The speed limit is 30. I live less than 20 minutes from dragon. I pay taxes in the county. I try to avoid the racers by choosing times to use my camper van (also I pull off for passing when I can). I’ve had racers try to run me off road! Chill out man!! Some people (idiots) try to make a racetrack out of it and cannot tolerate it’s use by anybody else. The Cherokee Indians routed the trail. I’m thankful for their contribution. So enjoy the scenery. Don’t like to share? Don’t come!
It should be noted that US 129 is a road that is used by the people who live there. It's not a racetrack. It's a normal route that locals use to get around. Just because you come from another state to ride the Dragon and have to go slow is not their problem.
you are right but maybe they should use there rear vision mirror a bit more and piull over to let people past that obviously want to travel a bit faster than them just a common courtasy i would think
"i'd like to overtake them, but they might try to run me off the road" LOL. Maybe I'll just sit behind them for 10 miles beeping my horn and flashing my lights....I'm starting to understand why car drivers hate us. Nice riding champ.
@@chrissyfowler3613 Sorry, bit confused, would you like a vid of me riding the dragon, or a vid of me sitting behind a mini van and beeping my horn and flashing my lights at a family out on a fun family drive? 🤡
Love the entitled attitude of the sport bike riders. It’s a public US Highway. Those that think they should be able to go as fast as they want are just as bad as the slowpokes. “I only want to go 40 or 45…I wanna go the speed limit”. Speed limit is 30.
Speed limit is 30 up there. The "sad" memorial you saw was just one of many from riders like you. It's not a carnival ride. You didn't pay admission. You clearly don't care enough to even control your vehicle. On or over the double yellows. Too bad you didn't see more oncoming traffic to remind you what lane is yours. It's a great thing that you don't think you're coming back anytime soon. Glad your buddies audio was dropping out if he sounds at all like you. You give motorcyclists a bad name.
You should have made them close the road off just for you . What are them other people thinking driving like that? It’s almost like they we’re trying to enjoy the views or something! Man the nerve of some people.
The Harley and the car have just as much right to be there as you and there is a speed limit on 129. Why should they have to pull over so you can be a danger to on coming traffic?
Been on the Dragon several times. A lovely mountain curvy ride. I was on a “big cruiser” and it was effortless. I guess you ?think you own the Dragon….? It’s one thing to ride like an idiot. It’s quite another to post a video of it on UA-cam.
You will have to tell me at what point he was riding like an idiot??? He didnt pass on a double yellow, he didnt buzz them....he showed FAR MORE restraint than pretty much ANY rider I ride with.....jsut because he talks in his helmet about the fact that the people in the van were intentionally going as slow as possible doesnt make his riding and different....the van was a bunch of dicks
The driver of the vehicle that you are behind has every right to be there. I f don't like following people you need to pull over and quit pushing. The road is not yours. Rode for over 25 years and never seen such JERK.
Hey jack wit, people drive this road several times a day to get to work, home the store etc... it's not here for your enjoyment it's to move from one side of the mountains to the other! As for the speed limit they are driving the speed limit and double yellow on this route which means no passing!
Hey Brucie, I don't live in bum fuk Tennessee, so the only reason I would travel that road is the beautiful scenery and twisting roads. It would 100% be for my pure enjoyment. So go play sheriff on property that you actually own.
@@guylupo2564Right?! I am a tax paying citizen and can ride where ever I please, Im a man and nobody is gonna tell me Im not welcome on public property
Back in the 70's I used to ride the Dragon all the time, nobody was there and the rider had the feeling of being in a near primeval wilderness. I got quite fast on the road and had it memorized, I could ride it safely but I worked my way up to it. Some of the curves were reverse banked and there were places the road was in poor condition. I also rode the Cherohala highway a bit while it was under construction. All these areas were quiet and very scenic. I hate these places now and I'd never go back. It's all been destroyed, I'd get more of a wilderness experience in NYC Central Park than I would on the Dragon. I'm hoping that a horrific economic catastrophe will put an end to *all* tourist traffic in these areas and that peace and quiet will someday return. Back when I was riding I was going solo and cell phones didn't exist. Back in those days you play road racer in the mountains and fly off down a hillside at high speed - it might be the very last thing you do. Thanks guys, you've all trashed the place beyond recognition, it's all gone, all destroyed. TVA sure did help by destroying the wonderfully scenic Little Tennessee River below Chilhowee Dam. It's all an ugly mud hole now in fall and winter. In the early 70's this entire area looked like something out of a movie, scenery so wild and magnificent that it belonged on postcards. To heck with each and every one of you responsible for destroying these unique areas. May millions of fleas infest yer armpits! Same goes for everybody that ruined Wear's Valley. I used to ride my CB450 in that area a very long time ago when it was all small farms and a tiny little community place with a church, a store/gas station, a few other commercial buildings, and that was it. A neat ride with sharp curves, hills, spectacular scenery, and hardly any traffic. Today the entire place has been trashed beyond recognition with tourist garbage and "mountain homes" everywhere. And now every few years the place experiences big firestorms that burn down a lot of that crap, but they'll build it right back. Only a grinding economic calamity and decades long depression will return all of this back to where it used to be.
@@johnstowe3267 wrong. Those wanting to speed through there need to pull over. How do you expect people to pull over for you so they can attempt to get back on the road with people flying around curves? How many different people should they pull over for to make it 11 miles down the road? Is that how you think people drive on a racetrack? The idiots on that road are not waiting for people to reach a pull out. Nobody is required to use a pull out.
This is the only problem with the route. Too many people think it's a racetrack and they don't even know how a racetrack works. You do not own the road. People are not required to pull over for you to pass. You could just pull over and wait a while. I'm sure you would not like people passing you in a blind curve. There are other idiots coming the opposite way.
