FriendSTOC 06

[gene]

The date for friendSTOC seems to be wrong, is this event scheduled for 2006 at Natural Bridge this year

[Reg_Siemens]

FriendSTOC III 2006 will be held in Natural Bridge, Virginia (same location as last year) with the dates being May 19-20, 2006.

While the website (www.friendstoc.org) has not yet been updated, the format will likely be similar to last year i.e. arrive Friday the 19th, ride Saturday with a wrap-up banquet Saturday evening. Based on discussions at the my-mc forum, it's looking to be a well attended event with some ST riders even crossing the big pond from the UK to attend.

With tons of great riding in the area and a good number of attendees, this should be a great event for a great cause. They're still working out the details on what the fundraising plan might look like for this year but I plan on attending again for the third year in a row and would love to see a bunch of you out there!

[RoadSurfer]

Coincidentally, Backroads Magazine has selected the same hotel as its accommodation for the moddle two of its four night/five day Spring Break group ride. The magazine's publisher/editor, Brian Rathjen, has told me that "Larry Grodsky (RIDER mag) and Dale Conyers (Journeys Through the Appalachians) will be doing seminars on Saturday" and that I should "let the ST group know; they are certainly welcome...!"

[Reg_Siemens]

Dave - Is there a place where we can get more information on their ride/sessions? I went to http://www.backroadsusa.com/ and they just list last years info.

[RoadSurfer]

They've been putting a half-page "ad" in the last few issues, Reg, but I guess that's about it. I'm pretty sure that Brian wouldn't object to my posting parts of his e-mails to me here, however.

It's pretty informal. There's no registration fee and there's no required structure to the ride groupings. There's no "leader," just route maps handed out at the beginning of each day. The first night's destination is the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, WV (bavarianinnwv.com). Second and third nights will be at the Natural Bridge Inn and the third night will be in Harpers Ferry at the Hill Top House Hotel (hilltophousehotel.net) (though I was unable to get their phones to work for me this morning).

The description in the ad begins by saying that "Friday we'll meet and take a spirited ride south through the farmlands of Pennsylvania." I asked about the rendezvous point on Friday morning but was told:

"... we don’t quite know that yet. In the past, we’ve met at a Cracker Barrel on Route 78, in NJ, ... but I don’t know if that’s where ... on this ride. We usually know at least a month ahead, and put the meeting place in the issue. As far as booking the rooms, yes, we do have blocks of rooms set aside and you should DEFINITELY say you are with the Backroads group, as we do have a discount, however slight it may be. You can ask when booking if there are different locations for the rooms, but generally they are all pretty close. In addition, I believe that the Bavarian Inn and Natural Bridges are requesting that each individual make dinner reservations when booking, so they can anticipate who will be seated when."

I asked Brian about the size and composition of the group he was expecting. Here's his reply:

"Dave, we never know how many or what types will show. We just put out the invitation. Typically we have from 40 to 70 folks. Mostly sport-tourers, touring bikes with the occasional sportbike or three. You won't find the hard core HD loud pipe crowd as these events usually involve actual riding the bikes for many miles each day...."

Hope that's helpful.

[gene]

Roadsurfer thanks for the info as I only live about 30 miles fromthe Bavarrian Inn And have been to natural bridge before this sounds like a great chance for wife and I to meet others and begin to do some group activities. Thanks again and keep us posted.

[RoadSurfer]

I now realize I could have been more specific about the nights that the Backroads group is staying at the three different hotels. It'll be at the Bavarian Inn on Friday the 19th -- the same night FriendSTOC will arrive at the Natural Bridge Inn. The Backroads group will then join FriendSTOC bt Natural Bridge on Saturday and stay over for Sunday night after FriendSTOC disperses. On Monday morning Brian will give his group route maps to follow back northward toward the Hill Top House Hotel for that night's stay. They'll disperse on Tuesday morning

Of course, you could join or drop out of the Backroads group at any point. I myself may postpone my return trip northward for a week or so in order to rendezvous with some friends who may be congregating in North Carolina a few days later. Then isn't EastSTOC being held the following weekend in Sparta, NC?

