I am a native Floridian, but I have roots in Tennessee, Virginia and NC. The Dragon's Tail is like a "do it once to claim it" road. There are so many mountain roads in these states that have way less traffic but are just as fun to ride.
I was thinking that too. I'd personally get bored with all those curves, but I'm too laid back for that ride, it's not a thing to me. I workout in the gym, not on my bike. You know, someone could make a fortune if they bought 11 miles of land somewhere and built a winding road on it and called it some mythical creature's appendage name. I've got it! "Elbows & Knees of the Crocosaurus" or something like that. You know what they say, "If you build it...." lol
I could not agree more. DMV rode north out of Helen GA. GA Hwy 17/75 has been one of my favorites for decades. Like its sister to the west, US 19/129, much of it is 3-lane running uphill. There is really no need to leave Georgia. Other great roads in the Robbinsville area are the famous Cherohala Skyway. NC 28 is famous, also. Personally, I love the stretch between Bryson City and Franklin as well as 28 south of Highlands into GA and SC. Check out Wayah Road between Franklin and Wesser. And don't forget TN Hwy 68 south of Tellico Plains. After you run the Skyway westbound, turn south on 68. It's a great road with surprisingly little traffic. Turn west onto TN 123 which, after a mile or so becomes NC 294. Take that back toward Murphy. Have fun, but be safe!
I rode it with my wife on a Wednesday morning around 11:00. Perfect timing. I was able to just cruise along. No squids, no hot rodders. It was sublime.
That looked like a slow day. Most of the videos I see are of folks ripping around those turns at ridiculous speeds, passing, crossing lanes and wrecking. It was nice to see the scenery for a change. I used to think all those trees were just crash-landing targets for crotch rockets. I did notice a lot of older dudes and lots of cruisers, which I hadn't seen before. My ride choice is a Kawasaki Eliminator, and I like riding and looking around, oh and being in control too. I'm glad I'm not one to have that need for speed; not my thing and I wouldn't risk my bike doing anything stupid. I've seen dudes doing wheelies on the str8 parts and think, would they drive their car on two wheels? Thanks for the safe tour!
Hello! Thanks for the great video! In my country, i'm trying to avoid popular roads. Too many inexperienced riders, with big self-confidence taking too many risks, riding above their limit. Helen immediately reminded me of Germany. 😊 Take care!
I would encourage those who come up here to visit the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near Robinsville, off 129. It's the last large stand of virgin forest east of the Mississippi. Short easy hike from the parking lot. You'll see what these forests looked like before loggers came in. HUGE hardwoods and a rain forest floor make for great photos. BTW: Please remember that folks like I live here and actually need this road to do real stuff like get from NC to TN and back for work. Many days of the year it has become a nightmare.
Mrs and I recently purchased a cabin near Murphy. I've ridden the Skyway on my BMW R2250RS. Haven't been to JKMF yet. It's on my list for a non-bike day of exploring.
As one who has ridden The Tail of the Dragon many times it has now become a race course on many days. I support each person doing their own ride but many people ride at extremely high rate of speeds which puts everyone in danger.
Your videos and editing/narration style is very good, Joe. I feel like you may get more views and subscribers if you had a better camera. Helluva lifestyle, so i'm still watching... regardless.
If you get back down this way, I have a couple roads in my opinion blow the dragon out of the water. Not as many curves, but the scenery and overall feel, and the fact that no one hardly knows about it, make it way better! Appreciate the video man!!! This is my back yard!
I don’t know which big UA-camrs you’re referring to, but I’ve always been to meet folks who enjoy this channel, if I happen to be in the neighborhood. Just yesterday I met a dude in CT.
@Road Glider I'm sure nothing special and sure no big UA-camr that's for sure. I do have a small shop here in upstate SC and can do small bike repairs. Mostly dirt bike single cylinder stuff.
Also uphill handling is totally different from downhill handling. It gets real technical real fast if you get cocky. I think that's what gets a lot of people.
I'd much rather run uphill than down. For nearly 40 years, US 19/129 over Neals Gap south of Blairsville GA has been my favorite road. For me, it's lots more fun northbound than southbound. It's approximately ten miles with roughly 2/3 of it mostly uphill on the south (northbound) side. Much of the uphill is 3-lane. It's just badass. I'm 64 years-old and I still get a rush from it. Just watch for GSP.
Having been on the Dragon about half a dozen times, I always tell first timers, "ride it mid-week and on your first pass, take your time". The more you ride it, the faster you can go. Now days, I just pass on the Dragon. Like you said, just too many dumba$$es.Loved the quick low angle shot. Seldom see shots like that. Great video.
I have heard that the biggest danger is tractor trailers that Unknowingly followed their GPS onto this road coming from the opposite direction you are traveling. They have to take many of the blind corners using both lanes, blocking both lanes.
I've never seen one out there, but have seen lots of pictures of crashes. YOu're right about the GPS taking trucks there. It's the most straight shot to and from a lot of places around there
Great vid.. I rode it and I'm glad I did... but once was enough for me... We have crazy twisties in NoCal so we get our share, but we have the ocean and/or redwoods so happy happy. One and done for me!
Right on Joe! I’ll definitely take some time to check it out. I’ve been up that way a ton of times but never rode the dragon. As always keep up the good work and above all Stay Free brother!
I rode it on a new R7 at the start of the season.. Rained the whole weekend with few dry patches so took it easy but best part was NO ONE WAS there. Enjoyed the bottom section on the Blue ridge parkway just as much... Recommend that for sure!
While I have yet to ride the TotD it's one of only a few I haven't ridden. The Snake (Hwy 421) is my "home track" and I get up to the Back of the Dragon semi often. The Dragon Slayer is also a decent ride and all 3 of these have much less traffic.
2023 I visited North Carolina and one reason was to ride the Dragon. It was so much fun. I drove it several times. It was in the week. North Carolina have so much roads for motorcycling. I met also kindly people. After TT Isle of Mans visit the Dragon was a must. Not so fast as the Moutain Course ride, but narrow curves. The HD made sccccrrrr in some curves. So we were also at tte Outerbanks. Deals Gap remind me at the Breitscheid Meeting Point at the Green Hell, Nurburgring. Motorcycles, Cars and the sound of these... Wow wow and wow.
VA-16 looks nice and windey too and less cops/traffic, I hope I get to see you in Laconia bro! On your way to bike week I recommend rt 108 to 107 all the way into Laconia, enjoy the journey brother!!
Rider magazine started the downfall of Deals Gap back before the internet was a thing. Still, it's gotten to where every twisty had to be named (so some jack wagon can sell tee shirts and stickers). Sigh First rode it in 1975 on a 1971 AT1 Yamaha. 125cc single cylinder 2 stroke Enduro with ELECTRIC STARTER. It would do about 70 mph wide open. Rode it from Wilmington NC to Asheville to Deals Gap in 1975 (the year before I-26 was completed). About 425 miles each way, but I rode the Blue Ridge Parkway up to Mt Mitchell on the way back, so it turned out to be just over 1100 miles with some wandering along the way. Sleeping bag, pup tent & camping stuff on the back. The route was old US74 through Rutherfordton, Lake Lure & Fairview since the current US74 4 lane wasn't built yet. Quite the adventure for a just turned 18 yr old. The next year I couldn't wait for a used one as they had just released the XT500C, so I bought a brand new one (only new motorcycle I've owned in 53 years of riding) and rode the same route. Now I'm on a 2015 Super Tenere XTZ12EFR. 67 and still riding, 200 miles last night to get back home. You don't get too old to ride, You get old because you don't ride!! Keep putting out the videos, I like'em!!
