CampSTOC '08 Discussions

[motomac]

I was going to try to not to go to so many events next year and you're dangling a carrot already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Trekker]

Wow Joe! I think you have a new record for the shortest amount of time to plan an event! LOL

Last I knew Will was building new small cabins to rent for those not willing to sleep in a tent. That doesn't look like it's shown on his website yet. These were just large enough to sleep in.

[Mellow]

I was going to try to not to go to so many events next year and you're dangling a carrot already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I exist to make your life difficult... :nanner1:

[Mellow]

Wow Joe! I think you have a new record for the shortest amount of time to plan an event! LOL

Last I knew Will was building new small cabins to rent for those not willing to sleep in a tent. That doesn't look like it's shown on his website yet. These were just large enough to sleep in.

It's easy when someone else plans it.. LOL:hat1:

[forgitaboutut]

I was going to try to not to go to so many events next year and you're dangling a carrot already!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mac,shut up and start packing!

[motomac]

Mac,shut up and start packing!

I haven't unpacked all year!!!!

[GRN]

I haven't unpacked all year!!!!

So, what are you worried about? :-)

[sandman]

Mac, you're getting to be a fixture at all these events.

It wouldn't be an official STOC event without you!


Gordon

[Mellow]

I've updated the 1st post with some info. from a call I just had with Will and Willville...

He said he's ready for us, no reservations necessary, just show up.. :shock: :hat1:
:cf1:

[Mellow]

Oh.. I've also decided to call this event CampSTOC from now on and the Western event will be called TentSTOC.:popcorn

[Trekker]

Only 6 months till CampSToc 2008 !!! Woo Hoo!

Mac, you have to be there. Will does a HUGE fire. :cf1:

[badmojo]

Myself and 5 other riders camped at Willville over Memorial Day weekend this year. Awesome campground. The cleanest place I've ever camped. :bow1:

25322
Lots of tent trailers.

25323
This is the motley crew I was leading. My STeed on in left of frame.

25324
A good crowd with all types of riders.

[Mellow]

Thanks for the pics... I can't wait...

[sandman]

:banr1:


Now!

We need some of the local VirGinny guys to post some GPS routes of their favorite roads that we can smash and trash. :cop2: :04biker:


Can't hardly wait!!

:tent6:

Gordon

[Keith_UK]

I just found out that the '08 FriendSTOC V Meeting is also planned for May 17, up at Canaan Valley, West Virginia. There's likely to be a lot of good STer-folk going to that Meet too.

[George]

I haven't unpacked all year!!!!

I mostly don't unpack. Once the laundry is done, the road clothes go back in the bag. Don't hit as many rides as Mac but I'm ready when the time comes.

Desert STOC is next, I think.

[Mark]

I mostly don't unpack. Once the laundry is done, the road clothes go back in the bag. Don't hit as many rides as Mac but I'm ready when the time comes.

Desert STOC is next, I think.

If you hurry you can still make FLSTOC! :)

Mark

[Keith_UK]

I just found out that the '08 FriendSTOC V Meeting is also planned for May 17, up at Canaan Valley, West Virginia. There's likely to be a lot of good STer-folk going to that Meet too.

Well, I really want to attend both Meetings - just to hook-up with as many STers as possible whilst I'm in the USA with the Pan. So it'll be the nights of Thursday-15 + Friday-16 for me at CampSTOC, after which I'm gonna be away first thing Saturday morning - for a quick scoot up the BRP for dinner at FriendSTOC V.

Hope I can fit all this in. :smile: - as Monday, May-26 I'll be checking out of the US from Newark NJ, maybe for the last time .. :(

[Trekker]

Now!

We need some of the local VirGinny guys to post some GPS routes of their favorite roads that we can smash and trash. :cop2: :04biker:

Can't hardly wait!!

:tent6:

Gordon

I've been casually glancing at "Motorcycle Adventures In The Central Appalachians" by Hawk Hagebak... and it has some interesting ride suggestions in this very area.

But..... I'm not a local VirGinny boy. Only 168 days till CampSTOC !:D

[motomac]

I spent 21 years in VA and there are no bad roads up in them thar hills!!!

[Lou65]

Oh Boy...my 2nd CampSTOC and this time I will be using a
TENT...the one that BJ recommended...he's a pal.

[Mellow]

Oh Boy...my 2nd CampSTOC and this time I will be using a
TENT...the one that BJ recommended...he's a pal.

Whaaaaaaa? Lou.. you getting soft on us? LOL

[sandman]

I've been casually glancing at "Motorcycle Adventures In The Central Appalachians" by Hawk Hagebak... and it has some interesting ride suggestions in this very area.

But..... I'm not a local VirGinny boy. Only 168 days till CampSTOC !:D

Dave,

No holds barred, choose some roads from the book and make us up a route or 2. I'm just going into Mapsource and create something but it won't have any local knowledge so there may be a few surprises...I love an adventure!

[sandman]

Oh Boy...my 2nd CampSTOC and this time I will be using a
TENT...the one that BJ recommended...he's a pal.

Lou,

Like the tent, you'll definitely get Will's interest. He likes to cruise the campground and meet and greet the campers. This is gonna be a fun ride, just getting there you'll pass through some of the finest bike roads in the South...:woo



:tent6:

[Trekker]

Dave,

No holds barred, choose some roads from the book and make us up a route or 2. I'm just going into Mapsource and create something but it won't have any local knowledge so there may be a few surprises...I love an adventure!

You got it Gordon. Might take me a little while to do, but I'll work on it during the "off" season. I may do my original routes in S&T as I am converting to a Lowrance unit..... is that a problem?

Only 167 days to go! :D

[George]

I luv youse guys: "Only 167 days to go!"

Why wait, start now. :D

See y'all there. CampSTOC is on my way home from Moonshine. :D

[sandman]

You got it Gordon. Might take me a little while to do, but I'll work on it during the "off" season. I may do my original routes in S&T as I am converting to a Lowrance unit..... is that a problem?

Only 167 days to go! :D

What no Mapsource?

Surely someone has created a converter for S&T files, if not I'll see what I can do to recreate in Mapsource for the rest of the Garmin users. It'll be fun to see how the Lowrance and Zumo process the data differently. I've already found that the Zumo can invert a route on the fly when the Streetpilots get lost and freeze up, Just ask ParkerBill, I don't know if Garmin's Jill voice has started talking to him again since FloridaSTOC.

[sandman]

Dave,

Check this out some of these are in the Roanoke valley where we'll be.

http://www.motorcycleroads.us/va.html

[motomac]

I can vouch for 39, 220, and 250. I've ridden them and they are super roads. You would swear you were on 129 when you ride 39!!!!

[Trekker]

Awesome Gordon. I don't think we will lack for opportunities!

How many miles did we do together the Saturday ride all around Chattanooga last CampSTOC ? (including the W road- :22yikes:)

[sandman]

Awesome Gordon. I don't think we will lack for opportunities!

How many miles did we do together the Saturday ride all around Chattanooga last CampSTOC ? (including the W road- :22yikes:)

I didn't have a GPS at Cloudland so I didn't pay much attention to the mileage of the ride. Hey it's enough trouble keeping ChipSTer in sight no time to worry about mileage or scenery.:biker: :PoPoST1: :04biker: :04biker: :07biker: :07biker:

[ChipSTer]

Awesome Gordon. I don't think we will lack for opportunities!

How many miles did we do together the Saturday ride all around Chattanooga last CampSTOC ? (including the W road- :22yikes:)
It was about 250... And I got the best gas mileage that the bike as ever gotten!!! :crackup
:cool:

[forgitaboutut]

It was about 250... And I got the best gas mileage that the bike as ever gotten!!! :crackup
:cool:

It must have been those new wheel bearings!:crackup

[Trekker]

It was about 250... And I got the best gas mileage that the bike as ever gotten!!! :crackup
:cool:

Yeah.... we sure did burn some petroleum products that day! And some cheeseburgers too! :burger Did anyone actually find that Honda dealership?? :D

[ChipSTer]

Yeah.... we sure did burn some petroleum products that day! And some cheeseburgers too! :burger Did anyone actually find that Honda dealership?? :D
Yeah, I found it a couple of weeks later... We passed within about a block of it and never saw it... :confused:
:cool:

[sandman]

John, how's your Aunt doing? She's a real sweet lady.

I now have Points of Interest in my Zumo that includes all the Honda dealers in the US and I can navigate right to it! Ain't it great! I love this GPS stuff.

[motomac]

I just look in my Gold Book from GWRRA!!!!

[ChipSTer]

John, how's your Aunt doing? She's a real sweet lady...

She's fine now... Almost lost her in the surgery... She didn't tolerate the procedure very well... And stayed almost a month in the hospital... She's doing so much better now... Looks like she's going to be around a decade or two longer... :D
:cool:

[ChipSTer]

Yeah, I found it a couple of weeks later... We passed within about a block of it and never saw it... :confused:
:cool:

*AND* I'm going by there the week of the 9th (to see if there is something that I absolutely gotta have for Christmas (wife's idea)).... :D
:cool:

[Mellow]

Glad she's doing okay John!

