Rodney's Motorcycle Web Log

GOE XIV: Day 6 - Starting the Trip Home

2010-06-27T09:49:00.001-04:00

Friday, June 26, 2010

It had come time to make our back home, at least half the way, anyway. Our first stop was fuel for the bikes, and for ourselves. So after a visit to a Big Island Mom and Pop Cafe with a Gas Pump, we headed west.

County Road 126 led us to SR 221, and we made our way west to the town of Norwood. We then made our way up Olfax Road to Otterville Road. Wasn't expecting to see any Otters, it was way too hot for that!

You guessed it, Otterville Road put us on our way to Otterville. Jopling Road got us to Peaksville, and then Peaks Road, also known as SR 43. The roads weaved nicely through the country side, and we didn't mind, or notice another sunny day heating up the air. Eventually, it would be hot in the shade too, so it caught up to us once again. It was an up and down ride as we made our way through the mountains.

We continued on SR 43 through Buchanan, Virginia, where we crossed Interstate 81. . This road led us to Eagle Rock, where, after a short rest, we turned onto Craig Creek Road. Named for the creek that it wonders along, it was a refreshing ride, easy on the eyes as we passed through the Jefferson Forest.

This road becomes SR 615 into New Castle, and jogs into SR 42. The tight mountain curves slowly gave way to sweeping curves along the foothills. SR 460 took us west, through more national forest.

Pearlsburg, Virginia would mark our lunch stop. We also fueled the bikes, and then headed south on SR 100. At Staffordsville, the road rejoins SR 42, as do we. SR 100 veers off, but we stay on SR 42. We were heading toward Interstate 77, but we would be hoping on SR 52 in the town that had more to offer than the name of Bland, implies. With it being surrounded by the Jefferson National Forest, it can't help to be more!

In Grapefield, we take SR 614 which turned out to be a good curvy road that took us west through Shawver Mill. The road going through the forest would eventually become the border, and then spill us into North Tazewell. We would leave town on SR 460 until we got to Claypool Hill.

460 took us north from there, through Cedar Bluff and other town. It felt like we were spending a lot of time making our way out of Virginia, when it didn't seem like it took us all that amount of time to get to Lynchburg.

460 would be the major road of the day, and we found this road would be multiple times shorter if it were plowed through straight. Lots of curve made the trip enjoyable. Conaway sits on the border of Virginia and Kentucky, and I was never happier to have made it into the bluegrass state.

We stayed on 460 for many more miles, weaving our way out of the base of the mountains, at Kenwanee, we headed north on SR 23. It merged with SR 460 down the road a bit, and eventually became a dual lane divided highway. We were ready for some less complex roads, and the hotel. This was our last leg into Prestonburg, and the Super 8 we were staying at. There was a fine looking steak place near by, and short walk would get us there.

GOE XIV: Day 5 - A Bridge of a Natural Kind

2010-06-25T09:41:00.001-04:00

Thursday, June 24, 2010

There were a couple of rides planned for that day, and it was a toss up for us, on which one we wanted to do. Not being able to pick one, we decided to create our own ride. So we hopped on the bikes, and headed our own way. Kevin would lead us in the heat today.

We made our way to Natural Bridge in Virginia.

Would this be a dino-boy?

Run! Bear!!

We made our way through the heat back to the hotel, the same route from where we came. We had time to cool off in the room, clean up, and head to the banquet, which marks the end of another Gathering of Eagles.

GOE XIV: Day 4-Poker Run

2010-06-24T09:33:00.001-04:00

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

The middle day of the Gathering was reserved for the Ralph "Banjo Man" Barnard Memorial Poker Run. I didn't keep track of where we went, but it was a great ride, and you can thank Kasey for the photos.

We traveled through some great scenic roads of Virginia, ending up in Farmville and at the Big Dog Restaurant.

After lunch, we had some more riding on Virginia's finest scenic roads. It was yet another hot day, and it was a welcomed thing to be back in the air conditioning of the hotel.

We decided that evening to walk to dinner.

GOE XIV: Day 3-Back to the Blue Ridge

2010-06-23T09:20:00.001-04:00

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

The GOE for 2009 was held by Chapter 09 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and it started a new tradition: Tye Dye Tuesday. I guess the shirts from the Indianapolis Version of GOE did have one bright spot, and it is swirled red, white and blue.

For us, it would be another trip up the Blue Ridge, from where we had just come the day before. I didn't mind, I was not leading, and therefore the risks of disaster were lower.

A good bonus of the hotel was a parking garage, dark, and cool most of the time during the day.

I got my lovely riding partner to take some pictures along the way, she did a great job!
This shot was taken while we were moving past this overlook.

It was going to be another hot one, and it was nice to get back into the shade of the parkway. We stopped for lunch at one of the eateries along the parkway.

After lunch, the group split, part going the rest of the way up the Blue Ridge, where we had just been, and the other half headed back to the hotel. The trip was hot, but a pool was waiting for us at the end of the ride.

GOE XIV: Day 2-The Whole Trip is a Disaster

2010-06-22T09:00:00.001-04:00

Monday, June 21, 2010

Another day, and it would be and it would be another hot one, so if you are tired of me talking about the heat, tough luck! I was hoping as we crossed over the mountains, it would mean cooler air.

We started the day with full tanks, and then heading up Highway I-77 for a miles to take the exit Ramp to SR 47. Here we would continue our trip east and south, weaving our way through West Virginia.

SR 47 was the road of the first leg of this morning journey. We took it until it ended, leaving us with the options of either SR 119, or SR 33 in the town of Linn, West Virginia. I have always had in the back of my head to do a picture book of post offices across the country. Here is one of the photos that would have to be included. Not much to see, but then that is what it would all be about!

From the location of this post office, I don't remember even being able to see a house! After some sun screen, a drink of water, and a bathroom break, we headed back onto the hot asphalt.

Though we needed to head south, we meandered north and east on SR 119. The road is also called SR 33, and we stayed on this man made ribbon through Elkins, and then into Seneca Rocks, West Virginia.

I knew of a great place to eat, as Kevin and I stopped here on our way back from another GOE, this one was the last one hosted by Chapter 30 in Farmville, Virginia. However, it is Monday, and like a lot of places, it was closed on Sundays and Mondays. I mentioned to Kasey on the intercom the whole trip was now a disaster, and that moniker would be my tongue and cheek motto for the trip.

We back tracked the four miles through the country side, and then headed down the road, hoping to find another spot to eat. Next on the GPS was the town of Macksville. We passed a little cafe, it looked open, and after a turn around in a near by car lot, we made our way to the eatery.

They had a good menu, limited, but it was tasty, and we left stated for a few hours. We continued down SR 32. The road wound down into Judy Gap, and then turns east, and zig zags us up the mountain side. For the rest of the day, we would be on a roller coaster, climbing and falling, curving left and right.

Harrisonburg would be the last major town before Lynchburg, and we would spend most of the route in between on the Blue Ridge Parkway. After fueling up, we headed south on SR 340, also known as the Port Republic Road. Near Waynesboro, a future site of GOE, we made our way to the Blue Ridge, at the base of Skyline Drive.

The Blue Ridge is riddled with great scenic pull offs. As I have found, not many of them have shade in the area, but I wanted to stop at the ones that did, giving a moment to cool off. It was making the day longer, but I think we all needed the rest.

The Blue Ridge was a slower pace, but wooded, and that meant some shade and protection from the boiling sun. We pulled into Big Island, Virginia. SR 501 would lead us into Lynchburg, Virginia. We thought we were done with stops, and had it made to the hotel, however, traffic and construction meant another stop, luckily, it was shaded.

The traffic moved, and we made our way through town, and to the hilly section of town where the hotel was located. It had been two days, 660 miles in heat, trying to get to places that weren't open, What a Disaster!

GOE XIV: Day 1-Headin' Down on the Farm

2010-06-21T08:30:00.001-04:00

Sunday, June 2oth, 2010

If you are a regular reader, then you know when June comes around, and shortly after The Soup Run, I climb aboard The Black Pearl to head out somewhere for Gathering of Eagles, Cruiser Club, USA's Annual National Get Together. Kasey and I were up bright and early on already warm June Day. I got the bike packed up, and then headed down the street for a gas fill up before taking off. As I sat filling the tank, my brother Kevin, and his wife, Virginia, rode up on his Kawasaki Concours.

Since a lot of our chapters in Cruiser Club, USA are east, we head off in a familiar route, Washington Street to Franklin Road, then south and east on US 52. Since the route is familiar, I knew our first stop would at a gas station in the town of Brookville, Indiana. My original schedule was created based on Kevin and Virginia coming from Lafayette, Indiana, and hour ride, that morning. Because of that, we were ahead of schedule.

At the first stop, the water bottles came out, and so did another application of sun screen. Not even halfway through the morning, and it was already getting warm when we stopped.

Before leaving Brookville on the south end of town, we turned east on SR 252, which took us into Ohio. At the state line, the road changes numbers to Ohio SR 129 in the little town of Scipio, Indiana.

We continued east, skirting the northern suburbs of Cincinnati, Ohio, passing through Hamilton and Kings Mill. We could see the high points of the King's Island Amusement Park. Haven't been there in a few years, and I will probably have to make a trip soon. For those of you in the know, the last time I was there, Son of Beast still had a loop.

Once around Cincy, we headed south on SR 48, then County Road 26. It jogs and leads us to SR 133, which we took south at Edneton. The heat slowly caught up to us, noticing it most when we had to stop out in the open Ohio Farmland. We crossed SR 32, and pulled into the town of Williamsburg. As we cruised into town, I noticed Mama's Grill, and thought I should have just stopped here for lunch. However, I moved on to hit the Gas Station on the plan, and look for the originally scheduled lunch spot.

After filling up, taking a brief rest, we headed for lunch, or so we thought. After maneuvering the gravel parking lot, we discovered that spot I had picked had changed names, and had become purely a bar. With that, we headed back to Mama's. I guess I should always listen to my Mama!

After a great lunch, we mounted back up in the heat, and continued the journey on SR 32. It was hot, our bellies were full, and our minds could drift off the road, so it was nice to follow this two lane divided highway.

We stayed on SR 32 until we met with SR 35, near Jackson, Ohio. Then it was time to head south, with a sight seeing stop in mind. About 20 miles down this meandering road is the town of Rio Grande, Ohio. Sounds really out of place, doesn't it? Well you need a water source when you have a farm, and we were about to visit on the most famous farms in the world, the one of Bob Evans. Like Dairy Queen, it is hard to take too long of a motorcycle trip without hitting a Bob Evans for breakfast. Yes, I don't like chains when I am out riding, but it is nice to have back up plans.

Needing a break, from riding, and the heat, we pulled in, and took a tour of the museum and the farm house. It was an interesting tour, however, it is not something you are going to spend a day doing. Being in the video production business, when I saw a display of an old commercial being taped, I had to take a picture.

Afterward, I was drug to the restaurant there to have afternoon snack. We were now back behind schedule, but we were not caring at all. It was the heat of the day, and we would let pass while we sat in air conditioning with frozen treats sitting in front of us.

We continued down County Road 588, but not for a long jaunt. We had a photo op, or at least I did. There are very few of these special places around the world, and when I am riding close, I have to stop. So with that, I parked The Black Pearl along side the road in Rodney, Ohio.

After a few snaps of the shutter by my lovely photographer and riding partner, we made our way south and east to the Ohio River, and the town of Gallipolis along the shore. Another stop to fuel the tanks, and take a brief break. By now, we were all tiring of riding in the heat, and the breaks were getting shorter.

County Road 7 would take us along the Ohio River, and then a bridge would take us across and into West Virginia. We made our way around Henderson, West Virginia, and then away from the river on SR 2.

Though it was along the river, SR 2 meandered its way through the West Virginia Country Side. The road met back up with the Ohio River at the town of Mt. Alto. The water looked refreshing, but did little to cool the air.

The road peeled away from the river as we made our way to tonight's destination, Mineral Wells, West Virginia. While in the town of Parkersburg, to the north, it became apparent that some roads had changed names, and the paths they take. After visiting a park still in development, we made our way back through town, and to some familiar territory. GOE was held here a few years ago. In fact, we were on our way to the same hotel that we stayed in during that event. It was a great place to stay, great rooms, great service, and a pretty good price!

The rest of the evening was spent with a dip in the pool, then gathering some food and drinks across the street from the hotel. As always, I am tired the first night of a ride, and I slept very well.

Soup's On X (The Tenth Soup Run) Day 2

2010-06-08T21:43:00.007-04:00

Saturday, June 5, 2010

As I mentioned the hotel staff in the morning was much friendlier. The breakfast was good too, they have all the usual stuff, and in addition to the waffle machine, they also have pretty good biscuits and gravy.

So we took off with a gas stop on the plan right away. It wouldn't be long before we were in the Wisconsin Country. After a stop, we made our way to the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, which lead us into Dundee, Wisconsin. This is another one of my traditional stops, here stands a house that was re-built by ABC's Extreme Home Makeover.

After a longer break, due to multiple failed attempts to take a group picture, we headed out of Dundee. The stretch of road north out of town is great ride. We made the back way into Mr. Soup's with only a couple quick views of Lake Winnebago.