Pretty cool! My second bike was a 1974 DT125A, successor to the AT1. Electric start, slow as a slug. I don't believe that I ever got mine above 60. But still a lot of fun. I put 16,000 miles on it in just over a year. I used to put 75 cents worth of gas in it and ride to school all week. Good times!
Great video Joe. Rode the Dragon back in the mid-'90s, lots of traffic, bikes and sport cars. Wasn't really that much fun dodging all the line-crossers. Eat more chicken amigo!
This area is one of my favorites in the country. I have been going at least once a year for the last 6 years for Miatas at the Gap. The Tail is definitely no place for anyone to test their skills. This year when we went we didn't even drive the Tail because there are so many amazing roads to drive in the area. The best I've found is Highway 276 between Waynesville NC and Brevard NC. It goes through the Pisgah National Forest, passes Looking Glass Falls, and is a truly amazing ride. The Skyway is fantastic as well. The Tail is just too popular as you said and way too many wannabe racers "testing their skills" for me 🙂
I agree with Radxcor83; it's a fun road to challenge yourself, but only if you can ride or drive it when traffic is light. But there are many other roads nearby that are just as much fun. I haven't ridden motorcycles since 1987, and rode the Dragon when it wasn't even called that. But I have been on it many, many times during the last decade in a Miata, and it's not difficult to go from Tabcat Bridge to COT in ten minutes while staying completely within your own lane with a properly set up car. I've watched a video of a guy on a fully loaded Gold Wing do it in less than ten minutes while staying in his lane, a totally amazing ride. There is an even better road (VA16) between Marion and Tazewell, VA called "Back of the Dragon", it's over 30 miles long without a single driveway or side road, and is just as crooked as TOD.
Helen: there are free parking areas near city hall...that is behind Wendys/Huddle House, over the side bridge and three blocks south. If you're just stopping for frugal dinner, Huddle House works for $10. 2 roads out of Helen North and West are gorgeous and very twisty with resonable 45 and 55 speed limits. 129 Deals Gap: ehhh. I used to call it the road to Maryville but it is now choked on weekends. Speed limit is very, very low. TSP write $200 tickets for days after anyone gets killed. If you're going to ride it at the speed limit as we all should, then it is a relatively boring ride. About 1 mile of beautiful scenery out of 11. Cherohala: and Joyce Kilmer is the best for scenery out of Robbinsville. Camping: Indian Boundary Campground (overflow lot on the lake) is $10 for tent sites. Bathroom building and piped water. Located right on the Skyway. Citico forest right behind Indian Boundary is FREE and the sites have portalets. No piped water. Joyce Kilmer: has several free or low priced campsites on the lake. River Road beyond Bald Creek Falls has lots of $8 or $10 wood sites. Fontana Lake to Franklin is beautiful riding, as is Hiawassee GA on Lake Chatugue. Free TVA dispersed campsites exist on the lake. I understand the track bike/sport bike draw for Deals Gap, but scenic cruisers, dual sports and standard rider have much better choices....unless you're in Robbinsville and just have to get to Vanore or Maryville.
I've done the Dragon a few times and always rode it early in the morning when there was little to no traffic. It is a fun road though a bit overrated. I have done a few cross-country trips over the yeaars and there are so many other roads that a far more challenging and fun to ride. But I think anybody who rides, should try the Dragon just to say they "Rode the Dragon'.
Hey Buddy ,Hope this finds you well, Really enjoyed the Vietnam Vlog.The Dragon is alot like Hocking Hills in Southern ,Ohio. I've ridden it many times and Hocking has the same type of problems as the Dragon.
I wrote the tale of the dragon slow my first time to get to know the layout of the road. Once I came out to Tennessee I turned around on my 2015 street glide and tore it up. I didn’t find it all that scary if you have good skills and been riding for many many years, you’ll be good to go one thing I didn’t notice as motorcycle cops a cop would shoot radar and the other to go after you
Been there done that got the t shirt swimming trunks and key chain oh and a sticker on my oil tank. Was there six days. By time I left I was glad to see long straight stretches of road . You can't go up to get a slurpy without taking seventy five turns. And forget getting anything after 8:00 o'clock . They roll up the side walk and lock the doors. We were in a DRY county. You could possess it but you couldn't buy it. Now I will say iron horse motorcycle camp ground was , absolutely the best campground I have ever been to . Without a doubt. It is in Stacoha. I would like to do it on a better handling bike than the heritage, but it did fine. Just think it would be much more fun on an adventure/sport. 312 turns in 11 miles . Thanks for the memories. Be careful and watch out for state patrolman. They had a bus set up with a judge and a balif. So they could charge prosecute and fine or sentence you right there on the side of the road. And I am not shitting you. I got pulled over and had a 1961 approved q ball helmet but gave me a warning.
Nice video you said it nice area lots of great roads to ride.have visited Helena quaint little burg. I stayed at deals gap on last visit jusy right reasonable rates comfortable. Good comrades. Just go have good time.😊
Joe, I used to ride the stretch of Highway 129 long before it became so commercialized and became the Tail of The Dragon. Talking late 70’s and early 80’s. It was fun then before so many inexperienced idiots started riding it. I avoid it unless I want to ride through Fontana on my way to the Nantahala or Cherohala. Oh by the way, the air horn will work as a bear scare tactic in most cases. Proven by me in Alaska. If it doesn’t work, it makes a good bomb to throw as you run like the wind. Lol
Yep. I had my daughter carry a shriek alarm (purse version of an air horn for rape) all her years in HS as we have occasional yard bears and live in a national forest with a 1/4mi hike up our private road. Yep it scares most off.... ....unless it really wants to eat you, then even bear bangers or starter pistols won't do it. Oh, I carry a starter pistol for vicious dogs, overly brave coyotes and bears.
I don’t know, I loved riding the Dragon, thought it’s reputation is well deserved. It had a great road surface and the curve radii are really varied. Fun elevation changes but not going up up up then down down down. First couple times (early 2000s) had the road pretty much to myself, left me with a pretty strong ecstatic memory. The last time I turned into one of those dumbasses that nearly kill themselves and others. Chasing that memory of sublime flow, I got too impatient stuck behind traffic… did some stupid things and narrowly avoided a head on. Big wake up call about what I call Dragon Fever. Had a nice 1000 mile ride home the next day to think about it, my foolishness changed my perspective on sport touring…
I did these exact rides this past weekend for the first time. I stayed in a great Moto campground in Tellico Plains for $12. The ride to Helen, GA from Cherohala was great.