[hoowasat]

This event sounds appealing, but I think I'll opt for a hotel (my own way of "roughing it"). BTW, look at Rt.16 between Marion & Tazewell, VA as it passes by Hungry Mother State Park if you like twisties (west of I-81). I'm not certain, but I think this is the road known as "The Snake." I'm waiting on some other locals who've ridden this area to confirm the title. I've also heard that Rt.58 to Rt.16 is a very nice ride with plenty of sweepers.

[hoowasat]

After telling several friends about this event, they're wanting to come along, too. My question; Is riding an ST a prerequisite to attending CampSTOC?

I checked some of the local hotel rates (log cabins AND refurbished railroad cabooses), and camping at Willville is now looking like a real bargain. And to think it was earlier this year when I tossed out my old 2-man tent and a down sleeping bag! (Figures!)

[ChipSTer]

After telling several friends about this event, they're wanting to come along, too. My question; Is riding an ST a prerequisite to attending CampSTOC?

I checked some of the local hotel rates (log cabins AND refurbished railroad cabooses), and camping at Willville is now looking like a real bargain. And to think it was earlier this year when I tossed out my old 2-man tent and a down sleeping bag! (Figures!)
All bikes are welcome... we do not discriminate... But... If you're want to 'hang with the big dawgs', you'll need something comparable/capable...
:cool:

[gene]

Bring them along,we got guys that ride real fast all the way down to granny speed and every speed in between and we all love to eat and socialize :D besides you already know a few of us:)

[st11ray]

My sister lives near Canaan Valley and I can go right through Meadows of Dan to get there, so I'm going to try and make my first STOC event a double shot!

[ChipSTer]

Bring them along,we got guys that ride real fast all the way down to granny speed and every speed in between and we all love to eat and socialize :D besides you already know a few of us:)
Which reminds me... What you guys think about a 'riding style rating' so that guys that have never met will have some idea about whether or not they are compatible 'riding style wise'??? Would it be as simple as, 'What is your AVG MPG (according to your on-board computer)? Maybe put the 30-35mpg riders together, etc, etc... Just another of my hair-brained ideas that is worth exactly what you paid!!! :crackup
:cool:

[Trekker]

Which reminds me... What you guys think about a 'riding style rating' so that guys that have never met will have some idea about whether or not they are compatible 'riding style wise'??? Would it be as simple as, 'What is your AVG MPG (according to your on-board computer)? Maybe put the 30-35mpg riders together, etc, etc... Just another of my hair-brained ideas that is worth exactly what you paid!!! :crackup
:cool:

What I've seen done on some the NE regional events is they state up front which rides ares for the spirited riders, and which are good for multiple scenery breaks.

[Mellow]

A rating system really wouldn't work. You may feel like you are a medium type rider but someone else might think you are more aggressive and another person might think you are slow. So, the rating isn't going to help much.

There's no perfect equation for getting riders together with similar styles. The only thing I can say is if the group or person you're riding with is not the same style as you and you feel uncomfortable make sure you have a map of the area and know where you're going and let that person ride their ride.

If someone feels like leading a ride I would suggest no more than 5 bikes in a group to keep everyone together and also for that person up front to back off a notch if they are obviously more aggressive than the rest.

All bikes are welcome, ST Owners are not snobs.

[st11ray]

I ride bicycles alot and we split into A,B,& C groups according to average mph. I know that would'nt work for motorcycles but maybe something like this would give people an idea. However, I 100% agree with Joe, never get out of your own comfort zone.

A. Valentino has nothing on me, drop the rag and let's go
B. Spirited, I might occasionally drag a peg
C. My tax dollars paid for those speed limit signs, I'm going to obey them
D. This ST is too fast, I should have bought a Harley

[ChipSTer]

There's gotta be a way... How about a combination of MPG and width of the chicken strips and maybe depth of scratches on the pegs... :crackup
:cool:
P.S. I know from experience (because I checked the chicken strips first) that I lead a ride for a group of locals that had me going soooooo ssssssslllllllllllloooooooooowwwwwwwwww that I almost fell asleep (not really on the sleeping part)...

[Trekker]

Chip, When you led us last CampSTOC it didn't work out too bad.... those of us talking a little more time really appreciated you & Gordon waiting for us at the next turn. But I agree that tooling around with like minding riders is more better. Perhaps it's just as simple as making a point of talking about this issue before heading out. I wouldn't be hurt at all if you would prefer to ride with others, since I know I do not ride as spiritedly (sp?) as you do! :D

[ChipSTer]

Hey... I wasn't talking about you guys... All you guys kept up great at last year's CampSToc... I'm talking about a bunch of trash talking cruiser guys that wouldn't be able to keep up with a blue-haired old lady on her way to the mail box!!! :crackup

I'm just wondering out-loud about a method (and it may only be a ice-breaker to get to the real 'how-hard-do-you-ride' talk) to maybe do a preliminary group riders together...

For instance... If you get 40+ MPG and you have a flat spot in the middle of your back AND front tire, then you'll probably not be comfortable riding with a guy that gets 30 MPG (on a good day) and the center of his tires look brand new whereas the outside edges (zero chicken strips) are worn down to the wear bars... [admittedly, these are probably the two extremes... but I've seen guys that are perfectly compatible (on a conversation level) that try to ride together that really are not compatible for riding together (and before you say it Lou65, I'm not talking about you either - actually I'm the slow poke in this example - and I'm not going to mention a name - but WOW he was fast!)]

:cool:

[gene]

And some days you feel like poking and other times you feel sporty, I think the more we all ride together the better we will know who we are compatible with :D . I guess we need to break up and ride with new people at each event, that would be a great way to learn each others style :D

[Trekker]

And some days you feel like poking and other times you feel sporty, I think the more we all ride together the better we will know who we are compatible with :D . I guess we need to break up and ride with new people at each event, that would be a great way to learn each others style :D

Great idea Gene.

[sandman]

+1 for what Gene said, riding with different groups shows your capabilities better than with the same guys all the time.

I led a ride at FLSTOC that was slow and easy and I enjoyed it much, but there ain't no decent twisties in FL I don't care what DDuelin and Shuey say about it! :bow1: :flame

Makes it really hard to ride sedate and sensible when you're in decent twisties (like Arkansas) and no traffic or LEOs around.

Some days you feel like a nut Some days...

[George]

I don't care how ya break it up as long as groups are held to 3/4/5. More than that makes a parade, I don't care how "fast" ya think ya are.

My opinion.

[motomac]

+1 for what Gene said, riding with different groups shows your capabilities better than with the same guys all the time.

I led a ride at FLSTOC that was slow and easy and I enjoyed it much, but there ain't no decent twisties in FL I don't care what DDuelin and Shuey say about it! :bow1: :flame

Makes it really hard to ride sedate and sensible when you're in decent twisties (like Arkansas) and no traffic or LEOs around.

Some days you feel like a nut Some days...

We didn't participate in the rides at FLSToc, but the campground road was the curviest, twistiest road we saw in the whole state and we went all the way to Key West and back. The most exciting road we were on was the FL Turnpike west of Miami at rush hour in the rain pulling the Bunkhouse two-up!!!!

Plus a gazillion on 3-5 in a group. Anything more than 5 is a parade. I find that no matter how fast the front of a group rides, the tail end of the group will go faster if someone in the middle gets toooo big a gap and tries to catch up all at once in a straight away. Not uncommon to approach/exceed triple digits catching up. I usually run drag in the groups I've ridden with, but once in a while I'll move up. I have ridden with a variety of folks from all over the country and like Gordon says, sometimes you feel like a nut and......

[Shuey]

I led a ride at FLSTOC that was slow and easy and I enjoyed it much, but there ain't no decent twisties in FL I don't care what DDuelin and Shuey say about it! :bow1: :flame

Ya know, they build horse farms on long straight roads because it's hard on horses in trailers when there's a curve! :toot1: Next trip follow me to Ozello and out along Gobbler Rd then let's compare.:wave1:

Seriously, this discussion is great, keep it going as it benefits not only CampSToc but all our gatherings when we ride together. Everyone safe in their zone, no one pushing or pulling others along - the ideal. How do we get there. I agree that smaller groups is the first key!

[hoowasat]

For you guys mapping out rides, I found that the section of road known as "The Snake" is US Rt.421 heading southeast from Bristol. Since I drove that road about 20 years ago, I'm a little partial to riding Rt.16 between Marion & Tazewell. Along Rt.16, the name "Hungry Mother State Park" intrigues me a good deal ... makes me wanna' see it.

[Trekker]

Woo Hoo !!! 154 days till CampSTOC, and we have 20 people signed up! And were talking about roads to ride! Yeah Baby!

[Mellow]

Woo Hoo !!! 154 days till CampSTOC, and we have 20 people signed up! And were talking about roads to ride! Yeah Baby!

21!:hat1:

[motomac]

Well I just made it 22. I thought I had signed up for this one ages ago, but when I checked,...... I noticed Keith is coming from the UK again and he needs a tent. Maybe I can bring an extra, since I have two now. I'll leave the Dutch oven home and bring both tents. Solves Keith's problem. You monitoring this post Ketih????

[Trekker]

Joe, you dragging Rick (Trailace) along??

[Mellow]

Joe, you dragging Rick (Trailace) along??

Not sure but if he doesn't have family things going on I'm sure he'll show up.