@@jdpalmer1 there are a lot of people racing on the road. It's not safe to enter the roadway. It's only 11 miles, a person should be able to go 11 miles without pulling over for reckless people. If a person did pull over then then will find more people coming behind them again. It makes no sense at all. Those wanting to race are the ones that need to use pull outs. It's the people racing that create a problem. It's their problem.
@@RoadKing05FLHR I don't want to race, I just don't want to get stuck behind someone that can't even go the speed limit. Pull over and there will be no problem getting back on as soon as the group of people stacked up behind you are past.
NOTHING like a nice, stress-free, civilised, pleasant drive -or ride- ...without some asshole honking at you because he can go faster and NEEDS to like he's late for ...what!
no one has to get out of your way! they have just as much right to be there you are rude!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have ridden that road plenty sometimes fast and sometimes get behind a slow person site seeing you give motor cycle riders a bad name
The road is a state route and built for transportation in a very rural area. We have no rights beyond the speed limit. I get frustrated at slow drivers at times but I do not get angry and expect them to get out of my way.
so if we mic'd your car you are saying you never say a word even to yourself...sure bud. I would bet my life income that you invented sport bitching based on that comment.
Can't watch any more. My pard andi on a performance modded Harley and a Victory, WILL NOT ride it on a weekend because of the clueless slugs that a) won't use the pulloffs or b) watch mirrors, c) single up and let you pass. When with the Dragon, we are there for the ROAD AND RIDE, NOT the freaking scenery that never changes! We often even pass crotch rockets or adv bikes because they are just flower sniffers, duck-walking selfish no-riders. We feel your pain!
Really put off by the riders comments.Im a long time rider and get the whole cant open her up issue,but its a public road.For me,the riders comments ruined the video,not the car doing the speed limit.
Yall just let some broad ruin a perfectly good ride. You should have pulled over and waited 30 seconds and you would have been fine as slow as you're riding. That or pass them, they're in a mini van!
I can't believe that I watched this drivel as long as I did! It started out well... until the entitled karen attitude surfaced. It's not your personal racetrack, bro.
I wonder how many dollars these bikers bring to the local area???? Yes it's for everybody!! That being said bikers travel from all over to ride this road!! Respect goes both ways....
It’s first and last point A to B. It is a bit uncivil watching this and not feeling the commentator feels this road was made for them to ride exactly as desired, which does not include others. Pull off and if you can’t take it, your opinion is like mine, everyone has one. But why post a video of ignorance? Country roads in the hills are built for transportation.
Sorry but this road is a major entertainment draw for the area. Many locals probably make their living off the tourism that the Tail of the Dragon brings in
The speed limit on the tail is 35. At what point was the car going excessively slow. Maybe the car was enjoying the road. I believe this rider is arrogant. Doesn't help the motorcycle community get a better reputation.
There's this thing called consideration. Yes, the cage driver does have the right to drive at any legal speed, but if they see traffic building up behind them then they could easily pull over for literally a few seconds to let it pass. Especially since the cager was obviously not in a hurry. It's called consideration for fellow road users.
I have riden the Tail of the Dragon at least 5 times. All on a Harley Davidson. I currently own a sportbike and have zero desire to go there on it even though I live in Western North Carolina about 11/2 hours from the Dragon. There are too many better roads in Western NC. With less traffic and less police!! Y'all be safe!
Rode my Road King on the Dragon last fall and while I enjoyed it I also thought it was a lot of work for a big Harley haha. I would rate the Cherohala Skyway a much nice less stressful ride. And if you're on the Dragon getting so upset about what's in front of you why not just pull over yourself and chill out for 10-15min and you'll never see them again.
The posted speed limit is just that, a "Limit." Unlike an interstate, there's no "minimum posted speed" on The Dragon, which means a driver can do less than the posted speed if they so desire. If the vehicle in front of you is prohibiting you from driving as fast as you'd like, then quit your b1tching and just enjoy the view. It's only your road to do with as you please when there's no other vehicles ahead of you. When there are others, it's their road too, and if they want to sightsee (courteous or not), it's as much their right to do so, as it is yours to play in the curves. Learn to be patient. It's only 11 miles after all. Screw it! When it's safe to do so, turn around, go back to the start, and do it again. That will give the sightseers ample time to do their thing, while now allowing you the opportunity to do yours. I'll say it again. Quit your b1tching.
Speaking of interstates and "no minimum posted speed", go right ahead and putt-putt down the interstate and see if you don't get a ticket for impeding the flow of traffic. The posted speed limit is the expected speed of traffic.
I've ridden the dragon several times. Some cage drivers have no idea this is a motorcycle mecca, you should expect that. I'm not a super fast rider, and I'd pull over for you in a heart beat, but that's me. It is a public road, and the van was above the speed limit quite frequently. I understand your frustration, it is best for you to pull over and wait longer for the van to get ahead. Blowing you horns was a very entitled, dick move. We all make mistakes, not saying I'm perfect either.
Most people blow toot their horn as a "thank you" as they pass someone who has pulled over for them...only out of touch anal people honk back in anger.
Ride it 20 years ago and the low performance riders on high performance bikes ruined the whole experience not to mention they ran a fellow rider off the road fortunately no injuries just some bruises.
The path through the mountains at US 129 started as a footpath used by the native Americans in the region. They laid out the route. Also, south of I-40 there are only 4 roads to cross the Appalachians in East Tennessee. US 441 through the Smoky Mountain National park, nice road, but very slow and full of tourists, US 129, the Cherohala, and US 64 in the southernmost part of the state. Not a lot of choices, so the cars cannot avoid that road without going a hundred miles out of the way.
