NatSTOC II - 2007

[Mellow]

DETAILS:

Date

August 17-20/2007

Place
IronHorse Motorcycle Lodge Cabins and Campground (http://www.ironhorsenc.com/)
Stecoah, NC
http://www.ironhorsenc.com/picts/logo.jpg (http://www.ironhorsenc.com/)


Give-a-ways

Gift Certs from
http://www.newenough.com/neml_images/banners/NE_468x60.jpg

and
1 set of ST1300 tip over bars
from bygdawg

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=dl&ID=7009
http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=dl&ID=7020

[Blue STreak]

North Carolina? Prefect! I'll be there.

[motomac]

WOW, that will be a long run for those that are going to WestStoc and NatStoc. But the western part of NC is absolutely gorgeous and has some fantastic roads as well. Maggy Valley is just a couple of hours away from the Gap for those that haven't run it yet, has a lot of campgrounds and motels also. I'll be wherever you decide to hold it.

[Mellow]

WOW, that will be a long run for those that are going to WestStoc and NatStoc. But the western part of NC is absolutely gorgeous and has some fantastic roads as well. Maggy Valley is just a couple of hours away from the Gap for those that haven't run it yet, has a lot of campgrounds and motels also. I'll be wherever you decide to hold it.

Well, WeSTOC is WEST-STOC and it's a pretty big event. I'd like to get more EaSTern events going as there are lots of members in that part of the country and the riding season is limited for some in the more northern sections.

2007 should be a great year for STOC events around the country.

[motomac]

I intend to be at both Joe, camping all the way.

[George]

Iron Horse campground and lodge, just east of Deals Gap on NC-28. That's where EaSTOC was last summer. http://www.ironhorsenc.com/maps.html

There was no EaSTOC this year as Gene couldn't round up any reliable help. NatSTOC could certainly serve the purpose next year. Also, a week after WESTOC provides ample opportunity for coast-to-coast.

See y'all at both.

George

[Mellow]

Iron Horse campground and lodge, just east of Deals Gap on NC-28. That's where EaSTOC was last summer. http://www.ironhorsenc.com/maps.html

There was no EaSTOC this year as Gene couldn't round up any reliable help. NatSTOC could certainly serve the purpose next year. Also, a week after WESTOC provides ample opportunity for coast-to-coast.

See y'all at both.

George

Sounds good to me.. I liked that place a lot. The babbling brook was nice for drowning out the babbling bikers... LOL

[number9]

Also, take a look at Kickstand Lodge. It didn't seem to be over ran with HD's when I was down in the area a month or so ago. Actually, that creek at Iron Horse was the only thing that made me decide to stay there (once I got there) and not ride back out to Kickstand. Hmm the Deals Gap area is only about 250 miles from my house.....maybe I will have to go on a recon mission for ya Joe ;)

[Mellow]

Also, take a look at Kickstand Lodge. It didn't seem to be over ran with HD's when I was down in the area a month or so ago. Actually, that creek at Iron Horse was the only thing that made me decide to stay there (once I got there) and not ride back out to Kickstand. Hmm the Deals Gap area is only about 250 miles from my house.....maybe I will have to go on a recon mission for ya Joe ;)

Jason, just make sure you slow down long enough to do a recon... LOL

[bygdawg]

I'm in. There's some great riding in that area and in North Georgia. This is a COG rally we did in Hiawassee Georgia. The pics. by the water was our camping area. The cabins there are not as nice as the ones at Kettle. :mad: BTW...I'm much more free during the months of June and July. :-)

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?dir=Jay%5Fand%5FJennifer%5CMotorcycle %5CCOG+Rally+2005%3B+Hiawassee%2C+Georgia

[number9]

BTW...I'm much more free during the months of June and July

Ya think? Some guys have it made.....getting the WHOLE summer off :cool:

Look forward to seeing you guys there again.

George, if it's okay with you, I think I will skip the gravel roads next trip lol

[sparkinator]

Number9---
Lets see how much sympathy I get next year on my 12 hour ride home. :D

I'm trying to work out a Westoc/Natstoc run next year. :eek:

It doesn't sound too bad looking at it from a year away. We will see how it looks the closer it gets.

[bygdawg]

Ya think? Some guys have it made.....getting the WHOLE summer off :cool:

Look forward to seeing you guys there again.

George, if it's okay with you, I think I will skip the gravel roads next trip lol

The only sad part being that the state of Mississippi doesn't think we're worth too much, so we don't have any money to spend while were off during those months. :(

[Mellow]

Okay, I made this official.. it's the same place as EaSTOC but this is such a great area you can easily not do the same rides or get bored.

[bygdawg]

That looks like a cool place. I hope they have t-shirts for sale. I guess I need to go ahead and book my cabin. As those of you that attended NatSToc know, I'm not much for roughing it. LOL It's a good thing too because Sunday night we got a monster of a storm.

[Mellow]

I'm not crazy about having two events at the same place ... with EaSTOC being at this location.... anyone have a good suggestion for another place where there's some lodging as well as camping?

[number9]

You still wanting to keep it in the Deals Gap area or somewhere else in NC?

[Mellow]

You still wanting to keep it in the Deals Gap area or somewhere else in NC?

Anywhere is fine, NC is like AR... hard to find a straight road.

[George]

the original EASTOC was at Blue Ridge Campground, jsut off the parkway, well east of the gap.

Suches, GA has two (two wheels only.)

Couple others around the area. Google will generally find them. Here's a link that shows a bunch:
http://www.alpurl.50megs.com/MC_Friendly_Camping.htm

George
NOT in Kingman, Arizona

[bygdawg]

I'm not crazy about having two events at the same place ... with EaSTOC being at this location.... anyone have a good suggestion for another place where there's some lodging as well as camping?


So, it's not going to be the Ironhorse place???

[Mellow]

So, it's not going to be the Ironhorse place???

At the moment it is but since I only decided that yesterday... if figured I might listen to some other options, fairly close by, since we already have one event there earlier in 2007. I just don't have much experience with the area other than IH so I picked that.

I'll give it a couple more days for more suggestions and then make it official... since I'm getting clost to my 15 mins of organization for this one (currently at 13 mins 48 seconds), I may leave well enough alone.

[FireSporT]

Joe,

I'm in for IH. I may not stay there, but run from home. I go past there every once in a while while commuting on NC 28 (Knoxville to Clemson). I only have a few more of these trips to make. If you need any local help, I'll ty to help out as I can. I would love to have this in my backyard. I'm sure I can get a kitchen pass when it's that close. (plus I have a whole year to build up brownie points)

PM me if you need anything.

Rob

[George]

Joe, you said it earlier, there's plenty of roads in the area, no need to repeat just 'cause the camp site is the same. In fact, I don't mind repeating those roads.

Also, I'm only gonna make one of'em, how many folks will make it to both?

George
NOT in Kingman, Arizona

[bygdawg]

Is everyone planning on arriving on the 16th?

[clmixon]

I just read the thread and ended up more confused. Should I just aim at N. C. when I leave WA. and follow the high pitched whining sound of straight cut gears or do we actually have a place where we should make reservations?

Chris :06biker:

[Mellow]

I just read the thread and ended up more confused. Should I just aim at N. C. when I leave WA. and follow the high pitched whining sound of straight cut gears or do we actually have a place where we should make reservations?

Chris :06biker:

It's at Ironhorse MC Lodge... not sure what's confusing :rolleyes: Are you bringing the weather with you? If so, I'll give you the alternate location.

[bygdawg]

Is everyone planning on arriving on the 16th?


Once again, I ask...:rolleyes:

[Mellow]

Once again, I ask...:rolleyes:

Too early to tell for me, depends on how much vacation I have but I'm thinking I'll be there the morning of the 18th... maybe sooner if I take a 1/2 day at work.:D

[bygdawg]

I may have to just leave early on the 17th and get up there sometime that evening. I don't think I'm going to be able to make it on the 16th.

[Blrfl]

Hey, an event I might actually be able to make if I slab it down and back.

--Mark

[bygdawg]

Am I reading this right:

http://www.ironhorsenc.com/rates.html

$40.00 to pitch a tent. IF so, anyone want to split a cabin for the 17th and 18th?

