Vintage Harley-Davidson enthusiast Tom Plackis was used to answering calls for help. He retired after a long career with New York City’s fire department. This time, it was his friends asking to help them escape the devastation of Hurricane Helene in Bat Cave near Chimney Rock, North Carolina. Nearly a year after Helene devastated Western North Carolina, residents who lived … [Read more...] about Evacuation Made for a Different Trip to Chimney Rock
Chimney Rock
Helene, a Year After: Chimney Rock Remains in Riders’ Hopes and Memories
Nothing much remains of the main street in Chimney Rock, North Carolina. Workers continue to move earth and replace utilities scoured away by Hurricane Helene nearly one year earlier. Demolition of damaged buildings continue. Access remains limited. For decades, this scenic section of the Hickory Nut Gorge attracted riders to the twisting roads through the Hickory Nut Gorge … [Read more...] about Helene, a Year After: Chimney Rock Remains in Riders’ Hopes and Memories
The Blue Ridge Mountains: Of what was and shall ever be
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 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