So many rallies, so little time.

[Reg_Siemens]

The website is now live at www.friendstoc.org and since Backroads Magazine is also booked into Natural Bridge for Saturday, getting your reservations in early would be a good idea. I look forward to meeting some of you!

[RoadSurfer]

Gotta say, I love that logo!

[Reg_Siemens]

The Logo was designed by a UK ST rider that goes by the name of Smarthound. The one on the website is a low res version he knocked off in about 1/2 an hour. I can't wait to see the final product. I'm guessing we'll have logo'd shirts available as part of our fundraising effort to support the two families.

[ChipSTer]

Just made my reservations... I'll be there too!!! :04biker:
:cool:

[gene]

I made reservations to!!

[Reg_Siemens]

So FriendSTOC III is shaping up to be a well attended event and being able to take in some of the Backroads Magazine activities as well will be a definite plus.

www.friendstoc.org has been updated to include details on the Backroads itinerary, sessions, rides, etc.

[gene]

After looking at friendstoc roster it looks like almost everyone is coming solo? Are these events mostly a chance to get away without a pillion or do most prefer to stay home? It looks like very few females attending is this normal?

[Reg_Siemens]

After looking at friendstoc roster it looks like almost everyone is coming solo? Are these events mostly a chance to get away without a pillion or do most prefer to stay home? It looks like very few females attending is this normal?

I'm thinking there were likely 6-10 women at the previous FriendSTOCs. I would say as a rule, the women that attended were spouses of riders that didn't have long distances to travel to get to FriendSTOC. In most people's opinion, the ST does not have the most luxurious pillion accomodations, so for my wife, joining me for a +4,000 mile tour in 10 days is not something she's really keen on.

I'm not sure if this is where you were going with your question, but the FriendSTOC attendees of prior years, whether couples or solo, have been fine folks, so with the exception of some light-hearted banter surrounding a recurring sheep theme on the my-mc forum and a pair of briefs complete with faux skid-mark that doubles as a money safe, you needn't be concerned about this being an event that you'd be embarassed to bring a lady to.

Now then again, this is Guy's first year at FriendSTOC and his reputation as a charmer is world renowned so be forwarned!

[ChipSTer]

I will be on a pretty tight budget (both time & money) and was wondering about the cost associated (if any) of the Saturday night banquet... Anybody know? Thanks. :D
:cool: :excited:

[Reg_Siemens]

I will be on a pretty tight budget (both time & money) and was wondering about the cost associated (if any) of the Saturday night banquet... Anybody know? Thanks. :D
:cool: :excited:

Last year was $24.00 per person so I'm guessing it would be in that neighborhood again. We'll post details as they are finalized.

Reg

[ChipSTer]

Cool... Just didn't want to be surprised by a $250/plate banquet!!!! :rolleyes:
Sounds like fun!!! :04biker:
:cool:

[gene]

Don't forget friday night SEAFOOD BUFFET with crab legs, we were there last summer and seafood was great for being so far from water!

[ChipSTer]

Well, I can certainly eat me some crab legs!!! Can I assume the buffet is at the hotel? Other than the PPP ride, is anyone else meeting up to ride in as a group? I'll be coming from Montgomery, AL (leaving lunch-ish on Thursday, stopping in Stecoah, NC - after I run the dragon a few times!!, starting Friday morning early on the southern-most end of the BRPW and drive up via the BRPW - should take most of the day Friday, arrive Natural Bridge around 5-ish)... Anybody want to come along? :D :04biker:
:cool:

[Reg_Siemens]

Well, I can certainly eat me some crab legs!!! Can I assume the buffet is at the hotel? Other than the PPP ride, is anyone else meeting up to ride in as a group? I'll be coming from Montgomery, AL (leaving lunch-ish on Thursday, stopping in Stecoah, NC - after I run the dragon a few times!!, starting Friday morning early on the southern-most end of the BRPW and drive up via the BRPW - should take most of the day Friday, arrive Natural Bridge around 5-ish)... Anybody want to come along? :D :04biker:
:cool:

The seafood buffet is Friday at the hotel and you will need reservations as it sells out early. I was impressed last year.