Another thing to consider is the time it takes for first responders to get to the remote parts of the Dragon. There’s a helipad across from the Harley store in Tallasee on the TN side. That’s the closest a helicopter can get to it. Robbinsville is the closest on the NC side. Sometimes, there are no police within 30 minutes of the Dragon and medical help is at least that far. The store at the NC end in Deal’s Gap is in Swain County, but is isolated from the rest of the county by 1/2 hour drive thru Graham County. Graham County will respond in an emergency, but it will still take a while. US 129 used to be a truck route, but they are now prohibited. Once in a while a truck driver ignores the warning signs and causes mayhem on the mountain. Again, emergency services could be 45 min to an hour away.
Lesson learned from this video, guys that ride BMW bikes are just as entitled and arrogant as guys that drive their four wheeled kraut burning cousins.
Imagine going through life under the impression that everybody else is supposed to stop what they are doing and cater to your needs. Get a bike with a big enough motor to pass Funny thing .... Look at his speedometer , aint doing shit except on the straits after the car pulled over anyways
That particular bike has awesome power available, apparently you know nothing about motorcycles. You are not supposed to not hold up other folks on roads like the Dragon, you ever wonder why they have turn outs???
@@russjordan6039 not supposed to break speed limit either. If they going so slow why didn't that powerful beast pass them? Crying through the video, feel bad for the teachers dealing with his kids .
@@mamjack6134 Hey bud, make up your mind, do not speed or blow by them and speed. He showed great restraint in making sure he did not put his or the car occupants in an unsafe situation. I am 71 and have been riding motorcycles since I was 9. I have seen these types of car drivers many times, I am not saying they are all jerks, but their lack of road awareness can still kill people.
I just dont think the orange Harley did anything wrong. He is behind a car for first half and two cars the second half. You wanted him to pull over so you could pass two cars on the Dragon? That would never have occurred to me. If anything I bet the Harley was thinking’s, “Good two more bikes behind me, now the car will pull over for sure.”
The management of your ride is your responsibility and not others that have just as much right to use the road as they please! When you stopped the first time that was your opportunity to wait the amount of time needed to let the cagers and other bike get some distance. Just like they can use the pulloffs so can you!
I have an F-3S Spyder. It’s a joy to ride! Wasn’t sure I would love like it, but I do! It’s like ridding a formula 1 race car on the street. I thought my ridding day were over after a major stroke 7 ears ago. My balance is the only thing that didn’t come back to normal after rehab. But I’m back baby, back in the wind!!! 😉 My last street bike was a 1997 Valkyrie STD. Loved that bike. Miss it 😥 at least I’m back in the wind!!! ❤️
There would not be a problem if you ride like it is intended . It's a state road,not freaking race way. You want a race way, then go to a race way. This should be common sence.
Right you are, I rode my Roadglide faster than they went after they got around the car. Many skill levels riding at their level is okay. Last one of this guys video I am watching.
All these negative comments…I just keep thinking that suv should’ve pulled over to let everyone by…maybe it’s their little game pissing off the tourists
@@briarfox637 I didn't say someone flipped. I simply used that as a metric. I could have said "less time than a hissy fit the length of the dragon's tail", but that would have been much too road specific. I wanted the instruction to be more general.
@@charlesbynum Right. The way I read it made it sound like you were saying it'd take the biker less time to flip him off, flip him the bird, whatever, just to go around him. I was saying the biker didn't do anything. The SUV driver flipped him the bird.
@@johnrenterprises2604 I don't see what he was doing other than complaining the guy was going slow. He wasn't tailgating, he wasn't riding up on him. Did I miss something from the vid?
Yeah, whining because you can't break the law during the Monday-Friday hours because normal people use the road to go to work seems pretty lame. Or entitled. Go on the weekend. Then you'll be the ones sworn at, yelled at, and honked at because you are too slow. Total lack of respect.
Number one: you don’t own the road . Number two: you don’t pay taxes to maintain the road. Number three: shut up, relax , slow down and enjoy the ride just like the other people in front of you
My husband have been riding since 1969, you need to learn that there are others in this world that you need to learn they have their rights not what you think is right just for you.
I know this is an older video but it just occurred to me that it would have been much easier to just pull off for 10-15 min yourself and then get back on and enjoy the ride. That van would have finished the dragon at that point.
@Mototrips do you feel you are special the road is yours to control? People like you give riders a bad name. I have been riding for over 30 year and I would love you to act like that behind me or anyone else in our group.
You don’t lay on your horn on the dragon. The main thing is being courteous. It is what it is. Turn around and try it again. Enjoy the ride. Why do you want the Harley to pull up? He’s waiting to. You think that fast. This is getting irritating. They pulled over for you. You got it now you’re fast now.
You prioritized your personal enjoyment and entitlement to your ideal video content over the safety and consideration of other road users. Imagine how intimidated and disturbed your horn blasting made the car driver trying to drive safely felt. Is there well known etiquette on this or any twisty road that says cars should pull over onto the cruddy verge for the benefit of bikes? Why did you characterize the driver as a potential roadrager? If I'm missing something please let me know but the episode looks like you were the inconsiderate one here.
The tail has paved pull offs every 1/4 mile or so in either direction. It’s customary by locals and regulars to utilize them if faster traffic comes up behind you.
@@WVRider304 yes there are pull offs meant for slower vehicles. This is common knowledge but the person driving obviously didn’t know. I’m thinking it would be great to have signs that are a little clearer for drivers so they know. It would make it much more enjoyable for everyone on TOD
The car driver was a jerk, there are turn outs for a reason, use them! In some states you could receive a ticket for slowing traffic on roads like that for not using the turn outs. God only knows how many dangerous situations this drive has caused and will cause for their inconsiderate attitude toward others. You missed a lot you do not even need to pull off all the way, just move to your right give a wave and let the bike motor by you in a safe way, it is easy and many drivers understand how this works. They gave the guy the finger, not a potential finger mind you, so assuming some road rage was certainly justified. Folks that ride motorcycles on beautiful roads like this are their for the enjoyment and there are always a few who want to make a point of ruining that enjoyment, and for what purpose. People must deal with reality and there are times one should be courteous. I understand how folks get tired of thousand of motorcycles invading their local area and many being asses, but this was not the case here.