The Dragon is a ton of fun! Just stay vigilant, stay in your lane, and you'll be fine. Avoid listening to music or earplugs while on it so you are more likely to hear fast traffic approaching from ahead or behind. Keep an eye on your mirrors as well of course and let faster traffic by to avoid having them pass you dangerously, but if they do go for a pass you can just slow down and hug the right side of the road, you'll be fine. And if you are attempting to pass someone that won't get off onto a pull off, ALWAYS check your mirrors and make sure someone isn't trying to pass you at the same time.
I say the reason is showboating for the camera. Those photo stations can distract and people wanting to get some cool shot of them leaned over end up losing it. Seen it happen many times. They also have a photo tent set up on the cherohala skyway, have seen crashes there too. Lots of other good roads all over the area that arent so crowded and patrolled. Too many people in the east now, wasnt so bad when we zoomed all those roads 15-20 years ago. I dont even like to travel much in the east anymore. Roads clogged, road rage incidents, revenue collection agents out the ass. They can have it. Enjoyed the video Joe
Yep 129 Photos set up on various places, Deals, Moonshiners, Cherohala, Blood Mountain & Fort Mountain GA. Close calls and lowsides sometimes occur curiously close to their setup. Living on one of those roads, the switchback fever has lost a bit of novelty for me. I just call it getting home. and I see wannabe track stars really go hard on their curve.
Another awesome video Joe (as always)! Whereabouts are you in NY state? I grew upstate NY and only live 10 mins from the NY/CT border but on the CT side. I would love to meet up if you're still close by in the area (even if just for coffee or whatever). I used to live down in Richmond, VA for a few years but never made it to the Tail of the Dragon while I was down closer to there. Definitely plan on going down and checking it out in the near future! You're absolutely right about people being dumb when it comes to driving on the roads down there. Anyways, I always enjoy your videos - thanks again! Stay safe out there brother and keep her on two wheels! 🏍
Funny you should ask. I’m near the CT line. Planning on heading over to Frank Pepe’s in Danbury tomorrow, then looking for a spot around there. Where are you located?
@@dirtymotorcyclevagabond OMG! That is hilarious! I'm literally 15 mins from there right in New Milford! What's the best way to send you a DM to exchange contact info to meet up (if you're interested)?
I live about 30 miles from your campsite, some good rules for the dragon only ride it during the week, if your bike has highway pegs take them off, if anything comes up behind you wave them around when it's safe to do so, there are local guys that have made 10,000 laps on that road they can safely go a lot faster, the front bench at the store is the locals bench, stay away after dark that's when the local killkids come out in cars, it's way more fun in the winter when nobody's around..
What's going on Joe Cool looking good..... great video... I live in eastern north Carolina along the coast I wish you& Scotty would come this way sometime I've been riding over 30 years I live close to a little town called Bath north Carolina the home of the famous pirate Black Beard also close to where Foundation power boats were made it's on the pamlico river if you ever come this way give me a message my man...take care
The Tail is ok on a weekday. Weekends, it’s impossible. I actually like the Rattler and the Devils Triangle better. Any case, any number of the roads in the area can elevate the pucker factor especially with dump trucks and lumber trucks on your butt. Those guys can fly down those roads. The crash guy, too far over on the inside. He should have started more to the left. He couldn’t correct his line and lost it. Probably a low side spill. Thanks for posting. Ride Safe Joe.
Ridden it 3X, never had an issue. Saw a lot of "Heros" ridding like idiots and forgetting other people were on the road as well. The Back of the Dragon is way better and often overlooked. Been down the Snake and up over the Skyway. That area has some of the most beautiful riding I've ever been on.
I just rode the dragon two weeks ago,I was more impressed with the ride to it . By far the hwy 1 on the pacific beats the dragon. However I checked it off my list.
They have race car rental and many don't understand what them lines mean, my second time, along with the race cars were pickup trucks, it was like they were out there just to ruin everybody's day, they absolutely weren't going to pull over Here, we have Brown Ridge, 12.5 miles, over hundred curves, fun curves, road well maintained, but people live on the road and they also know how to drive it and they know the importance of staying on correct side of the road....... occasionally there is an idiot, and occasionally a truck. A good thing is there is a road nearby that the thrill seekers in cars can go to, the curves allow for faster driving and better vision thru curves.....but yes there are idiots there too, don't understand the lines...... even when they can see vehicle coming they still cross over.....that unless it's a log truck(use to be coal trucks but don't see them anymore)
The only thing special about the dragon is its publicist an the traffic it causes. It makes sense for flat landers to be there, but if you live in these mountains like I do, the ride to the grocery store is just like that without all the crazy traffic. Not usually 11 miles in a row without a passing zone, but I am lost as to how that is a good thing. I'll take a road with a passing zone every few miles over that any day.
first off my hat's off to you for riding the dragon loaded up. I rode it loaded up some but no where near as packed as you are. second I was going to say that I much much prefer the skyway over the dragon. 3rd I went down those same forest roads you are on when i was in that area last year.
I was on the Dragon in 2017 following a Harley when the Harley guy’s phone fell to the road and he tried to grab it. It did not go well for him. I stopped and picked up his phone. He climbed out of a ditch and I gave him his phone. Joe, you need to buy a bear canister.
We used to ride that road before it became so popular. We started around 83-90. Now it’s too dam crowded to have any safe fun on it. There are many other roads in that area just as challenging with not nearly as much traffic.
I want to check this road out, but I drive a S2000 so I doubt I can enjoy the road without somebody behind bullying me to race or totalling my car when somebody jumps the double yellows. I will probably go but need to take days off work to do it midweek. Seems like a trip that goes through the Blue Ridge Parkway might offer more relaxed sights and driving for a convertible.
If you’re riding around there, I like the foothills Parkway much better for the type of bike guy ride. It all depends on your age and what you ride. But it is a good experience stop and get a T-shirt. Also stay off it on the weekends. Foothills Parkway there’s so many beautiful roads around there all over the Smokies.
Tellico Plains used to be my home for awhile, one year exactly.. Cherohala Parkway is my favorite road so far, the Tail is stupidly overrated and overcrowded.....by the way I love the new logo..i need on on my two bikes
Is there a reason you don’t carry bear spray? When I’m camping I always wear earplugs to sleep so the sounds of the forest rarely bother me, only when I feel something brush up against my hammock do I get concerned
Joe great vid! Hey on that chicken-be careful bc it is possible to starve to death eating chicken or rabbit alone. They are too lean. Body needs fats like from steaks or Wendys or McD its 100pct usda. Just no bread or fries. Keep the vids coming.
What would be cool is a mini 20 minute video documentary about riders from other countries EG Down Under Australia that wants to travel to the USA for a 6 monthish adventure ride around the USA and Canada starting probably in LA . The bike would most probably be transported to the USA or maybe buying a bike in the USA the bike would be probably a BMW 1250 gs Adventure or a Triumph 1200 Adventure almost all riding bitumen and good dirt roads . What would the route be ❓❓❓
Overcharging? I camped at the resort for $21, which included free bag of ice and showers. Right there at the very beginning of the tail.... Septemper of 2024!
