North Carolina is a collection of wonderful regions and places, from the mountains to the sea. Each is different of course, with its own geography to be savored on two wheels. It is remarkably easy to avoid being trapped on highways and allow oneself to be consumed by the beauty of the byways. Along the way, the people are terrific as well, with different traditions and foods … [Read more...] about The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock Brewing: Crafting the Perfect Brews and Views
The rumble of V-twins through the narrow Hickory Nut Gorge becomes louder as traffic enters the tiny village of Chimney Rock. Here, just a few doors down from the namesake state park, bikes line the front of Chimney Rock Brewing Co. Rick Spruill, along with his brother Scott, acquired the former Hickory Nut Brewing last year and upgraded one of the main street’s original … [Read more...] about Chimney Rock Brewing: Crafting the Perfect Brews and Views
The Green River Staircase: Tackling Switchbacks works up an appetite for Seafood
The new Harley-Davidson Pan America was already sitting outside Asheville Motorcycle Rentals when we arrived. Owner Phil Cann wanted to put some break-in miles on the new adventure bike before it enters the rental fleet, which was the perfect excuse for a day trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains. I gathered a motley collection of cruisers, customs, café and adventure riders … [Read more...] about The Green River Staircase: Tackling Switchbacks works up an appetite for Seafood
Chimney Rock: A gorge getaway perfect for lingering amid scenic wonders
Seeing the out-of-state license plate in front of me, I quickly decide to drop a gear and overtake the dawdling SUV in the long straight on U.S. 74A. It will be my last chance for several miles as the old highway crosses a flat farmland valley before climbing up to the Eastern Continental Divide. My Royal Enfield Continental GT 650 howls its twin-cylinder barbaric yawp as I … [Read more...] about Chimney Rock: A gorge getaway perfect for lingering amid scenic wonders
Wine Touring: Tasting the Crest of the Blue Ridge
By Michael E. Gouge The Eastern Continental Divide in the Blue Ridge Mountains features some of the best motorcycling areas in the country. It reaches its highest point in North Carolina, home to one of the newest federally recognized wine-growing regions — and an excellent destination for those leisurely harvest-season rides. Heading south of Asheville along U.S. 74A, riders … [Read more...] about Wine Touring: Tasting the Crest of the Blue Ridge