So I'm assuming you're staying at Ironhorse Motorcycle lodge in Stecoah? I love that place. Sounds like you've got a great ride planned, but you didn't mention the Cherohala Skyway, which is very high on my all-time-favorite list.

[ChipSTer]

When do I need to make reservations for the Friday night buffet? Also, what time does it start? I need to be 'on-time' or maybe even a little early!!!! :D

:D Cherohala Skyway is one of my all time favorites also... :D However, I'm not sure if I'll have time on the way up... If not, then I'll try to hit it on the way back. I'm kind of turned off by the 30mph speedlimit that the forest service seem to be keen on enforcing... It makes a performance-award cost prohibitive.

I've also found out that a couple of sections of the BRPW are closed in North Carolina... :(

I haven't decided where to stay on Thursday night... Iron Horse is at the top of the list, but Kickstand is also on the list and so is Two Wheel Inn... Two Wheel Inn has a secure bike garage for each room, so that is a plus... Kickstand is cheap (and also looks it)... Iron Horse is close to where I'll be and Two Wheel Inn is over in Robbinsville... and about the same price as Iron Horse... Decisions, decisions... :D :confused: :D :04biker: :04biker:
:cool:

[Reg_Siemens]

John - They have different seating times for the seafood buffet. I phoned months ahead of time last year and certain time slots were already full, so I wouldn't wait too long if you're set on getting in.

Last couple times I've ridden the Cherohala there's been virtually no traffic and zero enforcement (granted it was a weekday in May). I thought the speed limit was 45mph once you're a few miles South of Robbinsville? Frankly I treat rides like that and the potential for performance awards as the potential price of admission. Beats any amusement park or midway ride I've ever been on!

If you're taking your own tent and find yourself overnighting further down the Parkway, http://www.willvillebikecamp.com/ is another great place...owned by an ST rider. A mere $15.00 including a breakfast sandwich and coffee in the morning.

[BentAero]

John/ChipSTer:

Send me an email at bentaero@bellsouth.netspammer (remove spammer from address)

[Tiny]

Willeville is a great place, and Will is a perfect host. Kickstand is owned by friends of mine, Fred and Mo Kunkel.....they just opened last year and have done a lot of work since.....give 'em a chance to get up to par and it will be a great place! They are also first-class hosts!

[Tiny]

Just booked thursday, friday, and saturday at Natural Bridge. Where and how do I book the seafood buffet?

[Reg_Siemens]

Just booked thursday, friday, and saturday at Natural Bridge. Where and how do I book the seafood buffet?

I look forward to meeting you! Call the Natural Bridge number listed on the www.friendstoc.org site, choose option 6 for dinner reservations and they'll take your reservation.

If you give me a little more information than "tiny" I'll add your name to the attendee listing.

[Tiny]

Kevin Cunningham, Richmond VA.

[Tiny]

You forgot to mention the Saturday night prime rib buffet!

[Reg_Siemens]

You forgot to mention the Saturday night prime rib buffet!

We will be having a banquet dinner Saturday evening specifically for the FriendSTOC group, however I haven't heard what's on the menu. Hope to have details shortly.

[Tiny]

They asked me if I also wanted to book the Saturday prime rib dinner for the "Friends" group...... I did!

[Reg_Siemens]

Thanks for that info, however that's the first I've heard of it...I'll check with the organizers and update the website if that's the deal.

[st_rider]

I would really like to attend this event some year. I worked with Dennis at Ampex years ago. AFAIK, I got him intereSTed in ST's (back when he was STill riding his PC).

[Reg_Siemens]

I would really like to attend this event some year. I worked with Dennis at Ampex years ago. AFAIK, I got him intereSTed in ST's (back when he was STill riding his PC).

There's a chance that a couple of us might be riding towards FriendSTOC from the West coast this year...if that's how it happens, perhaps you could join us at some point?