[Mellow]

Am I reading this right:

http://www.ironhorsenc.com/rates.html

$40.00 to pitch a tent. IF so, anyone want to split a cabin for the 17th and 18th?

That's if you Rent everything from them, look down a bit further:

Camping & RV Site (you bring everything) Camping fees $15.00 per night for 2 people, $5.00 for each additional person. Plenty of sites along the creek, but it is best to book early. Level RV sites available. Electric and water hook ups $35.00/per night (2 people), each additional person $5.00 per night. 110 VLT/15 AMP Electric hook ups $25.00 (PER TENT OR TRAILER)/per night (2 people), each additional person $5.00 per night.

[bygdawg]

Cool. Thanks. I was thinking that was crazy expensive for pitching a tent. I still think I may want to do the cabin thing, as the dog days of August are usually pretty rough, even at night. Anyone interested, PM me.

[lesjohns]

how about hanging rock state park, nc
6 cabins (sleep 6 each) + lots of electric and non electric camping?

[Mellow]

how about hanging rock state park, nc
6 cabins (sleep 6 each) + lots of electric and non electric camping?

Sorry, we've already picked the Ironhorse MC Campground/Lodge - check the first post in this thread for more info.

[bygdawg]

He had me at electric camping. :D

[Austin city limits]

I am back to thinking about doing this again!!!

Decided that West Coast was out this year,,, so,,, I am going to the COG National August 7th - 12th... Then,,, riding down from Davis West Virginia to this...

Hope this news doesn't cause a flood of cancellations,,, or,,, snow...:o:

[Mellow]

Nah.. but now, we'll have to find a good burger place nearby.

[Mellow]

I know I said the location for this year's NatSTOC was set however, I was wondering if anyone had actually made any reservations yet.

The reason being Jack Hunt, a fellow STOC member, and his wife Lori run Hunt's Motorcycle Campground and it's very similar to the Ironhorse. They just opened this business in May and I thought it would be nice to give them some business.

What do you think? This campground is about 11 miles from Madison which has several hotels for those wanting something more than a cottage at the campground.

Just wanted to throw that out for discussion.

http://www.huntslodge.com/default.html

[motomac]

I'm game. You know me, I don't make reservations.

[bygdawg]

Personally, I like the look of the Ironhorse better, but if their cottage rates are better, I'm all about some savings. :D

[bygdawg]

Let's lock on a date and place so those of us that "do" like to prepare ahead can go ahead and make plans. :banghead: :capwin: :hat1:

[Mellow]

Let's lock on a date and place so those of us that "do" like to prepare ahead can go ahead and make plans. :banghead: :capwin: :hat1:

That's fine with me.. I think we can just keep it as is... and make it the Ironhorse this time around. I think they have a few better facilities for those that aren't as into camping and roughing it.

I'm thinking Hunt's lodge would be a great place for the next EaSTcampSTOC in 2008.

Now.. plan-away.. :hat1:

[ParkerBill]

Sounds great, Joe. I'm thinking I might attend. I just missed the WESTOC in Colorado last summer (2006)--since I was already in FL. I guess it wouldn't have mattered anyway, since I had totalled my first '06 ST and didn't have my 2nd one until October. :D :D

I did make the quickly put together FL-STOC last December and although very brief, it was local and I had a great time and met some of the local ST owners who have been very helpful to me. It would be great to attend one of the bigger STOC gatherings!!!

[motomac]

Well, I'm certainly glad you made up my mind!!!

[bygdawg]

I go to book now. I did notice that Hunt's offered better pricing on the cottages, so we'll have to give them a shot the next time around. :capwin:

[STPaulK]

I'm sort of confused on how this Ironhorse place operates. If I want to reserve a room for two guys from Minnesota, are we placed in a private room in a community cabin? It doesn't look as if they have any two person cabins. On chance they are full, are their other lodging very close by?

[number9]

Tuskeegee Motel is a few miles down the road and where I stayed at the last EaSTOC. The rooms are cheap and the tv only gets a few channels, and there is a payphone outside but it is a good little place to stay if you want your own shower/room.

http://www.tuskeegeemotel.com/

[bygdawg]

I'm sort of confused on how this Ironhorse place operates. If I want to reserve a room for two guys from Minnesota, are we placed in a private room in a community cabin? It doesn't look as if they have any two person cabins. On chance they are full, are their other lodging very close by?


You just tell them which room you want. I got the semi private which splits a shower between the other room. THe room has a creek side view, porch, and heat/air. Also, the room has two twin beds. You just have to let them know what you want when you make the call. That room was $70.00 per night plus tax. I didn't really care for their cancellation policy, as they really don't have one, but oh well...

[STPaulK]

No cancellation policy? Does that mean I have to fill their room for them if we decide not to ride all the way from Minnesota for this? Or do they just not list any sort of policy and everything is on a case by case basis?

[bygdawg]

CANCELLATION POLICY:

* If a reservation is cancelled at least seven days prior to reservation date
we will apply your full deposit to a future date.
* If less than seven days, 50% of deposit will be applied to future date.
* If less than three days, deposit will be forfeited.
* If we can book your room for the days you had reserved we will not charge
a cancellation fee.
* If you do not show up or call and cancel your reservation, you will be
charged for the entire reservation.

In other words, you are going to stay with them at some point, if you make reservations or forfeit your money if you don't.

[STPaulK]

CANCELLATION POLICY:

* If a reservation is cancelled at least seven days prior to reservation date
we will apply your full deposit to a future date.
* If less than seven days, 50% of deposit will be applied to future date.
* If less than three days, deposit will be forfeited.
* If we can book your room for the days you had reserved we will not charge
a cancellation fee.
* If you do not show up or call and cancel your reservation, you will be
charged for the entire reservation.

In other words, you are going to stay with them at some point, if you make reservations or forfeit your money if you don't.

Wow, that is pretty hard policy. I guess they are tired of trying to fill cabins when people are cancelling on short notice. Guess I couldn't blame them although I cannot make a commitment like this when I don't even know if I'm making the ride down there. I'll look at that place Jason recommended. Thanks for spending time to post the policy there Byg!

[MAC_JD]

Anyone want to split a cabin?

JD

[bygdawg]

Don't do anything just yet. Jennifer is saying that she might tag along. If that is the case, I'll let you and Chris split the other room, and I'll book a private cabin. I'll try to let you know something by the end of the week.

Later,
bygdawg

[MAC_JD]

OK

JD

[clmixon]

Hi JD!

Did Jay mention that I like to cuddle?

Chris :cool:

[MAC_JD]

Hey Chris!!

He didn't mention it but he certainly does!!!!

JD

[bygdawg]

:eek:

Now I'm starting to worry that you both spent too much time in the Navy. Wait...Chris wasn't even in the Navy. :eek: :crackup Between the two of you, I'm not sure anyone could get any sleep with all the log cutting that would be going on. :crackup You guys really know how to make that "Private" cabin look like money well spent. :D

BTW Mac...I couldn't help but notice that we've picked up a new sponsor on the forum:
http://tinyurl.com/2jmm63


Maybe they are listening to the needs of the older generation around here. :-o

[MAC_JD]

My Chiropractor is definitley earning her money this week!!

JD

[bygdawg]

Hey...I can kind of tell that's you in the avatar.

[George]

Hmmmm, not much activity here, but Gene's ride the following week (EASTOC) has a petty long list of attendees. So far, I'm the _only_ one to click the attend button on NATSTOC. Wazzup wi' dat?

Since I'm gonna be in the area anyway, I could force myself to hang for a week and do both, then do BearSTOC thru SD on the the way home (with a N>S run into Texas thrown in for good measure.

So...

Who's planning on NatSTOC besides me?

[Mellow]

George, I'm going.. Look at the Friday date.. that's where it's linked from the events page... You can actually attend each day of the event and you just had Sat checked. I don't think everyone knows about this so I typically mark the first day.. but, like I said, you can mark multiple days...

There's at least a few of us going, maybe 4 so far... hey, it might not be big but it will be fun.