In Cali... it definitely is not as special looking to me as it is for people from flatter states... but it does a special unique amount of turns and variations of turns so it would be a top road even in California. That said, it'd just be another top road lol.... we have plenty of others.
It was just another mountain pass until someone decided to market it. As a state highway the speed limit was 55 mph until it became saturated with tourists. There are many great roads with little to no traffic in the mountains, but none with photographers in the corners. The road is also narrower than it looks on video.
The speed limit is 30. I live less than 20 minutes from dragon. I pay taxes in the county. I try to avoid the racers by choosing times to use my camper van (also I pull off for passing when I can). I’ve had racers try to run me off road! Chill out man!! Some people (idiots) try to make a racetrack out of it and cannot tolerate it’s use by anybody else. The Cherokee Indians routed the trail. I’m thankful for their contribution. So enjoy the scenery. Don’t like to share? Don’t come!
A big AMEN!
Agree with Henry!!!
The speed limit is only 30mph if they catch you. :)
I feel the need for speed.
Btw.... US Hwy 129 is a national highway. Your county taxes don't contribute anything towards maintaining a national highway. All of us pay for that.
im sure the hundreds of thousands of visitors every year pay much more in taxes than you. they are vital for you economy
It should be noted that US 129 is a road that is used by the people who live there. It's not a racetrack. It's a normal route that locals use to get around. Just because you come from another state to ride the Dragon and have to go slow is not their problem.
Thanks great info!!
Man fvck that sh1t, Im racing for all 11 miles brah
Orr drive. We met a few locals.
Should have 1 day a week paid exclusive for cycle…….awww you’re right! That wouldn’t work=Who gets paid the money?
you are right but maybe they should use there rear vision mirror a bit more and piull over to let people past that obviously want to travel a bit faster than them just a common courtasy i would think
The cars and the HD may have been slow but you and Mr Horn are the only ones who showed their ass.
Thanks for commenting!!
Why would they pull over for tourers in Levis going 10mph faster? Grow some and go by!
"i'd like to overtake them, but they might try to run me off the road" LOL. Maybe I'll just sit behind them for 10 miles beeping my horn and flashing my lights....I'm starting to understand why car drivers hate us. Nice riding champ.
Even if he wanted to pass you really can’t cross the double yellow on TOD…just curious have you been on TOD?
Where is the video of you riding TOD 😂
Troll
@@chrissyfowler3613 Sorry, bit confused, would you like a vid of me riding the dragon, or a vid of me sitting behind a mini van and beeping my horn and flashing my lights at a family out on a fun family drive? 🤡
@@cphillips3513 no reason to flashlights and beep horns. Just ride normal!
Love the entitled attitude of the sport bike riders. It’s a public US Highway. Those that think they should be able to go as fast as they want are just as bad as the slowpokes. “I only want to go 40 or 45…I wanna go the speed limit”. Speed limit is 30.
That only works if a person knows numbers and can read.
It's your ride, go your own pace and be safe😊
Thanks for your comments!!
"absolutely absurd man"..............yes,.........yes you are 🤣🤣
Thanks for your comments!!
Dang! You’re riding a motorcycle on the Dragon, and complaining the whole time. You missed a wonderful ride.
Thanks for commenting!
@@mototrips1Stecoah Gap is beautiful! The entire area is gorgeous!
Whaaa whaaa” get a grip you’re not the only one out there riding. 😂
Speed limit is 30 up there. The "sad" memorial you saw was just one of many from riders like you. It's not a carnival ride. You didn't pay admission. You clearly don't care enough to even control your vehicle. On or over the double yellows. Too bad you didn't see more oncoming traffic to remind you what lane is yours. It's a great thing that you don't think you're coming back anytime soon. Glad your buddies audio was dropping out if he sounds at all like you. You give motorcyclists a bad name.
Thanks for commenting!! 👍
You should have made them close the road off just for you . What are them other people thinking driving like that? It’s almost like they we’re trying to enjoy the views or something! Man the nerve of some people.
You wanna enjoy the view ..... Then pull over and get a good look . Others shouldn't have to sit behind you doing less then the speed limit ....
That Honda should’ve pulled over it’s common knowledge on this road to pull over to let faster cars pass
@@GrumbleB the limit was 30, dickcheese here wanted to go 40 and stated honking at the people going the speed limit
@@saturnkingofmushrooms7821 you need to get your eyes checked sonny boy.....
Thanks for you comment!!!
The Harley and the car have just as much right to be there as you and there is a speed limit on 129. Why should they have to pull over so you can be a danger to on coming traffic?
Been on the Dragon several times. A lovely mountain curvy ride. I was on a “big cruiser” and it was effortless. I guess you ?think you own the Dragon….? It’s one thing to ride like an idiot. It’s quite another to post a video of it on UA-cam.
You will have to tell me at what point he was riding like an idiot??? He didnt pass on a double yellow, he didnt buzz them....he showed FAR MORE restraint than pretty much ANY rider I ride with.....jsut because he talks in his helmet about the fact that the people in the van were intentionally going as slow as possible doesnt make his riding and different....the van was a bunch of dicks
First of those 10 rules is don’t be a couple of douche bags.
At what point were they "douche bags"?
You might want to look in the mirror next time.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Dang it man, it looks like you got all upset about following the van when you maybe should have just been enjoying the ride.