[st_rider]

There's a chance that a couple of us might be riding towards FriendSTOC from the West coast this year...if that's how it happens, perhaps you could join us at some point?

Time off is the problem this year. I have a weeks vacation set up in June for a trip to Canada (in the S2K), but my two-wheel trips are going to be limited this year. I'll certainly be at WeSTOC since it is practically in my backyard.

[ChipSTer]

Woo Hoo... Friday Buffet here I come... Seating reservation @ 7:00pm... They didn't mention anything about needing reservations for Saturday night.... Reg? Are you giving them a head-count?

[BentAero]

While researching the Natural Bridge Inn , I stumbled onto this little gem on their website.

http://www.naturalbridgeva.com

1. On the left side click on GROUPS.
2. Then click MOTORCYCLE EVENTS.
3. On the lower right of that page you'll see a box "SAVE ON ROOMS".
4. Download the coupon and get 20% off your room rate upon check in!

I called the Inn, talked to Maria just to be sure. She said yes, no problem, just bring the coupon to check-in.

I booked a "cottage" which is across the street, but apparently some distance away. She said it was a 5 minute walk to the dining room. So, barring a scheduling conflict, NCSam of Statesville and myself will be arriving Friday afternoon. The cottage is like a common motel room. $68. -20% = $54.40 + tax.

The Friday night seafood buffet is $23.95 and 5:30, 7:00, and 9:00 were the only seating they had left. I booked 7:00pm both nights. Saturday night Prime rib is $17.95 (other entree items are available on the bar, chicken etc.)

Does anyone know if the 7:00 pm Larry Grodsky seminar can be attended while enjoying a 7:00pm dinner seating, or are they in two different locations?

[Reg_Siemens]

While researching the Natural Bridge Inn , I stumbled onto this little gem on their website.

http://www.naturalbridgeva.com

1. On the left side click on GROUPS.
2. Then click MOTORCYCLE EVENTS.
3. On the lower right of that page you'll see a box "SAVE ON ROOMS".
4. Download the coupon and get 20% off your room rate upon check in!

I called the Inn, talked to Maria just to be sure. She said yes, no problem, just bring the coupon to check-in.


Thanks for that little tid-bit, here's hoping it works. I've added a link to the coupon on the FriendSToc website. This is getting better all the time!

[ChipSTer]

I booked 7:00pm both nights.

Does this mean that you need reservations for Saturday night??? :04biker:

[Reg_Siemens]

Does this mean that you need reservations for Saturday night??? :04biker:

I checked with Tom Wright and he has yet to finalize Saturday dinner arrangements for FriendSToc, but we've already got a banquet room reserved. If it's like last year, the meal was served right in that room and you prepaid for the meal by mailing a check to Tom Wright in advance. Tom hopes to have meal details finalized within the next few weeks and we'll post an update here and on the website.

So I'm thinking that the Prime Rib buffet is perhaps something that Natural Bridge hotel offers every Saturday or maybe it's even part of the Backroads event?

The Seafood buffet is a Natural Bridge dining room deal that they run every Friday night and it's pretty well known and sells out early.

So in summary, at this point, if you're participating in the FriendSToc weekend and banquet all you need to worry about is your rooms and the Seafood buffet Friday night if you're so inclined. Saturday banquet/meal details will be forthcoming.

[BentAero]

ChipSTer et al:
Yes, the Sat. prime rib buffet is an every sat. night event. As Reg has posted above, it doesn't appear that I needed to make the Sat. reservation. I'll just cancel it if need be...

[Reg_Siemens]

So Tom Wright checked into the coupon deal and was told that the special rates posted on the FriendSToc site are better than the coupon deal.

He also said that there are only 3 rooms left (all Backroads rooms are also spoken for), so if you're thinking of joining us, best reserve now.

Details at www.friendstoc.org

[BentAero]

Huh? You guys are gonna have to help me here, cuz I didn't do to well with cipherin,

The rates on the FriendSToc site are $84. for hotel and $72 for patio.

The rates posted on the Natural Bridge Inn website for that time period are $95 for hotel and $87. for patio.

