in Elkin, North Carolina, the tasty food and beverages surely will. Nestled at the eastern end of Main Street, the cozy brew pub makes the perfect destination for those “ride to eat” motorcycle outings. Behind doors emblazoned with a grimacing troll logo await a wood-paneled, exposed beam bar and … [Read more...] about Elkin’s Angry Troll Brewing: A must-stop for riders and foodies alike
Helene’s Wrath: Fleeing the Aftermath With a Weeklong Odyssey
On the third day with no power, no water and no more ready-to-eat food, I looked at my Yamaha Tracer 9 GT sitting there with nearly a full fuel tank and accepted it was time to mount up and escape the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. I underestimated Helene, as I’m sure many others did. As a native and lifelong resident of the region, I’ve seen countless downgraded hurricanes … [Read more...] about Helene’s Wrath: Fleeing the Aftermath With a Weeklong Odyssey
The Smokies: Over, under and around
A morning breeze off the Oconaluftee River in Cherokee, North Carolina, eases the rising summer heat as I head north on U.S. 441. Like many fellow motorcyclists, I can’t resist the lure of riding across the Great Smoky Mountains on such a glorious day. Taking 441 past the southern terminus of the Blue Ridge Parkway, I often encounter the herd of elk reintroduced to the park … [Read more...] about The Smokies: Over, under and around
Notes from the road: Autumn can be a season of renewal, too
She sits there as I grab my clanking golf bag and walk past. She sits there as I make a quick trip to the grocery store — without her. She sits there as the weekend arrives and dust still accumulates on her gleaming paint. I tell myself I should take her out for a ride today. Then the day slips away, and my motorcycle still sits there. “This guy rides more than anyone I … [Read more...] about Notes from the road: Autumn can be a season of renewal, too