Seems that quite a few believe they are the next pro racer and are trying to prove it on the dragon. I wish they would grow up and just enjoy the ride.
As far as the wreck goes, I’d say that someone went two wheels off on the right, overcorrected or rushed back onto the pavement, and got sent all the way across both lanes and off the hill on the left. All too typical over-correction. Word to the wise… if you go two-wheels off, (if possible) slow down first, come back on the pavement only when you are back in control(!), not before.
i have ridden it many times on my bagger and will again this summer but I ride like i have a brain which a lot do not.... You can follow several youtubers here that think they are ready for the isle of man when in fact they shouldnt even be playing on an arcade bike much less a real one... He has caused a lot of carnage but I wont mention his name.... I live in Roanoke VA and there are tons of great rides around here and oh VIR for those that want to prove their worth on a sports bike...
Hi joe. I thought the tail of the dragon was a bit overrated so many roads in the US that have more twisties and less people. if ya want the king of twisties. A day in the alps, pyrenees, dolomites, or the island of Corsica… a typical day will have 500 hairpins with seven summits and seven valleys, & less than 200mi.
It doesn't have anything on the old highway 40 In Mexico!! Around there I actually prefer highway 28, lots of beautiful riding in the Appalachian area though.
Overrated? Overhyped? never been so I wouldn't know. 2722 Miles to far away to bother. If for some other reason I ever happen to be in the area it might be worth a detour. In the mean time almost all roads here have lots of curves and spectacular scenery. So many I still have to ride.
I'm from north jersey . Me and a friend road down .Skyline drive to blue ridge parkway. All the way down the dragon was great but I agree completely bucket ride check box. Cherahola Skyline I believe was a great ride down there. So many epic rides there.
Forget the Dragon. There are plenty of helmet free, motorcycle friendly states to ride in. Also, neither North Carolina or Tennessee (the location of The Dragon) are Constitutional Carry states.
You can carry a gun without a permit in Tn. Tn law is odd that its still a crime but anyone that can legally own a gun an has no DUIs is exempt from that law. Gives cops an excuse to stop an question you. But I have open carried in Tn for years an its never happened, even back when permits were required. Courts frown on them doing it. If an action could be legal, the court expects then to have RAS that you are not part of that legal group before stopping you. Same reason they cant stop you just to see if you have a drivers license.
I rode it in May/2023 - it's overrated by far. It's a good substitute for a track day but there's really only 3 curves (that I can count) that you won't find on most other roads. I thought most of the people parked at Deals Gap were a bunch of posers from larger cities that went there for bragging rights.
We just rode the dragon this past weekend. Then we rode foothills parkway and tbh the parkway was a far better ride with better scenery. Keep in mind I'm a Harley rider.
Well if you decide a route through Ny I’ve got a good spot for camping, and a decent shop with a lift if needed, it would be cool to meet you. Whitney Point NY.
I haven't ridden TOD, but it seems like a tight, technical road. I HAVE ridden the ACH hundreds and hundreds of times and, over its 40+ mile length, the ACH has technical sections, high speed sections (including one long straight past Newcomb's ranch on the way up on which I've done about 138) and sections that will kill you if you lose concentration. You TOD fans need to come out west.
I travel the Dragon just to get back on a different route after riding the Cherohala. I despise it. Full of idiots in the wrong lane, slow moving Harleys that will never pull to the right and let you around. Too many cops to be able to ride a fun pace. I vowed to just ride the Cherohala both ways and pass on the Dragon. I really don't get the intrigue of it. Like it's some right of passage or big accomplishment just to survive it. It's slow, hot, and not scenic at all, but it let's the photographers and T-shirt people make a pay check.
Back of the Dragon Rt 16 from Tazwell to Marion Virginia is a much better road. 32 miles of twisties. The scenery is much better, and not to mention way less traffic.
There is a great nature preserve down there setup for campers near heltonville called lothlorien last week when I was there I was by myself in the hole Campground all the wood I wanted to burn centrally located in some of the best riding in the Midwest if I remember last year after you left New Hampshire you came through Indiana you come through Indiana holler at me Joe when you come through
I am a native Floridian, but I have roots in Tennessee, Virginia and NC. The Dragon's Tail is like a "do it once to claim it" road. There are so many mountain roads in these states that have way less traffic but are just as fun to ride.
I was thinking that too. I'd personally get bored with all those curves, but I'm too laid back for that ride, it's not a thing to me. I workout in the gym, not on my bike. You know, someone could make a fortune if they bought 11 miles of land somewhere and built a winding road on it and called it some mythical creature's appendage name. I've got it! "Elbows & Knees of the Crocosaurus" or something like that. You know what they say, "If you build it...." lol
I could not agree more. DMV rode north out of Helen GA. GA Hwy 17/75 has been one of my favorites for decades. Like its sister to the west, US 19/129, much of it is 3-lane running uphill. There is really no need to leave Georgia.
Other great roads in the Robbinsville area are the famous Cherohala Skyway. NC 28 is famous, also. Personally, I love the stretch between Bryson City and Franklin as well as 28 south of Highlands into GA and SC. Check out Wayah Road between Franklin and Wesser. And don't forget TN Hwy 68 south of Tellico Plains. After you run the Skyway westbound, turn south on 68. It's a great road with surprisingly little traffic. Turn west onto TN 123 which, after a mile or so becomes NC 294. Take that back toward Murphy.
Have fun, but be safe!
I rode it with my wife on a Wednesday morning around 11:00. Perfect timing. I was able to just cruise along. No squids, no hot rodders. It was sublime.
That looked like a slow day. Most of the videos I see are of folks ripping around those turns at ridiculous speeds, passing, crossing lanes and wrecking. It was nice to see the scenery for a change. I used to think all those trees were just crash-landing targets for crotch rockets. I did notice a lot of older dudes and lots of cruisers, which I hadn't seen before. My ride choice is a Kawasaki Eliminator, and I like riding and looking around, oh and being in control too. I'm glad I'm not one to have that need for speed; not my thing and I wouldn't risk my bike doing anything stupid. I've seen dudes doing wheelies on the str8 parts and think, would they drive their car on two wheels? Thanks for the safe tour!
You're so welcome!
Hello!
Thanks for the great video!
In my country, i'm trying to avoid popular roads. Too many inexperienced riders, with big self-confidence taking too many risks, riding above their limit.
Helen immediately reminded me of Germany. 😊 Take care!
Anytime!! That is very true
I would encourage those who come up here to visit the Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest near Robinsville, off 129. It's the last large stand of virgin forest east of the Mississippi. Short easy hike from the parking lot. You'll see what these forests looked like before loggers came in. HUGE hardwoods and a rain forest floor make for great photos.
BTW: Please remember that folks like I live here and actually need this road to do real stuff like get from NC to TN and back for work. Many days of the year it has become a nightmare.
Mrs and I recently purchased a cabin near Murphy. I've ridden the Skyway on my BMW R2250RS. Haven't been to JKMF yet. It's on my list for a non-bike day of exploring.