[Keith_UK]

Mac - Yep, I'm following this thread - and I've just changed my attendee status from 'Maybe' to 'Yes'. Regarding a temporary roof: I sent the following self-explanatory e-mail to the campsite a couple of weeks ago - but to date I've had no response. BTW, thanks ever-so-much for your kind offer of a tent Mac; I guess we could always rent one from the Campsite (I think?), but your alternative really is appreciated .. :)

However, we need to be away quite early on the Saturday morning, May-17, which is why we thought the site's cabin, or one of their tents, might be good for us because then we wouldn't necessarily have to pack-up so much stuff and could skedaddle a bit sooner that morning.

My recent e-mail to Willville Motorcycle Campground:
_________________________________________
CampSTOC Meeting -- May 15th to 18th, 2008
Saturday, 1 December, 2007 2:10:50 PM
keith <keithooper@yahoo.co.uk>
To:willvill@swva.net

Hi, my name is Keith and I'm writing to you from across the pond, in England.

My girlfriend and I will be riding our temporarily imported [UK-registered] Honda ST1300 around America and will be in your area during the middle part of May next year ['08].

We would like to attend the group CampSTOC meeting, due to be held at Willville Motorcycle Camp from Thu-15 to Sun-18 May. We shall want, however, to stay with you for two nights only - i.e. Thursday 15th, and Friday 16th of May 2008.

We will not have a tent with us - although we will be carrying a single sleeping bag + a single-size thermarest mattress.

As we understand that you offer a cabin for rent, we are wondering if this will be vacant and available for the two nights in question of Thu-15 & Fri-16 May? This will likely be the ideal solution for us - unless you can suggest something else?

We look forward to hearing from you.

Kind regards

KEITH

----------------------------------
tel: 00 44 1637 877 427
_________________________________________

[sandman]

Looks like a FriendSTOC and CampSTOC midpoint RTE is in the planning stages check this out:

http://www.st-owners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=33522#post361004

[STindy05]

Holy Cow!!!!:mw1: :mw1: $82.50 a night for motel room. Kinda steep for the middle of nowhere.

Never done the :tent3: thing! Might be a good learning experience. Can you direct a newbie to camping on where to start?

[motomac]

Holy Cow!!!!:mw1: :mw1: $82.50 a night for motel room. Kinda steep for the middle of nowhere.

Never done the :tent3: thing! Might be a good learning experience. Can you direct a newbie to camping on where to start?
Go to motocampers.com. Everything you ever wanted to know about motorcycle camping!!!

[Mellow]

Holy Cow!!!!:mw1: :mw1: $82.50 a night for motel room. Kinda steep for the middle of nowhere.

Never done the :tent3: thing! Might be a good learning experience. Can you direct a newbie to camping on where to start?

Sure... You'll need a tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, headlamp/flashlight and you're set.. the rest is stuff you'll learn along the way.

[Trekker]

Like Joe said... you need a shelter & sleeping gear. Willville Campground supplies coffee & breakfast biscuit, and many folks go for day rides which means lunch and/or dinner is on the road. Bring along a pad & paper and take notes too!

[Trekker]

Oh, and........ 132 days till CampSTOC !!!! :D

[STindy05]

Tent- Check...Eureka Zeus 3LE (http://www.mountainsports.com/MSmain.asp?Option=Detail&Detail=058209)
Sleeping Bag- Check
Air mattress- Check
4D Battery Air Pump- Check
LED Flashlight- Check-Check...got two

Still need to pick up a headlamp.

Am I missing anything?

About ready to go.


P.S. Set the tent up in my living room last night. Never set a tent up before, It was a piece of cake!

[Trekker]

Landon.... your all set. The headlamp isn't really required, just handy when your fumbling around in the dark and want both hands free. Plan on meals on the road Brother.

[Mellow]

Tent- Check...Eureka Zeus 3LE (http://www.mountainsports.com/MSmain.asp?Option=Detail&Detail=058209)
Sleeping Bag- Check
Air mattress- Check
4D Battery Air Pump- Check
LED Flashlight- Check-Check...got two

Still need to pick up a headlamp.

Am I missing anything?

About ready to go.


P.S. Set the tent up in my living room last night. Never set a tent up before, It was a piece of cake!

Looks good.. now just watch the weather and if it's cold or hot we'll give you some little tips but you're pretty much set.. the rest is just tweaking.

[Kempo-STer]

Hmmmmmmmmm.......

Velly interesting fellas...Campstoc huh?? 660 miles from Good'ole Hebron

[motomac]

Tent- Check...Eureka Zeus 3LE (http://www.mountainsports.com/MSmain.asp?Option=Detail&Detail=058209)
Sleeping Bag- Check
Air mattress- Check
4D Battery Air Pump- Check
LED Flashlight- Check-Check...got two

Still need to pick up a headlamp.

Am I missing anything?

About ready to go.


P.S. Set the tent up in my living room last night. Never set a tent up before, It was a piece of cake!
Add some kind of ground tarp under your tent. Cheap wally world tarps work or a heavy plastic will work and packs smaller than tarps. Some stores sell "footprints" for the tents they sell, but are pricey for what you get.

[STindy05]

Add some kind of ground tarp under your tent. Cheap wally world tarps work or a heavy plastic will work and packs smaller than tarps. Some stores sell "footprints" for the tents they sell, but are pricey for what you get.

Here is one designed for the tent I got:Footprint (http://www.mountainsports.com/MSmain.asp?Option=Detail&Detail=058660)
At $9 it not that bad of price. I will shop around their site and see what else they have to help with shipping cost.

[motomac]

That'll work!!!!

[sandman]

Hmmmmmmmmm.......

Velly interesting fellas...Campstoc huh?? 660 miles from Good'ole Hebron

Todd,

Come on down it's closer to you than it is to me.

[Mellow]

You're both closer than I am and I'll be there. But, Todd, if you can't make it that's okay, I'm sure the Mrs. Todd has some things for you to do.. or are you Mrs. Todd... I get so confused... he he he

[Kempo-STer]

You're both closer than I am and I'll be there. But, Todd, if you can't make it that's okay, I'm sure the Mrs. Todd has some things for you to do.. or are you Mrs. Todd... I get so confused... he he he

KEMPO WILL BE IN DA HOUSE!!!!!:headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :shout1: :wave1: :tent3: :bannana :bannana :bannana :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2:

Mrs Kempo gave the all clear....Someone has to get this party started..

Early plans are to shove off Wednesday afterwork..get as many miles done in the evening and as few needed on Thursday..Should roll in sometime Thursday later afternoonish..


I will be using my Jedi powers and grabbing a few Northeast brothers to go with me...Unfortunately my mile eating brother GG will be in campground season:o:

One last thing Mr MELLOW-STER..I notices a lot of WHITE on your map of the northeast..somthing I 'assume' you'll be changing this year:cool:

I'm psyched to see some of my Southern friends again and meet new ones!!

[Mellow]

KEMPO WILL BE IN DA HOUSE!!!!!:headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :headbang: :shout1: :wave1: :tent3: :bannana :bannana :bannana :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2: :beer2:

Mrs Kempo gave the all clear....Someone has to get this party started..

Early plans are to shove off Wednesday afterwork..get as many miles done in the evening and as few needed on Thursday..Should roll in sometime Thursday later afternoonish..


I will be using my Jedi powers and grabbing a few Northeast brothers to go with me...Unfortunately my mile eating brother GG will be in campground season:o:

One last thing Mr MELLOW-STER..I notices a lot of WHITE on your map of the northeast..somthing I 'assume' you'll be changing this year:cool:

I'm psyched to see some of my Southern friends again and meet new ones!!

That's great news... it will be good to see you again.

Yes, lots of empty space on my map... I had planned on resolving that last year.. and, this year is still young so there's a good chance I will target the eastern side of the US..

[Kempo-STer]

That's great news... it will be good to see you again.

Yes, lots of empty space on my map... I had planned on resolving that last year.. and, this year is still young so there's a good chance I will target the eastern side of the US..

NNESTOC and CTSTOC are not very far apart on the calendar and you'll always have a roof over your head when you're in my hood..you know that.

[George]

How's this look for a plan?
DesertSTOC then home.
Moonshine, ShowMeSTOC, CampSTOC, FriendSTOC, NESTOC, WeSTOC, then home.

WiSTOC, NatSTOC, then home.

2008 is looking pretty good right now. :D

[Mellow]

How's this look for a plan?
DesertSTOC then home.
Moonshine, ShowMeSTOC, CampSTOC, FriendSTOC, NESTOC, WeSTOC, then home.

WiSTOC, NatSTOC, then home.

2008 is looking pretty good right now. :D

LOL.. it's just Jan... I'm sure we can add a couple more in there for ya..

[George]

Shoot, forgot 666STOC!! my own event!

[motomac]

Shoot, forgot 666STOC!! my own event!

Got me beat this year George. I'm gonna go to Alaska in June, Moonshine, CampSToc, Joe's camping seminar in TX in Feb, DesertSToc, maybe YooperSToc, NNESToc, and maybe CTSToc. And I'm sure Hotglue's BBQ if that happens.

[Subdivided]

Oh yea, I'm now officially looking forward to this one.

