I eased my new Yamaha to a halt on the quiet bridge over the Tugaloo River, stopping on the state line between South Carolina and Georgia. I followed the Blue Ridge Mountains down through the Carolinas all morning to explore this corner of the Peach State. There wasn’t much room next to the railing of the river crossing, but the rare passing pick-up truck didn’t seem to mind … [Read more...] about Three cylinders, three states
Stops for beer, wine or spirits
Ah, those glorious summer days filled with long rides through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The warm weather, blue skies and yet-to-be discovered roadside stops always enhance the riding experience for many motorcyclists. The questions always arise: Where are we going to stop for lunch? Want to grab a beer? The Southern Appalachian Mountains feature plenty of ale houses, taprooms, … [Read more...] about Stops for beer, wine or spirits
From Russia with love — for motorcycling
Ekaterina Goncharuk arrives at her local bike night on a gleaming Moto Guzzi V7 Racer. Removing her helmet reveals a silky head of straight, raven hair and piercing dark eyes. Then you hear the accent in her soft-spoken voice. It’s as if a Russian villainess from a James Bond movie just rolled up to join the boys for wing night. Kat, as she prefers to be called, now makes her … [Read more...] about From Russia with love — for motorcycling
Don’t say no to that charity ride
“Sounds like less riding and more standing around,” read the dismissive social media comment when I posted about our local leg of the world’s biggest motorcycle charity event — the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride. I held my anger. As a motorcycle travel writer, I see myself as a self-appointed ambassador for our shared two-wheeled way of life. The comradery and sense of … [Read more...] about Don’t say no to that charity ride
Exploring the legend of the Moon-Eyed people
The trees have yet to bring forth their curtain of green, allowing riders to glimpse the hidden topography of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A sheer rock outcropping and scattered boulders peek out from the bare forest, tempting you to glance away from the twisting two-lane to see what’s hidden for most of the year. Craggy rock overhangs and towering granite walls tempt my … [Read more...] about Exploring the legend of the Moon-Eyed people