Awesome video and awesome content can’t wait for the next video Thank’s Joe
✌️
As one who has ridden The Tail of the Dragon many times it has now become a race course on many days. I support each person doing their own ride but many people ride at extremely high rate of speeds which puts everyone in danger.
Your videos and editing/narration style is very good, Joe. I feel like you may get more views and subscribers if you had a better camera. Helluva lifestyle, so i'm still watching... regardless.
Thanks
If you get back down this way, I have a couple roads in my opinion blow the dragon out of the water. Not as many curves, but the scenery and overall feel, and the fact that no one hardly knows about it, make it way better! Appreciate the video man!!! This is my back yard!
Awesome man! Glad you enjoyed it ✌️😎
These UA-camrs don’t meet their watchers unless they’re another UA-camr. Some kind of Hollywood click I guess…. Haha
I don’t know which big UA-camrs you’re referring to, but I’ve always been to meet folks who enjoy this channel, if I happen to be in the neighborhood. Just yesterday I met a dude in CT.
@Road Glider I'm sure nothing special and sure no big UA-camr that's for sure. I do have a small shop here in upstate SC and can do small bike repairs. Mostly dirt bike single cylinder stuff.
I agree 100%.
Also uphill handling is totally different from downhill handling. It gets real technical real fast if you get cocky. I think that's what gets a lot of people.
I'd much rather run uphill than down. For nearly 40 years, US 19/129 over Neals Gap south of Blairsville GA has been my favorite road. For me, it's lots more fun northbound than southbound. It's approximately ten miles with roughly 2/3 of it mostly uphill on the south (northbound) side. Much of the uphill is 3-lane. It's just badass. I'm 64 years-old and I still get a rush from it. Just watch for GSP.
Having been on the Dragon about half a dozen times, I always tell first timers, "ride it mid-week and on your first pass, take your time". The more you ride it, the faster you can go. Now days, I just pass on the Dragon. Like you said, just too many dumba$$es.Loved the quick low angle shot. Seldom see shots like that. Great video.
Thanks man 👍💯
If it weren’t for making a video, I probably would’ve skipped it. It’s a little like having out of control, flying missiles coming at you lol
I have heard that the biggest danger is tractor trailers that Unknowingly followed their GPS onto this road coming from the opposite direction you are traveling. They have to take many of the blind corners using both lanes, blocking both lanes.
I've never seen one out there, but have seen lots of pictures of crashes. YOu're right about the GPS taking trucks there. It's the most straight shot to and from a lot of places around there
Great vid.. I rode it and I'm glad I did... but once was enough for me... We have crazy twisties in NoCal so we get our share, but we have the ocean and/or redwoods so happy happy. One and done for me!
Right on Joe! I’ll definitely take some time to check it out. I’ve been up that way a ton of times but never rode the dragon. As always keep up the good work and above all Stay Free brother!
Definitely worth a go, at least once. Will do! ✌️😎
I rode it on a new R7 at the start of the season.. Rained the whole weekend with few dry patches so took it easy but best part was NO ONE WAS there. Enjoyed the bottom section on the Blue ridge parkway just as much... Recommend that for sure!
While I have yet to ride the TotD it's one of only a few I haven't ridden. The Snake (Hwy 421) is my "home track" and I get up to the Back of the Dragon semi often. The Dragon Slayer is also a decent ride and all 3 of these have much less traffic.
Great video of a beautiful ride. Be safe out there.
Thanks!
2023 I visited North Carolina and one reason was to ride the Dragon. It was so much fun. I drove it several times. It was in the week. North Carolina have so much roads for motorcycling. I met also kindly people. After TT Isle of Mans visit the Dragon was a must. Not so fast as the Moutain Course ride, but narrow curves. The HD made sccccrrrr in some curves. So we were also at tte Outerbanks. Deals Gap remind me at the Breitscheid Meeting Point at the Green Hell, Nurburgring. Motorcycles, Cars and the sound of these... Wow wow and wow.
Very cool! 😎
Great video Joe. I'm still living in the past of you visiting my place. lol Be safe my friend. I will be watching.
Thanks so much man! Be seeing you in the future I expect ✌️😎
Good video Joe; nice to see you back at your best; keep the videos coming👍👍👍
Will do it bro
VA-16 looks nice and windey too and less cops/traffic, I hope I get to see you in Laconia bro! On your way to bike week I recommend rt 108 to 107 all the way into Laconia, enjoy the journey brother!!
Cool 😎 thanks!
Rider magazine started the downfall of Deals Gap back before the internet was a thing.
Still, it's gotten to where every twisty had to be named (so some jack wagon can sell tee shirts and stickers).
Sigh
First rode it in 1975 on a 1971 AT1 Yamaha.
125cc single cylinder 2 stroke Enduro with ELECTRIC STARTER.
It would do about 70 mph wide open.
Rode it from Wilmington NC to Asheville to Deals Gap in 1975 (the year before I-26 was completed).
About 425 miles each way, but I rode the Blue Ridge Parkway up to Mt Mitchell on the way back, so it turned out to be just over 1100 miles with some wandering along the way.
Sleeping bag, pup tent & camping stuff on the back.
The route was old US74 through Rutherfordton, Lake Lure & Fairview since the current US74 4 lane wasn't built yet.
Quite the adventure for a just turned 18 yr old.
The next year I couldn't wait for a used one as they had just released the XT500C, so I bought a brand new one (only new motorcycle I've owned in 53 years of riding) and rode the same route.
Now I'm on a 2015 Super Tenere XTZ12EFR.
67 and still riding, 200 miles last night to get back home.
You don't get too old to ride,
You get old because you don't ride!!
Keep putting out the videos,
I like'em!!
Great info ✌️ will do!!
Pretty cool! My second bike was a 1974 DT125A, successor to the AT1. Electric start, slow as a slug. I don't believe that I ever got mine above 60. But still a lot of fun. I put 16,000 miles on it in just over a year. I used to put 75 cents worth of gas in it and ride to school all week. Good times!
Great video Joe. Rode the Dragon back in the mid-'90s, lots of traffic, bikes and sport cars. Wasn't really that much fun dodging all the line-crossers. Eat more chicken amigo!
Lmao siempre cabrón! 🐔
Got to get protein somewhere.
This area is one of my favorites in the country. I have been going at least once a year for the last 6 years for Miatas at the Gap. The Tail is definitely no place for anyone to test their skills. This year when we went we didn't even drive the Tail because there are so many amazing roads to drive in the area. The best I've found is Highway 276 between Waynesville NC and Brevard NC. It goes through the Pisgah National Forest, passes Looking Glass Falls, and is a truly amazing ride. The Skyway is fantastic as well. The Tail is just too popular as you said and way too many wannabe racers "testing their skills" for me 🙂
👍
shhhhh..... let's keep the idiots on the "tail" !
