My first roadside break of the morning began at Washington Ferry on the western bank of the Tennessee River. Happy to be on another road trip, I savored the quiet riverfront view, although I fear the lone fisherman initially hidden from my view was probably annoyed by my approach on the raspy three-cylinder Yamaha sport-touring bike. The fisherman packed up and departed … [Read more...] about Cumberland Cascades: Stunning waterfalls await Tennessee travelers
Salt Face Mule Brewing: Welcoming the 2024 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
Each week, master brewer Ray Dobens climbs on his KTM 890 Adventure R and heads to work at Salt Face Brewing where he creates some 14 delicious varieties of craft beer. Located on U.S. 19 just north of Asheville, North Carolina, Salt Face Brewing opened last year in a former amusement center. They derived their name from the old Appalachian saying, “thirstier than a … [Read more...] about Salt Face Mule Brewing: Welcoming the 2024 Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride
Dealership destination: Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson offers food, music, rides, and, of course, motorcycles
Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Smoky Mountains and surrounded by some of the best motorcycle roads in the region, Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson in Maryville, Tennessee, can be a great destination if you’re shopping for a new bike, a delicious lunch or ready to rock out to live music. Tonya Brown, marketing manager at Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson, said this … [Read more...] about Dealership destination: Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson offers food, music, rides, and, of course, motorcycles
Notes from the road: The latchkey kid becomes the free-range rider
I couldn’t resist turning into the old subdivision. My Yamaha Tracer 9 GT made easy work of the large hill that once took me a lot of exertion on my black-and-yellow Huffy BMX. I still remembered each home and each childhood friend (and enemy) who lived there more than 45 years ago. Maybe it’s just the wistful nostalgia of a man who recognizes there are more miles behind him … [Read more...] about Notes from the road: The latchkey kid becomes the free-range rider
Notes from the road: Happiness often lies in riding nowhere
Without realizing it, I eased the bike to the opposite side of the lane, instinctively avoiding the pothole I knew was around the next bend. I know every crack in this backroad. It’s one of my favorite local loops when I feel like riding but don’t feel like really going anywhere. The warmth of spring has yet to arrive. I ride out the last of winter daydreaming about more … [Read more...] about Notes from the road: Happiness often lies in riding nowhere