[Trekker]

Cool Kempo! Once we get closer to the event we can predict where we will be when... and maybe hook up along the way south. I'm still not sure yet if I am leaving the north coast Wednesday or Thursday morning.... I need to check with my riding buddy on when he can take off from work.

[Flyboy909]

KEMPO WILL BE IN DA HOUSE
I will be using my Jedi powers and grabbing a few Northeast brothers to go with me...

Yep, I'm in on this! And will be riding down with Todd "Rockstar" Kempo-Ster .... man, I wish I broke out the camcorder Sunday :D

[George]

Events _vs_ miles, I think Mac still has me beat. :D

[GRN]

Early plans are to shove off Wednesday afterwork..get as many miles done in the evening and as few needed on Thursday..Should roll in sometime Thursday later afternoonish..

I will be using my Jedi powers and grabbing a few Northeast brothers to go with me...Unfortunately my mile eating brother GG will be in campground season:o:

I have this weekend blocked out if time/funds allow... won't be rolling with your pack though bro, I HATE SLAB... only going if I can make 2-3 days on each end to do it right ;)

[Trekker]

I agree. I hope to ride south as few interstates as possible. Right now my plan is once in PA to ride on 15, then 340 south, and then work over to the BRP. This will be the first time riding in Virginia for my buddy, and we are hoping for good weather up on the ridge.

For the ride home..... Burn the wind !!!

[Kempo-STer]

I have this weekend blocked out if time/funds allow... won't be rolling with your pack though bro, I HATE SLAB... only going if I can make 2-3 days on each end to do it right ;)

spoken by someone who has time on his hands:p: :p: :p: :p:

[GRN]

spoken by someone who has time on his hands:p: :p: :p: :p:

Not funny... too much more of this and I won't even own a bike in May...

[Kempo-STer]

Not funny... too much more of this and I won't even own a bike in May...

So get a job...get on the highway with us (who cares if you don't like slab..neither do I but stop making it a matter of principle) get down to the site and let's ride, kick back with a few and sing some songs with us..C'MON!

[GRN]

Dude, no.... it's only 800 miles, if I can go at all I can make time to do it without interstate. I-81 SUX, I've been up and down that stretch way too many times already in this lifetime. Now if you want to talk WeSTOC, that's a different gig :D

[motomac]

Dude, no.... it's only 800 miles, if I can go at all I can make time to do it without interstate. I-81 SUX, I've been up and down that stretch way too many times already in this lifetime. Now if you want to talk WeSTOC, that's a different gig :D

I have to agree with Greg on the I 81. Tooooooo many trucks. YuK!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Kempo-STer]

I have to agree with Greg on the I 81. Tooooooo many trucks. YuK!!!!!!!!!!!!

Well gentleman...like I said..
When you have the extra time (not that either of you know what I am tlaking about :p: :p: ) you can go back roads from here to California, but I gotta get to where I am going..:p: :p:

[Bones]

Sounds like fun...unless I'm slabbing 700 miles there, 700 miles back. That sounds like b o r e d o m. There have to be a whole pile of fantastic roads to get us the Virginny, and I-84 and I-81 don't qualify. Done those in a Florida-bound cage many times. Not on a bike. Got any suggestions for a fun way south?

[GRN]

Yeah, looking at the map I see about a gajillion of them... may have to call upon some local experience. Should be nice alts to basically skirt the a somewhat similar path as I-81, west side down, east side back kinda thing...?

[motomac]

US 11 follows I 81 forever. Sometimes you actually have to get on 81 to follow 11.

[Ripshod]

I've camped at Willville six times and always enjoyed it. There's only one downside - no surface fires. That's not a big deal for us because Will has a big grill, charcoal not gas which is a good thing, so there's no need to go hungry or settle for the food at the restaurant on the hill. It's not a bad place to eat, I just know I can do better.

I just now started revisiting this forum (trying to alleviate a bad case of PMS) and I'll be checking schedules to see if I can make it. I hope so, looks like it'll be a hoot.

[Ripshod]

All bikes are welcome... we do not discriminate... But... If you're want to 'hang with the big dawgs', you'll need something comparable/capable...
:cool:

Heh. My buddy from Nashville thinks he might make it. He rides a PC800. A very small dawg.

BTW - he can handle the 'scooter' jokes.

[Bones]

I've camped at Willville six times and always enjoyed it. There's only one downside - no surface fires.

No caveman TV? :cf1: At a campground? :shock:

What next -- no tents?

[billxp]

No caveman TV? :cf1: At a campground? :shock:

What next -- no tents?Don't worry.

" At night gather at the group campfire to meet new friends and share your motorcycle adventures." From the campgrounds website.

[motomac]

Ah hmm we have been known to make a little fire in the charcoal grills at various campgrounds with those instalog thingies. When the rangers go by, we just turn the grill away from the road!!!

[Bones]

Don't worry.

" At night gather at the group campfire to meet new friends and share your motorcycle adventures." From the campgrounds website.

Whew!
:coffee1: :03biker: :eat1: :beer3: :cf1:

[hoowasat]

"At night gather at the group campfire to meet new friends and share your motorcycle adventures." From the campgrounds website.
And here I've been thinking all along that this forum served such a purpose. Oh, well ... silly me.

[Trekker]

Bones... no worries on the Caveman TV. Will has a HUGE fire pit. It's right in the camping area with lots of benches & logs & tables... best bring a folding chair if you have one.

[Ripshod]

No caveman TV? :cf1: At a campground? :shock:

What next -- no tents?

Yeah, they have a group campfire area. I just meant no personal campfires. I always like to have a fire, but that just means I won't have to pack my shovel, axe and saw. In fact, I'll probably leave the whole kitchen behind.

[georgeorge]

Got me beat this year George. I'm gonna go to Alaska in June, Moonshine, CampSToc, Joe's camping seminar in TX in Feb, DesertSToc, maybe YooperSToc, NNESToc, and maybe CTSToc. And I'm sure Hotglue's BBQ if that happens.

Joe's camping seminar????? Did I miss something? What's this about? When, where...and such.

[Bones]

Bones... no worries on the Caveman TV. Will has a HUGE fire pit. It's right in the camping area with lots of benches & logs & tables... best bring a folding chair if you have one.

Excellent...benches and logs and tables burn great! :crackup

[Mellow]

Joe's camping seminar????? Did I miss something? What's this about? When, where...and such.

It's a motocampers event.. here http://www.motocampers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=912

Basically, an overnighter and at 1pm I'll go over all my gear for those that are interested.

[motomac]

And Rick and I will be there to assist him!!!!

[Kempo-STer]

OH BOY!!!

I see a trip to Texas in Brian's future...All to see an unpacked Goldwing:D

Just leave the new xbox and rock band with me and I'll make sure it stays safe:rolleyes:

[ChucksKLRST]

I plan on being there unless it is raining. Thinking about bring the KLR instead of the ST.

[georgeorge]

OH BOY!!!

I see a trip to Texas in Brian's future...All to see an unpacked Goldwing:D

Just leave the new xbox and rock band with me and I'll make sure it stays safe:rolleyes:

There are 2 reasons I can't make the trip. 1) Dog has an appointment at the vet on Wednesday to get rabies shot and bloodwork and 2) Xbox 360 and Rockband game are due to be here on Tuesday!!!!! I feel like a kid on X-mas morning!!! Even better than a new farkle!!

Otherwise, you guys know I'm up for a feb ride to Texas for a weekend stay.....BTDT!

[Kempo-STer]

There are 2 reasons I can't make the trip. 1) Dog has an appointment at the vet on Wednesday to get rabies shot and bloodwork and 2) Xbox 360 and Rockband game are due to be here on Tuesday!!!!! I feel like a kid on X-mas morning!!! Even better than a new farkle!!

Otherwise, you guys know I'm up for a feb ride to Texas for a weekend stay.....BTDT!

So when and where do we play?????

[georgeorge]

So when and where do we play?????

Rockband I know will be here Tuesday.... Xbox I have not yet received the tracking info yet so????.....but as soon as it gets here, I'm settin' it up and your welcome to come here anytime you want, you know that.

[Flyboy909]

Rockband I know will be here Tuesday....

So Brian... are you the drummer, axe man, or front guy?? :8):

Jeez... I feel responsible for this :D

[Trekker]

Only 110 days till CampSTOC.... I can't wait till Spring!

[georgeorge]

So Brian... are you the drummer, axe man, or front guy?? :8):

Jeez... I feel responsible for this :D

Not sure yet..... drummer for sure. And never front guy.

[Trekker]

Here is a big loop ride that starts at Willville, runs south on the BRP to Blowing Rock, cuts NW up to Damascus, NE to Floyd, then back to Willville.

About 290 miles total.

The Garmin file is version 2
The Streets & Trips is 2003

[Trekker]

Here's a similar loop ride that rides south on the BRP, then cuts up on RT 421, back up to Rt 58, and back to Willville.

About 275 miles. Rt 421 has some wicked switch backs going up & down the mountain.

[hoowasat]

Rt 421 has some wicked switch backs going up & down the mountain.

Rt.421 is the road which local riders refer to as "The Snake" ... just like Rt.129 is known as "The Dragon." And like the Dragon, there are Snake patches and stickers available at local stores.