[bygdawg]

I didn't know about the sign up, and I'm still not sure I can find it. LOL However, I know that I'm going to be there. My wife will also be tagging along this time. I also know that Chris and Mac JD are going to be there. I'm pretty sure a few others have mentioned attending as well. So, I'm expecting it to be about the same or more than at the last NatSToc. I plan on arriving on Friday and leaving on Monday. I've already booked two cabins at the joint, one of which Mac and Chris will be splitting. The wife and I will occupy the other one. I'm not sure she'll do much day riding on Sat. or Sunday, as she's a bit more into relaxing, but I plan on riding both days.

Later,
bygdawg

[M2LewisJ]

Some other options for rooms in the local area:
Bryson City - Sleep Inn (30 Miles away)
Cherokee - Several, major chains (45 Miles away)
Sylva - Several Major HIE, BW, Hampton, (45 Miles away)
Andrews - Andrews Valley Inn (35 Miles away) [Okay - not great]
Murphy - HIE, Hampton and local (45 Miles away) [Hampton is new]
Robinsville - Micro and Two Wheel Inn (10 Miles away)
Blairsville Ga - Copperhear Motorcycle Resort [60 Miles] Nice!
All Over - B&B, Cabins and Houses Lots to choose from.
Fontana Village Resort is about 5 miles away.

I live in the area, so if anyone needs assistance please let me know.

Jack

[bygdawg]

Bryson city has a B&B very close by. I can't recall the name of the joint, but I spent a few nights there about three years back.

[Austin city limits]

The Kickstand right down the road has a good Bunk House that will sleep as many as 4,,, and it is right by the showers and the bathroom off to the back of the property... They also have little cabins to rent...

Me??? I like the Kickstand but who cares about me as I can't STILL,,, make up my mind if I am doing this or heading for Maine!!! :rolleyes:

http://www.kickstandlodge.com

[STindy05]

George, I'm going.. Look at the Friday date.. that's where it's linked from the events page... You can actually attend each day of the event and you just had Sat checked. I don't think everyone knows about this so I typically mark the first day.. but, like I said, you can mark multiple days...

There's at least a few of us going, maybe 4 so far... hey, it might not be big but it will be fun.

:22yikes: Joe...You are actually going to make this STOC event! I may have to come just to see it. If I decide to go that won't make you change your mind will it? Did a two and a half day trip for NC stoc and that worked out well...may try this event too.

[Mellow]

:22yikes: Joe...You are actually going to make this STOC event! I may have to come just to see it. If I decide to go that won't make you change your mind will it? Did a two and a half day trip for NC stoc and that worked out well...may try this event too.

Yes sir, I will make this one. I have just enough vacation to cover the WeSTcampSTOC, NatSTOC and CT-STOC then I'm about out of gas.. LOL

It will be good to meet you. Hopefully, there will be many new and familiar faces.

[clmixon]

As Jay said, I am on the schedule, riding across from WESTOC.

I am gonna try crossing ID and MT on Highway 12 then cut down to Yellowstone, then down to I-80, run across to Dayton OH, see the Air Force Museum and then get to Stcoah on the 17th. ride there for the weekend then head back home.

Rob mumbled something about maybe coming across instead of heading back to Tx. righ away but I haven't heard if that was firm.

If work decides I can't be gone that long in a row, I will IBA it from WA to LA, work a day or two and then Burn on over to Natstoc II.

Chris

[MAC_JD]

Chris,

I am closing on my house on the 15th, moving on the 16th and riding to NatSTOC on the 17th!!!

See you there late.

JD

[Mellow]

Chris,

I am closing on my house on the 15th, moving on the 16th and riding to NatSTOC on the 17th!!!

See you there late.

JD

LOL.. now That's a rider...

I guess I should bring my rain gear if Chris is coming.:hat1:

[bygdawg]

Yes you should. Jennifer and I went to the dealership and picked her up some fresh rain gear just the other day. On a bright note, at least it won't be raining and COLD. lol

[clmixon]

Ouch!

Whats that sticking out of my back, right between the shoulder blades? :rolleyes:

I was no where near central Texas last month, I have not even thought about it. It's all coincidence, thats right coincidence....


BTW, it already rains in the Pacific Northwest, I am not taking the blame for rain in Washington State.

Chris :06biker:

[bygdawg]

Mac and I had no rain without you around while we did the whole Pacific Northwest! :eek: :crackup I think it was you that brought that freezing rain to Moonshine. If you recall, we did okay until we got north of Kentucky. lol

[Austin city limits]

Ok,,, I am planning on making this...

:::::cancellations will come in droves now:::::

Anyone have a room to share as I would rather sleep in a bed than camp... If none to share,,, I will get a room myself...

Yes,,, Yes,,, OK!!! Yes,,, I do like to Cuddle and sleep in the nude but,,, that is only documented in the past,,, and all warrants have expired too... :rolleyes:

[Mellow]

Cool.. I finally get to meet the famous Terry.!!!!

[clmixon]

Ok,,, I am planning on making this...

:::::cancellations will come in droves now:::::

Anyone have a room to share as I would rather sleep in a bed than camp... If none to share,,, I will get a room myself...

Yes,,, Yes,,, OK!!! Yes,,, I do like to Cuddle and sleep in the nude but,,, that is only documented in the past,,, and all warrants have expired too... :rolleyes:


But are you gonna sing? :rolleyes:

Chris :06biker:

[bygdawg]

Who? Me? You don't have to call me... :crackup

[hojo in sc]

Do we have a head count on how many are going? I'm gonna see if my wife will tag along, that way I'll stay out of trouble!:rolleyes:

[Mellow]

On the calendar, it shows 5 Yes and 1 maybe..

[George]

Joe, the "attend" button on the front page shows only two attending, me 'n you.

Wazzup wi'dat?

[Mellow]

Ah... nope.. here's the link..

http://www.st-owners.com/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=111&day=2007-8-17&c=1

[bygdawg]

Okay...I RSVP'd. :D

[Austin city limits]

Cool.. I finally get to meet the famous Terry.!!!!

Yup,,, famous for diving through Back Windows of Cadillac's,,, and finding the only Convertible within 92 miles,,, and timing it PERFECTLY when the Einstein is backing out in front of me...

Me???

I am about ready to "Retire" from the lime light,,, and join the rest of the crowd of normals... :duck:

[Austin city limits]

But are you gonna sing? :rolleyes:

Chris :06biker:

I will put on a "Song and Dance",,, just like normal... :rolleyes:

[bygdawg]

Anyone recall how many folks we had at NatSToc last year?

[Mellow]

Anyone recall how many folks we had at NatSToc last year?

Sure don't, but we had quite a few. I think with this being back to back with EaSTOC and that being an event that's been around a while the attendance may be smaller.

I'm guessing we had at least 25 bikes and maybe 35 that showed up during the event.

[bygdawg]

That's about what I had figured but couldn't recall for sure. I was thinking around 25.

[motomac]

28 signed the banner!!!

[bygdawg]

You not coming this year Mac?

[motomac]

I'm torn between Nat and ONSToc. Chris PMed me wanting to know if I could get the banner there. Joe, what do you think, after WesToc should I take the banner to ONSToc? I can take it to CTSToc from there for presentation to Kempo-STer.

[Mellow]

Since the banner has already seen one NatSTOC... I would say let's pass it to the Canadians... would be nice if it actually made it across the border...

[bygdawg]

But....But...but....We'll starve without Mac around to cook. ;) I also noted that the Ironhorse hadn't listed our event under their events section. I guess someone on their end dropped the ball on that one.

[motomac]

Since the banner has already seen one NatSTOC... I would say let's pass it to the Canadians... would be nice if it actually made it across the border...

Thanks Joe, I'm sure the fellas above the border will appreciate it. So I guess my decision is made. ONSToc here I come!!! You reading this Chris????!!!!

Bygdawg, you'll survive without me cooking, there is a restaurant just down the road from Ironhorse, you'll pass it on the way in to the campground.

[ifly]

Stupid question maybe . Never been to one of these are there any venders at these or is this just a gathering of riders?

[Mellow]

Stupid question maybe . Never been to one of these are there any venders at these or is this just a gathering of riders?

Just riders. I'll always have some ST-Owners stuff with me but that's about it.. this event is more about riding and hanging out with friends.