Last I knew, 20% off of $95. was $76., and 20% off of $87. was $69.60

Am I missin' something here?

FWIW, I booked the "cottage" across the road for a discounted $54.40

[ChipSTer]

I'm going to see if I can get the $84 rate AND 20% off... :D
:cool: :04biker:

[Reg_Siemens]

Huh? You guys are gonna have to help me here, cuz I didn't do to well with cipherin, <snip> Am I missin' something here?

FWIW, I booked the "cottage" across the road for a discounted $54.40

I can't argue with your math. I've passed this on to Tom and he will go over this again with Natural Bridge when he finalizes the dinner plans. Is anyone listening from the Backroads group and know the rates that they're being quoted?

[RoadSurfer]

My Backroads reservation is, I believe, for a patio room (as I recall, the only ones they had left when I reserved, more than a month ago) at $75/night.

[ChipSTer]

Counting the days.... 70 to go... Woo Hoo!!!! :04biker:
:cool:

[dompa894]

Friendstoc sub-thread:

I am looking for someone with a confirmed reservation at Natural Bridge of Virginia for Friendstoc 06. (That is, to share a Hotel room or a Patio room).

Pls email directly and we can work out the details.
I plan to be there on friday and saturday and leave after breakfast on Sunday.

rsvp, please >>> mailto:dom@groupmail.com

Thanks!

dom # 894
:04biker:

[gene]

I have a room reserved for friday and saturday night one king bed smoking rm if I remember correctly. Due other things coming up I can't attend the event but if someone needs this room please let me know other wise I will cancel it some time next month. Wife and I stayed in one of these king rooms last year and they are big enough to have a rollaway bed added so two men could share you can fight over who gets the bed. PM me with your phone number to arrange transfer of reservation. Hope one on this board needs it

[Reg_Siemens]

The Saturday evening banquet details have now been posted at www.friendstoc.org

Please follow the instructions regarding submitting payment if you'd like to reserve a spot.

[ChipSTer]

Is this an 'all you can eat' buffet? $26 is pretty steep for us 'shoe-string' types. :D :04biker:
:cool:

[Reg_Siemens]

Yes, this is an all-you-can-eat deal including coffee, tea and iced tea. I've updated the website to clarify this. FWIW I heard no complaints about the meal last year...quite good by buffet standards.

[Blrfl]

In addition to the Backroads group, it looks like these guys will be making a trip down to Natural Bridge that weekend as well: http://www.stayinsafe.com (ETA: That trip is being led by Larry Grodsky.)

I may be taking over Gene's reservation depending on how things go in the next week or two.

--Mark

[RoadSurfer]

The Backroads organizer is promoting his tour with a reference to the fact that Grodsky will be providing a training mini-course on Saturday afternoon at the Natural Bridge resort/hotel locale.

[1999purple]

:03biker: I'll be coming down with the BackRoads riders, I've riden with this group before and they are a good bunch of riders. I look forward to seeing all the STs at the Natural Bridge.:D Should be a fun long weekend for all.:03biker:

[sundug]

Motorcycle! Virginia! For many of us, these two words sum up two of our great passions. The joy of riding is understood by every motorcyclist, whether they ride a cruiser, sport bike, trail bike, standard or chopper. And the beauty of Virginia, from mountains to ocean, is cherished by those who have the privilege of living here and recognized by those whose visit. Read More..

http://www.motorcycleva.com/

[Blue STreak]

Here's another (mostly) Virginia ride site:

http://www.virginiawind.com/

The site owner's a Harley Rider (I used to work with him), but the site only has a little bit of a Harley flavor.

[Blrfl]

Just spotted this on ST.N: http://www.sport-touring.net/forums/showthread.php?t=81214

[02STom]

If anyone is planning on attending the FriendSTOC saturday night dinner and auction please see check out the information on the link below.
I need to have a solid count for the dinner and need your responses ASAP.
Any questions please email me at: tlwright19@comcast.net

The information is here:
http://www.my-mc.com/messages/1/67478.html?1144375334

Thanks,
Tom Wright

[Reg_Siemens]

In case you're wondering, the web server that hosts the FriendSToc site is down. They're working on it but wouldn't give me a time-frame. Hopefully it will be back up shortly.