[Trekker]

Here's one Sandman (Gordon) created. He saved it in Garmin ver. 2 for me, and can probably post a more current version if needed.

About 140 miles, and it includes a couple of covered bridges in Virginia. Goes south into NC, thru My. Airy, then back north to the BRP to Willville.

[Tor]

Lois and my are coming up Thursday.......staying till Sunday. We have stayed at this CG before. Very nice place.

[Trekker]

Looking forward to meeting you & Lois, Tor.

[Tor]

Just for kicks. Video (http://www.torlo.com/biking/video/willville.WMV) taken in Oct 2006, with overnight temps of 30 or so degr. Starting video a little off the parkway, and stops as we park at the tent. As you can see, not very many others in there in the cold ;-).

Gravel off the main road, and very narrow, so be careful when you ride in.

[Trekker]

Nice Video Tor. I remember I rode standing on my pegs just to keep my balance on the gravel.

As I remember, the traffic flow is supposed to move opposite of the way you drove in when it's busy. I think bikes are supposed to ride in to the right, past the house, to get into the camp area, and exit out the road you came in on. Surely not an issue when your the only campers there, but it could be when there are 30 to 50 bikes, eh?

[motomac]

Nice video. It would be real pretty when them Rhododendrons are in bloom. Sure looked like quite a few on the way into the campground on each side of the road.

[Tor]

Nice Video Tor. I remember I rode standing on my pegs just to keep my balance on the gravel.

As I remember, the traffic flow is supposed to move opposite of the way you drove in when it's busy. I think bikes are supposed to ride in to the right past the house to get into the camp area, and out the road you came in on. Surely not an issue when your the only campers there, but it could be when there are 30 to 50 bikes, eh?

Hmm,,,I think you're right....:D, when I think about it....thought I saw a sign that said "Entrance" where we rode in,,lemme check the video again ;-))

[acedantinne]

? do you need to make a reservation? At campgrounds. Willville

[Tor]

I didnt last time I was there, but it was during off-season.

[Trekker]

No reservations.... just show up and pick a spot.

Will has sign up envelopes you fill out, put your cash in, & drop it in the box. There are no specific sites. You pull in and set up with no need to sign up at an office first. It's great!

[Diggers1300]

Man thought I signed up for this a long time ago. Well it's official now!

Looking forward to seeing some old friends again and seeing some "old friends" for the first time. I may not have meet some of you on this site, but it feels like I know many of ya'll.

[dannyk]

Looking forward to this one, It will be the first camping trip of the year for me, that is if the snow melts in time. :biker:

[gene]

Hey Dannyk it will be great to meet you in person, see ya in May.

[sandman]

Nice Video Tor. I remember I rode standing on my pegs just to keep my balance on the gravel.

As I remember, the traffic flow is supposed to move opposite of the way you drove in when it's busy. I think bikes are supposed to ride in to the right past the house to get into the camp area, and out the road you came in on. Surely not an issue when your the only campers there, but it could be when there are 30 to 50 bikes, eh?

Loved the video, what's the music on the vid.

+1 on your riding in the exit. That could cause problems in May, I imagine there will be more folks and the exit is narrow. Entrance is on your right when you came in. Go past the house and the road goes straight in to the campground.

See you folks there in May.

[Tor]

Loved the video, what's the music on the vid.

+1 on your riding in the exit. That could cause problems in May, I imagine there will be more folks and the exit is narrow. Entrance is on your right when you came in. Go past the house and the road goes straight in to the campground.

See you folks there in May.

Daniel Powter - Bad Day (Instrument Version)

[jdaniels]

Anybody know what temperatures should be expected at this thing? Thanks

[Tor]

Average Asheville May temp is 63.so anywhere 63-70 hopefully...perfect riding temp.

So the campground would be a little lower due to the higher alt.

http://www.cityrating.com/citytemperature.asp?City=Asheville

[Trekker]

Anybody know what temperatures should be expected at this thing? Thanks

Temps??? Who cares! No ice on the roads is all that matters!!! :D

(avg. high of 70, avg. low of 45) for the Meadows of Dan, VA

[Tor]

Temps??? Who cares! No ice on the roads is all that matters!!! :D

(avg. high of 70, avg. low of 45) for the Meadows of Dan, VA

somewhere around there yeah.

Thats right. We dont want ice,,,thats just plum "dainjerus"

But,,,,,,,,I've camped in Willeville before,,in 28-30 degrees,,,man does it feel good to get out of the tent,,stretch yer legs, and burn yerself some cowboy coffee.......nuttin like it.....

[Uncle Phil]

MELLOW - Concerning meeting for lunch for the CampSToc/FriendSToc gang. Looks like White Sulphur Springs, WV is kind of near the middle. Anybody know of a good restaurant there? There seems to be several in the general area but I've never eaten at any of them.

[hoowasat]

Y'all could eat high on the hog at the Greenbriar Resort. Classy place. Plus, underneath it is the bunker built for the members of the US Congress in the event of a nuclear attack.

[George]

Y'all could eat high on the hog at the Greenbriar Resort. Classy place. Plus, underneath it is the bunker built for the members of the US Congress in the event of a nuclear attack.

I hear they now do tours of the bunker. Wonder where the new one is. :D

[STindy05]

Lets try Granny's House...Never been there but just pulled it up on Yahoo. Gotta be good food if Granny made it:D

[forgitaboutut]

One more month of this wintery crap!!! I can't wait! I havn't got to ride since January...and that was a one shot deal...the worst winter I think we had in the past 15 years!

[nyener]

Do I need to reserve my camp site for this ahead of time?

[Trekker]

Terry,

Willville does not take reservations. We just show up, pick a spot of grass, and put cash in an envelope. It's a very laid back system that works very well. There are no assigned sites and only one large fire pit that Will takes care of.

[Fster]

Anyone headed down through eastern Pa I might be able to hook up with. I would like to stay to the byways and not the highways if at all possible.

[ccobra8]

I just ran accross this thread last night. I am supposed to go to bike week at Myrtle Beach that week end. Already got reservations but about half of the guys have backed out. If I can get out of this I will be going to this event! I would much rather go rideing in the mountians with you guys than sitting in a traffic jam at the beach. I never under stud the riding around in a circle all day and night with the loud pipes. I went down last year on my connie and walked most of the time I was there. If you have never been you should go once. Riding out in the open road is alot more fun to me.

[gene]

Fster there will be a few folks coming from the north so ask again as things get closer and routes and plans are finalized.

[Trekker]

Anyone headed down through eastern Pa I might be able to hook up with. I would like to stay to the byways and not the highways if at all possible.

My buddy & I will be riding south on US15 either Wed. 5/14 or Thurs, 5/15.... we have not yet finalized our schedule. We plan to get down to northern VA on US340 for the 1st night on the road... probably camp at Big Meadows NP Campground on the Skyline Drive. Hope to be able to hook up with others for the last leg south on the BRP to Willville.

We may be able to hook up... let's see as the date gets closer.

These plans are subject to change or modification without warning according to the whims of those involved and the accidental intrusion of others, who, though not directly involved, by their actions either inconvenience us or interfere with the said "plans". Void where prohibited. This offer is not available in all states, so alter yours!

[Kempo-STer]

My buddy & I will be riding south on US15 either Wed. 5/14 or Thurs, 5/15.... we have not yet finalized our schedule. We plan to get down to northern VA on US340 for the 1st night on the road... probably camp at Big Meadows NP Campground on the Skyline Drive. Hope to be able to hook up with others for the last leg south on the BRP to Willville.

We may be able to hook up... let's see as the date gets closer.

These plans are subject to change or modification without warning according to the whims of those involved and the accidental intrusion of others, who, though not directly involved, by their actions either inconvenience us or interfere with the said "plans". Void where prohibited. This offer is not available in all states, so alter yours!

Dave,
there maybe a good chance I will join on the trip south..Depends on the participation of others in from my hood. I will be freed up on Wednesday afternoon coming out of Hartford.

[Winged_STer]

Ok. Thinking real serious about it but haven't done a camping trip in in 30+ years. Think I still have it in me though.

Anyone riding up from Florida I can join up with? dduelin mentioned he might be going... dwr954?? I could do it by myself but it would be more fun with another fellow STer.

[motomac]

Dave,
there maybe a good chance I will join on the trip south..Depends on the participation of others in from my hood. I will be freed up on Wednesday afternoon coming out of Hartford.
Wooo Hoooo bring all them New Englanders on down.

[Trekker]

Dave,
there maybe a good chance I will join on the trip south..Depends on the participation of others in from my hood. I will be freed up on Wednesday afternoon coming out of Hartford.

Cool !! :headbang: Like I said I'm still not positive on the exact day we will be starting south... I'm pushing for Wednesday, but it all depends on work & home schedules.

Once we get within a month I bet we can make more solid plans to hook up. A minimum plan might be we all meet at a designated place along the way (entrance to the Skyway, entrance to the BRP, Gene's hood in MD, whatever).

[Uncle Phil]

BTW, I've got two really good recommendations for Mrs. Rowes restaurant in Staunton. How does that sound for the FriendSToc/CampStoc lunch on Friday? They have home-made pies .... ;-)

[Mellow]

BTW, I've got two really good recommendations for Mrs. Rowes restaurant in Staunton. How does that sound for the FriendSToc/CampStoc lunch on Friday? They have home-made pies .... ;-)

Works for me.. Pie for lunch.. what are the rest of you eating.