[Mellow]

But....But...but....We'll starve without Mac around to cook. ;) I also noted that the Ironhorse hadn't listed our event under their events section. I guess someone on their end dropped the ball on that one.

I sent them a follow-up email...

[M2LewisJ]

Hope to see everyone there on Friday and Saturday.

Please be careful while visiting the local LEO's have received reenforcements from Charlotte. This is due to three deaths in one weekend. They are using Black BMW's from Charlotte. Locals have cars. Locals are also much more forgiving. Nice BMW's but the trooper who gave me my ticket said they want the ST-1300's that will be available later this year.

If you plan on riding the Dragon, please remember that the TN side is nine miles long so you will see a partol officer about every 1.8 miles. Be smart and stay in your lane, speed below 40, tag displayed and all paperwork easy to get to.

After you do the Dragon I would suggest you return to NC. Do the Cherohala Skyway to Telico Plans, Left on hwy 68, left onto 294, right on Candy Mountain Road, Right back onto 294, Left onto US 74, Right in Nanathala Gorge at the powerhouse, Left at the stop sign and Left onto highway 28, back to Ironhorse. Best ride in the world, great views, challenging curves, areas that you can wind out and 45 - 55 speed limit with very understanding local and state patrol. Total time would be about six hours. Don't mess with the women, hit the wildlife and remember: If you hear banjo music, ride harder.

Have a safe trip to our area. Looking forward to meeting y'all for the first time.

Jack

[bygdawg]

I'll be the one talking to the LEO on the silver ST. (Joking...I hope!) :crackup

[M2LewisJ]

91 Sliver for me.

He was impressed with the ST, but still didn't stop the writing. First time ever. Oh well. I understand the Robinsville Jail is nice in a rought kind of way.

[bygdawg]

Nice + Jail...Seems like an oxymoron to me. lol Hopefully, we'll see you there. Anyone checked to see if they added us to their events list??? I would but I'm too lazy to do it tonight. lol

[Mellow]

No, they never did add us... that's okay, anyone that really needs to know is already on the site.. LOL

Their events page doesn't look like it's maintained much.. if so, there would be many groups there as they seem pretty busy.

[motomac]

During CampSToc, I think we were the biggest Group there. There were some BMW folks there that rivaled us in size, but all of them weren't camped there. Mostly just a few friends together here and there, no large bunches of people together. We definately were the only group with a banner!

[NCSTer]

Is anyone arriving on Fri, and what's your ETA?

Have other committments for Sat & Sun, so Fri is the only day I can make it. If anyone else is gonna be there Fri I'll make the trip over to ride some twisties, or just do some tire kickin'.

Darryl

[Austin city limits]

I am there for the whole time I think or until Chris Mixion kicks me out of the cabin where I am sleeping on the floor... :D

I have to be "Home" Sunday so,,, I am blowing out early Sunday at the lastest...

[bygdawg]

I am there the whole time as well, and will be heading out on Monday. I expect to be there sometime around 1:00 on Friday.

[STindy05]

I won't be leaving Indianapolis till after 5:00 PM on Friday. Going to ride down to Knoxville and stay the night. Then head out to the lodge on Sat. morning bright and early...should be there by 8:00 AM. Have to leave Sunday morning to return home.

[bygdawg]

Someones going to have to tell me what I'm doing wrong or if the coordinates are wrong on their site because I can't get these to work, and it's what they have up on their site:
170256878E
3919319N

I tried the latitude and longtitude as well, but I'm not doing something right or it's wrong.

Later,
bygdawg

[ChipSTer]

Lat and Lon come in a couple (three?) different formats... Be sure you're using them correctly...
:cool:

[bygdawg]

Anyway I punch it into the Garmin 2730, it doesn't like it. However, I'm open to suggestions. Here's the link to what they give as the coordinates:
http://www.ironhorsenc.com/maps_gps.html

[hojo in sc]

I will be getting there Friday, not sure of the time yet.

[bygdawg]

Anyone ever get their GPS coordinates?

[Mellow]

Anyone ever get their GPS coordinates?

Looking at an old route I had from '05, this should get you within spitting distance...

N35 23.725 W83 40.668

[BlaSTr]

I'm working hard on coming up Friday (leaving Savannah, GA around 5pm and arriving before midnight) and heading back Sunday. Does anyone know if there are any beds still available?

Doug

[badkeltec]

BLASTR, if they happen to be out of beds the kickstand campground is bout 1 mile up the rd. I went by there sun 8-12-07 and it was nearly empty. I live in the area hope this helps. GAB

[bygdawg]

Looking at an old route I had from '05, this should get you within spitting distance...

N35 23.725 W83 40.668


Thanks. I'll plug that in. I can find Lower Stecoah Rd, but it says Robbinsville instead of Stecoah. The lady from the lodge insisted that they are in Stecoah. I mentioned that she might want to phone the folks at Garmin and let them know. Somehow, I don't think she thought that was as funny as I did at the time. :crackup I guess she was busy or something, and I wasn't helping matters by asking for GPS coordinates to her location. Oh well...I'll get there. I'm just trying to make life easier.

[BlaSTr]

Thanks for the info. I've got the weekend off and am talking to the folks at the campground re bed space. Either way, i'm planning on heading for the big event. Being 450 miles closer makes things much more possible.

Doug


BLASTR, if they happen to be out of beds the kickstand campground is bout 1 mile up the rd. I went by there sun 8-12-07 and it was nearly empty. I live in the area hope this helps. GAB

[STindy05]

Mellow...How are things looking for you making this event?


If I get my rear brakes back to working I am still planning on being there.

[bygdawg]

Looking at an old route I had from '05, this should get you within spitting distance...

N35 23.725 W83 40.668

After I punch in the W8, the only option my GPS is giving me is a 1 and/or a 9. Should I assume something is wrong with the 2730?

Thanks,
bygdawg

[STindy05]

After I punch in the W8, the only option my GPS is giving me is a 1 and/or a 9. Should I assume something is wrong with the 2730?

Thanks,
bygdawg

Man am I glad I have stuck with paper maps and luck:cool:

Seem the GPS can be a pain, but I am sure it is handy at times too.:rolleyes:

[Mellow]

After I punch in the W8, the only option my GPS is giving me is a 1 and/or a 9. Should I assume something is wrong with the 2730?

Thanks,
bygdawg

Is your gps using the same format for lat/long?

Don't punch it into your gps, can you just open up mapsource and find it then download that waypoint? That's the easiest way.

[Mellow]

Mellow...How are things looking for you making this event?


If I get my rear brakes back to working I am still planning on being there.

Not gonna happen, my girlfriend is doing much better but found out this weekend my dad had a minor stroke the middle of last week. My mom said she did not want to bother me because she said I do enough for them and it wasn't a big one, so needless to say mom and I have to have a long talk...

My dad is a diabetic and earlier this year had to be put on kidney dialysis. He also just had some cataract surgery but wasn't healing from that so they were going to put a stint in to relieve some pressure in his eye. I don't know if it was an actual stroke or he had some fluid built up because of the dialysis but I'll be heading there this weekend. He's home and stable so my mom happened to shield me from the emergency last week. He's 77 and has always been pretty lively but this last year has taken a toll.

Needless to say, all my riding plans are on hold. Sorry to put a damper on this, I hope everyone has a safe trip and a good time as that is a great area.

[STindy05]

Sorry to hear the news Mellow...but you have your priorities straight! There will always be more STOC events and you don't know about parents. Hope to see you the next time around.

[Mellow]

Sorry to hear the news Mellow...but you have your priorities straight! There will always be more STOC events and you don't know about parents. Hope to see you the next time around.

Yes sir... you are correct. Have a safe weekend.

[lesjohns]

had to work 15 hours this last weekend and the boss said no overtime, just take it of later. Well later is this Friday so I am riding up bright and early Friday. Going to take the scenic route but should be there around noon. Have to leave early Sunday to make other commitments but wanted to meet and greet a few of you.:biker:
Mellow sorry to here about your dad. Hope he hangs in there, the dialysis is no fun.
les

[bygdawg]

Sorry to hear about your dad Mellow. We'll keep him in our prayers for a quick and speedy recovery time. I'll still be there and will be doing the give away for the bars. I'll be there Friday evening.