The driver of the vehicle that you are behind has every right to be there. I f don't like following people you need to pull over and quit pushing. The road is not yours. Rode for over 25 years and never seen such JERK.
Hard to enjoy when you're going so slow you almost fall over
What a cow! So sorry you had to go 10mph under the limit most of the way- and then SHE got upset with YOU! People can be such asses…
Thanks for your comments!!!
This is a federal hwy. he has every right to it i drove 129 for 15 years and never pulled over . Let them get their own race track
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Hey jack wit, people drive this road several times a day to get to work, home the store etc... it's not here for your enjoyment it's to move from one side of the mountains to the other! As for the speed limit they are driving the speed limit and double yellow on this route which means no passing!
Hey Brucie, I don't live in bum fuk Tennessee, so the only reason I would travel that road is the beautiful scenery and twisting roads. It would 100% be for my pure enjoyment. So go play sheriff on property that you actually own.
@@guylupo2564Right?! I am a tax paying citizen and can ride where ever I please, Im a man and nobody is gonna tell me Im not welcome on public property
Thanks!!
Many of us that live in this dragon area truly dislike the entitled dragon slayers that invade this place.
Back in the 70's I used to ride the Dragon all the time, nobody was there and the rider had the feeling of being in a near primeval wilderness. I got quite fast on the road and had it memorized, I could ride it safely but I worked my way up to it. Some of the curves were reverse banked and there were places the road was in poor condition. I also rode the Cherohala highway a bit while it was under construction. All these areas were quiet and very scenic. I hate these places now and I'd never go back. It's all been destroyed, I'd get more of a wilderness experience in NYC Central Park than I would on the Dragon. I'm hoping that a horrific economic catastrophe will put an end to *all* tourist traffic in these areas and that peace and quiet will someday return. Back when I was riding I was going solo and cell phones didn't exist. Back in those days you play road racer in the mountains and fly off down a hillside at high speed - it might be the very last thing you do. Thanks guys, you've all trashed the place beyond recognition, it's all gone, all destroyed. TVA sure did help by destroying the wonderfully scenic Little Tennessee River below Chilhowee Dam. It's all an ugly mud hole now in fall and winter. In the early 70's this entire area looked like something out of a movie, scenery so wild and magnificent that it belonged on postcards. To heck with each and every one of you responsible for destroying these unique areas. May millions of fleas infest yer armpits! Same goes for everybody that ruined Wear's Valley. I used to ride my CB450 in that area a very long time ago when it was all small farms and a tiny little community place with a church, a store/gas station, a few other commercial buildings, and that was it. A neat ride with sharp curves, hills, spectacular scenery, and hardly any traffic. Today the entire place has been trashed beyond recognition with tourist garbage and "mountain homes" everywhere. And now every few years the place experiences big firestorms that burn down a lot of that crap, but they'll build it right back. Only a grinding economic calamity and decades long depression will return all of this back to where it used to be.
😆.... you one of the assholes going 5 under the speed limit aren't you..?
@@GrumbleB lmao Have a good day and stay safe
I would introduce this horn blowing clown to my rear bumper.
@@raytycker1656 you're so tuff 😂. Probably gotta Biden sticker on that bumper too...
After bitching about those in your way … once clear of them your speed was not much more? Dude, chill!
That’s why they caught up to them twice 😂…they were holding up traffic and should have pulled over…how many times have you slayed the dragon? 😂😂😂
@@johnstowe3267 wrong. Those wanting to speed through there need to pull over.
How do you expect people to pull over for you so they can attempt to get back on the road with people flying around curves? How many different people should they pull over for to make it 11 miles down the road? Is that how you think people drive on a racetrack?
The idiots on that road are not waiting for people to reach a pull out. Nobody is required to use a pull out.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
@@RoadKing05FLHRcoming from the person passing people on it lmao 🤣 stfu
I ride, but we do not own this road.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
This Guy thinks he owns the road I'd be going slower
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
This is the only problem with the route. Too many people think it's a racetrack and they don't even know how a racetrack works. You do not own the road. People are not required to pull over for you to pass. You could just pull over and wait a while.
I'm sure you would not like people passing you in a blind curve. There are other idiots coming the opposite way.
But if you're obviously holding up traffic you need to use the pull off for a few seconds. Unless your ego is too fragile.
@@jdpalmer1 there are a lot of people racing on the road. It's not safe to enter the roadway. It's only 11 miles, a person should be able to go 11 miles without pulling over for reckless people.
If a person did pull over then then will find more people coming behind them again. It makes no sense at all.
Those wanting to race are the ones that need to use pull outs. It's the people racing that create a problem. It's their problem.
@@RoadKing05FLHR I don't want to race, I just don't want to get stuck behind someone that can't even go the speed limit. Pull over and there will be no problem getting back on as soon as the group of people stacked up behind you are past.
@@jdpalmer1 or you could just pass or pull over
@@RoadKing05FLHR So your ego won't allow you to let anyone pass you? Too sad.
NOTHING like a nice, stress-free, civilised, pleasant drive -or ride- ...without some asshole honking at you because he can go faster and NEEDS to like he's late for ...what!
Yeah, but at least go the speed limit. There's a difference between going slow and going the speed limit.
@@briarfox637 you will never know.
Ohhh, but the opportunities you have. Too blind to see. Many Americans would love to have the opportunities you have.
@@ericwilson178 TF are you talking about?
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
no one has to get out of your way! they have just as much right to be there you are rude!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have ridden that road plenty sometimes fast and sometimes get behind a slow person site seeing you give motor cycle riders a bad name
WRONG!!! When you are holding up multiple vehicles you are supposed to use the pulloffs to allow them to pass....THAST WHAT THEY WERE BUILT FOR
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
The road is a state route and built for transportation in a very rural area. We have no rights beyond the speed limit. I get frustrated at slow drivers at times but I do not get angry and expect them to get out of my way.
so if we mic'd your car you are saying you never say a word even to yourself...sure bud. I would bet my life income that you invented sport bitching based on that comment.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Hey,buddy this is not a racetrack,it is a state highway !