[STindy05]

Works for me.. Pie for lunch.. what are the rest of you eating.

Is this the offical place then? I can start planning my route and where to stay Thursday night in order to meet everyone for lunch.

[Kempo-STer]

Works for me.. Pie for lunch.. what are the rest of you eating.

Actor 1: "Cakes and Pies...Cakes and Pies..." Actor 2: "I'm sorry, I think there's been a mistake!!"... Actor 1: "Did you say Steak???"

Name the movie?? First person to get it gets a beer from me at CAMPSTOC. (I'll drink the other 5:D :rolleyes: )

[billxp]

Deuce Bigalow

[Trekker]

Uncle Phil- do you have the rest of the PPP route identified now?

[gene]

UP that will work for me and Kreis ! PIE !!!

Dave Lisa and I will most likely be heading south on thursday,so we might be able to work something out. You coming down for DQ next saturday?

[Kempo-STer]

Deuce Bigalow

BINGO
BUT are you going to CampSTOC??!!

[STindy05]

Wow!!!!:hat1: I just checked the sign up page and there are 42 members signed up for this :tent3: trip. I am getting excited since it will be my first motocamping experience!

[billxp]

BINGO
BUT are you going to CampSTOC??!!
I'm keeping my options open.

But for a free beer hmmmmmm. :D

[Uncle Phil]

TREKKER - My big hold up is I've got to check out the accomodations for the second night (which determines the route). Previous week-ends the weather has been icy and snowy, then I was going this past week-end but with Days Inn single room prices at $1000 a night (yes - $1000 - and I captured the page)), it was a little pricey (Bristol was having a race). If I don't have to serve jury duty, I'll be up the first week-end in April (it's kind of on the way to the RTE in Mansfield, Ohio ;-)) and get it finalized. I'm a little picky, but I don't want to put us in a motel that turns out to be a real dog palace. Also, I try to be sure there are restaurants within walking distance so nobody has to suit up after a day of riding.

[Uncle Phil]

MELLOW - Then it sounds like Mrs. Rowe's it is! 11 AM or so sound about right? Looks like y'all could just rip right up the BRP and get there pretty easy.

Mrs. Rowes Family Restaurant

Region: Shenandoah Valley
Locality: Staunton City

I-81, Exit 222, Rt. 250
Staunton, VA 24401

WINTER HOURS 7 AM TIL 8 PM
SUMMER HOURS 7 AM TIL 9 PM
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner all year long. Homestyle home cooked food. Fun and friendly atmosphere for family dining. Bakery on the premises. Family owned and operated for 55 years, and still going strong.

Average Cost Per Person: Under $10

Serving: Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Accessibility:
Hours:
Opens: 8:00 AM
Closes: 9:00 PM

Children Welcome<-This should cover everybody. ;-)

Telephone:
Phone: (540) 886-1833

[Trekker]

Thanks Phil! Pie is good....:drool1:

[Mellow]

Sounds good to me. ... I'll just be glad to not be working and be riding with friends.

[gene]

I like 11am that way we have time for a ride up to Canaan for dinner maybe ,then blast back on the interstate:D

[Uncle Phil]

I generally figure if you go at 11, you usually beat a good portion of the lunch crowd - at least that's the way it works around here. So Friday, May 16th 11 AM at Mrs. Rowes - let the pie eatin' begin ...

[Tor]

For those of you that plan to ride the BRP (south of Craggy Gardens) to WIlleville:

http://www.virtualblueridge.com/news-and-events/news-267.asp

In other words,,,,,you need to hit the Parkway north of Mount Mitchell.

[Tor]

Any ideas for dayrides around the area? I am not too familiar with the roads up there.

[Trekker]

Any ideas for dayrides around the area? I am not too familiar with the roads up there.

Tor- See page 7 of this thread.

[Tor]

Opps,,,thanks, Dave :)

[Trekker]

I also recommend -

Motorcycle Journeys Through The Appalachians, Dale Coyner

And/Or

Appalachian Motorcycle Adventures (various editions, Hawk Hagebak)

[STindy05]

Tor- See page 7 of this thread.

Maybe I am missing it, but don't see any routes listed on page 7. Am I blind?

[Trekker]

Maybe I am missing it, but don't see any routes listed on page 7. Am I blind?

Post # 125, 126 & 128 (I forgot that some may have different number of posts per page- mine is set for 20 per page).

[Tor]

Page 4 ;-))

[STindy05]

Yep found them now. And I changed my post viewed from 10 to 40 now.:D

[Trekker]

Those were some routes Sandman & I put together.... More choices would be awesome! (hint-hint);)

[Tor]

ummm,,,ordered the book just now, thanks for the advice......Living close to the NC border in SC,,,this book should become dog-eared pretty quick.

[Mellow]

I added those three routes to the first post.

[Tor]

Thanks Joe

[Winged_STer]

This event is a must do for me. Not sure why but it is.

As an absolute novice at the moto-camping scene, I am at a loss as to what to bring aside from the obvious tent, sleeping bag, and toothbrush. Do I need the freeze dried wonder foods or a little camp stove? Do you guys eat out all the time? I believe I saw where someone suggested that.

I don't want to over "think" this process and bring a second home, yet I don't want to be begging around the campground for the necessities.

ANY advice would be appreciated.

[motomac]

Go to motocampers.com and check out the check list for camping. It lists bare essentials to luxury items.

[STeve1300]

This event is a must do for me. Not sure why but it is.

As an absolute novice at the moto-camping scene, I am at a loss as to what to bring aside from the obvious tent, sleeping bag, and toothbrush. Do I need the freeze dried wonder foods or a little camp stove? Do you guys eat out all the time? I believe I saw where someone suggested that.

I don't want to over "think" this process and bring a second home, yet I don't want to be begging around the campground for the necessities.

ANY advice would be appreciated.


You will not be out of place just bringing the obvious!!!

In fact you will be welcomed and feel right at home. Perhaps you will tweak your packing list for next time. One guy named Lou (He'll be there) didn't even bring a tent last time.... slept in the grass (not recommended,, he's bringing a tent this year) A few of us will bring food or something interesting to share w/ the group.... There was campsite hand made ice cream last year,,,, a brat & burger cookout,,,,and campfire biscuits and donuts for breakfast as well as coffee. Now if you actually plan on eating a full meal... you gotta bring it or join us at the diner!!! Most will dine out or carry in. Daily there will be loosely planned rides which most will go on. I however will hang out with the few that lag behind and explore the local area.... and of course find that quaint local diner... Hey,, I'm riding down from Wisconsin and I'm actually gonna camp! We'll see you there!!!

[Mellow]

This event is a must do for me. Not sure why but it is.

As an absolute novice at the moto-camping scene, I am at a loss as to what to bring aside from the obvious tent, sleeping bag, and toothbrush. Do I need the freeze dried wonder foods or a little camp stove? Do you guys eat out all the time? I believe I saw where someone suggested that.

I don't want to over "think" this process and bring a second home, yet I don't want to be begging around the campground for the necessities.

ANY advice would be appreciated.

Don't think too hard.. thinking is for work.. camping is for not thinking.. okay.. that didn't quite come out the way I meant it to..

We don't do primitive camping.. we don't hunt and eat what we've killed during the day.. if there's a mcdonalds close... that makes good campfire food as well as the grease from the fries will really start a fire fast...

motocampers.com has some very good advise and the basics are just that.. if you've got a tent and sleeping bag and air mattress or pad, you're 95% there.. get one of those led headlight flashlights and you're set.. heck, there will be 50 of us running around with them on so you probably won't get any sleep with all the lights on .. :shock:

[George]

My contribution last year was the campfire and a 24 pack of sliders. :D

29033

[gene]

Hey Steve since you seem to be the cook/fire chef is there anything you need Lisa and I to bring to lighten your load? We really like to eat and love it when others do the cooking :D

[Tor]

I however will hang out with the few that lag behind and explore the local area.... and of course find that quaint local diner... !

Sounds like Lois and me need to hang right behind you then...:D


As far as stuff to bring,,,,like Steve said, just the obvious,,,a tent, sleeping bag, and maybe a sleeping pad. Other than that, its your own imagination. We usually bring at least some can or dry supper, coffee, and my loving MSR burner. The clothes we bring depend heavily on how long, where we're going, and what time of year.

[STeve1300]

Hey Steve since you seem to be the cook/fire chef is there anything you need Lisa and I to bring to lighten your load? We really like to eat and love it when others do the cooking :D

Too funny,,, I am making an appetizer this year.... perhaps you could supply a light yet fruity bottle (ok,,, box) of wine??? Do they still make Boone's Farm??? I have actually heard from Steve and Virginia... and they are doing something for the group as well. Tamera and Steve did the ice cream last year.... I hope they surprise us again!!! Seriously... if you want to bring something... go for it!!! Rich was the biggest contributer last year with the cheese tray, Brats, burgers, etc.... I still have no Idea how he carried all that... and I rode down with him!!!

My contribution last year was the campfire and a 24 pack of sliders. :D

29033

And an awesome fire it was.... looking forward to a repeat!!!