[Reg_Siemens]

Last call for Saturday night FriendSToc banquet reservations! If you'd like to attend, your name needs to be on the list which can be seen at www.friendstoc.org under the Banquet page. Please email Tom Wright at tlwright19@comcast.net ASAP if you would like to attend.

[Reg_Siemens]

As part of the fundraising mission of FriendSToc we're offering various items of clothing. Please check the fundraising page of www.friendstoc.org ASAP if you'd like to order something.

[ChipSTer]

Only 23 more days... And my ST is in pieces in my garage... Last minute Farkles (Comm system and some seriously cheap fork-mounted lights).... :D
:cool:

[Reg_Siemens]

Only 23 more days... And my ST is in pieces in my garage... Last minute Farkles...

Adding last minute farkles certainly adds to the excitement! I know they say to never do last minute stuff to your bike, but so far I've been lucky and this year I will be flaunting my disregard for that advice in the ultimate way as I fly from Winnipeg to my newly purchased ABS in San Francisco, farkle for a couple of days, and then depart on an adventure that will cover nearly 5,000 miles via the Blue Ridge Parkway...wooohooo!

[ChipSTer]

Cool... I hope to be able to do the whole blue ridge parkway thingy during that weekend also.... :D Nothing will be able to wipe the silly grin off my face (except maybe rain - and maybe not even then if it keeps the BDC's off the road)....

P.S. 11:30 PM....bike completely back together....Starting to get really fast at R&Ring the plastic - scary... Will test the rest of the farkles tomorrow. (still waiting on a few items that were back-ordered...).... Oh well... 22 days and counting.... :D
:cool:

[ChipSTer]

20 days.... and counting.... All farkles work as expected. :D
Only one problem.... WIRES ARE EVERYWHERE!!!
:cool:

[ChipSTer]

10 days to go.... Still waiting on my rear rack from TurboCity... Fingers crossed that it will get here in time... :D :04biker:

[ChipSTer]

Rack arrived today.... Now I can't find the bladder to my camelbak... Dang it!! It is always something... Maybe it will all come together and be magic... I hope... :D :04biker:
:cool:

[Blrfl]

I took over Gene's reservations and will be down with my wife and daughter (they're riding chase in the car). I probably won't be doing much riding Saturday, but will be making up for it Sunday, Monday and Tuesday with a ride down to Cumberland gap (SW corner of the state), a 500-mile sprint to Virginia Beach (SE corner) and then back up to Washington.

I've been trying to get hold of Tom to get our names on the list for the banquet, but if I can't, are any of the non-banquet-goers interested in heading somewhere for dinner? (Emails seem to have gone unanswered; I may try calling Tom over the weekend.)

Does anybody have a Lat/Lon for the hotel that I could poke into my GPS? The directions on their web site leave a lot to be desired...

See y'all next Friday!

--Mark

[ChipSTer]

You could try this site... turns addresses into GPS coords... :)
http://www.geocode.com/modules.php?name=TestDrive_Eagle
37° 37' , -79° 32'
37.632 , -79.544

:cool:

[ChipSTer]

Let the adventure begin!!!
:policeST: :PoPoST1:.....................:04biker: :biker: :06biker: :03biker:
:cool:

[ChipSTer]

Reminder: Radar Detectors are illegal in Virginia... :policeST:
:cool:

[ChipSTer]

FUN! FUN! FUN!.... Had a blast... Woo Hoo!!! Those that missed it really missed a great time.... Can't wait until next year!!! :)
:cool:

[mtgee]

Great weekend! I took some pictures, which are posted here:

http://community.webshots.com/album/550625254cjwOFA

Feel free to take whatever you want.

John, Gary, & Sam - Thanks for the lift!

[ChipSTer]

You're welcome, Mike... Anytime... :D Thanks for the pics...
:cool: