There, in a break in the tree line, flashed a vision as I sped along U.S. 129. Simmering blue-green water, distant soaring ridges, a heavenly sight flashed before becoming blocked again by roadside underbrush. My Yamaha Tracer 9 willingly carved a quick U-turn. I nestled her up against the guardrail in the narrow strip of grass between the open road and the precipice … [Read more...] about Glorious Graham: The Secret Side of the Smokies
Robbinsville
Sleeping in a treehouse, taming the Dragon
I slayed a dragon and slept in a treehouse,” at least that’s what my T-shirt says. From my perspective, “slayed” seems too strong a word, it felt more like I was chased by a dragon and managed to escape. Not far from the curves of the famous Moonshiner 28 and the Tail of the Dragon lies Robbinsville, North Carolina. To celebrate our anniversary, my wife and I packed both … [Read more...] about Sleeping in a treehouse, taming the Dragon
Small bikes make for big fun in the Smokies
Motorcycles typically connote power and attract those seeking heart-thumping thrill. The larger the engine displacement and the more torque, the better. But then in 2014 Honda released the Grom, a 125cc bike producing less than 10 horsepower. It was a huge hit, and the L.A. Times reported dealerships were sold out of the tiny Grom with Honda struggling to keep up with the … [Read more...] about Small bikes make for big fun in the Smokies
Cherohala Skyway: Nostalgia and furtive glances at the past
Nearly 30 years ago, an old friend introduced me to motorcycle camping. During those early years, the two of us came together a couple times a year for epic camping and rides, which usually led to some irresponsible, reckless behavior that young men with a false sense of immortality often undertake. I often returned home with sore abdominal muscles from excessive infantile … [Read more...] about Cherohala Skyway: Nostalgia and furtive glances at the past