Ride Safe,
bygdawg

[hojo in sc]

Sorry to hear about your father Mellow, I will add him to my prayer list.

I have never tried this before, but I will add an attachment that has the Ironhorse Lodge on it as a Waypoint (I have been there before). Any one have a route in mind, also in the attachment is a route I did the last time I was there.

[hojo in sc]

How 'bout that, it looks like it worked. This photo was taken at Bald River Falls.

[bygdawg]

It won't open. I get this message: cannot be read because it uses a subsequent file version. The program can read version 2 files and below.

[bygdawg]

After I punch in the W8, the only option my GPS is giving me is a 1 and/or a 9. Should I assume something is wrong with the 2730?

Thanks,
bygdawg

I just got off the phone with Garmin. I think you may have left off a 0 before the 8. I also found out that sometimes the city may be listed but not in the detailed map section. It finds the city of Stecoah, but not the exact address in that area.

[BlaSTr]

After I punch in the W8, the only option my GPS is giving me is a 1 and/or a 9. Should I assume something is wrong with the 2730?

Thanks,
bygdawg

After the W punch: 0 8 3

Longitude is 3 digits (000-180) where latitude is 2 digits (00-90). That may be the problem.

I hope the numbers are good. My Garmin 276 is woefully lacking in that neck of the woods and I'll be arriving late Friday night, soooo.....

Doug

[hojo in sc]

Here is the exact location as to the last time I was there:

N 35 23.362 W 83 40.676

If your coming from the west on Hwy 28, take Lower Stecoah Rd (heading N) and if coming from the east on Hwy 28, you can take Lower Stecoah Rd, or just before that road, you can take Gunter Cap Rd then merge onto Lower Stecoah Rd.

[BlaSTr]

Here is the exact location as to the last time I was there:

N 35 23.362 W 83 40.676

If your coming from the west on Hwy 28, take Lower Stecoah Rd (heading N) and if coming from the east on Hwy 28, you can take Lower Stecoah Rd, or just before that road, you can take Gunter Cap Rd then merge onto Lower Stecoah Rd.

Thanks for the revised lat/long. It makes a bit more sense now.

Doug

[bygdawg]

By Watson! I think I've got it.

[hojo in sc]

When you go down that road (Lower Stagecoach) you might think your not headed towards a Motorcycle Inn, but more like someone's farm house (the road is paved). The IronHorse Lodge will be on the left, and their driveway is gravel.

[bygdawg]

Great. A motorcycle lodge with a gravel drive. That's some genius thinking at work. :crackup

[bygdawg]

Hey Guys...I was thinking that we'd try to do the prize drawing on Saturday evening. We will toss some names in a hat and draw for about five prizes, one of which will be a new set of powder coated rear tip-over bars. Does this sound good to everyone? I've worked up a route in the GPS that I'll probably take on Saturday to view some waterfalls and hit some twisty stuff between Franklin and Highland, if anyone wants to tag along for that. I also plan to ride some on the Blue Ridge, the Skyway, and the Dragon since I'm in the area. The wife and I plan to arrive sometime around 1:00 on Friday evening. Everyone ride safe and have a good trip on the way to NatSToc.

[hojo in sc]

Hey Guys...I was thinking that we'd try to do the prize drawing on Saturday evening. We will toss some names in a hat and draw for about five prizes, one of which will be a new set of powder coated rear tip-over bars. Does this sound good to everyone? I've worked up a route in the GPS that I'll probably take on Saturday to view some waterfalls and hit some twisty stuff between Franklin and Highland, if anyone wants to tag along for that. I also plan to ride some on the Blue Ridge, the Skyway, and the Dragon since I'm in the area. The wife and I plan to arrive sometime around 1:00 on Friday evening. Everyone ride safe and have a good trip on the way to NatSToc.


Can you send the link of the route your thinking about :bow1: And when you say 1:00 in the evening, is that afternoon/evening, or evening/morning?

[STindy05]

I am going to put up in knoxville friday night and leave early and be at the iron horse around 8:00 AM Saturday Morning. I was also think of taking 28 down to Franklin then 64 over to Roseman. We could take 215 North from there(great road) and get on the Blue Ridge Parkway for awhile to go back into Cherokee. Then head towards the Iron Horse...my route planner says that would be a 4 1/2 hour trip. So with stops and a lunch I would say more like 6-7 Hours. If we got back earlier than we wish we can crank the air in the rooms and go ride the dragon or Cherola(sp?) Skyway. I would advise to avoid the dragon in the afternoon though. I will ride it early Saturday on my way from knoxville to the iron horse and then agian Sunday morning when leaving.

[hojo in sc]

Another option (long) is Hwy 28 to Franklin down to Hayesville to Hiawessee. Go West on Hwy 180 past Brasstown Bald (could take a side trip and go to the top and back down), continue on Hwy 180 west to Suches to Hwy 19 N then onto Hwy 129 N (GREAT ROAD), N on Hwy 68 to the Cherohala Skyway, and back to the lodge. This loops looks to be 7 hours 15 minutes, and a little longer loop I have done is 8 hours 50 minutes.

I have never been to one of these events, but I'm thinking it would be nice to get something sort of planned ahead of time, maybe not. Plan on Rosman being very busy, especially with the road construction that has been going on over there. Going up Hwy 276 to the Blue Ridge Parkway can be fun, but expect LOTS of cars going to (a) Looking Glass Falls (B) heading to the Parkway and (c) folks going to Sliding Rock to get relief from the heat.

We could take Hwy 28 to Franklin, over to Rosman, over to Brevard, up Hwy 276, catch the Parkway, Head up Hwy 441 over the moutain towards (View Clingmans Dome?) Gatlinburg, head west on Hwy 321 then onto The Foothills Parkway, to Deals Gap, then see Fontanna Dam, then to the Lodge. This route would be 7 hours....all times are driving times only, does not include breaks.

[bygdawg]

Can you send the link of the route your thinking about :bow1: And when you say 1:00 in the evening, is that afternoon/evening, or evening/morning?

1:00 during the day an hour past 12:00...Like the hottest part of the day. I can send the files, but I'll have to do it when I get home, as they aren't on my office machine. I was also thinking of eating at the Pisgah Inn overlooking the valley just off of the Blue Ridge. I thought that'd be a nice place to relax and take in some scenery while grabbing some food. :D

[hojo in sc]

I was also thinking of eating at the Pisgah Inn overlooking the valley just off of the Blue Ridge. I thought that'd be a nice place to relax and take in some scenery while grabbing some food. :D


Were you thinking of eating at the INN on Friday when you come over (out of your way) or on Saturday. If on Sat., then Landon's route would be a good idea (towards Rosman, up Hwy 276 to the Parkway.

[bygdawg]

Probably on Saturday evening. Although, I could possibly do it on Sunday as well.

[STindy05]

Another option (long) is Hwy 28 to Franklin down to Hayesville to Hiawessee. Go West on Hwy 180 past Brasstown Bald (could take a side trip and go to the top and back down), continue on Hwy 180 west to Suches to Hwy 19 N then onto Hwy 129 N (GREAT ROAD), N on Hwy 68 to the Cherohala Skyway, and back to the lodge. This loops looks to be 7 hours 15 minutes, and a little longer loop I have done is 8 hours 50 minutes.

I have never been to one of these events, but I'm thinking it would be nice to get something sort of planned ahead of time, maybe not. Plan on Rosman being very busy, especially with the road construction that has been going on over there. Going up Hwy 276 to the Blue Ridge Parkway can be fun, but expect LOTS of cars going to (a) Looking Glass Falls (B) heading to the Parkway and (c) folks going to Sliding Rock to get relief from the heat.

We could take Hwy 28 to Franklin, over to Rosman, over to Brevard, up Hwy 276, catch the Parkway, Head up Hwy 441 over the moutain towards (View Clingmans Dome?) Gatlinburg, head west on Hwy 321 then onto The Foothills Parkway, to Deals Gap, then see Fontanna Dam, then to the Lodge. This route would be 7 hours....all times are driving times only, does not include breaks.