We parked near the spot I parked when I came to my first Soup Run. We made our way down the line of bikes, and then headed up to the house to get in line for some Soup. I already had my mind made up, and I was going for a Brat and a Bowl of Beer and Cheese Soup. I was planning on dipping the Brat in the Soup. I discovered that a few years ago.

Mr. Soup's Pictures are here

We had our soup, made our walks, and had conversations with other Soup Runners. It was time to head out to the second hotel, Kenosha, Wisconsin. I thought we might be able to miss the weather, but we found ourselves driving right into it. A quick stop at a church allowed to don the rain gear under and overhang.

The rain was not the only issue we had. At one point it started killing the CB Radios, so we lost contact with the back of the group, and eventually lost the back half of the group.

The four of us at the front decided to push on, and get to the hotel. I figured if they called on the cell phone, I would be able to answer it there. We made it to the Super 8, and before we could unload the bikes, the other four came rolling in. In the parking lot, we all decided to order in pizza, and make quick beer run to the convenience store behind the hotel.

This front desk person was a complete 180 from the other one. He even apologized for that one, gave us automatic discounts, as well as offering the lobby kitchen are for us to have dinner. We asked him to join us, but he had pizza the last three nights, and declined. Jake, thanks for doing your job over the top!

All that was left to do was to dry out, and hit the bed, which happened at nine o'clock.

Soup's On X (The Tenth Soup Run)

2010-06-08T21:12:00.005-04:00

Friday, June 4, 2010 Soup Run X

Kasey and I were up early this morning, and actually got an early start. Early enough to hit Dunkin Donuts before heading to the meeting spot. After a light breakfast, no donuts, we headed back west on US 36 to SR 267, and headed north. After about 30 minutes, and some detours on some back country roads, we arrived at the Travel Center of America to greet eight more bikes and guys.

Introductions were made, and some discussion about the ride, including making me aware that I was traveling with old men who might need to pee a lot. I mention that because as we made our way through back country roads, and then to SR 52, we stopped at a BP in West Lafayette. They had gas, but their bathrooms were not open. You know jokes ensued that if they can't even keep a bathroom open, how are they going to seal up an oil leak!

So we traveled up the road, and made another stop for a pee break. I guess the coffee is good, and the cups bottomless at the TA Center.

So we were back on the road, and it would SR 52 until we got just about 15 miles south of Kankakee, Illinois. We would have stop here, but it was because Dave, on a Burgman with a Trike Kit, and a Trailer, ran out of gas. He hadn't had the set up long, and the trailer really made a drag on his fuel economy. Most of us headed up the road to a gas station, and John returned to Dave and Bob with a small can full of go juice.

After we all re-grouped at the gas station, we headed back out for a short trip to our lunch stop, The Landing in Kankakee. Turned out to be a great place for lunch. It also gave me a chance to see that was going to be a fun a group to travel with.

Back on the road, and one of my favorite stretches, SR 113 north out of town. It winds along a park that is situated along the Kankakee River. We were behind schedule with the extra stops and the gas incident, but we were all having a good time.

After making a long way around Chicago, we arrived in Wisconsin, and then in Lake Geneva. Always wanted to stop here for the night, but the hotels are pricey in this resort area. But we were going to stop for dinner. I was hoping we would be here about two hours earlier, but it didn't seem that busy.

We all found parking, and made our way to Popeye's, not the chicken chain, but a place with a lake view. It was a great place, good service and amazing food, but they had some quirks that makes me want to try one of the other places to eat.

We got to watch the sun go down on that lake, and we would be heading onto the hotel in the dark. We were also on some backroads with good curves, would have been nice to do them in daylight. Not to mention the dips in the road meant dips in the temperature, it was down right cold in those valleys, and some were filled with fog.

We arrived at the hotel, and stepped in to check in. We were greeted by a young man who obviously didn't want to do the work to check everyone in. I guess after the other guys got settled, after 10pm local time, he called the rooms to make sure they were okay, but we still made mention the next morning. By the way, the morning staff was very friendly and nice. Also the Super 8 in Waukesha is one of the best hotels I have stayed in, and has a great breakfast!

Riding with Strangers

2010-06-08T16:15:00.003-04:00

Friday, May 28, 2010

Funny thing about riding a motorcycle, you don't always ride alone, ride with a group, and sometimes you end riding with people that you don't ever meet. Sure, when you part ways, you do it with a wave or a nod, but you never know a name, personality, nothing, complete strangers.

Today, I took off on Washington Street heading west, then took the clover leaf exit to Shadeland Avenue to head south. Shadeland runs out when it blends into I-465, the beltway around Indianapolis.

It was the morning, and I was heading to Columbus, Indiana to work for Cummins. I used to make this trip a couple times a month, but the economy put a dent in that, but I have been making runs this way again. Besides making good money, it is a great company to work.

After making a quarter turn around the city, I take the ramp to I-65 South. This is not a pleasure cruise, as I need to be there at 8am, ready to work.

Since the northbound lanes are heading into the capital city, the southbound lanes are not as traveled. Traffic was certainly not light, but it was passable.

After pass the exit for Franklin, Indiana, I rolled up behind another bike. South of town is Camp Atterbury, a military installation. The guy propped on the bike ahead of me was wearing fatigues. We made our way together for a few miles until I saw his turn signal flash, and he peeled off on the ramp. As I passed, I extended my arm to make gentle wave. I wanted to say thank him for his service. I wanted to salute, but felt that could be disrespectful. Instead, just like others, a stretch of asphalt and wave would be all we shared.

I continued on south on the interstate, and made my exit at US-31. Another few miles, and I veered off on SR 11, and then arrived at the Cummins TV Studios.

A ten hour day later, and it was time to hit the road once again. I pulled out of the CTN Studios, and onto Indianapolis Road, also known as SR 11. I was in no hurry to make my way home, so instead of hoping on the highway, I stayed on US 31. Still a state highway, but since it runs so close along the other, it is not very busy.

At Franklin, Indiana, I made my way through town, and then left going north on a back road. It is known as Franklin Road, but saying that is the name of the road when you are leaving the city just sounds funny.

While out in the sticks, and just before I passed over I-65, a guy on sport bike came from up behind me. He hung back there while we went through the twisties, a section I had been through many times before.

Along a straight stretch, I was not surprised when he went racing past me. The brake light came on as we both had to slow for the next set of turns. The curves were frequent again, and he didn't get away from me.

Just south of Greenwood Road is two ninety degree turns, first to the right, then to the left. There was a small spot of gravel in both corners. The second one, the gravel bit back. The guy on the sport bike slid high, uprighted, and then went down. I knew that all that plastic on the side just scraped along the gravel piled on the edge of the road.

I pulled The Pearl to a stop. Turned on my four way flashers, and slipped off my helmet. The guy was moving about, on his knees, using his left hand to support himself. I told him to just stay still, catch your breath, and make sure everything is alright.

As I placed the bike on the kickstand, I lifted my leg off leaving me helmet on. He was slowly loosening his helmet. I asked if there was anyone I need to call for him. He said no, but couldn't find his cell phone. I scanned the edge of the road, and spotted pouch with a phone in it. I handed it to him, and then went over to check the bike. Remembering the lesson I had seen about facing away from the bike, grabbing one handlebar, and near the back wheel, I uprighted the bike. I put down the side stand, and leaned it over.

Sure enough, the plastic side cover looked as though Freddie Krueger had drug his nails along it. The light was still on, as well as the ignition. Before I could switch it off, the rider arrived, and was looking to see if the bike would start.

It fired up, and we chatted for a moment, mostly about his status. He said he thought he had dislocated his shoulder. He began to slide on his helmet. I asked one more time if he was going to be alright, and he said yes. I asked how far he needed to go, and he said Wannamaker, not too far off.

I suggested he stay in the grass, and make his way to driveway about fifty feet away. He rolled slowly to the location and stopped. I figured he wanted me to call someone, as he was not going to make it.

After donning my helmet and gloves, I rolled up to his location. He was waiting to say thank you.

I followed him most of the way to Wannamaker. I am pretty sure he made his way home. Once again, an encounter with a stranger ended with just a wave. Never got a name or anything, but he seemed like nice guy.

I made my home continuing on Franklin Road until Washington, turned west, and then arrived at my street.

Two Bikes, Two Guys and The Bread Ladies

2010-05-11T10:14:00.002-04:00

Monday, May 10, 2010

I have a busy week ahead, and it is also going to be a week filled with rainy weather, so ride opportunities would be slim and/or none. With that in mind, John, a friend from my broadcasting past, and I were going for a ride. He got down to his anniversary date for his job, and had 19 Days of vacation to use.

He made it over to my house, and after a brief exchange, we mounted up on the bikes and headed north to Tenth Street. I could feel the cold air on my bare ankle as my jean's pants leg blew up on the short trip north. It was something I would just ignore, as I was on two wheels, and feeling like that new front tire was getting scuffed in.

We headed east on Tenth Street to Cumberland, passing the edge of town, and the backside of Washington Square Mall. It would be another mile north, and we would hit Twenty-First Street, and east again. Leaving Marion County, the road quickly becomes County Road 100 North.

So far the stretch were long and straight, but it was a good warm up since it had been a while since I had been out riding.

The curves would come when we turned north on Fortville Pike. I have been on this road several times, and it features nice sweepers to get warmed up on early int he season. After most of the great curves, there is a good stretch along homes that back up to a lake.

We had got a later start than I had wanted, and John and I both had commitments for later that day. I took and turn to the east again on County Road 600 North. It is another straight road, but it was new scenery, so I didn't mind.

This road would run us into State Road Nine. I pointed The Black Pearl south on the state highway with John behind me. It would only be a few miles before we crossed over Interstate 70, and then rode into the town of Greenfield, Indiana.

We meandered our way through town, and found a place to park in the shadow of the courthouse. I had heard great things about a place called The Bread Ladies, so that is where lunch would be had. After we entered the cafe, I could tell we would not be disappointed, as it was nearly a full house.

Lunch was great, and if you are ever near Greenfield, or it is a good drive to get to lunch is what you want, then head here. It is worth the trip!

After the good meal, and loads of conversation, John and I headed out of town on U-S Forty, or The National Road. I could take this all the way back to where we started.

Back in the Saddle, Just the Two of Us

2010-04-10T10:53:00.004-04:00

Good Friday, April 2, 2010

Today's ride starts out as a throw back to the early days of when Kasey and I was first dating. I was up early to hop on The Pearl, and head out into the cool morning air to get to her house. Since it was cooler, and it is always warmer in the city, I made my way through downtown. It seemed a little abuzz from some basketball game going on. I was trying to ignore the whole thing as much as possible.

I veered north, while still heading west, onto Rockville Road. Yes, it eventually makes it way to the Covered Bridge Town of Rockville, but looses it's name to being called US 36 for a bit first.

Rockville/US 36 takes me to the town of Danville, home of the Mayberry Cafe. When I see Barney Fife's replica car out front, I know I am close.

I pulled into Kasey's driveway, and turned the bike around. I was greeted by her huge, recently acquired, yellow dog named Nacho.

After some brief time getting ready for the ride, we climbed aboard, and headed out on the road. We wound our way through town to get through to SR 39. We took this state road south out of town.

We made our way through the town of Clayton, Indiana, then on to US 40, The National Road. After crossing, we were faced with a big black, white, and Orange Barricade. Guess what, more construction in Indiana! We turned onto East 600 South, heading east for a stretch.

The end of the road meant a turn south on to South 400 East. Another ending of a road lead us to South 525 East. This kept us going south, under I-70, and into Johnson County.

After a couple of jogs in the road, we arrived at SR 42, and headed east into the town of Mooresville, Indiana. We passed through town, and even though we stayed on the same road, it changed names to SR 144.

SR 144 is a road I have been on many times, and last year it was under construction, as storms and floods washed away a bridge. I winds south and east, into the town of Bargersville, and eventually into Franklin Road.

SR 144 ends in Franklin, and becomes SR 44. As does many roads in Indiana, the two digit roads branches to a three digit, then ends, or rejoins the original road.

We made our way through the home of Franklin College, then further east on SR 44. Yep, there is more construction on this road. Before we were met with signs of detour and barricades, we turned north on South 700 West.

This road jogs around on some county roads and eventually picks up the name of North Sand Creek Road. We wind our way through Indiana Farms until we arrive in Boggstown, Indiana. Though it is small town with a nice entertaining inn, I am told, it feature a intersection of five roads!

We continue north on London Road. Although I have ridden this complete stretch, it never has taken me to city of fog. Of course, I don't have pontoons on The Pearl to make it across the pond.

London Road makes it way through Sugar Creek, then ends, turning into county roads, which make us meander north and west, and then to SR 52.

We took US 52 north and west for s short bit to Muessing Street, where we headed north. We made our way through the farms and homes, and arrived at US 40, and Sero's Restaurant. Yep, another meal here. I told you when you are close to Cumberland, you got to eat her, so I have to practice what I preach.

After yet another great meal from this establishment, we made our way back to my house, via heading north to Tenth Street, then heading west. We would be going to Kasey's house for the night, then returning to my house for the Easter Weekend Festivities.

First Real Ride of the New Year

2010-03-09T20:05:00.001-05:00

Monday, March 8, 2010

Now who would have thought, two rides in March? Mother Nature could be setting up the Hoosier State for a rude awaking, maybe in April or May.

