First trip

[HUTCH]

Well Im sure lots of people have the same questions but here goes.........

Im new to this site and also have plans to make my first visit to ride the Dragon and as many neat riding roads as we can in a week !!!!!!!!!!!!

Any advice anyone would care to share with 2 rookies on where to go and not go ............

Thanks in advance

[brad@dealsgap]

Hey Hutch

Their realy is no place not to go, realy depends on what you are looking for. Me I would avoid Gatlinburg/Pigion Forge and Cheerokee because of the amount of traffic. But if you like to shop that is the place to be. We sell a Map called Mad Map of the area and it realy gives you a great idea of many great routs to take in the area. Or just stop in at the store each morning and we will give you suggestions each day. If you want more info give me a call 800-889-5550 ask for Brad.

[HUTCH]

Thanks Brad, we will be giving you a call when we set a date, what month would be a good one to head up your way, do not want to freeze our southern butts off....LOL

[brad@dealsgap]

August if you do not mind the heat

[bkbkbandit]

HUTCH,
The GAP is a magical, mystical place where one can find wonderful roads to ride and new friendships that last forever.
For any NEW rider to the area, remember the basics - DON'T try to keep up with ANYONE - - just ride your own pace. Be careful. DON'T "cut" corners - stay in your OWN lane and hope those coming towards you are doing the same.
Visit the evening "fire pit" and chat with the folks. If there is NO fire burning, start one of your own. They talk about "moth's to a flame" but humans react the same. You'll draw a crowd.
Francois, Ben, Brad & Beth can answer ANY questions you may have. They are ALL "FINE FOLKS" and help in any way they can.
The GAP has been my vacation destination for 17 years. It has now become my son & daughter-in-law's vacation destination since I drove them thru there 5 years ago. I could NEVER keep up with my son but USED to be able to stay ahead of my daughter-in-law. That is no longer the case. This year will be even worse. She has moved from a Kawasaki EX500 to a Suzuki GSXR600. Wish I could blame it on the 1200 Bandit BUT gotta blame it on AGE!
You will find NO unexciting roads in the area. You CAN find great places to eat. The ride to the eating place can be a lot of fun. The GAP now has a restaurant and breakfast is served. Didn't used to be that way. Our favorite is the "Home Place" which is back north across the GAP (DAMN-Gotta ride the GAP again) to the junction of TN. 72. It is on your left, just before the intersection. Trust me - Them gal's LIKE motorcycle riders. Leave a nice tip.
Have fun-Be safe-Come back.
bkbkbandit/Indiana

[SPILLKIT]

Just to get warmed up for the Dragon, try riding Hwy 28. It doesn't have as many curves as the Dragon, but it has just enough to get you ready.

[JayD]

Hutch,
the whole area is gonna blow you away compared to what we have to ride in Louisiana

You will be hooked and want to come back over and over ;)

[buellridersww]

I got to agree with you guys! It is sooooooo beautiful to ride and yes the Mad Map is a great map to find a great road to ride on. I went there last year and still can't get enough of the riding. Will plan to go back next year.

Enjoy the area!! Also check out Grandfather Mountain, Blue Ridge Parkway, Cheasla Skyway, Route 441 (Main road through Smokey Mountain), and also Route 73. Racked up about 1200 miles in five days!! Love that place for riding. Oh yea go to Gatingburg, TN. (Bring parking money as there is no free parking)

[MotorSWATCop]

If you like good food and really good microbrews, try the Smoky Mtn. Brewery in Gatlinburg. Excellent! There is also one in Pigeon Forge where 321 intersects 441. You won't be disappointed.

Ride the Cherohala Skyway into Telico Plains. Great 43 mile run w/ views. You can run the river road up the Telico River. Very scenic and twisty. Be careful though; it's tight.

I like to make the cut through from the C'halla to 129 through Joyce Kilmer. Kind of a rough road but very technical. It will definitely "scuff" your tires before hitting the Dragon.

Have fun!

Grumpy Mike