I would personally rather avoid Smokey Moutain National Park(441) and Gatlinburg. IF 276 has a lot of traffic I think we should really consider 215, its a nice road and very little traffic.

The other STOC events I have been to, we just get a map out in the morning and pick a route and go do it. There may be enough people to split into a couple small groups to go ride.

[STindy05]

Hey Guys...I was thinking that we'd try to do the prize drawing on Saturday evening. We will toss some names in a hat and draw for about five prizes, one of which will be a new set of powder coated rear tip-over bars. Does this sound good to everyone?

Works great for me!

[lesjohns]

Just talked to a guy at the Iron Horse and he said the Blue Knights will be in there this weekend, but did not have us listed.
I am going to try to get there before the heat of the day Friday, but taking the scenic route to get there. They have had a reasonably good Breakfast in the past. Saturday night they are having prime rib, I have had it twice and it was very good both times.
The rides around the Highlands are pretty good and have eaten at several places around there for lunch which have all been okay.
Looking forward to meeting you guys.

[bygdawg]

What time you heading out? We might could meet you en-route.

[bygdawg]

Here is one of the routes. I didn't save the other one.

[STindy05]

Just made my reservation for tom. night. I will be at the Days Inn by the knoxville airport. Should not be that bad of a ride out Saturday morning.

[BlaSTr]

Heading up Friday pm from Savannah and should be there around midnight. It should be interesting heading up a gravel road at that time of the night. From the previous posts, it looks like Saturday rides are pretty liberal. I'd be interested in doing some twistys and grabbing some good grub.

Doug

[bygdawg]

Anyone arriving on today?

[hojo in sc]

Right now it looks like I will be stuck here at home.:mad:

[bygdawg]

Why is that?

[70 red]

I'm planning to be there. :06biker
McKale
06 st1300

[Austin city limits]

Where is everyone?!?!?!

I just shot down here passing everything on the road on the Blue Ridge and no one is here yet!!! :p:

[Mellow]

They knew you were coming.. LOL.. I would imagine there will be a few more showing up this afternoon.. sorry I couldn't make this one.

[BlaSTr]

Tag....., you're it!

[hojo in sc]

I'm thinking I will be able to get away for the day (Saturday) and hope to be there before you all leave for a ride, which I heard it might not happen until 8 AM, so don't be leaving at 7:55!

[Austin city limits]

They knew you were coming.. LOL.. I would imagine there will be a few more showing up this afternoon.. sorry I couldn't make this one.


Chris isn't going to be here so,,, you KNow,,, it ain't going to rain... :p:

Sorry I will miss ya Mellow... Should I take it that you just REALLY don't want to meet me??? ;)

[Austin city limits]

I'm thinking I will be able to get away for the day (Saturday) and hope to be there before you all leave for a ride, which I heard it might not happen until 8 AM, so don't be leaving at 7:55!

I will have extra bacon so,,, I will hold up us departing till 8... :D

[bygdawg]

The wife and I made it here around 2:00 this evening. It took us about 6 hours for the trip part. Subtract another hour for stopping for breakfast, to buy a few shirts, and to fill up once. Total mileage for us was around 350 miles give or take. I saw a couple of ST'ers on the way up, but we only have about 5 people here so far. Hopefully, some more folks will show up tomorrow. Looks like everyone will win a prize during the drawing if this is all that shows up. lol If you're on your way, ride safe. Ohhh...BTW...I saw 8 LEO's on the Dragon today. I only got the hand wave to slow down once. I think Terry counted 9 and had an even better encounter, but I'll let him tell you about that. :-)

bygdawg

[hojo in sc]

The wife and I made it here around 2:00 this evening. bygdawg

Here we go again, 2:00 PM is in the afternoon, not the evening :rolleyes:

[bygdawg]

:a13: Bah...Well...I'm here. :D You know what I mean. :D

[motomac]

Well it looks like there are at least 19 folks at ONSToc with a couple more to join on tomorrow's ride. Ride safe you folks that show in Nord Cackalacky.

[toypro1]

...I saw 8 LEO's on the Dragon today. I only got the hand wave to slow down once. I think Terry counted 9 and had an even better encounter, but I'll let him tell you about that. :-)

bygdawg


Terry had an encounter with the LEO??? - more info - more info

Dan

[hojo in sc]

Short Note From Hojo: It was great meeting you guys! When we were leaving Highlands I noticed that I best peel off at Hwy 215 to get back home in time, so I didn't get to say farewell. It was nice putting a face with the Screen Names, and hope our paths will cross very soon, and that everyone has a safe trip home.

[hojo in sc]

I didn't take many photos, but here are the few that I did:

[clmixon]

Terry Clear your e-mail I need to PM you.

Chris :06biker:

[bygdawg]

Well...I'm outta here tomorrow. It was great meeting all the new folks and seeing some of the familiars again. We got in some good riding over the weekend and only got a little wet in Ahsville this evening. It was kind of hot, so I didn't even mind the light shower. :D I'll post pics when I get back and put the link up on the thread.

Ride Safe,
bygdawg

[STindy05]

Made it back home last night at 9:15. Left ACL and George around 2:00 and hit the slab to make it home around 7:00. Once I left them and got about 10 miles down the interstate, my rear tire goes flat. Pull over and plugged it, that plug came out 30 miles later. Plugged it agian and it made it home. So now its time to find a new rear. Anyway...had a great time and even with getting a flat tire(nothing major at least) it was a blast.

[BlaSTr]

Stopped by the 'Horse early Sat. morning and chatted with a few folks up for an early cuppa. With temps in the low 60s, and the prospect of temps in the mid 90s later that day, rather than wait, I headed out to Franklin (via 28) for a good homestyle breakfast. Heading back to the Horse around 10 I was surprised and pleased to see a dozen or so STs heading the other way. :(

The riding was great, the weather very cool during the morning hours and pleasant until early afternoon - when the thing to was get under cover and trade laughs, jibes, and the quiet.

129 aka the Dragon was festooned with po-lice. Riders coming down would give us a count. Most of the morning there were 6-12 along the ride including motors. They lay in the bushes just around corners and were very busy and had no sense of humor. It made riding the road unpleasant. They left around 6pm and the hardcore riders came out for an evening ride.

Rider count was way down from previous years and much of the discussion was about alternative rides (and how to deal with the tickets). The Tree of Shame continues to grow unfortunately. As does the number of fatalties. While none of us saw semi's we did see lots of tows - pickups and boats, RV's towing cars, several car clubs, and folks whose driving skills needed considerable work. We followed a white SUV up and it spent a lot of time well over the double-yellow and white lines. Nothing new there but the driver seemed to think it was the way to drive the road.

Sunday was bug-out day and most of the riders left early. I chatted with a couple of ST riders at the Dragon and we all agreed that it was a great event - and wondered why NatSTOC and EaSTOC were a week and hundred miles apart. Perhaps it might be better to either combine the event or schedule it a bit further apart. For me, getting a long weekend off isn't a problem. Getting back to back long weekends off is. It would have been great to attend both.

We cruised part of the Blue Ridge Parkway and aside from the thick haze and gaggles of blueberry pickers, it was a great ride. There was little traffic and the roads, while not as challenging as the Dragon or or other roads in the area, were a great way to cover miles and enjoy the ride.

Unfortunately, we paid for the pleasure. The ride from the Parkway to Savannah showed high temps with considerable distances at 100F. About the only things that made the ride tolerable was the memory of the weekend and how well the ST performs - in any weather or road condition. We got home shortly after 9pm after a 12-hour/540 mile ride, the last 250 on the interstate.

Doug

[Mellow]

I've been trying to make NatSTOC 1 week after WeSTOC so that people on the road would consider stopping by as part of their trip. This worked great last year but with NatSTOC and EaSTOC so close together not such a good idea this year.

The next NatSTOC will probably be in northern Arkansas again, or southern Missouri... not sure where.. however, I'm thinking the 1st week in september might be good timing.