John, a friend that i had met while working at WFYI, rode his Hyabusa over to my house. John is about 10 years my senior, and to say he is a character is making a description that is far short of reality. I like having real "characters" in my life, it makes life more interesting, and a lot more fun!

The first leg of out trip would take us to a place for lunch. We headed north from my house to Tenth Street. The we made our way east on Tenth Street. Here is a surprise, he made our way through construction! The spring weather brought out more than just two wheeled vehicles, but earth movers, dump trucks, bull dozers, and others of the sort.

We arrived at Muesing Street, and made our way south to US 40, or Washington Street. Positioned on the northwest corner is a little eatery called Sero's. If you anywhere near Cumberland, Indiana, this is a place I recommend that you get a bite to eat. First off, if you can't find something you like on the menu, you have food issues. If you don't like what is brought to you, then you have taste bud issues.

John and I chowed down our meals, had a chat for a bit, and then headed out the door for the open road.

We went back north on Muesing Street to 21st Street. A sign that we were out of the city was when this road changes name to a County Road designation. We continued east until the edge of the town of Greenfield, Indiana.

Here, we headed north on Fortville Road. This round winds it's way north into the town of Fortville. Funny I guess, but I think road planners in Indiana wanted to make things easy by naming roads where they lead to. Of course if you are going south, it is where you are heading from. Could be confusing?

There are some great views along here, even though homes pretty much dot the whole length of this road. Along a small lake, there are some really nice houses. I could live here, maybe have a jet ski. Most of those white, so would I have The White Pearl?

Once again, we just skim the edge of a town, turning to head east just south of Fortville. After bouncing back and forth on county and state roads, we found a road that was called Nashville Road. I couldn't believe that it lead to either the Music City in Tennessee or the one in scenic Brown County.

Eventually, we made our way into New Castle, Indiana. This is Indiana's Basketball Town. I am not a fan myself, but I have planned bike trips to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, but we never made it. After the ride, and bite to eat, the vote was to not visit the museum, but keep riding. Not sure where all these other Indiana Basketball Fans are?

We made a stop at a gas station, and took a break, along with sharing some more conversation. It was weird how I was very comfortable at speed moving through the Indiana Roads, but when we stop, I feel the chillier air.

We left the gas station heading south on SR 3 until Old Spiceland Road. This is a scenic little road that winds it's way south to the town of Spiceland, Indiana. If you have seen a Red Gold Commercial, you have heard of this little berg.

I tried a different road this time, one that varies from the usual route I take. I didn't like this route as much, it was a nice ride, just didn't feature the scenery of other roads in the area.

Eventually, we would make our way back to SR 3, and then to US 40. The National Road would take us west, and back to the capital city. Though it is mostly divided two lane, it is a pleasurable ride to wind down from a day of riding. We saw several other riders along the way, so the left hand was off the handlebar while waving to the others on two wheels.

We parted ways at my street, and the first real ride of the season was done.

First Run of the New Year

2010-03-08T20:03:00.001-05:00

Sunday, March 7th, 2010

It is a rare day in March to be able to get your butt in the saddle. So when I was left alone, Kasey and her daughter had gone off shopping, the cat will be playing with The Pearl.

I rolled my Black Honda VTX 1800 out of the garage. I had a couple of errands to run, and if you have read past posts, you know I like running errands on the bike.

I started out with a short run west on Washington Street. Then I headed up north on Shortridge Avenue to get to the Post Office. after pulling into the parking lot, I dropped the bills I had to pay into the big blue mailbox outside the office. I dread going inside. I just can never believe that people can work that slow!

I continued north to Tenth Street, and then headed East. Yeah, I made the most of a big circle, but isn't that really all my trips?

At Franklin Road, I headed back north once again. I would be on Franklin Road until Pendleton Pike. This road, which has been under construction forever it seems, head north and east. I cruised through the orange cone zone until Post Road. Heading back north, I turned on a back road before 56th Street. I made may around until I was at Star Financial Bank.

I made my deposit, again, another visit without having to talk to anyone. I had my favorite teller at this bank, and no it wasn't a woman. It was a guy with a last name I could remember, as it was the same as mine. He was a great, and fast teller. This time however, the cold handle of the after hours deposit would be my teller.

I made my way around the building and then onto 56th Street. I headed west on this numbered street, and over 465, the beltway around Indianapolis.

I pulled off, using the exit to head south on 465, but I remained on Shadeland Avenue. The front rubber was getting thin, and I wasn't looking to take the highway, the fast way to get home.

Shadeland Avenue would take me all the way back to Tenth Street. I took that west until my street, then south to bak home. Hmmmmmm, Kasey's car is not in the driveway, but get The Pearl tucked back away before she suspect anything.

Ran to Star Financial Bank while Kasey was shopping with Rose

Cruise of a Different Kind

2010-02-22T20:36:00.002-05:00

Sunday, February 8, 2010

Well, it has been a long while, way too long of a while, since I have had a post here. This winter has really sucked, and I am PMS'ing(Parked Motorcycle Syndrome) really bad.

To try to get my mind off of it, and get some sun and wind in my face, the riding partner, Kasey, and I decided to take a cruise on a big ole boat liner. We would have her two kids, and her parents in tow with us.

On this Sunday we were already in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, awaiting our trip to board the Norwegian Cruise Lines Jewel. It was a sunny Super Bowl Sunday in Miami, and we even passed the stadium where the game would be played.

Now, on to the cruise. After be crammed together by the Line Nazi, we made our way to the check in desk. I don't understand compressing people in a line unless there are people in bad weather. No one will get through the line any faster. It was sunny and 78 degrees outside. I would stand out in the weather for five more minutes then be butt to crotch with strangers!

Once on board, our first stop was the cabin. Of course it was small, but it would do for home for the next week. Second, was to enjoy some of this great food I have heard people rave about. We made our way to the buffet, which was the first indication of how many sardines were packed on this ship. Plenty of food was available, but no seats or tables could be had.

After settling in, we made our way to the main lounge to watch the Super Bowl. Should have been an indication of the week, but when it started with the Colts loosing the Super Bowl, we should have known things were not going to go as planned.

First off, Norwegian advertises its "Free Style" Cruising. Trust me, it is far from free, and has little or no style. The food, when you could get it, was pretty bland. If I was a regular diner of Golden Corral, I might think this food would be a step up. Not only were a lot of the eateries closed when we wanted to eat, but I had one incident where I had to walk half of the ship to get an iced tea!

Our first port was Roatan, Hondurus. We had seen this island on The Travel Channel, and on House Hunters International. After some dealing, we found a ride to the West End Beach. We were introduced to the owner of a resort eatery, and headed for the beach. After getting some sun, we made our way for some lunch, local cuisine, of course.

We were lucky to find the driver that we did, and I suggest you look up Murphy's Roatan Tours if you make it to this island.

Another night at sea, and we would arrive at Belize. We had an excursion planned here, and we hopped on a bus, and headed to the Mayan Ruins. It was about an hour long trip, and our guide spoke the entire time. Then she spoke for another 20 minutes once we were at the ruins. I fully overly informed about Belize and Belize City. btw, They found a 7 inch Jade Stone at the site, but you won't see it, or even where they found it.

Another evening of bland food, and little or no entertainment, and we arrived at Costa Maya, Mexico. We rented a golf cart, and drove around the village that had been ravaged by a hurricane a few years earlier. This was the best time we had, as the kids pulled a coconut off a tree, and tried the milk. We also got some shopping done, and then got a soak in the pier area's pool.

It was supposed to be another day at sea, and then to the Bahamas, but weather would not let that be. That meant two days at sea, trapped on a boat that only offered Eating bland food, drinking over priced drinks, or playing Bingo against a thousand other people! The weather out side was windy, cool, around 70 degrees, and sometimes rainy.

We did venture to a show, but it featured a lot of interpretive dance, and I need an interpretor when it comes to that. I guess it was a good show?

Kasey spent most of our "wonderful" day at sea in the cabin taking a nap. I got out and walked around some, but the winds didn't maker it fun on the exterior decks. I did finish with 70 bucks in my pocket thanks to the casino's slot machine.

We went to the night's show, it was a variety show of the week's other shows. We saw a great ventriloquist, and a music duo that used to be part of "A Little Bit of Texas".

So this cruise was over, and we were pretty glad we were getting off this ship. It would be another night in Fort Lauderdale, then a flight through Memphis to get home. Well, we made it back to Indy, and Will and Rose's Luggage made it back, however, Kasey and I's didn't make it. Just to add punctuation to a lack luster trip, my bag arrived at home the next morning, at 1:20am? What the hell? Why would Delta deliver my bag at 1:20am?

I have agreed with Kasey to give cruising another try, but it won't be on a Norwegian Cruise Liner.

Get Your Tickets!

2009-10-22T11:20:00.000-04:00

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Motorcycle riding is often compared to being a cowboy, just that you sit atop a steel horse. Well, there are days you feel like the cowboy, and days you feel like the horse. I know the above map is a mess, but allow me to explain.

I started out on my usual route across town, and into Danville, Indiana. I headed west on Washington Street, then veered off on Rockville Road, crossing 465 where it becomes US 36, splitting my way through Avon, Indiana, and then into Danville. When I arrived at Kasey's house, no one but Jessie, her Chocolate Lab, and her two cats where home. I let myself in.

When Kasey and her two kids got home, I was in the back of the house on the computer checking my email. There was no Hellos, no How are you doing, they were both heading down one track. It would have sounded like a chorus if they weren't screaming, the refrain? Can we go on a motorcycle ride!

Well, Kasey and I laid out a plan, first, she would take her daughter to her parent teacher conference while I took the boy on his ride. Then, while Kasey and her son where taking Jessie the dog to the vet, her daughter and I would have our ride. Once all that was done, it was momma's turn for her ride.

Her son wanted to start out going over to visit his friend, to run it in actually. We made our way around the north end of town, and into the neighborhood where is friend lived. We caught up to him at another friend's house. After that short visit, we headed south on 200 East, and across US 36.

After riding around the quarry, we began west on 200 South in Hendrick's County. Along this way was a tree lined road with some nicely colored leaves on the trees. This county road runs into SR 39. We took the state road north, and back into Danville, and then to Kasey's house. She and the girl were back, and it was time to exchange riders.

Her daughter didn't have an agenda, so we headed out of town going west, and rode past her school. The road has some nice twists and turns in it. From this county road, 50 South, we rode to 200 West, and headed south. Before we would arrive on 200 South again, this road would meander into County Road 250 West.

Once again, I ran into SR 39, keeping straight on 200 South, and riding the other direction through the tree lined, brilliantly colored street I rode with the son.

This time we went north on County Road 150 East. This time riding past some soccer fields, with the quarry along the right. Before we would arrive from behind the Kroger's, we would be stopped by a light, as only one lane of traffic can pass beneath the railroad bridge. This bridge is supposed to be haunted, and my passenger, a budding paranormal investigator, wants to find out.

We took US 36 into town, through Ellis Park, and then passed the Vet Office. Kasey's Car was still there, so we rode around the town, making a big u-turn. We went passed the hospital, and back on to US 36. We rode into Stratford Neighborhood, to go past a friend of her's house. It looked like no one was home, so we didn't stop, and she didn't get a chance to rub it in.

Back out on US 36, and up the hill, which was beginning to back up, as rush hour was approaching. As we passed the street the Vet's Office is on, we noted that Kasey's Car was gone now. We made our way back to her house.

Whew, two rides down, and one to go! I really need to sell fewer tickets!! At least I saved the best to last! I was going to be taking my favorite riding partner for a little longer, and little quicker ride, if you know what I mean.

We began by heading south on SR 39 out of town. We made our way back and forth along the state road until we arrived at US 40, The National Road. We headed east, as SR 39 is closed under construction. We did not stay on the divided highway for too long, and turned south on Miles Road, and rode on it until it turned to 600 South.

I was flying along without a route, just looking for roads with twists in them on the GPS. The next candidate was called Bottom Road. It meandered south to CR 800 South. We took that east for a bit, to what looked like a great road, but is was mostly gravel and grass when we passed on it, and then hit SR 267.

We took SR 267 north to US 40 once again. This time we headed west on The National Road. We took the road until Cartersburg Road, then headed north once again. This road has some great turns in it, and after passing a few cars that were going slower than we wanted to, we were able to carve them up pretty well.

Cartersburg Road lead us right into Danville, and after moving about a few town streets, we made our way back to Kasey's House. I and The Pearl could now rest for the evening. The next trip would be tomorrow, when I would head back to Indianapolis, not home at first, as I had an appointment downtown to work.

Riding for a Cause

2009-09-14T13:25:00.003-04:00

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Before I talk about the ride today, I thought I would list some of my thoughts on Motorcycle Rides for Charities. I look at it as a way to do good things while I am enjoying a hobby. However, I have found that their are some I like being a part of, and some I have decided to just not ride in anymore.

In Indiana, we have a riding season, usually dictated by the weather. However, the ride calendar is often dictated by hopefulness. Evidence of this is the fact that charity motorcycle rides start in late February and Early March. These are times of the year that inches of snow can blanket the landscape, and temperatures can be in the single digits, plus or minus! By the end of March, there are multiple rides every Saturday and Sunday to raise money for good causes. This lasts until past Thanksgiving often times. Heck, I know of at least two rides that take place on New Year's Day, now.

Some fund raisers have even created events that take place during the weekdays. I didn't hear about it last year, but the year before last, I was notified about a ride on a Wednesday to help out a fire fighter's family.

Something else that makes it hard to decide, all these are great causes, and need the money. I would never even think to try to get into figuring out which one needs me on The Pearl, more than others.

There are two large runs every year in Indianapolis. The first one is the Ride for Riley Children's Hospital. This is the local hospital for kids, named after the famous poet, James Whitcomb Riley. I have ridden in this ride, and did so for about five years in a row. I saw it grow past Ten Thousand Bikes! The route ends with a lap around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. During those trips, I was able to get on it at speeds from a dead stop to over 100 miles per hour. Quite a thrill, and all for a good cause.

As the event grew larger, my interest waned more. Not that I don't think this is a good cause, but just the general feel of the event. The first time I went with Shooter, he enjoyed walking around the bikes, checking the year, and checking the mileage. Most bikes have gone to Liquid Chrystal Displays for the Odometer, so they can't be read. I have to believe that thinks have not changed, and his theory held true. About eighty percent of the bikes at run like this run as many miles for a year, as I run mine in a month. Five, six, seven year old bikes with ten to fifteen thousand miles on them. Often, this lack mileage showed up in lack of experience in handling the bike, by the rider.

Needless to say, jam up ten thousand bikes, with eight thousand of them weaving, stalling and bopping from inexperience, and it is not a comfortable situation for me. As I have said, still a great cause, they can have my donation, but I think I will ride somewhere else that day.

Of course another issue with this ride, it is held the same weekend of the Soup Run. If you have read any other parts of this blog, you have seen this is a yearly run, that I look forward, and always enjoy. I guess I would just rather hop on the bike and go 400 miles for a bowl of soup. Hey I do donate to that event, to help Mr. Soup recoup his food costs. Any overages are donated to a local food bank.

The other big ride is the Loop for Life, a motorcycle run around the beltway of Indianapolis, Highway 465. I rode in this ride just once. Again, the same kind of crowd, lots of inexperienced riders who just use their bikes for only leisure, and not a second care, or a vacation vehicle like I do! This one seems to attract more sport bike riders, whose ambition is to finish first, by passing, anyway they see fit. It only took me once to decided, "Been there, done that".

So when I am going to head out for a charity ride, you can about bet it will be a small one. Several years ago, the Bloomington Chapter of Cruiser Club, USA, did a literacy run. It was a great ride of about 45 bikes. I figured the majority of the riders that participate in the rides in Indianapolis would not ride the 45 minutes down to this town that is the home to Indiana University. A little secret I have found out, the further out of town the rides are, the less the riders, especially, inexperienced ones.

Most of these kind of rides are held for one child, with health issues, and the parents are the end of their financial rope. Very grass roots, people pulling together to help the family out. So I get a more enjoyable ride, and I get to make more of an impact.

So here I am today, leaving Kasey's House in Danville, Indian, heading to the meeting point. I never know how many people will join me for a ride. When only a few show up, I have some sympathy for those who don't. There are missing miles they will never be able to get back.

Today's ride was one for hope. Ellie is the name of the poster child for this event. I don't know anything about her, or why she needs the money. Like I said, I don't want to try to prioritize, so the less I know, the better. I size them up for the amount of bikes that are likely to be there.

I started out cruising past Danville's Square, and the fair that was going on this weekend, and then continued on US 36 East, in to the edge of Avon, Indiana. Feeling the effect of a cold, and the accompanying soar throat, I arrived at the Shell at SR 267, filled the tank, and stopped inside to find something to soothe my throat.

It was not long after I walked out of the convenience store, that Kevin and Virginia showed up. I was feeling pretty confident that this would be the ride today, at least to the start of the charity run.

The three of us, on two bikes, headed out for Clayton, Indiana. We started south on SR 267, and veered on CR 100. This would lead us back west to Vestal Road. We would wind south to nearly US 40. Heading west once again on a serious of County Roads, we arrived at Cartersburg Road. We went north for a bit, then back to the west, and finally arrived on SR 39.

SR 39 would lead us south into the town of Clayton, Indiana. The starting spot was no in the town proper, but south of town along US 40. Sure, we could have taken the five mile quick route, but somehow, I made it a 16 mile trip instead. We arrived on US 40, and headed west to Elite Cheer and Dance, the starting point for the ride.

Registration was from 9am to 11am, and we were arriving about the dead center of that time. There were about ten other bikes, all parked in little groups, through out the parking lot. We parked the bikes, and began to get our bearing on where the most important things were located: Bathrooms and Registration Tables.

While waiting for the ride to begin, not many more bikes showed up. I would say the group was going to be about 20 strong. Of course, I didn't know that three motorcycle cops would show up to help the escort. After the riders meeting, and lining up, it appeared that the escort would number close to the escorted. I am sure Ellie needs a lot more support than this, but I am also sure that every little bit helps.

The group started heading west on US 40. They told us where we were heading, and I was familiar with it, as we had spent the Labor Day Weekend camping there. We strayed off on some county roads, and eventually found our way to SR 42. It was about the same way that Kasey and I cam back a couple weeks ago, while scouting camp sites.

As we got closer to the state park, you can imagine it got more and more scenic. We pulled into the park, passed the campground, and down to a shelter parking lot. After a brief stop, and warnings of the decline, we weaved our way down to the beach.

The photo op was taken, and it was a short time that we were out of the park, and back on the road. We took SR 234 north. It crossed I-70, and then winds it way north to US 40.

The National Road, US 40, would be the route for the way back to Elite Dance and Cheer. It was a nice respite. I might be annoyed that they didn't find a nice way back, but the cold was getting the better part of me.

We returned, parked in nearly the same spot, registered for prizes, that I am sure I have no chance of winning, and then grabbed our dinner for the day. We chatted across the table, perused some of the booths, and then decided to head out. Kevin and Virginia were going couch shopping, staying in town to go to the Indianapolis Colts Game the next day. I would be heading back to Kasey's in Danville.

I headed north on the county road that runs into SR 39. After winding the curves on SR 39, I arrived in Danville.

Celebrating with Old Friends

2009-09-02T09:05:00.009-04:00

Friday, August 28, 2009

It is hard top believe, but one year ago, I hopped on The Pearl, rode it over to Danville, Indiana for the only the second time to pick up Kasey to go on a ride. It was her second ride with me, and I was going to introduce her to some of my friends. They wouldn't shake her hand, or give her hug, but they would carry her over trouble waters. We took a tour of Covered Bridges, and did run into a couple of human friends, the owners of the Bridgeton Mill.

So flash forward a year. The Pearl is in the driveway, we have our helmets and riding gear on, and the bike packed down for a long weekend. We are heading back into Covered Bridge Territory, after a trip to Danville, Illinois.

We headed out of town making our way south. We meandered on Hendrick's County Roads until we got to SR 75. We took that south to US 40. We took The National Road west until we arrived at SR 243. The entrance to this state road is almost hidden, and I have missed it a couple of times. Kasey and I chatting away would make me miss it again, so after a quickie turn around, we were back on our way south.

This road has some great turns, and then crosses over I-70. On the south side is the Wilderness Cafe. Kasey and I have had lunch there before, and it was time, so we dropped in again. As we sat waiting for our food and eating, a gentle rain poured down. I decided to don the rain suit, and we took off again.

We continued south on SR 243, and had to back track to get on SR 246, as there was construction. We were heading west once again. We would be on SR 246, on our way to the border, and the Wabash River.

We would make our way south on SR 63, running along the Wabash, and even seeing some water along the way. The skies were growing cloudier, as I was hoping the storm would pass north of us before we head back that way.

SR 154 would be our path west in to Illinois and across the Wabash River. As I crossed, I could hear Jim Neibors singing, well, it was me singing, but I could hear that refrain.

We passed through the small river town of Hutsonville, stopping in front of a school to let the buses out. We would make our way to SR 1, and head north. I have been on and off this road several times. In fact, this one of the first roads that I ever road this bike on!

By the time we got to Chrisman, it was apparent that the water from the sky was not going to be avoided. As it started to pour, we found a self car wash, and we pulled into to take cover. As far as making the bike dirty, the damage was already done.

We hid out for some 45 minutes. The rain ceased, and we hit the wet roads, heading north once again. This was the end of the storm, and the skies cleared more and more as got closer to the hotel.

We ventured out into farm country for a bit, meandering our way north to the other Danville. It was getting cool and dark as we pulled into town. The GPS guided me right the hotel, and pulled under the canopy. We were done for the night. Tomorrow we would head back to the Hoosier State for some Covered Bridges.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Like most weekends, and about all weekends you wake up in a hotel, you are not in a rush to get up and going. We were no exception! We had 10 Covered Bridges to see on the trip, so we need to get started!

We made our way out of town on the southeast side, eventually picking up on Grape Creek Lane, which turned into Stony Creek Road, even though it followed the same creek.

Once back across the Wabash, the road would become IN 32, which took us further east into the 19th State. From there we made our way on some back county roads, including a few that were made of gravel, and we avoided.

Eventually, we made our way near Howard, Indiana, and our first Covered Bridge. I had not ever been to this one. It was an out of the way bridge over Mill Creek. It was a stretch of a couple hundred yards on gravel to get to, but a rare find, as the bridge was very secluded.

After crossing the bridge and taking pictures, we headed further south to the town of West Union, and the West Union Covered Bridge. Another one I had not been to, so some pictures were in order!

From there we made our way into Rockville, Indiana, and quick stop at a drug store to get some batteries. Mine were dying in my camera, and I knew I had more pictures to take!

From there we headed further south, and eventually arrived at Crooks Covered Bridge. I remember this one, as it has a cable looped from it to a nearby tree to keep it from leaning over. Despite this, you can still cross this bridge, or take the concrete "chicken out" bridge. After some pictures, we made our way across both bridges, and headed back south.

it was a short trip to next Covered Bridge, is this four or five? Anyway, it is the Neet Covered Bridge. What sets this one apart is that it is settled on a park like setting that the farmer that lives adjacent maintains. It is also the site of a great picture that Kasey and I took with The Pearl.

Another short hop, and we were in Bridgeton, Indiana, and you will never guess how it got its name? Yep, a Covered Bridge! There is also a mill, that has been turned into a gift shop and cafe, open 10 in the morning, until the owners get tired. This was our stopping spot for lunch.

We went south out of town, and made our way along county roads through Rosedale, Indiana. I came out here once for their Strawberry Festival, it was a great time!

The next stop was winding us back up north into Coxville, and the Coxville Covered Bridge. After some pictures, and two crossings, we continued heading north.

We crossed SR 41, and even though we were not on a magic carpet, we made our way to Mecca, Indiana that is. I have been to this Covered Bridge as well. It has an old school house, and an outdoor square dancing area near by.

Two more Covered Bridges would dot our way to Montezuma, Indiana. We crossed the Phillips Covered Bridge, and the Sim Smith Covered Bridge. Neither was a very long bridge, but I had not seen either one also.

In Montezuma, we made a stop outside the Tasty Freeze, and had a little snack. We were on SR 36, and took it across the Wabash, and into the Land of Lincoln.

it was getting late, so we decided to take a more direct route back to the hotel, so it was SR 150 north back into the city of the Van Dykes.

After a brief stop at the hotel, we made our way around town for a place to have dinner. This was a town that had no nightlife, at least none that we found that went on past nightfall! We found a great place that we got a lot of food for not very much money. Then it was back to the hotel for another night of rest.

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Well, the weekend of celebration was over, and it was time to head back home, to other Danville. After a long hunt for breakfast, and taking our time savoring it, we decided to take a more direct route home.

We headed out of town through the north side, and made our way to State Line City. I am sure they had high hopes for this town, but it doesn't seem to have come through. We cruised through town quickly, and were back out in Farm Country.

We made our way through county roads, and some detours, and then into Covington, Indiana. We eventually made our way onto SR 136, and through Veedersburg. It looked to have nice place to eat, hmmmmmm, going to have to come back.

We stayed on SR 136 heading east and south, through Crawfordsville, and then into Lizton, Indiana. From there it was south on SR 39, and back to Danville, Indiana. All in all a good trip, and great way to celebrate a great year!!

I would Steak my reputation on this ride.

2009-08-25T21:32:00.004-04:00

Saturday, August 22, 2009

There are some rides that I just don't know if they will be good rides or not. Then there are others that I just know I need to get somewhere, so it will not be a great ride. I am usually surprised. Either that, or I am able to find something that made it a good ride. Then again, any day of riding is better than many good days doing something else.

This ride will take us to a place I have been wanting to go for some time. I needed to plan a good route to get to the dinner table, as I knew the meal placed upon that table would be a great one!

We met at the Avon Shell, located at SR 267 and US 36. Kasey and I had come from her home in Danville, Indiana. I was looking for my brother to show, but he was busy with something that might make him not available. In his stead, Jim "easyrider" and my father showed up. Another small group, which means there are a lot of people who don't know what they are missing.

Another unique part of this ride was the start time. Usually the rides start mid-morning, and we break up the day with lunch. Today, we were meeting at two in the afternoon to make a dinner ride. From the meeting spot, we could head south on SR 267 to SR 67, and then into town for dinner, about an hour long trip, at the longest. Stop doing the math, you know I have a plan to take three hours or so to get there!

We did start out heading south on SR 267, but veered west, and made our way around some of Hendricks County's best roads through farms and the country side. We cruised along SR 39 through Clayton, Indiana, and drove towards the setting sun once again.

We crossed SR 75, and continued west until we turned south to pass through the small town of Fillmore. We arrived at SR 240, and made our way into Greencastle, Indiana. We skirted the edge of town, staying east and south of the main town.

After seeing a small covered bridge on the south edge of Greencastle, we made our way south on SR 231. After crossing US 40 and I-70, we drove through the town of Cloverdale, Indiana. South of town, another turn was in order, as it was time to head back east.

SR 42 is mostly straight along here, but has a few 90 degree turns to keep you awake. At Eminence, Indiana, we are headed north, through the area where dad has his accident, we took it very cautiously, and we turned east on SR 142. More straight road, but it gets more fun at the end of this run. It also features another accident site, from the rally poker run. The strip of gravel is gone, paved over now.

We stop at where SR 142 ends, and crosses SR 39. Another road that would have been a shortcut. We went straight and joined Robb Hill Road. One of my favorite roads, and one that has also become one of Kasey's favorite roads. We made our way through the curvy, tree lined road that I always wish went on for many more miles.

Sadly, Robb Hill ends far too soon. We crossed SR 67, and then headed south on a back country road that parallels the state highway. Besides not being two lanes of super slab, it has much better views. A slower pace is also a good thing. The longer it takes to get somewhere, the longer I am riding!

We arrive in Martinsville, Indiana from the north side, and after cruising through town, we arrive at the institution I spoke of: Bynum's Steakhouse. They were just opening, so we got great parking, and right into a table.

I guess I don;t have to mention that we had steak for dinner, potatoes too! I am guessing too, that Kevin's business had become an all day affair, as he was a no show.

With the late starting time, and the fact that we were sitting down to dinner, you might think that was all of the ride. You should know better by now!

We fueled the bikes, and headed east on SR 252. The sun was still fairly high in the sky over our shoulders. We made our way into Morgantown, Indiana. This is another city I have passed through many times, but not stopped to partake in its culinary wares.

From Morgantown, we made our way along an Indiana staple of good roads, SR 135. After passing through Trafalger, and arriving in Bargersville, we made a turn to the east on SR 44.

This road winds it way east and north into the town of Franklin, Indiana. We stayed on SR 44 through the college town, and then where it veers, we went straight north out of town, and onto some Johnson County Roads. Eventually, we arrive on Franklin Road. This leads up along the east side of Indianapolis.

Upon arriving at where Franklin Road Crosses Washington Street, or US 40, we made our way west. Jim "easyrider" continued north, and my father took the ramp to 465. Kasey and I continued to my house.

I would like to say that it is not often I find a ride to sink your teeth into, but geez, I usually find a good place to eat on every ride I go on!!

Riding is Work!

2009-08-16T12:28:00.005-04:00

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Well, when I can ride for work that makes for a great day! So here I was, at home, with my best girl, and camera operator for the day, heading out to work on two wheels.

I need to keep the project a little hush, hush for now, but hopefully soon, lots of people will know about it.

We started out heading on Franklin Avenue, and then followed the course my brother and I took on my birthday ride. Once through Boggstown, we veered around country roads until we arrived south of Franklin, Indiana in Ninevah.

Once through Ninevah, we passed Princess Lakes, and down the road to find a good location to shoot our video. We made our way to Beech Tree, then ventured further south, arriving in Gatesville, Indiana.

We shot the video sections we needed, and headed back out for Kasey's House. She didn't have a provision for her eight year old daughter, so we needed to rush our way home. That meant no lunch!

We made our way over to SR 135, and then headed north to Morgantown, Indiana. I steered The Pearl west, and we arrived in Martinsville, cruised though town to SR 67. We only stayed on SR 67 for a bit. We made our way on Robb Hill Road to SR 39, which would lead us right into Danville, Indiana.

Birthday Ride 2009

2009-08-10T13:20:00.005-04:00

Saturday, August 8, 2009

Well, today's ride is a family event, my birthday, and it was going to be a family ride. With my brother in tow, we headed out to Washington Street, the east to Franklin.

We took Franklin south to Troy, and headed east again. Using Kitley and London Roads, we made our way further south and east.

London Road is one of my favorite roads, and we made quick work of its curves. It was not long before we made our way into Boggstown, Indiana. Some more county roads, and it was on to Flat Rock River Road, and scenic stroll over the Flat Rock River.

From there, we meandered our way through Greencastle, stopping for some water, and a break, then south to Napolean, where we made a turn east, and arrived in Batesville, Indiana.

Another great road lead us north, arriving on US 52, just west of Metamora, Indiana. We cruised into town, taking note of all the shops in this Tourist Trap, so of them closed from the economy. We were able to find parking along the canal, across from The Confectionery.

I thought the birds were chirping wildly, but no, it was the most recent adaption to his bike. Probably the most annoying alarm system I have ever heard.

After a little visit of the old fashioned soda place, and partaking in some of its delights, we mounted the bikes for the return trip. The first leg was a casual trip through the rest of town.

After a brief stint on US 52, we took SR 127 north, winding our way along the Big Blue River. We headed west, finding some nice tree lined roads that provided shade, and made man to make curves in the road.

Eventually, we made our way to US 40, and took The National Road west into the Circle City. Close to the city, we detoured to Tenth Street, a road that would allows to avoid construction, traffic lights, and traffic.

Just Couldn't End the Trip This Short

2009-07-27T23:28:00.005-04:00

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Well, Kasey and I had some time with out her kids, and we needed to take The Black Pearl back to her home. We started out across US 36, heading east into town. Rockville Road, as it is also known, runs into US 40, Washington Street, and this would take us the other tow-thirds through Indianapolis, and to my home.

Not so fast...Even though it was a cloudy day, and I was still flying blind without a GPS, and we had been on the bike an hour, Kasey just didn't want this ride to end so soon. I was not going to argue.

We made our way further east, going south on Franklin, then east on English Avenue until it ended. We returned north to US 40, and took it east until Muesing Street. It was under construction, and we made our way through the gravel pit of a road.

We wound our way along Muessing, and on to Prospect, jogging back to Muessing and then further south to SR 52, Brookville Road. After heading south and east for a short bit, we turned south again on Kitley Avenue.

We meandered on county roads until we hit Pumpkin Vine, and then London Road. We weaved our way through Sugar Creek and Boggstown, and then began our way back. We found some great county roads, if I could only remember what and where they were! Well, I guess I will have to go back and explore with the GPS tracking turned on, when I am no longer flying blind!

Riding Blind

2009-07-21T15:07:00.004-04:00

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Well, since being back from the marathon ride to Lancaster and Jacksonville, I have been flying blind. No, I didn't gouge my eyes out, I was without my GPS. It got soaked on the last day of the ride, and began to malfunction. After researching upgrading to a new model, I realized that I can not afford it in the era of Obamanomics. I believe the worst is yet to come. Well, Garmin to the rescue, they would repair or replace my existing model for 160 bucks. Very affordable compared to 600 to 700 for an upgrade.

So we took off without any electronic map before us. I made a route on Street and Trips, and had it packed away, but most of this route would be from memory. So we headed out of Danville, Indiana.

We went west on US 36 until SR 75, which we took south. Not the most scenic or curvy roads in Indiana, but it took us down to the National Road, US 40.

Heading west once again, we rode until SR 231 and then headed south again. As you get closer to Spencer, Indiana, the road get more scenic, and more curvy. The gentle sweepers turn into some tighter turns, and reminds me of Sr 135 north of Nashville, Indiana. Upon arriving in Spencer, we took a small break, and fueled up the bike.

This time the leg started out heading east, out of town, and passed the entrance to McCormick's Creek State Park. Then we headed south on SR 43. The head end of this road is marked with warning signs about how curvy the road is with steep curves, warning trucks to not pass.

We weaved our way through southern Indiana on Sr 43, coming upon one of the greatest views in Indiana, the hill before you dive into the valley town of Whitehall, Indiana. Someday, I will get a great picture, maybe this fall?

SR 43 lead us to SR 54, which would still take us south, but also to the east. We pulled into the small town of Avoca, hungry for a stop. In Avoca, there is a fish hatchery, and it happened to have a picnic area, great for a lunch stop, and an after meal walk.

We continued east on SR 54, joined up with SR 58, and rode through towns like Oolitic, Indiana. We were in Limestone Country. Lots of building across America are clad in Indiana Limestone.

We also traveled through Kurtz, the town that hosts Cafe 58, where Al and I went to have lunch and met the Bloomington Chapter by chance.

SR 58 joins Sr 135 for a bit, and we stayed on the three digit road until it comes into Nashville, Indiana. On the outskirts of town, we decided to give a try at looking at campsites in Brown County State Park. They wouldn't let us in to just browse, so we head back out for home.

We continued on SR 135, taking it north out of Nashville, Indiana. In Morgantown, we took Sr 252 west to Martinsville, Indiana. After passing through the town, we headed north, first on SR 67, then on SR 39. SR 39 took us on winding way into Danville, Indiana.

I Hate Being Forced to Ride

2009-07-16T14:56:00.000-04:00

Thursday, July 16, 2009

I was about to head out on the bike to a destination that I had just visited the day before, Dreyer Honda South. I had gone the day before to show them the Air Cleaner Cover on my Honda VTX 1800 to get it replaced still under warranty. I had driven it down there before, only to find out that the crack under the chrome could not be seen when the bike is warm. So yesterday, I drove the cover, in my very cool air conditioned truck, only to be told that I need to bring the bike back.

So here I am, forced to ride. So the Air Cleaner was mounted back on the bike, and I was heading out. I figured if someone was twisting my arm to ride, I may as well make it a scenic trip.

I started out heading east on Washington Street to Franklin Road, and then heading south. After heading this way for a mile or so, I arrived at SR 52, Brookville Road, that I took south and east.

Just short of the town of New Palestine, Indiana, I turned south toward the little creek side town of Sugar Creek. This is one of my favorite rides, as the road ebbs and flows with the creek that runs along it, After some miles on county roads, and jogging between a few of those county roads, I passed over I-74, and arrived on the part of the road labeled Sugar Creek.

I have taken this road many times, both going south and north, but I must admit, I like the route that takes me north better. Funny how you like certain roads one way more that the other.

I had figured I would be able to follow this road through Boggstown, and then to SR 44, which would take me into Franklin, Indiana. Well, not in Indiana, where the shortest distance between two points is always under construction. So it was some more county roads before I arrived on Greencastle Road.

Without the GPS, as it was in for repair, I had no idea where this road would come out at, or I didn't know the curves coming up. Greencaslte Road begs for some more investigation. Well I came into Franklin, Indiana, near the campus of Franklin College. A block or two, I would be on SR 44, making my way through Franklin.

When it arrived at US 31, I headed north toward Whiteland. US 31 is an old National Highway, but there was little high along here but the commercialization. From Franklin back to Indianapolis, it was just on continuous Urban Sprawl.

I arrived at Tracey Road, turned right. It is a short trip, but I pulled the bike into Dreyer's Parking Lot. There was a space right near the door to the service department, and I pulled into the space. Since I was there just yesterday, it was a short visit. The service guy still needed to look at the bike to see if he could see it.

I left heading east on Tracey Road. Before long I over passed I-65, and then turned north on a county road, and then jogged my way onto a frontage road. One I saw industry, I knew I was close to Greenwood, Indiana, and the town's main street, that would lead me to I-65.

I made my way to the interstate, and then made time heading into downtown. I veered off on I70 for a brief stint because I got off at McCarty Street. I made my way through the near south side of town, around the circle, and then north on US 31, Meridian Street.

I made my through the near north side of Indianapolis, and then beared off on Westfield Boulevard and cruised into Broad Ripple. After riding through the village, and then headed north on Westfield Boulevard. A few nice sweepers later, and I turned on my parent's street, and pulled into their driveway.

I checked over the house, and then ventured out to make my way home. Between the risk of traffic, and that I had a long afternoon of riding, I took the interstate on the way home. I had to get there, and I did it this way: South on Westfield Boulevard, then around the round about to 96th Street. From their is was south on Keystone, nd then east on I 465.

Making the Way Home

2009-07-06T22:33:00.002-04:00

Sunday, July 5th, 2009

Wow, it was hard to believe that here it is the 16th and final day of the trip. We started out heading north through Cookeville, TN. It was only about 50 miles or so until we were in Kentucky.

And while in Kentucky, we were on some good country roads, two lanes, not divided, and windy through the Bluegrass State.

We ere riding through farm country, a mix of fields of corn, beans, and sometimes tobacco, and also cattle. As we passed one field with cows along the fence, I revved the engine once. None of them along the fence even noticed, but Kasey said that one further out seemed to look up in disgust. On the intercom, I said I knew what he was thinking.

"What's that?" Kasey asked.

"That guy thinks he got game," I started. "Wait until he hears the exhaust of this Cow-asaki!" Then I made a loud farting noise. After Kasey laughed, I continued. "Damn, I just pooped on my tail!"

That would be the light moment of the day, for our conversation, and for the skies. As we went north, the skies grew cloudy and dark. Eventually, about 30 miles from our lunch stop, the skies would darken with moisture, and begin to fall to the ground. For the second time on the trip, it was raining. This time we would not be so lucky to find a good overhang, or for it to stop as we donned the rain gear.

After a few minutes, we waited for the rain to slow, and we headed out, covered in our rain gear. Even though it was 30 miles, it was long 30 miles through the rain. We rolled into Hodgensville, KY, apparently a town that has a link to Lincoln. There was a museum, and other places dedicated to the 16th President.

One thing the town no longer had? Well if you have been reading the other posts from the trip, you know it is that the restaurant I picked to eat at was no longer there. We back tracked a bit, and found the Hodgensville Grill, the parking lot was full, so it had to be a god place.

We stepped inside, in full gear, and wet from the still pouring rain. We were immediately tended to by the female co-owner of the establishment. She said we would have to wait a few minutes for a table, offered us drinks, and brought us towels to dry off the helmets.

It was only few minutes until we got sat at a table. Tea and coffee was served to us quickly. It was apparent that this was the place to go after church services. The food was good, and the place was always full of conversation. We ate slow to let the storm and pass, and sure enough, the rain had let up by the time we were ready to depart.

We continued our way through Kentucky, mostly on US 31e, and in the rain. We were doing ok riding through the wet air, but the GPS seemed to be taking on water. A sign that we were nearly done with Kentucky was arriving in Louisville. We cruised through town, crossing the US 31 Bridge across the Ohio River.

Once we crossed the river, we were on I 65 for a while. Lets face it, we were near, if not over 3000 miles, so we were ready to get home. Besides, I had seen all the scenery here. We made a stop for fuel, and a but break, and by this time, the GPS was not functioning at all. We headed back up I 65 to US 31, and took that north to Frnaklin. I was amazed at how many times I glanced to check the GPS. Kind of amazing, when you consider how times I miss turns from not looking at it!

We headed west out of Franklin, Indiana on SR 144, which ends, picks up again, and then ends in Moorseville, Indiana at SR 67.

SR 267 would take us north to US 40, which I would jog west to Cartersburg Road. This road would wind us into Danville, Indiana. A few more roads, and we would be at Kasey's House.

Turns of the Bars

2009-07-05T22:20:00.004-04:00

Saturday, July 4th, 2009

As we prepared to head out into the land of Boiled Peanuts, both plain and raw, whatever that meant, I was contemplating just how many times I have turned these handlebars. It could have been because we had made few turns in Georgia so far, and that we were on our way to making a lot of turns, and as advertised - 318 turns in 11 miles.

I will admit that as we entered the foothills of the Smokies, the ride was getting better. Eventually we hit a place that Kasey's Brother suggested, Blood Mountain. It was a fun stretch of road to ride, except for the idiot in the full size van with a trailer flying down the road.

We passed through North Carolina and into Tennessse. As we approached Telico Plains, TN we saw more and more motorcycles. We rolled into town, and approached the restaurant that was suggested in a motorcycle magazine I had just read.

It seemed to be a first on this trip, a place I had picked to eat was not only there, but was open. We stepped in, and the place was very nice, with good food. I highly recommend the TeliCafe in Telico Plains, TN.

The whole point for going to Telico Plains, TN is that it is at the base of The Cherohala Skyway. This mountain pass over the Smokies has some great curvy roads and better pull offs for scenery.

At our second pull off, there was quite a crowd of people taking pictures and enjoying the view. One rider was about to have a bad day. His bike was not running very well, and it stalling out was publicized by a big puff of black smoke. He needed to head back down the mountain with that kind of trouble.

We had no problems finishing the skyway, including stopping for more pictures. We cruised into Robertsville, NC to get fuel. After a brief stop we headed back up the road, and to face the dragon. After about 20 miles, we pulled into the Crossroads of Time Campground at the beginning of Deal's Gap, also known as the Tail of the Dragon.

Our first half of the trip was nearly excruciating. Here we were, 318 turns in 11 miles, and the first 5 miles were behind SUV's hauling canoes, and another SUV who would not yield to faster traffic. Probably a plant to keep people slowed down. We finally were the ones that pulled over, and let Mr. Slow Poke get out in front of us.

Photos of us Slaying the Dragon

As standard procedure, we parked at the dam at the end of the gap, and took a few pictures, and rested. There is a pretty good view from here, too.

After a little while longer on US 129, we pulled into a drive across a dam, and took another picture.

Me, Kasey and The Pearl along a River and US 129

We had more than our share of twist and turns of the handlebars today, so after rounding Chattanooga, TN, we hit I-40, and took this interstate to Cookeville, TN to park for the night.

Riding in Georgia and Boiled Peanuts

2009-07-04T18:09:00.001-04:00

Friday, July 3rd, 2009

If you look at the dates on the posts, you will see there has been a few days since my last post, and it is because we have taken four days off of riding. Two of the afternoons were spent on the beach, enjoying the waves crashing on the sandy beach. Thursday afternoon, Kasey spent hanging around the pool at her parents house, while I was The Stadium Course of The Player's Championship at Sawgrass. For not playing golf in a couple of year, borrowed clubs, and new shoes, I played pretty well. The new shoes came from the fact that the box full of our clothes, including the shoes, never got picked up from the hotel.

We headed back out of Florida, and it felt kind of cool, as cool as Florida can get in July. After getting through Jacksonville, and over the big bridge that many a cruise ship passes under, we arrived on SR 1. We headed north out of Florida, and I swear, as soon as we crossed the border into Georgia, it got hotter!

It could be that the scenery was not distracting enough from heat like Florida. The palm trees gave way to scraggly pine trees. As the heat increased, and we made more miles through The Peach State, Kasey and I marveled at the lack of scenery. Every once in a while the tress gave way to a clearing, but even the vistas just weren't pretty. In fact, with a few hundred miles under my belt, I can say that Georgia is the most dreadful state I have ever ridden through. I saw a lot of motorcycles, but I honestly couldn't answer why they were riding anywhere, it couldn't be for leisure.

As we strolled into the town for lunch, we had to make a brief slow down for a group of dogs crossing the street. As I recall, most of them were bloodhounds. The place I had picked for lunch was closed once again, that is becoming a theme on this ride, in fact the building was not there anymore, I did spy a faded sign. We found another place in town, it didn't look like much, but it was busy.

The food was pretty good, yet basic, and it filled our tanks until the next meal. Speaking of tanks, The Pearl was ready for another feeding also.

Then it was back on the road, more boring scenery and more heat. As we continued through Georgia, we saw more and more sign for Boiled Peanuts. Never heard of, nor ever ate them, and not sure I really want to? Not sure what boiling does to them, or whether they just boil in the hot Georgia ground. Which the dirt was that red clay color, looked very sandy too.

One more rest stop to go, and it was out in the middle of nowhere, there was a gas station, and it was the local's hot spot. Everyone there seemed to know people working there but us. A cold bottle of water later, and we were ready to head out.

As we preceded closer to Kasey's Brother's House, she was texting on the back of the bike, and making arrangements for a meeting. A had the GPS tracking us all the way to his house, but he it sounded like he wanted to get his bike out to meet us somewhere.

We rolled into Athens, found a gas station, and as I fueled the bike, Kasey texted her brother our meeting spot. He arrived while Kasey was still searching for her sunglasses, that were discovered under a mini-van refueling at the depot.

We followed her brother back to his house, and were down for the night. Only a little bit of Georgia to go in the morning, and then onto North Carolina, Tennessee, and North Carolina and Tennessee again.

To Florida: Day Three: Momma Wants to See Her Kids

2009-06-29T09:13:00.004-04:00

Sunday, June 28, 2009

On this morning, if you felt a slight tremor beneath your feet, or your bed, it was the Earth shaking from Kasey arising early. I am not sure she knew there were times in the morning with single digits. She had mentioned that she was sick for her kids, and wanted to get to them, so she was up at 6:15am, wanting to get breakfast, and on the road by 7.

Well, we missed the 7am Ass in Seat Time by a few minutes, mostly because I was hunting for my sunglasses. But we were still on our way much earlier than the 9am time I had scheduled.

We started back down US 17, heading south. Today’s ride would be much more inland. We were making good time as cruised through the remains of South Carolina. It was cooler, and much more comfortable, and stops were shorter. We did notice that in this area, they have gas stations called, “El Cheapo”. We had t laugh at that.
One theme I have noticed on this trip, is the amount of road work being done. We traveled along an area where two lanes non-divided, was to become four lanes divided. It was through a swamp area, and you could see large amounts of soil that had been brought in to fill the area. Another feature of riding through swamp area was the alligator in the road we rode past. Not a big guy, about 3 or 4 feet long, and he was sunning himself in the right track of our lane. He didn’t even move as we blazed past at 50 mph.

Georgia brought heat, and no views through the heavy, ugly trees on either side of the road. No space for a breeze, or anything but the sun to beat down on you. We made a stop for gas, at a place that had the old fashioned pumps.

Georgia went by quickly, and soon we were in the Sunshine State. We were closer to Kasey’s Parent’s House, and to her kids. It seemed as though we would arrive about 3 hours early. With the arrival of Jacksonville, and being closer to the Atlantic Ocean, the breeze was cooling us. A storm, as it always does, was blowing in for afternoon, evening shower, and this was cooling the temps.

We made our way around Jacksonville, and to the streets that would lead to their neighborhood. We pulled up the driveway, and Kasey squeezed me to rev up the engine, and draw their attention. It was a few seconds before the garage door went up, and her family came running out of the house.

So it will be a few days off before we mount The Pearl again, and make our way home. I have a great trip planned, three day, including Deal’s Gap. It has been such a great trip so far. And the first long trip I have taken with a riding partner. That has meant very little listening of the MP3 Player, and more conversation. Things had worked out so well so far, and I am looking forward to the trip home, an we have already been discussing the trip for next year’s GOE.

To Florida: Day Two: Life's a Beach

2009-06-28T09:09:00.004-04:00

Saturday, June 27th, 2009

You know it is funny, you can tell who real friends are, but you have to spend time apart to find it out. Take my friend, Mike. We met in college at Vincennes University. He lived in the dorm room across from me the first year, and the room next to me the second year. I lived in the same room both years. I was the Resident Assistant my second year, and lived with the R.A. the first year. Mike and I were studying the same thing, and often had the same classes. Not always at the same times, but I do remember one semester, we just bought one set of books for both of us. Being 18 to 20 year old, I really didn’t know much about making and keeping friendships, but I may have known more than I thought I did.

So here I am leaving Mike’s Home, his wife and his four children, born 33 months apart, and it had been 20 years since I had seen him before this. We had been in and out of contact with each other since, through email, cards, and instant messenger. The night spent talking to him felt like we still lived across, or next to each other for those 20 years. I have had this with other friends that I had made about the same time. There is no need for apologies, or blaming for who didn’t call or write who. We just picked up and was gracious for more time with each other. I wish we had more time to spend with each other, and Kasey and Mike’s Wife got along very well too. Not to mention how well behaved the kids acted.
So enough about friendship, lets talk about the ride. We were headed out for a more leisurely day, and some beach scenery. We started out heading south and east on US 70, angling our way to the coast. It was an easier road than the interstate.
Bays were the first water we were seeing, besides regular streams that you pass on all kinds of roads. We had been on the road about 120 miles, and we pulled into the town of New Bern. I had a placed picked for lunch, with no idea if it was any good, or even open. Day one started out with a closed restaurant. We made our way into town, making a detour around construction, and made our way to Morgan’s Tavern. It was the kind of place that looked like a tavern since the days of the Civil War. It was getting unbearably hot, and we needed a break in the shade and cool.

Well, I lucked out again, and the place was fantastic! I highly recommend New Bern, NC and Morgan’s Tavern. The food was fantastic, and well priced, and the waitress was quick to refill our tea glasses.

It took us more detours to get out of town, and we missed going over a cool looking bridge that was being worked on. We made our way out of town, and along the bay to the coast line. The heat was draining on us, but as we got closer, the ocean breezes began to cool us. Maybe it was the scenery that distracted us.

We were able to cruise along one beach, with water on either side of us. At one point, the land was only about a quarter of mile wide. Then it was back inland for a bit, no roads that ran along the coast, returned us back to the road further down the trip.

We made our way back to the coast via Sneed’s Ferry. There was another beach area that allowed us to go out on another peninsula. There was a mix of old homes with the new, near mansion type homes. A lot of them were for sale.
That would be the last of the beach we would see for while. We made our way to Wilmington, NC, and further inland. It felt like the South Carolina Boarder was never going to come. We had been taking our time and strolling through beaches, so it was going to be a long day, time wise.

Wilmington brought rain. It started out light, but with the clouds darkening, and a gas station appearing on the horizon, we decided to pull off, and don the rain gear. As we suited up, the rain increased, and the temps dropped, by about 20 degrees. We continued on, and drove out of the rain in short order.

It was getting time for another refueling, for both the bike and Kasey and I. The route was taking me on the loop around towns, so we backtracked into a town along its business route. We were about 30 miles shy of our hotel in Myrtle Beach, SC, when decided to get a bite to eat. We pulled up to an Italian Café, got off the bike, and pulled off the rain gear. It helps having someone with you to help take off the rain pants.

I hate to say that I did it again, but I found another great place to eat! We were a hit at the place too, as people would mention the motorcycle. After dinner, we headed back out of town, stopping for fuel, and admiring a movie being shown in the parking lot across the street, we were on our way to South Carolina. Shortly after the state line, we ran into North Myrtle Beach. It was an endless string of T-Shirt, Surf, and other kinds of shops. We took a little break there, as Kasey needed a potty break.

Myrtle Beach was next, and we would turn inland to get to the hotel. We were greeted with Fireworks from the near by amusement park. We made our way along the frontage road to the hotel. I parked the bike under the canopy, and we went to check in. The man behind the counter had our reservation ready, and called us by name when we walked in. It seemed to be a friendly place.

I was instructed to park the bike somewhere the desk clerk could see it, and he promised to keep an eye on it overnight. One more day to go until we got to Florida, and Kasey would get to her kids.

To Florida: Day One: What is so High about this Highway?

2009-06-27T09:06:00.003-04:00

Friday, June 26th, 2009

There is a mixing of a lot of emotions on the morning after the rally. The Good-Byes are sad, the thrill of the last few days satisfying, and the thought of next year made you grin. There are a lot of people at this rally that I just wish I saw more than once a year, and for longer than three days. Most we wouldn’t see, they either had taken off early, like Kevin and Virginia, or were still loading up the bike, like the group from Bloomington, Indiana.

Kasey and I fired up the fully loaded Pearl, and pulled out of the hotel. We started out heading west through York and Gettysburg. It is interesting going through town that al I know came from a text book. Once through the town famous for an address that doesn’t designate a location, we head south.

We were still on state highways, and even though there was traffic, we still were making good time. Good enough time that at some point, we caught the Virginia Group. Sunshine Bob has promised me a picture of Kasey and I at 60 mph, but I have yet to be able to read the file.

By the time we stopped for lunch at Fuddrucker’s, yeah I know it is a chain, but not a chain with places in Indiana anymore, we were done eating at the time we were supposed to be arriving. The burger was most tasty, and if they want to come back to Indiana, the building on the east side is available. (and near my house)
After leaving lunch, it was time to make some time on the highway. Problem was, we were south of the DC Beltway on I-95. The high parts of this highway was the heat and tempers. It was two hours after lunch, and we had made 45 miles. We were not only back on schedule, but behind schedule. I will be looking to avoid highways for the rest of my life, now.

Thanks to my friend, Mr. Garmin GPS, we were able to get off the highway, and get on a US Route, most of the time on US 17. It was like riding on US 40, the National Road, there were stretches of 55 mph, and others through town at around 35 mph. The towns were fun to drive through, and it broke up the ride. Without being on this route, we would have never cruised past Quantico Marine Base.

For the rest of the route, we would stay off the Highway as much as possible. We had stretches that we hit the super slab, but for the most part, we stayed on US 17 through the more interesting parts of this country.

After Richmond, Virginia, it was beginning to feel like North Carolina was never going to come. This was our 7th day in a row of riding, and we had covered about 1500 miles in the time. We were near the border, and about 30 miles from my college friend’s house that we were staying at for the night, I was able to get a hold of him on the phone. He was taking the kids to the pool, so we decided to head into town, and get a bite to eat.

We found this little hole in the wall diner place, that looked more like it belonged on television, than along food row in Raleigh, North Carolina. The food was good, Kasey was able to get breakfast, and the waitress, who had been there for 17 years, was a hoot.

We only had another 5 miles to make it to Mike’s house, so we hopped on The Pearl, and then made our way through the gold community where they lived. This would be the longest day we would ride on the trip, at least in miles. There could be longer trips to come in time.

GOE XIII: Day 5: These Rallies Go By Fast!

2009-06-26T09:02:00.001-04:00

Thursday, June 25, 2009

The last day of Gathering of Eagles XIII, Cruisin with 09 in 09 is in its last day. First off is some riding, but not a lot of distance. It was the biker games. The solo slow ride started out the day, followed by the two up, and then the Water Balloon Toss, aka the Bike Wash. Kasey and I didn’t do well on any of the games, and the new Bike Joust event was not an exception.

Next was the Poker Run, and the bikes lined up across the street from the hotel. We had a meeting and grouped up in 10 to 12 bikes. Kevin and Virginia were in another group, and this is something that Kevin and I have done on purpose many times, to get us out and talking with other cruiser clubbers. We were in the group with people from Bloomington, like Van and Betty, and John and Sue, and Kasey was getting along great with them.

This trip was through Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and we were led to a buffet. After another filling meal, we headed back out into the country, stopping at a scenic lake spot.

Before getting back to the hotel, we all did Intercourse, Pennsylvania, and then rode through Bird in Hand. Kasey and I left on our own a little early to get back to the room, as the heat was getting to her. We were seeing that we needed to drink more water than we were.

As Kasey cooled off with a nap, I went out and fueled up the bike, and returned. The banquet was all that was left of this year’s rally. Tomorrow, we would begin our journey to Florida.

GOE XIII Day 4

2009-06-24T17:20:00.005-04:00

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

The above map may not be the most accurate one I have posted on this blog. It was not my route, and I was just there to follow along, as I was promised fresh crab at the end of the mid point of the ride.

The morning started out rocky, and we decided to ditch the riding jackets, which left Kasey running back to the room, and leaving them. When she returned, the engines were running, and she knocked her helmet off the bike. After a quick fix of the shield, we joined the group and headed out.

It was a great ride out in the country, and I must say this are has a sense of humor when it come to naming streets and places. Bird in Hand, Intercourse, and then we found ourselves on roads like Pussyville and Blue Ball.

Chesapeake City, Maryland was across a large and high bridge. We parked at the base of the supports, and walked into the little village, finding a place along the water to eat.

The ride back was through Amish Farms. It was a great and scenic ride through the rolling hills of this part of the country. It was getting cloudier and cooler on the way back.

After a few minutes to relax, it was time to head out for dinner. After following a ride leader, we decided to pick our own place, and it was not a chain. Once again, the food was good, and out athletic and big server had a great since of humor about us.

We returned to the hotel, and I was surprised that we were ready for the last day already.

GOE XIII Day 3

2009-06-24T17:17:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

The Gathering of Eagles has begun once again. I was unaware that it had been proclaimed Tye Dye Tuesday, but Kasey and I donned our Tye Dye Rally Shirts after breakfast. After a long day, we were looking forward to a short day, so Kasey and I decided to head to Hershey.

It was a nice little ride on State Roads into the land of chocolate. You could smell it when you got into town and along the factory. We meandered our way through town, and through the park, and to the Chocolate Park. We found a shady spot under a tree, parked The Pearl, and headed out to enjoy the sweetest place on Earth.

I know this is not about riding, but we did take the Tram Ride. It had a cheesy show in front with some actors. We got some history about the Hershey’s, but I am not sure it was worth the torture. At one point, the male actor was dresses as a woman, and pinched my cheek. She said I need shave, to which my response was, she need one too!

We took another ride, this one more enjoyable, and informative. It spilled us out into a gift shop, there is a surprise! We shopped for gifts for a bit, and then headed back to the hotel.

We took a more direct, but scenic ride. One town was supposed to have a couple of Covered Bridges, but there were no signs to them, so we never saw them.

We had a few minutes before we grouped up, and went out to dinner. It was a great ride out into the country to a place called Good and Plenty. The food was good, and there was enough to stuff the hungriest of people.

One more little trip for the day would be to get some beer. Pennsylvania has weirder alcohol laws than Indiana, and we followed Kevin and Virginia to a place to purchase a case.

GOE XIII: Day 2

2009-06-24T17:06:00.003-04:00

Monday, June 22, 2009

We began to group up, and pack up the bikes in the morning. Another round was had at Shoney’s, this time for breakfast. It was a lazy Monday Morning, and the working girls were late to get into their truck, which had some personalized plate to the effect of Skin4You, and he took off. I think this was the first time that Brad had noticed that the hotel was also a place of business.

It was nearly 10, and we had miles to get under our belts, so we headed out of the Super 8, and out along the Ohio River on Ohio’s State Road 7. We ran along the water way until St. Mary’s , where we crossed, and followed the river on SR 2 on the West Virginia Side. It was our third state to ride in on this trip.

We continued along the river for as long as we could, and even though we were heading to the city with Three Rivers Stadium, we had to veer from the waterways to get to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. At one point, we actually arrived back at, and rode on US 40, the National Road. On the way to the rally in Virginia a few years back, we rode the National Road all the way to Cumberland, Maryland.

As we entered the home of the numerous Super Bowl Champs Steelers, we ducked our way through a tunnel, and then across a long bridge. It was a maze of roads that led us down to the meat packing district. A lot of shops were flourishing, making me wish Indianapolis could pull some kind of downtown like this.

Primanti Brothers, a staple on the Food Network was our lunch destination.

We found spots to park, and entered the establishment. After a lunch true to the build up on television, we began our journey out of the city. It would be a long and slow trip, with the heat and traffic holding us back.

I will on occasion get some flack from making my journeys on a Honda. But with traveling 12 to 15 thousands miles a year, I like the comfort and reliability of a water cooled engine. The heat and traffic was cooking the street, our bodies, and the bikes. This not good for any bike, but when you only source of cooling is air, and it is hot and not moving, trouble is bound to happen. Since you never know where you might be, having a cooling system other than mother nature is the way to go for me.

But, we had an air cooled bike with us. And, it would get too hot to handle. Brad hollered for a stop, as he was getting too hot, I think he meant the bike. I pulled into the next gas station, a few hundred feet up the road. When I was getting off the bike, I heard Julie saying he needed help. Brad’s bike was shut down, and it was time to put it under human power. I disconnected, and ran down to push the bike into the gas station, and under some shade. It looked like we were stuck here for a bit.

The station we stopped in was a Citgo, a station I avoid at all costs because of its ownership. Call me silly, I just don’t like giving my money to terrorist and dictators, especially the ones that want to flood the country with drugs. Speaking of the illicit materials, it seems that this particular Citgo dispensed fuel and Pharmaceuticals. While the guys looked at the bike, the girls had been observing the business dealings.

It became apparent at one time, that the bikes, and we, needed to move on. We moved the bikes to the side of the store, but we were still upsetting regular business. To interrupt things, a black snake came slithering through the parking area, trying to cross the road. Why did the snake cross the road, anyway?

All this happened in the three hours we waited for a tow truck to arrive. When it did, the bike was loaded up, and Julie would follow the flatbed to the closest Harley Dealer. As for the rest of us, we four headed out for the rally, with a lot of miles, and not much daylight remaining.

The first order of business was a bathroom break, as the Citgo was more of a crackroom I could imagine, and we were not allowed to use it. We were told there was another station up the road, but the one we found had not facilities either, so that left us with a Taco Bell.

We headed out of town looking for a quick way to make it to the rally. We needed dinner too, but that would come when we could find it. Gee, in Indiana, there is a Subway and Golden Arches on every corner. So after riding the twisties through the mountains, and rising as high as 3000 feet, we arrived in a town that had a place to eat, and a place to get gas. This did not come until after Kasey and I had a good time laughing about packing a lunch to get to a place to eat.

We were 130 miles or so from the rally hotel, and we decided to stretch it out, and make it in one run. There was more curves and mountain rises, but we eventually made it to Lancaster, and the Days Inn. It was somewhere between midnight and one.

GOE XIII: Day One

2009-06-22T17:01:00.001-04:00

Sunday, June 21, 2009

It is hard for me to believe, but here I am, ready to take off for my 8th Gathering of Eagles, Cruiser Club, USA’s National Rally. This is my second in Pennsylvania. The first trip was a trek through Canada and New England to get there. This route would have its wonderings too, so stay tuned.
The plan had us leaving around 11, so my brother and sister-in-law would not have to get up at the “butt crack” of dawn to drive an hour to my house. My sibling and his bride showed up around 10, we were all ready to take off, so we headed out an hour early. This allowed to avoid the interstate, and head out on US 40, the National Road.

There was great little towns that we made our way through, and they looked different, more spruced up or something, maybe it was because I had Kasey on the back pointing out the things I was missing. One thing we didn’t miss, was a large gentleman on a scooter. That poor little motor was really working to get him along the road.

Eventually, we strolled into Richmond, Indiana. I had a place picked out for lunch, but it was not to be. Not only was it not opened today, it looked like it had been closed, sold, and was being remodeled to be something else. With not many options left, Steak & Shake was familiar sight that I had not been to as of late. And with many meals under 4 bucks, it seemed like a good way to start out our eating adventures for the trip.

After lunch, we were only about 60 miles down the road, so it was time to make another leg until the first fuel stop. It was a hard one to get into, and U-Turn was needed to get back to the refueling center. With little shade available, Virginia, my brother’s wife and Rest Stop Nazi in charge, we would take another little break at the Sonic for a cool treat.

The next stop would be an unplanned one, just about 20 miles from our next scheduled stop, to allow for a bathroom break. I had no need to go, with the heat sucking all the fluids out of my body. We were drinking water, others were drinking soda crap that is about as bad as drinking sand on a hot day.

When we came upon Columbus, Ohio, we veered off onto the I-70, the interstate to make our way through town. At the other end, we took a break for gas, and rejoined US 40.