[gene]

Boone's Farm, I remember when a long long time ago:D :D that stuff was like fruit punch !!

[hoowasat]

I'll do my grocery shopping after arriving & checking in. Then again, since my little group is renting a cabin at Blue Ridge Passage Resort, any fire will remain in the fireplace & won't be used for cooking. I think the oven & microwave will handle our needs quite well, but the washer & dryer may not see much use. (hee hee)

Boone's Farm? I remember those days on the C&O canal! Cutty Sark has been my preference since '76.

[mstgsaly269]

Too funny,,, I am making an appetizer this year.... perhaps you could supply a light yet fruity bottle (ok,,, box) of wine??? Do they still make Boone's Farm??? I have actually heard from Steve and Virginia... and they are doing something for the group as well. Tamera and Steve did the ice cream last year.... I hope they surprise us again!!! Seriously... if you want to bring something... go for it!!! Rich was the biggest contributer last year with the cheese tray, Brats, burgers, etc.... I still have no Idea how he carried all that... and I rode down with him!!!



And an awesome fire it was.... looking forward to a repeat!!!


I really wish I could go along with Rich this year, but my parents will be in town from texas during this time, so I gotta stay home. Steve, you were wondering how he carried all that stuff before, Well just think, he got a WING WITH A TRAILER imagine what he can haul now :crackup

[Trekker]

Keep in mind that if you choose the breakfast sammie option when you pay for the camping, Will brings those and has coffee made as well. Lunch & dinner can be found while out riding the area roads. Lunch can even be an easy roadside snack of your choice bought earlier in the morning while gassing up.

If you just bring you basic shelter and sleeping gear, think of this as an opportunity to check out how others live on the road. It's a great way to meet folks and to learn stuff.

[STeve1300]

I...you were wondering how he carried all that stuff before, Well just think, he got a WING WITH A TRAILER imagine what he can haul now :crackup

Oh my..... there goes the forest!

[SilverBullet]

I know I'm late due to being new here but I would like to provide some good information for your event here in the BlueridgeParkway area. Being from the area I have some good routes that I will get uploaded for you soon. I also have a link to some good routes and a brochure PDF you can download at the bottom of the link. http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com/cycle.htm

Hope you all have a great time and maybe I'll get to meet everyone.

[SilverBullet]

Here are a few Routes that take you by some nice resorts, The Greenbrier in WV and The Homestead in VA. Also there are POI for all the local wineries. The Greenbrier Route take you across PaintBack. There you will find nice twisties and Buffalo and a great Restaraunt The Swinging Bridge. http://www.theswingingbridge.com/

More to come....:07biker:

[sandman]

My contribution last year was the campfire and a 24 pack of sliders. :D

29033

Correction: Your contribution last year was the classic "chimney fire" campfire. :22yikes:

[gene]

Silverbullit some of us met there for Buffalo burgers last may, a real neat place:D I think it was 311 over the mountian was real cool!

[motomac]

Correction: Your contribution last year was the classic "chimney fire" campfire. :22yikes:
That picture was the chimney fire.

[Winged_STer]

Thanks for the advice guys. I'll try to keep it simple. It is not really in my nature to do so, but I'll try.:D

[SilverBullet]

Yes that is it the 311 route. You needed to run all the way to the Greenbrier. That is where they had a Bunker set up for the President and staff back in the 50's or 60's. It was top secret till just a few years ago. They now have daily tours.

Also be sure to hit our Rockbridge Ride THE SPORT TOUR LOOP
http://www.lexingtonvirginia.com/RV&RRides-Rockbridge-Sport.pdf


Rockbridge Ride
THE SPORT TOUR LOOP
This challenging ride offers over 240 turns
along just one 14-mile stretch. In other
words, it’s a blast. The 90-mile tour offers
some of the United States’ best riding. Or
if your time is short or your seat is sore,
shorter options also yield a rewarding ride.
Starting from Glen Maury Park, take Rt.
501 North for 2 miles, then turn RIGHT
onto US 60 East.



Also A nice super place to eat is the HomePlace http://filebox.vt.edu/users/kdesrosi/thehomeplace/

Super food, great price, Family dinning and all you can eat. They bring all the food to you in bowls and platters like your at home. Don't miss it.


Floyd Va offers some good home cooking too. The Pine Tavern http://www.thepinetavern.com/

[Winged_STer]

Another stupid question.

What do most of the people use for communications? CB or GMRS/FRS? I would like to do a very basic (read: cheap) setup for the trip but don't want to be on the wrong side of the fence.

TIA

[motomac]

Oh, Man that is almost as bad as asking about oil or tires!!! I use a CB, but there are many who use GMRS and FRS. I use a CB because, 99.9% of the men who make their living driving big rigs use it, and I get a lot of information about road conditions and LEOs. I also get a lot of garbage mouth from the newer generation of truckers, but I have learned to filter that out.

[Mellow]

Oh, Man that is almost as bad as asking about oil or tires!!! I use a CB, but there are many who use GMRS and FRS. I use a CB because, 99.9% of the men who make their living driving big rigs use it, and I get a lot of information about road conditions and LEOs. I also get a lot of garbage mouth from the newer generation of truckers, but I have learned to filter that out.

What mac said...

CB=Not Cheap for a good setup but widely used
GMRS/FRS=affordable and great range but not as widely used

This is one of those things where you need to determine how and who you ride with most of the time - not just a one-trip decision. If most of the people you ride with use CBs or you like the option of listening to truckers on the hwy for accidents, leos and debris on the road, it's a good choice. If you ride with the same people all the time or don't care about truckertalk then the other option is a good one because it's pretty cheap for you and others to get it setup. Of course, just my opinion.

[gene]

If you use Midland equipment some of there cb walkie talkies and frs radios use the same cable and allows carry both in the top box and plug up which ever one is needed

[Mellow]

If you use Midland equipment some of there cb walkie talkies and frs radios use the same cable and allows carry both in the top box and plug up which ever one is needed

Thanks Gene, that would help with the cost issue... do you have this setup? just curious how good the range is on the cb.

[gene]

I use the rubber antenna it is when needed and it does ok, but h2orider has the same setup and uses a whip antenna with real good range. We use the cb riding with Wings and Frs any other time as they are better sound wise in my opinion

[Mellow]

I use the rubber antenna it is when needed and it does ok, but h2orider has the same setup and uses a whip antenna with real good range. We use the cb riding with Wings and Frs any other time as they are better sound wise in my opinion

Cool.. yeah, it doesn't take much to get better-than-cb quality sound that's for sure..

Thanks!

[Winged_STer]

Thanks Guys!

The Midland Set up sounds perfecto in the short term... Any specific models, headsets, adapters? I will stick with the rubber antenna for now and then add on as I evolve.

REALLY appreciate the feedback!

[gene]

Gary are you anywhere near Joe Sears (spoiled biker) up near Daytona he can hook you up with a starcom system . There is a outfit that sells helmet set that don't requier a comm system but I will need to find the link .

[Winged_STer]

Gene,
Daytona is doable, about 3+ hours from me but I was hoping to avoid the Starcom or other such devices initially. Every time I priced a package it was near a $1000 and I just can't do that right now. I have a Russell seat which is "in production" right now and I have to pay for that.

The farkles are a black hole for money and if my wife knew the half of it... well :spank1: :D

My thought was this and maybe it won't work, by a Midland CB (I have heard other mention that brand) and a headset with a PTT button for the left hand grip. If I could later buy a Midland GMRS/FRS and use the same headset that would be awesome and then maybe next year buy the Starcom unit to tie everything together. Is this even possible or is the headset/PTT different for both products?

[Winged_STer]

Sorry... I realize this got off topic but I was looking for a solution to communications with other riders at CampSTOC.

[Trekker]

With all the different people riding in from where ever... I suspect there will not be any one dominate comm system. Many don't have a transceiver, some will have CB, some FRS/GMRS, some even Ham. And there isn't a real cheap method of getting a comm system on the bike AND into your helmet. Most use an intercom with the tranceiver plugged into that. Add an antenna & cables & mounting.... starts to empty the wallet.

[motomac]

+1 on what Dave said.

[Winged_STer]

That's what I was afraid of. I'll do some more digging.

Thank you all for your help.

[STindy05]

I have a J&M CB on the bike.

[George]

To me, the talking should be at B/L/D/ and campfire. "Shut up and ride" comes to mind. :D

[gene]

Bass pro sells a helmet kit ninus the frs radio for less than $40

[gene]

Afew links for very basic bike to bike. We traveled over 2500 miles last summer on a trip to Maine and 2 of the guys were using the kits from bass pro they work

http://www.planetheadset.com/helmet-headset.php
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_82840_200001005_200000000_200001000_200-1-5

[hoowasat]

What happened to old fashioned hand signals?
http://www.willowcreek.org/motorcycle/hand_signals.htm

Hang up & drive ... er, make that ... hang up & ride!

[acedantinne]

Hey what about the t-paper? You cant camp with out it. Matches? dry 1's. Light the camp fire?

[SilverBullet]

I added some POI's around Roanoke that some may want to check out. I added seveal good restaraunts and attractions. I also add the local Honda dealer.