It is not a state Highway. It is a US Highway
@@jnel57 State Hwy County Hwy this guy is a complete douche nut!
Can't watch any more. My pard andi on a performance modded Harley and a Victory, WILL NOT ride it on a weekend because of the clueless slugs that a) won't use the pulloffs or b) watch mirrors, c) single up and let you pass. When with the Dragon, we are there for the ROAD AND RIDE, NOT the freaking scenery that never changes!
We often even pass crotch rockets or adv bikes because they are just flower sniffers, duck-walking selfish no-riders.
We feel your pain!
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
You ride in your vehicle....I DRIVE my vehicle.....
Quit crying 😢 Mr. Impatient, 1000lb Harley-Davidson to your 350lb.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Well if you do not like it do not ride a Harley Davidson no one but you picked out a 1000lb oil leaking over price junk bike.
Really put off by the riders comments.Im a long time rider and get the whole cant open her up issue,but its a public road.For me,the riders comments ruined the video,not the car doing the speed limit.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Grow some and pass the car
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
I don’t think you should be on motor vehicles
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Nothing worse than jackass adv riders that think they own the roads. How dare people drive safe!
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Yall just let some broad ruin a perfectly good ride. You should have pulled over and waited 30 seconds and you would have been fine as slow as you're riding. That or pass them, they're in a mini van!
can't pass on double yellow.
If he pulled off you still have a car in front of you he couldn't go any faster than the car
I can't believe that I watched this drivel as long as I did! It started out well... until the entitled karen attitude surfaced. It's not your personal racetrack, bro.
They should’ve just pulled over to let the faster traffic pass…the end!
@@johnstowe3267 entitled prick.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Ya'll aren't the only ones on the road dude
That's what you should tell the ppl in the suv
You mean the people obeying the speed limit? Grow up!@@logut80
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
@@jamesadams2334person was going under the speed limit. Please learn numbers.
I wonder how many dollars these bikers bring to the local area???? Yes it's for everybody!! That being said bikers travel from all over to ride this road!! Respect goes both ways....
Typical arrogance of many that ride a BMW 😂. If your so good pass him 🤔
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
It’s first and last point A to B. It is a bit uncivil watching this and not feeling the commentator feels this road was made for them to ride exactly as desired, which does not include others. Pull off and if you can’t take it, your opinion is like mine, everyone has one. But why post a video of ignorance? Country roads in the hills are built for transportation.
Sorry but this road is a major entertainment draw for the area. Many locals probably make their living off the tourism that the Tail of the Dragon brings in
@@chrissyfowler3613 Highways are NOT entertainment.
The speed limit on the tail is 35. At what point was the car going excessively slow. Maybe the car was enjoying the road. I believe this rider is arrogant. Doesn't help the motorcycle community get a better reputation.
There's this thing called consideration. Yes, the cage driver does have the right to drive at any legal speed, but if they see traffic building up behind them then they could easily pull over for literally a few seconds to let it pass. Especially since the cager was obviously not in a hurry. It's called consideration for fellow road users.
I agree with you this clown gives the motorcycle community a bad name posting videos of arrogant rants over other drivers driving lawfully
I have riden the Tail of the Dragon at least 5 times. All on a Harley Davidson. I currently own a sportbike and have zero desire to go there on it even though I live in Western North Carolina about 11/2 hours from the Dragon. There are too many better roads in Western NC. With less traffic and less police!! Y'all be safe!
@@FOX1RR thanks for commenting!!
Classic ROAD RAGE…pull over and take a hit and mellow out!!!!!!!
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Rode my Road King on the Dragon last fall and while I enjoyed it I also thought it was a lot of work for a big Harley haha. I would rate the Cherohala Skyway a much nice less stressful ride. And if you're on the Dragon getting so upset about what's in front of you why not just pull over yourself and chill out for 10-15min and you'll never see them again.
...........or just obey the law!
This guy has something to say about everything and everyone. I've ridden The Dragon a few times. I've never had the complaints that this guy does.
Why are you in such a BFH hurry
This is the only route for some people to get where they’re going. You were being ridiculous! What a baby!
The posted speed limit is just that, a "Limit." Unlike an interstate, there's no "minimum posted speed" on The Dragon, which means a driver can do less than the posted speed if they so desire. If the vehicle in front of you is prohibiting you from driving as fast as you'd like, then quit your b1tching and just enjoy the view. It's only your road to do with as you please when there's no other vehicles ahead of you. When there are others, it's their road too, and if they want to sightsee (courteous or not), it's as much their right to do so, as it is yours to play in the curves. Learn to be patient. It's only 11 miles after all. Screw it! When it's safe to do so, turn around, go back to the start, and do it again. That will give the sightseers ample time to do their thing, while now allowing you the opportunity to do yours. I'll say it again. Quit your b1tching.
Speaking of interstates and "no minimum posted speed", go right ahead and putt-putt down the interstate and see if you don't get a ticket for impeding the flow of traffic. The posted speed limit is the expected speed of traffic.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
You are in the wrong buddy this is a highway for everyone to use not for you to test your skills.
You need to be more patient dude!!
Enjoy the ride
I've ridden the dragon several times. Some cage drivers have no idea this is a motorcycle mecca, you should expect that. I'm not a super fast rider, and I'd pull over for you in a heart beat, but that's me. It is a public road, and the van was above the speed limit quite frequently. I understand your frustration, it is best for you to pull over and wait longer for the van to get ahead. Blowing you horns was a very entitled, dick move. We all make mistakes, not saying I'm perfect either.
The rider should have just pulled over and waited a few.
Why?
@@stevegay9398 , because.
Most people blow toot their horn as a "thank you" as they pass someone who has pulled over for them...only out of touch anal people honk back in anger.
You need to get over your self.try the dragon loop,it's 110 miles
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Ride it 20 years ago and the low performance riders on high performance bikes ruined the whole experience not to mention they ran a fellow rider off the road fortunately no injuries just some bruises.
Dang it boy ride it some more. It's a nice road just don't get to excited. Lmao.
Thanks! Ride safe!
Take it to a track if you don't like other vehicles on the road. Its a nice road to cruise, not a race track.
OK. That's like taking a trip with a whiny teenager. Can't legally smack em.
The path through the mountains at US 129 started as a footpath used by the native Americans in the region. They laid out the route. Also, south of I-40 there are only 4 roads to cross the Appalachians in East Tennessee. US 441 through the Smoky Mountain National park, nice road, but very slow and full of tourists, US 129, the Cherohala, and US 64 in the southernmost part of the state. Not a lot of choices, so the cars cannot avoid that road without going a hundred miles out of the way.
Very interesting information!! Thanks for sharing!!!
Another thing to consider is the time it takes for first responders to get to the remote parts of the Dragon. There’s a helipad across from the Harley store in Tallasee on the TN side. That’s the closest a helicopter can get to it. Robbinsville is the closest on the NC side. Sometimes, there are no police within 30 minutes of the Dragon and medical help is at least that far. The store at the NC end in Deal’s Gap is in Swain County, but is isolated from the rest of the county by 1/2 hour drive thru Graham County. Graham County will respond in an emergency, but it will still take a while. US 129 used to be a truck route, but they are now prohibited. Once in a while a truck driver ignores the warning signs and causes mayhem on the mountain. Again, emergency services could be 45 min to an hour away.
Lesson learned from this video, guys that ride BMW bikes are just as entitled and arrogant as guys that drive their four wheeled kraut burning cousins.
Man you are killing it at 37 Mi an hour
Imagine going through life under the impression that everybody else is supposed to stop what they are doing and cater to your needs.
Get a bike with a big enough motor to pass
Funny thing .... Look at his speedometer , aint doing shit except on the straits after the car pulled over anyways
That particular bike has awesome power available, apparently you know nothing about motorcycles. You are not supposed to not hold up other folks on roads like the Dragon, you ever wonder why they have turn outs???
@@russjordan6039 not supposed to break speed limit either. If they going so slow why didn't that powerful beast pass them? Crying through the video, feel bad for the teachers dealing with his kids .
@@mamjack6134 Hey bud, make up your mind, do not speed or blow by them and speed. He showed great restraint in making sure he did not put his or the car occupants in an unsafe situation. I am 71 and have been riding motorcycles since I was 9. I have seen these types of car drivers many times, I am not saying they are all jerks, but their lack of road awareness can still kill people.
@@russjordan6039 whippty dooo
@@mamjack6134 Hey dude, your mommy is calling, must be nighty night....
Dude, really
And just where did you expect that car to pull over? You'd been better served pulling over yourself and waiting 10 minutes
I just dont think the orange Harley did anything wrong. He is behind a car for first half and two cars the second half. You wanted him to pull over so you could pass two cars on the Dragon? That would never have occurred to me. If anything I bet the Harley was thinking’s, “Good two more bikes behind me, now the car will pull over for sure.”
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
It's a public road not a motorcycle road.
The management of your ride is your responsibility and not others that have just as much right to use the road as they please! When you stopped the first time that was your opportunity to wait the amount of time needed to let the cagers and other bike get some distance. Just like they can use the pulloffs so can you!
I have an F-3S Spyder. It’s a joy to ride! Wasn’t sure I would love like it, but I do! It’s like ridding a formula 1 race car on the street. I thought my ridding day were over after a major stroke 7 ears ago. My balance is the only thing that didn’t come back to normal after rehab. But I’m back baby, back in the wind!!! 😉
My last street bike was a 1997 Valkyrie STD. Loved that bike. Miss it 😥 at least I’m back in the wind!!! ❤️
There would not be a problem if you ride like it is intended . It's a state road,not freaking race way. You want a race way, then go to a race way. This should be common sence.
Your more worried about what the mini van is doing , then just taken in the ride & enjoy the time.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
Eastern Tennessee has so many roads that equal or exceed tail of the dragon
Gotta be an entitled BMW rider who thinks the world revolves around them.
Angry about the car going 30 mph, then proceeds to go about 10 mph faster. 😂
Right you are, I rode my Roadglide faster than they went after they got around the car. Many skill levels riding at their level is okay. Last one of this guys video I am watching.
Thanks for commenting! There have been a lot of comments both positive and negative but either way I appreciate the feedback! Thanks!! Gary
I drive this road every chance I get and I’ve always used the pull offs for the bikes or faster cars. It’s a fun road for sure.
All these negative comments…I just keep thinking that suv should’ve pulled over to let everyone by…maybe it’s their little game pissing off the tourists
No, they are following the law. The posted speed limit is 30mph. Either obey the law or go home! @@chrissyfowler3613
Go around if you're such a great rider
Hell, that "cager" probably saved your life.
One second of throttle, properly applied, would have gotten you safely around that SUV. That's less time than it takes to flip him off.
He didn't flip him off, the SUV driver flipped him off.
@@briarfox637 I didn't say someone flipped. I simply used that as a metric. I could have said "less time than a hissy fit the length of the dragon's tail", but that would have been much too road specific. I wanted the instruction to be more general.
@@charlesbynum Right. The way I read it made it sound like you were saying it'd take the biker less time to flip him off, flip him the bird, whatever, just to go around him.