[Austin city limits]

Terry had an encounter with the LEO??? - more info - more info

Dan

OK!!! ALRIGHT I WILL TELL IT!!!:p:

I was riding Deals Gap and counted 9 cops between the Store and the Turnaround!!! So,,, I sat up there a while at the turn around gabbing... (((I know,,, hard to believe)))

On the way up,,, I got behind a Cop doing,,, E X A C T L E Y,,, 18 mph and had about 12cars/trucks/bikes behind him... He goes and turns around,,, and goes back... This is all he was doing was,,, just being a presence there...

So,,, being the Rocket Scientist/Einstein that I am when I left I just,,, HAPPENED,,, to take off so,,, I,,, was in front of the COP on his next lap of the Gap!!! :crackup

I decided that,,, I,,, would set "The Pace" and set in at the blazing pace of,,, 12 mph doing the Gap!!!:p:

I learned 2 very valuable lessons this day...

# 1~~~ My cruise control will activate at 12 mph... :crackup

# 2 ~~~ A cop will put up with a Sport Bike doing 12 mph in front of him for about 21 turns before coming on the Loud speaker to,,, PULL OVER!!!

I did,,, and even before I could get off the bike he leaned out the car and told me,,, LOUDLY I might add,,, :D "You either get moving,,, or I am writing your arse a ticket for obstructing traffic"

The thought did occur to me to get off my bike and do my now legendary "Gomer Pyle" imitation and say,,, "Citizens Arrest!!! Citizens Arrest!!! and arrest him since that was what HE,,, was doing but,,, Oat Meal at the County Pen was not on my diet you see... :rolleyes:

So,,, I set my Cruise control at 29 mph and tried not to piss him off anymore... :duck:

[toypro1]

Terry

You just made my day LOL LOL - i don't know anyone else that would have done such a thing.

Just one more story that goes with "ACL" - Helen will get a kick out of this.

Dan

[Mark]

A brave or foolish man... maybe both? :D

Mark

[Mellow]

Okay... going too slow on the Gap... OMG.. where you from man, ILinois? LOL

[Austin city limits]

Okay... going too slow on the Gap... OMG.. where you from man, ILinois? LOL

I just decided to give a little medicine like he was doing,,, but just about got a Rectum Check and finger printed because of it... :hyp1: :crackup

[Mellow]

Hmmm... Terry "Two Wrecks, Too Slow" Hammond....

[mashmont]

This was our first rally (NatSTOC). We almost didn't make it, but at the last minute, we were able to go. Left Atlanta around three PM, Friday. Of course, traffic through ATL was bad! (we live on the south side).

I got lost several times in the mountains! I was using the MIO and it is usually very good, but this time, it was having a bad day and I was too! Arrived just before 8 PM.

My wife and I trailered the STeed instead of riding. She and I have not done any long distance riding in a while, so decided to pull a trailer up to Ironhorse.

You know how apprehensive you feel, meeting people for the first time; especially ones that have known each other for a long time and you are the new guy. But everyone was great!

We met some "Famous People from st-owners.com" and made some new friends. Great time!

During dinner Saturday night, Jay held the drawing for prizes and I won the Tip-over Bars! Jay even installed them on my bike, can you believe that! I'm still shaking my head in disbelief!

Here are some photos of our trip (http://picasaweb.google.com/mashmont/NatSTOCII2007?authkey=-rYX83tD5DU).

Thanks for the great time. Hope to do it again soon, MB :)

[Mellow]

Great pics!

[George]

Terry, you didn't mention that story about the LEO all weekend! The citizen's arrest would have been interesting. ;^)

Joe, been thinking that maybe NatSTOC should be in conjunction with _one_ of the established events, make it a roaming event, WESTOC one year, EASTOC the next, FriendSTOC, ONSTOC, NESTOC, etc. Waddya think? Just a thought.

All, NatSTOC was good, the ride NW with Terry and Langdon was better. Sunday's ride thru TN and KY covered roads not seen by a motorcyle since, since...

...well, since the previous motorcyle went thru. After Deal's Gap we saw almost NO cops the rest of the day. Tower Hill Road and Overlook Road north of TN-116 is a rough 'n ready hill climb and descent.

I'll be back next week for EaSTOC. See some of youse guys there.

BTW, I took _zero_ pics over the weekend til we got back to I-75 north of Knoxville.

[Mellow]

Yeah... maybe we put natstoc to rest...

WeSTOC does a good job of covering the entire western half of the North America and comes closer to being a national event anyway.

Which, that's okay... I'll just name it something else .. LOL

[STindy05]

Here are some photos of our trip (http://picasaweb.google.com/mashmont/NatSTOCII2007?authkey=-rYX83tD5DU).



Thats a good looking picture you got of me checking out my GPS!

[bygdawg]

Michael aka 70 Red suggested that perhaps we have an event where we could unite both East Coasters and West Coasters as a NatSToc event. I think this would be a great idea, but I'm not sure it could be pulled off. We had great success with NatSToc at Eureka Springs, but we wouldn't want to have it at the same place every year. lol If we could coordinate something that would work with schedules and provide a central location, that would be great. Again, I'm just not sure if that's practical.

bygdawg

P.S. I'll try to post the pictures later, and supply the link.

[goalie]

Good times; I really enjoyed meeting everyone this weekend, and the ride Saturday was terrific... fortunately I can save the route from the gps, so I can figure out where we went! :confused:

A few pictures...

Whit
:biker:

[goalie]

more pix...

[George]

WeSTOC is effectively _the_ national event because of the way it's presented. Effectively, it is a clone of the HSTA STAR events, big show, big hotel, big banquet, big price (my opinion.) It takes more disorganization than a simple, "I'm gonna stay at the Lower Squamish Falls campground this weekend. Anyone wanna come?" Right now, for a once-a-year blow out, its the only game in town (unless ya wanna go to STAR ;^)

My idea is name one of the annual events _the_ NATIONAL STOC and make it a splashy event for just that year, then move it to another annual event the following year. WeSTOC, then EaSTOC, then CenSTOC (time to make Arkansas/Wisconsin an annual event.)

Personally, I prefer the camping weekends in whatever locale but I really enjoyed WeSTOC the last three years. I like to ride with groups of 3 or 2 (or 1!) but enjoy rubbing elbows with bigger crowds when off the bike.

More discussion? Opinions? Get ST-Riders to join in? WeSTOC and several of the others are hosted by older members who haven't joined this forum, tho many have. Don't wanna leave anyone out.

I _still_ like the idea of _one_ forum. I don't understand the "don't wanna lose our community" argument that's been happening on the liST the last few weeks.

Big Tom, Don Feyma, Joe, and I are only a few of the folks who post at both sites. Many of the new folks here don't even really know about the liST (or stocrallies.com/st-riders) and don't see a reason to. Many of the folks on the old list don't like change. In the mean time, there's events happening that some never hear about because they don't follow both sites.

Time to put things in perspective? The _entire_ reason this whole STOC thing got started was to bring _together_ the community of STriders. Why? so we could share info, meet each other, learn, and...

GO RIDE!!!!

My opinion,


Michael aka 70 Red suggested that perhaps we have an event where we could unite both East Coasters and West Coasters as a NatSToc event. I think this would be a great idea, but I'm not sure it could be pulled off. We had great success with NatSToc at Eureka Springs, but we wouldn't want to have it at the same place every year. lol If we could coordinate something that would work with schedules and provide a central location, that would be great. Again, I'm just not sure if that's practical.

bygdawg

P.S. I'll try to post the pictures later, and supply the link.

[Mellow]

Well... CenSTOC sounds good to me... So the National STOC event is just a designation that, with permission of the other event coordinators, will tag those events every other year?... Next year is WeSTOC (The National STOC event)... the following year EaSTOC will have that tag and maybe the next year CenSTOC has it.. then we start over?

I like that.. But, we need to get buy in from the WeSTOC coordinators as well as Gene if he's going to continue doing EaSTOC, I think that has changed hands a couple times if I remember correctly.

Gee George, you always have good ideas...

As far as having just one forum... well, as the ST grows in popularity.. and it will.. there will be more people and more forums, that's just how it works.. Also, not everyone agrees with the direction I take here with regards to what is allowed for posting, some say it's censorship and a violation of their freedom of speech however, it has worked over the last few years and those that are hear appreciate the friendly attitude we have, so that's not changing.