I recommend a route by Smith Mountain Lake and stopping by Bridgewater Plaza. http://www.bridgewaterplaza.com/

They have several restaraunts. Mango's is an outdoor grill with enertainment. It's also a big motorcyle hangout. It would be fun to watch a bunch of ST's pull in and show a few harley riders what real bike are...:D

I also added another route, which is the sporttouring route through buenavista.

Ride Safe! :07biker:

[Trekker]

Sweet ! Joe, can you please add these two new routes to the first post?? :D

[sandman]

I added some POI's around Roanoke that some may want to check out. I added seveal good restaraunts and attractions. I also add the local Honda dealer.

I recommend a route by Smith Mountain Lake and stopping by Bridgewater Plaza. http://www.bridgewaterplaza.com/

They have several restaraunts. Mango's is an outdoor grill with enertainment. It's also a big motorcyle hangout. It would be fun to watch a bunch of ST's pull in and show a few harley riders what real bike are...:D

I also added another route, which is the sporttouring route through buenavista.

Ride Safe! :07biker:

Harold,

Thanks for all your local knowledge. This is a great part of the country to ride and I'm looking forward to spending several days there. I was planning to spend a few days in WV on the way up but with all the great routes to ride in VA I'm thinking of setting up at Willville and making a week of it. WOW!

[SilverBullet]

Harold,

Thanks for all your local knowledge. This is a great part of the country to ride and I'm looking forward to spending several days there. I was planning to spend a few days in WV on the way up but with all the great routes to ride in VA I'm thinking of setting up at Willville and making a week of it. WOW!

I can hook you up a good routes in WV. I was born and raised there and moved to Roanoke in 2000. Now I get to see a lot of different routes.


Here is a good route that takes you to R52 N into Welch and the southwestern area of WV- deep into the coal towns. There is a great old drive-in there with a great sandwich.

Here is a blog posting I did on it.

I don't do much blogging but I thought I would try to blog some of my rides and routes. Today we had a great ride. We put in about 270 miles which was my wife’s longest ride so far, she is becoming the quite little "biker chick". She decided last week she would like to ride to Welch WV.

There was a drive-in that she use to go to while she was growing up that she would love to revisit. The drive-in is The Sterling Drive-Inn in Welch WV. They have a famous submarine sandwich which is the best. The ingredient is a family recipe and kept secret. It is some type of meat spread that they prepare before any workers get there. None of their workers know what is in it but it's good. It also has a cranberry spread along with lettuce, bacon and tomato on a deep fried hoagie bun. The bun is just barley fried, just to make it crisp. There is no grease at all soaked in to the bun. The owners are from Greece and have had the drive-in since 1947.

We left from Roanoke VA heading to New Castle on Rt. 311. We then took Rt. 42 to Newport and picked up 460 West to Princeton WV. We then picked up Rt. 20 to Bluewell, WV where we got on Rt. 52 North to Welch. Once in Welch, do not take the 52 by-pass stay straight on to Virginia Ave, make a right at the stop sign on 16 ( McDowell St.) Keep straight and then make a right at the next stop sign on Stewart St. Sterling Drive-In is ahead on the right.

This ride had great roads, scenery and some great twisties. We had a great time today and recommend the ride to anyone heading this way.


Ride Safe:03biker:

[sandman]

I can hook you up a good routes in WV. I was born and raised there and moved to Roanoke in 2000. Now I get to see a lot of different routes.


Here is a good route that takes you to R52 N into Welch and the southwestern area of WV- deep into the coal towns. There is a great old drive-in there with a great sandwich. :

Harold,

Thanks for the info, looks like a good lunch ride.

Check this route from Willville, does it look like it's all paved roads?

[SilverBullet]

Gordon. That looks to be a good route. Lots of nice roads. I belive it should all be hardtop but I will verify that at home. My wife grew up in Iaeger, right outside of welch so she should know.

I have heard her mention Gary a few time. Be sure to spend some time in Welch and look at the old courthouse. It's a nice building and that was were one of the Hatfield's was shot, there on the courthouse steps. Maybe Lance Hatfield?

It use to be some of the richest towns back in the early 1900's when all the coal towns were operating. Bramwell was a town full of millionaires back then and the old houses show it. But many have ran down now and it just neat to see them all.

Was you planning to come back the same route or would you like me to recommend a loop?

[sandman]

Gordon. That looks to be a good route. Lots of nice roads. I belive it should all be hardtop but I will verify that at home. My wife grew up in Iaeger, right outside of welch so she should know.

I have heard her mention Gary a few time. Be sure to spend some time in Welch and look at the old courthouse. It's a nice building and that was were one of the Hatfield's was shot, there on the courthouse steps. Maybe Lance Hatfield?

It use to be some of the richest towns back in the early 1900's when all the coal towns were operating. Bramwell was a town full of millionaires back then and the old houses show it. But many have ran down now and it just neat to see them all.

Was you planning to come back the same route or would you like me to recommend a loop?

Harold,

A return loop would be great. I'll probably be running this ride on Tuesday May 13th, a weekday may make for less traffic on the backroads.

Thanks for your help.

[SilverBullet]

Hey Gordon

I tweked your route to the Drive in a little. Your route went around Burkes Garden and there is a nice hair pin twisty road through there from 621 over to 623. You had to look close at it to see it. There is a lot of history around Burkes Garden.

On your route back, there is a section of 4 lane from Priceton to Perisburg. About 20-25 min. After that you will see some nice roads again. You follow R100 for a while and then start making your way over to New River. You'll take the back roads back to your camp. If it to long, you can shorten it some.

The two files are the same except the first one I removed the Via's to clean it up. I did not know if you auto calculate and if so it could mess up the route. So the second file has all the via's in case it does. Use whichever one you like.

Thanks

[sandman]

Harold,

Thanks for the route.

You're right I didn't zoom in close enough to see 623 through Burke's Garden.

Looks like it's gonna be a fun day ride.

Thanks again for your help.

[Tor]

I also recommend -

Motorcycle Journeys Through The Appalachians, Dale Coyner

Appalachian Motorcycle Adventures (various editions, Hawk Hagebak

woot,,,,got the book yesterday,,,wow, awsome. :D

[Trekker]

Glad you liked the book Tor. Dale has posted here as well. The other books by Hawk Hagebak might also be of interest to you.

In other news- Holy Carp! There are 46 confirmed attendees to CampSTOC !!!

It's lookin' like I will be leaving the north coast Wednesday morning and meandering south into Virginia to camp at Big Meadows campground in the Shenandoah Park on the Skyline Drive.

Anyone in the area of the Skyline Drive or the BRP MP 0 looking to hook up Thursday morning? It's about 230 miles from Big Meadows to Willville. Should be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the scenic views and photo ops.

[Tor]

Lois and me will be filing in during Thursday afternoon some time. About 200 miles from our house. Leaving mid-morning heading up 220/73 out of Rockingham, NC, then cut to 52 up to Mt. Airy, and on up to the campground. Anyone want to tag along, holler.

[STindy05]

Anyone familiar enough with the area to give me some advise? I will be leaving Mid afternoon on Thursday from Indianapolis. I plan to ride to Sutton, WV. Thursday night and camp. I want to get up Friday morning and head to meet everyone for lunch at Rowes. The computer maps are showing it taking about 3 hours 40 minutes to make it from Sutton to Staunton. The route I am planning is 15 out of Sutton to 219 to 250 that takes me to Staunton. Looks like a nice ride. Anyway, will it actually take 3 hours and 40 minutes? More or less time? I can normally beat what the computer generated map says but not sure on these back moutain roads.

[Trekker]

The Willville website has been updated. Check it out... and have your speakers on.

[Blrfl]

So how much grief will I get if I spend my nights with Ken and company in the cabin up the road? I really don't care much for the cold, and having a separate place to sack it will be a good incentive for me to make sure I get there and get enough sleep. The last thing I want to be doing is riding on no sleep, and I know I'll be tempted to stay up all night and yak.

--Mark

[Mellow]

NO grief at all my friend.. we just want you there.... okay, maybe a little grief..

[Blrfl]

Nice to know, Joe. :)

I have so much going on between now and then that getting outfitted for camping is probably pushing it. Hopefully the people who run the campground won't mind if I visit a whole lot.

--Mark

[STeve1300]

So ... if I spend my nights with ...company in the cabin up the road... it will be ...good ......to be doing .....no sleep, and ....to stay up all night and yak.

--Mark

Perfect!!!!

Party at Mark's place!!!!!

[hoowasat]

Perfect!!!!

Party at Mark's place!!!!!

Whoa there young 'un! While drinking will not be discouraged at the cabin I've rented, the property management frowns heavily on loud & obnoxious behaviour. We must behave like civilized drunks ... er, I mean adults if we're allowed to stay at this fine establishment ya' know?

Come on over if ya' want, but I gotta' feeling the majority will be hanging around Willville. <Ken> ;)

[Kempo-STer]

Whoa there young 'un! While drinking will not be discouraged at the cabin I've rented, the property management frowns heavily on loud & obnoxious behaviour. We must behave like civilized drunks ...


AHHHH CRAPP!! Well we Almost would have met...I'll be at my tent:beer2:

[STeve1300]

... I gotta' feeling the majority will be hanging around Willville. <Ken> ;)

You are absolutely right.... I hope you guys will join us!!!