I agree with Radxcor83; it's a fun road to challenge yourself, but only if you can ride or drive it when traffic is light. But there are many other roads nearby that are just as much fun. I haven't ridden motorcycles since 1987, and rode the Dragon when it wasn't even called that. But I have been on it many, many times during the last decade in a Miata, and it's not difficult to go from Tabcat Bridge to COT in ten minutes while staying completely within your own lane with a properly set up car. I've watched a video of a guy on a fully loaded Gold Wing do it in less than ten minutes while staying in his lane, a totally amazing ride. There is an even better road (VA16) between Marion and Tazewell, VA called "Back of the Dragon", it's over 30 miles long without a single driveway or side road, and is just as crooked as TOD.
Helen: there are free parking areas near city hall...that is behind Wendys/Huddle House, over the side bridge and three blocks south.
If you're just stopping for frugal dinner, Huddle House works for $10. 2 roads out of Helen North and West are gorgeous and very twisty with resonable 45 and 55 speed limits.
129 Deals Gap: ehhh. I used to call it the road to Maryville but it is now choked on weekends. Speed limit is very, very low. TSP write $200 tickets for days after anyone gets killed. If you're going to ride it at the speed limit as we all should, then it is a relatively boring ride. About 1 mile of beautiful scenery out of 11.
Cherohala: and Joyce Kilmer is the best for scenery out of Robbinsville. Camping: Indian Boundary Campground (overflow lot on the lake) is $10 for tent sites. Bathroom building and piped water. Located right on the Skyway. Citico forest right behind Indian Boundary is FREE and the sites have portalets. No piped water.
Joyce Kilmer: has several free or low priced campsites on the lake.
River Road beyond Bald Creek Falls has lots of $8 or $10 wood sites.
Fontana Lake to Franklin is beautiful riding, as is Hiawassee GA on Lake Chatugue. Free TVA dispersed campsites exist on the lake.
I understand the track bike/sport bike draw for Deals Gap, but scenic cruisers, dual sports and standard rider have much better choices....unless you're in Robbinsville and just have to get to Vanore or Maryville.
Cool
Fantastic editing and presentation it's relaxing to watch your videos.
Thank you very much! Glad you’ve enjoyed them 😎
I've done the Dragon a few times and always rode it early in the morning when there was little to no traffic. It is a fun road though a bit overrated. I have done a few cross-country trips over the yeaars and there are so many other roads that a far more challenging and fun to ride. But I think anybody who rides, should try the Dragon just to say they "Rode the Dragon'.
Hey Buddy ,Hope this finds you well, Really enjoyed the Vietnam Vlog.The Dragon is alot like Hocking Hills in Southern ,Ohio. I've ridden it many times and Hocking has the same type of problems as the Dragon.
Glad you enjoyed that!!
I wrote the tale of the dragon slow my first time to get to know the layout of the road. Once I came out to Tennessee I turned around on my 2015 street glide and tore it up. I didn’t find it all that scary if you have good skills and been riding for many many years, you’ll be good to go one thing I didn’t notice as motorcycle cops a cop would shoot radar and the other to go after you
I cried inside, knowing that you were gonna have to pull that duffel off the back of your bike every time you needed to fuel up
Lmao 🤣 it’s really not too bad with just the one roc strap on the back. Worth it for the good mpg
Been there done that got the t shirt swimming trunks and key chain oh and a sticker on my oil tank. Was there six days. By time I left I was glad to see long straight stretches of road . You can't go up to get a slurpy without taking seventy five turns. And forget getting anything after 8:00 o'clock . They roll up the side walk and lock the doors. We were in a DRY county. You could possess it but you couldn't buy it. Now I will say iron horse motorcycle camp ground was , absolutely the best campground I have ever been to . Without a doubt. It is in Stacoha. I would like to do it on a better handling bike than the heritage, but it did fine. Just think it would be much more fun on an adventure/sport. 312 turns in 11 miles . Thanks for the memories. Be careful and watch out for state patrolman. They had a bus set up with a judge and a balif. So they could charge prosecute and fine or sentence you right there on the side of the road. And I am not shitting you. I got pulled over and had a 1961 approved q ball helmet but gave me a warning.
Nice video you said it nice area lots of great roads to ride.have visited Helena quaint little burg.
I stayed at deals gap on last visit jusy right reasonable rates comfortable. Good comrades. Just go have good time.😊
Sounds great!
Great Vid Joe. Good camera work too!
Thanks!
Joe, I used to ride the stretch of Highway 129 long before it became so commercialized and became the Tail of The Dragon. Talking late 70’s and early 80’s. It was fun then before so many inexperienced idiots started riding it. I avoid it unless I want to ride through Fontana on my way to the Nantahala or Cherohala. Oh by the way, the air horn will work as a bear scare tactic in most cases. Proven by me in Alaska. If it doesn’t work, it makes a good bomb to throw as you run like the wind. Lol
Thanks man! I'm glad to know it's been tested lol
Yep. I had my daughter carry a shriek alarm (purse version of an air horn for rape) all her years in HS as we have occasional yard bears and live in a national forest with a 1/4mi hike up our private road. Yep it scares most off....
....unless it really wants to eat you, then even bear bangers or starter pistols won't do it. Oh, I carry a starter pistol for vicious dogs, overly brave coyotes and bears.
Cherohalan Skyway was pretty fun. And great free camping on Lake Santeetlah!
Absolutely 💯
I don’t know, I loved riding the Dragon, thought it’s reputation is well deserved. It had a great road surface and the curve radii are really varied. Fun elevation changes but not going up up up then down down down. First couple times (early 2000s) had the road pretty much to myself, left me with a pretty strong ecstatic memory. The last time I turned into one of those dumbasses that nearly kill themselves and others. Chasing that memory of sublime flow, I got too impatient stuck behind traffic… did some stupid things and narrowly avoided a head on. Big wake up call about what I call Dragon Fever. Had a nice 1000 mile ride home the next day to think about it, my foolishness changed my perspective on sport touring…
Damn. That'll make ya think lol
We all wear the dumbass hat from time to time! The goal is to be less stupid as time goes on. Or as Elon Musk said: "... be less wrong...!"
I did these exact rides this past weekend for the first time. I stayed in a great Moto campground in Tellico Plains for $12. The ride to Helen, GA from Cherohala was great.
Cool!
Is that the campground on the hwy just before you turn into town? About a half mile south of Hardee's?
Yep, Smitty's is hands down one of the best motorcycle campgrounds in the U.S.!
The Dragon is a ton of fun! Just stay vigilant, stay in your lane, and you'll be fine. Avoid listening to music or earplugs while on it so you are more likely to hear fast traffic approaching from ahead or behind. Keep an eye on your mirrors as well of course and let faster traffic by to avoid having them pass you dangerously, but if they do go for a pass you can just slow down and hug the right side of the road, you'll be fine. And if you are attempting to pass someone that won't get off onto a pull off, ALWAYS check your mirrors and make sure someone isn't trying to pass you at the same time.
I say the reason is showboating for the camera. Those photo stations can distract and people wanting to get some cool shot of them leaned over end up losing it. Seen it happen many times. They also have a photo tent set up on the cherohala skyway, have seen crashes there too. Lots of other good roads all over the area that arent so crowded and patrolled. Too many people in the east now, wasnt so bad when we zoomed all those roads 15-20 years ago. I dont even like to travel much in the east anymore. Roads clogged, road rage incidents, revenue collection agents out the ass. They can have it.
Enjoyed the video Joe
Thanks man! They don't help the situation that's for sure...
Yep 129 Photos set up on various places, Deals, Moonshiners, Cherohala, Blood Mountain & Fort Mountain GA. Close calls and lowsides sometimes occur curiously close to their setup.
Living on one of those roads, the switchback fever has lost a bit of novelty for me. I just call it getting home.
and I see wannabe track stars really go hard on their curve.
Another awesome video Joe (as always)! Whereabouts are you in NY state? I grew upstate NY and only live 10 mins from the NY/CT border but on the CT side. I would love to meet up if you're still close by in the area (even if just for coffee or whatever). I used to live down in Richmond, VA for a few years but never made it to the Tail of the Dragon while I was down closer to there. Definitely plan on going down and checking it out in the near future! You're absolutely right about people being dumb when it comes to driving on the roads down there. Anyways, I always enjoy your videos - thanks again! Stay safe out there brother and keep her on two wheels! 🏍
Funny you should ask. I’m near the CT line. Planning on heading over to Frank Pepe’s in Danbury tomorrow, then looking for a spot around there. Where are you located?
@@dirtymotorcyclevagabond OMG! That is hilarious! I'm literally 15 mins from there right in New Milford! What's the best way to send you a DM to exchange contact info to meet up (if you're interested)?
Awesome man! Can you send me a PM thru Instagram?
@dirtymotorcyclevagabond
on the main strip in Hellen youll see a line of bike parked at a bar that is free bike parking only
Cool
I live about 30 miles from your campsite, some good rules for the dragon only ride it during the week, if your bike has highway pegs take them off, if anything comes up behind you wave them around when it's safe to do so, there are local guys that have made 10,000 laps on that road they can safely go a lot faster, the front bench at the store is the locals bench, stay away after dark that's when the local killkids come out in cars, it's way more fun in the winter when nobody's around..
What's going on Joe Cool looking good..... great video...
I live in eastern north Carolina along the coast I wish you& Scotty would come this way sometime I've been riding over 30 years I live close to a little town called Bath north Carolina the home of the famous pirate Black Beard also close to where Foundation power boats were made it's on the pamlico river if you ever come this way give me a message my man...take care
Thanks man! Will do ✌️
The Tail is ok on a weekday. Weekends, it’s impossible. I actually like the Rattler and the Devils Triangle better. Any case, any number of the roads in the area can elevate the pucker factor especially with dump trucks and lumber trucks on your butt. Those guys can fly down those roads. The crash guy, too far over on the inside. He should have started more to the left. He couldn’t correct his line and lost it. Probably a low side spill. Thanks for posting. Ride Safe Joe.
Anytime bro 👍 Will do
yup there are to many idiots like “maxwrist” & “antprilia” that think that place is a racetrack, good vid my man 👍
Lmao 🤣 thank you
Ridden it 3X, never had an issue. Saw a lot of "Heros" ridding like idiots and forgetting other people were on the road as well. The Back of the Dragon is way better and often overlooked. Been down the Snake and up over the Skyway. That area has some of the most beautiful riding I've ever been on.
I just rode the dragon two weeks ago,I was more impressed with the ride to it . By far the hwy 1 on the pacific beats the dragon. However I checked it off my list.
Exactly.
They have race car rental and many don't understand what them lines mean, my second time, along with the race cars were pickup trucks, it was like they were out there just to ruin everybody's day, they absolutely weren't going to pull over
Here, we have Brown Ridge, 12.5 miles, over hundred curves, fun curves, road well maintained, but people live on the road and they also know how to drive it and they know the importance of staying on correct side of the road....... occasionally there is an idiot, and occasionally a truck.
A good thing is there is a road nearby that the thrill seekers in cars can go to, the curves allow for faster driving and better vision thru curves.....but yes there are idiots there too, don't understand the lines...... even when they can see vehicle coming they still cross over.....that unless it's a log truck(use to be coal trucks but don't see them anymore)
The only thing special about the dragon is its publicist an the traffic it causes. It makes sense for flat landers to be there, but if you live in these mountains like I do, the ride to the grocery store is just like that without all the crazy traffic. Not usually 11 miles in a row without a passing zone, but I am lost as to how that is a good thing. I'll take a road with a passing zone every few miles over that any day.
first off my hat's off to you for riding the dragon loaded up. I rode it loaded up some but no where near as packed as you are. second I was going to say that I much much prefer the skyway over the dragon. 3rd I went down those same forest roads you are on when i was in that area last year.
Awesome man. Would have been a lot more fun not packed up lol
@@dirtymotorcyclevagabond haha funny I said the same thing..lol
I was on the Dragon in 2017 following a Harley when the Harley guy’s phone fell to the road and he tried to grab it. It did not go well for him. I stopped and picked up his phone. He climbed out of a ditch and I gave him his phone. Joe, you need to buy a bear canister.
Lmao 🤣 yeah, I got a can of it. i carry as well
Driving to fast for conditions
The crash was right at the photo op location. That had a good bit to do with it I would say.
That whole eastern Tennessee and North Carolina line area for many miles are great riding roads..
It sure is!
We used to ride that road before it became so popular. We started around 83-90. Now it’s too dam crowded to have any safe fun on it. There are many other roads in that area just as challenging with not nearly as much traffic.
Absolutely 💯
I want to check this road out, but I drive a S2000 so I doubt I can enjoy the road without somebody behind bullying me to race or totalling my car when somebody jumps the double yellows. I will probably go but need to take days off work to do it midweek. Seems like a trip that goes through the Blue Ridge Parkway might offer more relaxed sights and driving for a convertible.
Yeah the parkway is a great choice, especially from Cherokee to Asheville
If you’re riding around there, I like the foothills Parkway much better for the type of bike guy ride. It all depends on your age and what you ride. But it is a good experience stop and get a T-shirt. Also stay off it on the weekends. Foothills Parkway there’s so many beautiful roads around there all over the Smokies.
I injoyed it. Thank you
Anytime! ✌️
Tellico Plains used to be my home for awhile, one year exactly.. Cherohala Parkway is my favorite road so far, the Tail is stupidly overrated and overcrowded.....by the way I love the new logo..i need on on my
two bikes
I don't know where you got that emoji but kudos sir! 🤣 Will have a couple of em for you next time I see you!!
Is there a reason you don’t carry bear spray? When I’m camping I always wear earplugs to sleep so the sounds of the forest rarely bother me, only when I feel something brush up against my hammock do I get concerned
I do carry it
Joe great vid! Hey on that chicken-be careful bc it is possible to starve to death eating chicken or rabbit alone. They are too lean. Body needs fats like from steaks or Wendys or McD its 100pct usda. Just no bread or fries.
Keep the vids coming.
Thanks! Good info 👍 gives me an excuse to eat something besides these damned rotisserie chickens! 🐓
the bpr, 28, 107, 276, 215, 180, 348, 60,143,165 to name a few that are way better than the tail.
What would be cool is a mini 20 minute video documentary about riders from other countries EG Down Under Australia that wants to travel to the USA for a 6 monthish adventure ride around the USA and Canada starting probably in LA . The bike would most probably be transported to the USA or maybe buying a bike in the USA the bike would be probably a BMW 1250 gs Adventure or a Triumph 1200 Adventure almost all riding bitumen and good dirt roads . What would the route be ❓❓❓
That would be a cool concept
Killer ride rode in may had a blast
Good sounding bike your riding
Overcharging? I camped at the resort for $21, which included free bag of ice and showers. Right there at the very beginning of the tail.... Septemper of 2024!
Ride it on a weekday. Early in the morning. Less traffic
Good advice 😊
GREAT ART WORK ON THE DRAGON.
Bucket list for me . 🇨🇦
Welcome to NY!!! Give me a call. Scotty has my number. Cool video. Keep up the good work!
I got your number bro. Not sure yet if I'm going that way but I'll give you a shout if so thx ✌️
Seems that quite a few believe they are the next pro racer and are trying to prove it on the dragon. I wish they would grow up and just enjoy the ride.
As far as the wreck goes, I’d say that someone went two wheels off on the right, overcorrected or rushed back onto the pavement, and got sent all the way across both lanes and off the hill on the left. All too typical over-correction. Word to the wise… if you go two-wheels off, (if possible) slow down first, come back on the pavement only when you are back in control(!), not before.
Good advice 👍
i have ridden it many times on my bagger and will again this summer but I ride like i have a brain which a lot do not.... You can follow several youtubers here that think they are ready for the isle of man when in fact they shouldnt even be playing on an arcade bike much less a real one... He has caused a lot of carnage but I wont mention his name.... I live in Roanoke VA and there are tons of great rides around here and oh VIR for those that want to prove their worth on a sports bike...
Hi joe. I thought the tail of the dragon was a bit overrated so many roads in the US that have more twisties and less people. if ya want the king of twisties. A day in the alps, pyrenees, dolomites, or the island of Corsica… a typical day will have 500 hairpins with seven summits and seven valleys, & less than 200mi.
One of these days...
It doesn't have anything on the old highway 40 In Mexico!! Around there I actually prefer highway 28, lots of beautiful riding in the Appalachian area though.
Well, when you've ridden the devil's backbone, it's kinda hard to get excited about any other rides lmao 🤣
i went down the tail in may and on the last day some dumbass left a streak of oil in the middle of the lane going through the whole dragon
Fun ride, but way overrated
Overrated? Overhyped? never been so I wouldn't know. 2722 Miles to far away to bother. If for some other reason I ever happen to be in the area it might be worth a detour. In the mean time almost all roads here have lots of curves and spectacular scenery. So many I still have to ride.
I'm from north jersey . Me and a friend road down .Skyline drive to blue ridge parkway. All the way down the dragon was great but I agree completely bucket ride check box. Cherahola Skyline I believe was a great ride down there. So many epic rides there.
Cool!
@@dirtymotorcyclevagabond I was there middle of May. WE just missed each other.
Richard Russell pky. , moonshiner 28, Cherohala Skyway all great roads
Yes indeed
Dragon veteran, used to be a good ride. Sport cars have ruined it for motorcycles.
Waaaayyy overrated. I live a little over an hour from the dragon. It’s ok but there are a lot better rides in the area. Great video!👍🇺🇸
Thank you!
Forget the Dragon. There are plenty of helmet free, motorcycle friendly states to ride in. Also, neither North Carolina or Tennessee (the location of The Dragon) are Constitutional Carry states.
You can carry a gun without a permit in Tn. Tn law is odd that its still a crime but anyone that can legally own a gun an has no DUIs is exempt from that law. Gives cops an excuse to stop an question you. But I have open carried in Tn for years an its never happened, even back when permits were required. Courts frown on them doing it. If an action could be legal, the court expects then to have RAS that you are not part of that legal group before stopping you. Same reason they cant stop you just to see if you have a drivers license.
I rode it in May/2023 - it's overrated by far. It's a good substitute for a track day but there's really only 3 curves (that I can count) that you won't find on most other roads. I thought most of the people parked at Deals Gap were a bunch of posers from larger cities that went there for bragging rights.
We just rode the dragon this past weekend. Then we rode foothills parkway and tbh the parkway was a far better ride with better scenery. Keep in mind I'm a Harley rider.
So that means you don’t lean over, right?
I did the dragon on a 1999 Yamaha Royal Star Boulevard. If that aint a test of your skill nothing is.
Are you coming through upstate NY?
Not sure yet. VT and NH definitely
Well if you decide a route through Ny I’ve got a good spot for camping, and a decent shop with a lift if needed, it would be cool to meet you. Whitney Point NY.
🤘
yes man
********Hey guys....5.6k subscribers...let up the likes to get Joe what he deserves.*********
💯👍👍👍💯
I haven't ridden TOD, but it seems like a tight, technical road. I HAVE ridden the ACH hundreds and hundreds of times and, over its 40+ mile length, the ACH has technical sections, high speed sections (including one long straight past Newcomb's ranch on the way up on which I've done about 138) and sections that will kill you if you lose concentration. You TOD fans need to come out west.
Many good roads in southeast KY
Joe how many snakes you run across in Georgia?
We saw a couple of dead copperheads near Jerry place. Lying next to each other. Weird
I travel the Dragon just to get back on a different route after riding the Cherohala. I despise it. Full of idiots in the wrong lane, slow moving Harleys that will never pull to the right and let you around. Too many cops to be able to ride a fun pace. I vowed to just ride the Cherohala both ways and pass on the Dragon. I really don't get the intrigue of it. Like it's some right of passage or big accomplishment just to survive it. It's slow, hot, and not scenic at all, but it let's the photographers and T-shirt people make a pay check.
They marketed the hell of outta road. I'm sure it brings in a lotta dollars. But man, all that comes with a price
Back of the Dragon Rt 16 from Tazwell to Marion Virginia is a much better road. 32 miles of twisties. The scenery is much better, and not to mention way less traffic.
I’ll check it out
I rode the Tail of the Dragon in 2019 just to say that I rode it. I won't waste my time again. Not my kind of riding.
7:50 Possible Factors
Speed
Inexperienced
Youthful Exuberance
Miscalculated Turn
Road Debris
Worn Tires
Drugs/Alcohol
Stupidity
Last but surely least, Bad Luck.
Ride on... 😎
That's a recipe for success lmao
Cool millipede!
Schweinfiletring , is Indiana's Nurburgring x10(170m vs17mi)riding Tuesdayand Wednesday
Cool 😎
Going on Tuesday
Schweinfiletring is correct spelling not German here
Indiana Google the schwein filtering I'm telling you it's the hell of a loop man when the best rides ever and I've Been Everywhere
There is a great nature preserve down there setup for campers near heltonville called lothlorien last week when I was there I was by myself in the hole Campground all the wood I wanted to burn centrally located in some of the best riding in the Midwest if I remember last year after you left New Hampshire you came through Indiana you come through Indiana holler at me Joe when you come through