All I can do is my best to make the home page as public as possible with a link to the events and hopefully, it gets the visibility it needs. I used to go to all the forums I knew about and post events but it's pretty time consuming to just hang here so I assume others will mention the events on those forums and it will spread that way.

[bygdawg]

LOL...I had thought CenSToc sounded like a good event as well. Perhaps, we could plan EaSToc around the Honda Hoot. That way, I could stay on the road for even longer. :-)

[hojo in sc]

My hard drive is full, who had those 'blind spot' mirrors sitting on top of the OEM mirrors?

[bygdawg]

When did you see them, during the evening or afternoon? :crackup

[bygdawg]

Pictures are up. I only took about 250 or so. Here are the links:

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?dir=Jay%5Fand%5FJennifer%5CMotorcycle %5CNatSToc%5F2007%5FPart%5FI

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?dir=Jay%5Fand%5FJennifer%5CMotorcycle %5CNatSToc%5F2007%5FPart%5FII

Jennifer said, "It was nice meeting everyone. You're motorcycle friends aren't as weird as I thought they'd be. Well...except for the George guy." :crackup Okay...I made that last one up, but she did have fun with the exception of some of the peg dragging anyway. :D

[Mellow]

Great pics!... you know... it may not have been a huge event... but, to be honest, sometimes those are the best ones for me as I actually get time to sit down and get to know someone... With the bigger events I always leave trying to remember who I spoke to. To me, seeing the pics I know it was a success because a few friends got to know each other a little better.

Oh, well, even if you did make up that last part... LOL

[Austin city limits]

Thanks for the pic's Jay!!! I will tell you what,,, you were riding so well with both of you on there my poor little BMW was having a time keeping up with ya!!! :bow1:

Jennifer said, "It was nice meeting everyone. You're motorcycle friends aren't as weird as I thought they'd be. Well...except for the George guy." Okay...I made that last one up, but she did have fun with the exception of some of the peg dragging anyway.

When I grow up,,, I want to be just like George... ;)

Getting to set around and getting to know people is always a good thing for me... But,,, being able to RIDE,,, along with people you like,,, is even better... And,,, this was a most EXCELLENT trip as I got to ride with many I had on my list of wanting to ride with... :D

Tell Jennifer thanks for coming too!!! It was very good to get to know your better half Jay... :duck:

[STindy05]

Pictures are up. I only took about 250 or so. Here are the links:

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?dir=Jay%5Fand%5FJennifer%5CMotorcycle %5CNatSToc%5F2007%5FPart%5FI

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?dir=Jay%5Fand%5FJennifer%5CMotorcycle %5CNatSToc%5F2007%5FPart%5FII

Jennifer said, "It was nice meeting everyone. You're motorcycle friends aren't as weird as I thought they'd be. Well...except for the George guy." :crackup Okay...I made that last one up, but she did have fun with the exception of some of the peg dragging anyway. :D

I really like this shot!

[bygdawg]

Yeah...We all want to be like George and Mac. They get to pick up and ride off into the sunset whenever they take the notion. Well...maybe they camp more than I'd like to, but you get my point. :D

STindy...You jinxed me with your J&M issue. Mine started doing the same thing on the way home. You know what the problem was? A frayed wire leading into the side cover. I pulled over and wrapped it with electric tape, and problem solved. Did you figure out what was going on with yours? I still don't think my reception is up to par. I'm going to try to move my ground to see if that makes a difference.

It's always good getting to meet new folks, and it is certainly easier to remember names in smaller groups.

[STindy05]

STindy...You jinxed me with your J&M issue. Mine started doing the same thing on the way home. You know what the problem was? A frayed wire leading into the side cover. I pulled over and wrapped it with electric tape, and problem solved. Did you figure out what was going on with yours? I still don't think my reception is up to par. I'm going to try to move my ground to see if that makes a difference.


Yours made a loud squal like mine was/is? I emailed J&M and I just got an email back that said to take the headset jack apart and blow it with a hair dryer. They think water may have gotten in there. I will check the wires of mine and see if they are ok. I need to plug the wifes helmet in and see if hers does the same thing or if its in my headset.

[bygdawg]

Yes. It was one of the main (big black wire) running down into the bike. I think it had rubbed on a sharp edge and over a period of time it had caused it to cut into the wire. As for now, it's working fine. If it starts again, I may have to replace the wire.

[STindy05]

I will have to check that also where the dealer had the wire coming out from under the tank...they may have smashed and damaged the wire there.

[NCSTer]

My hard drive is full, who had those 'blind spot' mirrors sitting on top of the OEM mirrors?

hojo,
If you're talking about the 'blind spot' mirrors on the blue '04 in this pic from bygdawg

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=show&ID=13764

that's me. What do ya' need?

Darryl

[Austin city limits]

I thought they were close to perfect!!! The Bestest Mirrors for the ST I have seen so far... They would be required on the new Connie too... ;)

[Mellow]

hojo,
If you're talking about the 'blind spot' mirrors on the blue '04 in this pic from bygdawg

http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=show&ID=13764

that's me. What do ya' need?

Darryl

Those look like these, but upside down:

http://www.electricalconnection.com/non-electrical/bsm-seat.JPG
http://www.electricalconnection.com/non-electrical/bsm-gl18.htm

[bygdawg]

That would be them. I think NCSter said that he picked them up at a local parts store. Maybe he'll mention which one. I'd kind of like to try them out on my bike. I'm working to try to get the bike up to an even 800 lbs. lol

[Mellow]

There are probably cheaper sources, not sure, those are $40 at EC.

[NCSTer]

They're made by Hercules Mirror, in Germany I think. Here's where I got 'em, about $14.
http://www.autobarn.net/auxwidmir.html

They're available in different sizes, mine are the SMALL. I've also seen them painted to match the bike, but only in Wing colors -- maybe you can get others now. A bit more expensive, but you Wing guys can try here: http://www.wingstuff.com/pgroup_detail/164_Color_Match/2792_GL1800_Color_Match_Blind_Spot_Mirror_Set/

Darryl

[bygdawg]

Did you do anything special to help them stay on?

[hojo in sc]

Thanks Darryl, that is exactly what I was looking for, and since they are black, they will go perfectly with my bike!

[NCSTer]

Did you do anything special to help them stay on?

I just made two small adjustments when installing. They've been on for over 15,000 miles.

I enlarged the slot in the new mirror housing so I could increase the angle and get better “blind spot” coverage, and still keep full contact for a secure mount.

I put a small flat piece of rubber between the OEM mirror and the new one when I mounted it so there was no direct plastic to plastic contact. (Didn’t want to crack the OEM mirror housing by over tightening, and didn’t think hard plastic mounted directly to hard plastic was secure enough for my liking.)

Hope this helps. If you need more info, let me know.

Darryl

[bygdawg]

You know...I've been looking at this closer, and I don't think they'll work with the mirror extenders / fairing extenders like I have on my bike:
http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=show&ID=7672

However, they might work on the bottom, but not the top.

[NCSTer]

You know...I've been looking at this closer, and I don't think they'll work with the mirror extenders / fairing extenders like I have on my bike:
http://pics.midsouthspyders.com/listpics.asp?a=show&ID=7672

However, they might work on the bottom, but not the top.

You're probably right, I don't think they'll work with the mirror extenders, but they will work with the fairing extenders. Also, I think the bottom of the OEM housing isn't horizontal enough to mount them there and still get a good view in the mirror, that's why I put mine on top.

[bygdawg]

Thanks for the heads up. I'll probably just hang on to my money then.

[STindy05]

Was the 03/04 Candy red wing made with the same red paint as the 05 ST has?

[Mellow]

Was the 03/04 Candy red wing made with the same red paint as the 05 ST has?

I don't think so.. I think the Wing color had just a bit more red in it. But, have never seen the two side by side... That was my first color choice but they didn't have one in '05.

[motomac]

I don't think so.. I think the Wing color had just a bit more red in it. But, have never seen the two side by side... That was my first color choice but they didn't have one in '05.


I have to agree with Joe, lot more red in the Wing that the ST.

[bygdawg]

A few folks have asked me about the grips that I had on the bike. For those interested, they are pro gel grips. You should be able to find them with a froogle search and/or bike bandit. FYI