I was saying the biker didn't do anything. The SUV driver flipped him the bird.
@@briarfox637 the biker in this case was in the wrong with his entitled attitude. He got the #1 signal righteously.
@@johnrenterprises2604 I don't see what he was doing other than complaining the guy was going slow. He wasn't tailgating, he wasn't riding up on him. Did I miss something from the vid?
The people in vehicles do not care about bikers. Especially the ones that live there and have to drive this road everyday.
Yeah, whining because you can't break the law during the Monday-Friday hours because normal people use the road to go to work seems pretty lame. Or entitled.
Go on the weekend. Then you'll be the ones sworn at, yelled at, and honked at because you are too slow.
Total lack of respect.
"We're catching up to some haarleeeys" = 1 bike behind 2 cars.
The speed limit on the dragon is 30 mph. If you don’t like it ride somewhere else like the racetrack. No reason to be a butt about it.
Number one: you don’t own the road . Number two: you don’t pay taxes to maintain the road. Number three: shut up, relax , slow down and enjoy the ride just like the other people in front of you
I was kind of hoping a Sasquatch would bust out in front of you.
Would be nice to ride the dragon. But I don't care to put up with this. Can't just slow down and enjoy the ride ??
My husband have been riding since 1969, you need to learn that there are others in this world that you need to learn they have their rights not what you think is right just for you.
Just overtake him mate, weak as piss haha
what a stupid idea!
@@jamesadams2334Well take action or quit the bitching and moaning
Damn, look at your left turns dude.
They built it to haul moonshine back in the day
I know this is an older video but it just occurred to me that it would have been much easier to just pull off for 10-15 min yourself and then get back on and enjoy the ride. That van would have finished the dragon at that point.
That’s what I do here in Vermont when leaf peepers get too……SLOW!!!!
I've done the dragon twice on my bike and see no reason a car should feel obligated to pull over and let you pass. Get over it.
@Mototrips do you feel you are special the road is yours to control? People like you give riders a bad name. I have been riding for over 30 year and I would love you to act like that behind me or anyone else in our group.
The Sons of Anbesol won't tolerate your horn!
Nobody has to pull over for you! Who do you think you are?! If you don’t like it, don’t come back. Trust me, you won’t be missed.
Don't get pissed. The speed limit is 30 mph
If you want to go fast do it at night,Pus
Do you rip up TOD at night? I’d like to see that vid lol…
Don't do it at night, GO TO A RACE TRACK!
You don’t lay on your horn on the dragon. The main thing is being courteous. It is what it is. Turn around and try it again. Enjoy the ride. Why do you want the Harley to pull up? He’s waiting to. You think that fast. This is getting irritating. They pulled over for you. You got it now you’re fast now.
Thanks!
Just schedule a whole day or two there to do laps up and down, then you'll be like "ive got all day"
Tempers flare? I see a guy tailgating a van that has every right to be on the road.
Entitled much? Wow!! Just Wow!!!!
You let yourself ruin a perfectly enjoyable ride.
WOW!!! You were VISITING. They didn't build that road for you!!!! Chill!!!!!!!
You prioritized your personal enjoyment and entitlement to your ideal video content over the safety and consideration of other road users. Imagine how intimidated and disturbed your horn blasting made the car driver trying to drive safely felt. Is there well known etiquette on this or any twisty road that says cars should pull over onto the cruddy verge for the benefit of bikes? Why did you characterize the driver as a potential roadrager? If I'm missing something please let me know but the episode looks like you were the inconsiderate one here.
Thanks for commenting! Another point of view that I greatly appreciate!!
The tail has paved pull offs every 1/4 mile or so in either direction. It’s customary by locals and regulars to utilize them if faster traffic comes up behind you.
@@WVRider304 yes there are pull offs meant for slower vehicles. This is common knowledge but the person driving obviously didn’t know. I’m thinking it would be great to have signs that are a little clearer for drivers so they know. It would make it much more enjoyable for everyone on TOD
The car driver was a jerk, there are turn outs for a reason, use them! In some states you could receive a ticket for slowing traffic on roads like that for not using the turn outs. God only knows how many dangerous situations this drive has caused and will cause for their inconsiderate attitude toward others. You missed a lot you do not even need to pull off all the way, just move to your right give a wave and let the bike motor by you in a safe way, it is easy and many drivers understand how this works. They gave the guy the finger, not a potential finger mind you, so assuming some road rage was certainly justified. Folks that ride motorcycles on beautiful roads like this are their for the enjoyment and there are always a few who want to make a point of ruining that enjoyment, and for what purpose. People must deal with reality and there are times one should be courteous. I understand how folks get tired of thousand of motorcycles invading their local area and many being asses, but this was not the case here.
Seems we need signs now for common sense. Ida just overtaken
Nice video, In Colorado, that's just an ordinary mountain road! Guess we don't realize how lucky we are 😆
Heading to Colorado this summer…can’t wait!!
In Cali... it definitely is not as special looking to me as it is for people from flatter states... but it does a special unique amount of turns and variations of turns so it would be a top road even in California. That said, it'd just be another top road lol.... we have plenty of others.
It was just another mountain pass until someone decided to market it. As a state highway the speed limit was 55 mph until it became saturated with tourists. There are many great roads with little to no traffic in the mountains, but none with photographers in the corners. The road is also narrower than it looks on video.
@englishsteel2347 anything is special compared to shitty California
There are lots of great riding roads in that area the dragon 🐉 is just one of the most popular and most crowded
Think these riders would be upset if the minivan driver went to their neighborhood and honked and cursed at people for obeying the speed limit?
People just trying toenjoy the scenery and observing the speed limit. Just pull off next time for about ten minutes.
😅bad attitude, everyone can ride it anyway they want, they don't have have to pull over doing speed limit!