Zanesville, Ohio was the next town on the list, and we headed south here, eventually linking to SR 555. We were on part of this for the rally in Mineral Wells, Virginia. This was a wonderful, twisty stretch devoid of gas stations. In fact the one town that was supposed to have one, had no evidence of it, and while turning around, Julie dropped her bike in the gravel. A few minor scratched, and bruised ego was all that resulted.

I was running 164 miles on this tank when we arrived at the gas station. The bike didn’t take as much as I thought it would, but The Pearl was a thirsty girl. It was only 20 more miles until the hotel. We parked the bikes, and walked to Shoney’s for dinner.

Upon our walking return, we noticed some working girls in the parking lot. They had a couple of “gentlemen” that were escorting them to a room.

Its All In The Timing

2009-06-21T16:56:00.002-04:00

Saturday, June 20th, 2009

You know, sometimes, things just have a way of working out. You know, you go through your day, getting the things done that you need to, and then all of a sudden it has all worked out better than you expected. Take all those times you are meeting someone. You have the fears of they not showing up, you not being able to get there, and then being late, who will have to wait on the other. Today, was a day of a meeting. Tomorrow, I was heading off on an odyssey, with Kasey in tow, first to Pennsylvania, and then to the Sunshine State.
Kasey and I had waited at her house, doing some final things before the trip. We were waiting for a call to know when to take off. The phone call never came, and Kasey and I’s stomach’s were groaning, and we need to head out to get lunch.
With no call, which meant no knowledge that we would meet anyone or not, let alone when we were going to meet them. We went north out of Danville along SR 39. We took it all the way to Lebanon, Indiana.

From there we pointed The Pearl north and west on SR 52. We took the divided state highway until it met SR 47. There is a Dairy Queen at this corner, and it seems I always see a Goldwing or two pulling into the parking lot. We cruised west in Thorntown, and arrived in front of a place called Stookeys.

I think this is a place that other bikers have told me about, but I had never tried their food, so this was my chance. The place was nice, great service and great food.
We backtracked on SR 47, and then took some county roads such as SR 421 and SR 29. This took us mostly north. At SR 26, it was time to head east, and toward the town of Kokomo. First however, was series of other towns, like Russiaville, Comrade!
We made a stop to check my cell phone, it was not the person we were meeting, but other calls, I would need to tend to later. While in Kokomo, just south of the Harley Davidson Dealership we were meeting at, my phone rang again, and it was the people we were going to meet. The original conversation had us meeting at 3, but we were nearing 4. They were calling to say they were running late as well, and they were about to leave a gas station about as far away on the other side of the dealership from us.

Kasey and I pulled our foreign bike into the dealership, and parked in the corner. Before we could even dismount, Julie and Brad, the couple we were meeting, rolled in, each on their own bike.

After introductions, and brief break, we headed back out, south out of town. We took SR 26 East, and meandered around county roads until we got to SR 37 and 13. Here, we would take Strawtown Road, blazing through the twisties of farm country. A few more roads, and we would arrive in Fortville, Indiana.
For those who have read this blog a lot, you know I am headed for Fortville Pike. We winded our way through, and arrived at 21st Street, here called CR 200. We headed back west into Indianapolis.

German Church was taken south, and then 10th Street west to my street, and into the drive of the Digital Castle.

You Know It Is Good Place to Eat When...

2009-06-15T08:26:00.006-04:00

Sunday, June 14th, 2009

Well, I have been wanting to ride, but just had not made an opportunity for a bit. Well, Al, the vice president of the Cruiser Club had called, and wanted to ride this weekend. He had found a new place to ride to and get a bite to eat, and he was dying to lead me there.

I polished up the bike a bit, and waited for Al to roll up the driveway. I need gas, and that would be our first stop. We both fueled up at the Thornton's. Al asked about taking 465 to I-65 down south. I had to ask, he seemed to want to get there fast, if he was really that hungry. He dislikes the super slab as most of the riders I motorcycle.

We would have started out on 465, but Al missed the turn, and in true Cruiser Club fashion, we made a U-Turn. It happens to the best of us, trust me.

Well, we got on 465, and rounded the circle city, and made our way to I-65. We began heading south, past Greenwood, and then Franklin, Indiana. It was all that a ride on the highway can be, mind numbing and boring, but we were making good time.

Al chimed in on the CB that he was bored also, so we took the next exit. It happened to be SR 252. We headed west to the town of Edinburgh, Indiana. It is a quaint little place. The west edge has a damn that has created a waterfall. I can only think that at sometime there was a mill, maybe even a covered bridge that spanned the water way.

After wandering a little further on 252, we crossed US 31, and then road through Camp Atterbury. AL had planned to take 252 all the way to SR 135, but my mind was creating other routes. Just passed the U.S. Army Camp, is the town of Ninevah.

I told Al to hang a left at the light in town, and we were heading south on Ninevah Road. It only goes south for a little bit, curves around a general store, and winds through the woods.

After a few miles of cruising through the woods, we came upon Beech Tree Lane. This is a nice lane the weaves through, well, Beech Trees. The trees near the road were filling out nicely, but beyond the green leaves, light could be seen. A year and half ago, a storm came through and wiped out quite a few of the trees. Things were coming back already, and I can't wait to ride this route in years in the future, and see the rebirth of one of Indiana's most beautiful rides.

Beech Tree Lane is a road that could go on forever for me. But it T's, way too early, and we turn south on Peoga Road. From that road, we meander onto Sweetwater Trail, and into the town of Gainsville, Indiana. So small, you enter and leave at the same time! We got behind a couple on a Harley riding very gingerly. It was hard to take some of the turns that slow.

After more winding through the woods and farms, we arrived just east of Nashville, Indiana, and SR 135. After waiting to get out of the Shell Station, we turned south on SR 135. More curves through farms and trees, and passing lots of bikes, including being behind a group, mostly made up of the new Victory Vision. It is a well designed and refined bike, but it must not handle that great. Al and I were running up on their tailpipes the whole trip.

We had a stop at Story, Indiana, and let several motorcycles make the turn in front of us. We continued on SR 135, and rode through the small town of Freedom, Indiana. No parades today, but I have gone through this town when it had one ready to go, and our little group of bikes become the testers for the parade route. It was fun to wave to all the people waiting for the real parade.

SR 58 came along in short order, and we headed west. More meandering road asphalt lead us along. After passing by more Hoosier Farmland, we approached the town of Kurtz, Indiana. On the east side of town was the destination, Cafe 58. As we pulled in and parked in the gravel parking lot, I spied some other motorcycles that looked very familiar. After parking, and flipping up the shield on the helmet, I saw faces that I knew. It was the Bloomington Chapter of Cruiser Club, USA. A mark of how good a place is to eat. Since our club's other slogan is Ride to Eat, Eat to Ride, you know it is a good place to eat when there are cruiser club bikes parked out front.

Al and I had a great lunch, and good conversation. A group on a poker run came in, about 100 of them, and mostly used the facilities.

We planned our route back home with full bellies, and headed out. We started out back on SR 58, until it joined SR 135, and followed both roads back to Freedom, Indiana, and then stayed on SR 58. I wasn't sure how good of a ride it would be, but I was very pleasantly surprised.

We stopped just before SR 58 went over I-65, and fueled up the bikes. It was a quick stop, and we headed north on I-65. On the south side of Columbus, Indiana, we took the ramp off the highway, and onto SR 46. This took us into Columbus, and we traveled through part of the city, and beared onto US 31 North. It rounded a little more around town, and then back under I-65.

We continued on US 31 North, through Edinburgh once again, and into the town of Franklin, Indiana. Al slowed, and turned into a Dairy Queen. I had to check to make sure Al hadn't traded his VTX for a Goldwing!

After a tasty frosty treat, we headed out again, north on US 31. At Smith Valley, we turned east. The road curves north, and meets with Greenwood's Main Street. A couple more blocks to the east, and we would be on I-65, going north back to Indianapolis.

We made our way to 465, and around town. I pulled off at the exit for Washington Street. I needed a few things, milk, chips, and potting soil, so I made my way to K-Mart to do some shopping. It was a short trip home from there.

2009 Soup Run: Day 3: Back Home Again...

2009-06-01T08:12:00.009-04:00

Sunday, May 31, 2009

The day would start early on the final day of Soup Run 2009 for us. The first stop was Frank's Diner in Kenosha for a garbage plate. This place was already popular enough, but when featured on Diners, Dives and Drive Ins, it got a shot in the arm. It was chilly this morning, with the temps hanging around 40 degrees. I layered up on the gear, and we headed into downtown Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Getting there early helps to get a seat, with three of us, there was not time to wait to get a seat at the bar, so we were guided to the back room for a seat at a table. After getting sass from nearly all the wait staff, we placed our orders.

Don't come to Franks if one: you are in a hurry, and two: you don't have a sense of humor. If you don't want to rush, and aren't afraid to laugh in the morning, then make it a good time!

After breakfast, we headed back to the hotel, but not without incident. After starting the bike, it rolled back into the curb, with the pipe hitting the concrete. I wouldn't inspect the damage until later, but it was bound to happen.

I guess a motorcycle is a good way to get to Franks in the morning.

The Black Pearl in front of Frank's Place, third year in a row.

Lake Michigan in the background, from downtown Kenosha.

It had not gotten any warmer for the return trip tot he hotel. The sun was feeling warmer, until it was cooking the insides of the trash collection truck in front of us for a while. Really nice to have after breakfast, too!

After packing up the bikes, loading up ourselves, and checking out, we headed south, back home to Indiana. We headed some west also, to once again avoid driving through Chicago. We went through some of the same towns we went through two days ago, but this time on different roads. Eventually, we would arrive on the same roads as the trip up.

A little food stand out in the middle of nowhere!

Here goes the seat, more work to the intercom system.

Kevin, once again adjusting the intercom system. If it wasn't that, it was his emergency water!

It was becoming a regular event at every stop, my brother pulling the seat off his bike, to once again inspect, and adjust his intercom system on this bike. I guess he and Virginia were getting noise, so it necessitated the work.

We strolled through towns like Coal City and Kankakee, and got back on US 52, heading south and east. It was getting long in the day, and even though we were having snacks at our stops, it was getting time to have some lunch, or dinner, or whatever it could be called when it is in the middle of the afternoon.

We found a little dinner in a small town. It was one of those places that every one from the local church goes to after worship is complete. It was not a fancy place, but friendly service and home cooking is the measure of this establishment.

With a meal in our bellies, we headed south and east more, making our way through the north west portion of the Hoosier State. I know it sounds odd, but I knew I was back in Indiana by the sight of the windmills. It has been an out of place bit of scenery since I can remember the large bladed structures going up in the farm fields. Now they were since of comfort, spinning away in the breeze, waving as if to say, "Hello", and welcome us back home again in Indiana.

It would not be too much further, and we would arrive in Lafayette, Indiana, hometown for Kevin and Virginia, and my last gas stop. After saying good bye, fueling up the bike, and grabbing a snack and the use of the bathroom, I was ready to head out for Kasey's House. I sent a text message, and began the journey.

I was still heading down US 52, and veered to the west on SR 47 into Thorntown, Indiana. A few country roads, and state highways later, I was on SR 39, just north of Danville, Indiana. The one thing I will always remember about this trip: It was a good trip, but it could have been a great trip. It is not always the asphalt, the curves, the hills, but it is the company that makes a good trip a great trip!

2009 Soup Run: Day 2: Soups On!

2009-05-31T08:07:00.025-04:00

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Before we hit the road, I took a few pictures...

Morning, Day Two, bikes parked at the Super 8.

My brother has the Road Runner on his bike, but is always following me?

Wile E loves the Soup Run! He is hoping for Road Runner Stew this year.

The outside of a very nice Super 8 hotel.

An Artsy shot I tried.

Last evening when we showed up at the Super 8 in Waukesha, I had mentioned I was impressed. Well the impression continued in the morning. The large, clean and nicely appointed lobby was also the host room for breakfast. Besides the normal free breakfast items, cereals, muffins, bread and a toaster, and coffee and Orange Juice, there was one of those waffle making machines, and biscuits and gravy. It was a very nice breakfast that I restrained myself from, saving room for soup.

I packed up my stuff, made a double check of the room, and headed out to clean up the bike. It was a little cool this morning, but looking like a beautiful day to ride.

We started out getting gas before heading out of town, and hitting a few county roads. Before long, we were on the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive, which we would stay on for most of the trip. It was a nice mix of little towns, wooded lanes, and wide open farm land. We were seeing all of what Wisconsin had to offer.

After winding through the scenery, we pulled into the little town of Dundee, Wisconsin. This is the third year I had stopped in this little town. It has a house that was re-built on ABC's Extreme Home Make Over. We took a brief break, and relaxed for a few.

From Dundee, it was a short thirty minute trip to Mr. Soup's Home. I have a nice little back way to get in, cruising through the hills and dells of Wisconsin near Lake Winnebago. At one point, you can see the water, it was white capping, and looked cold!

We arrived on Mr. Soup's Street. It was not very long before I could see kids directing traffic, and the bikes parked along the street. Mind you, the start time is at noon. It was about five minutes past. I have gotten here before at five minutes past. I have parked in his driveway, or in front of his house when arriving only a few minutes after noon. Not this time. There looked to be enough bikes already here than the total of the first year I came here for soup, five years ago.

It didn't take long to find out that riders began arriving shortly after ten in the morning! It had become like a garage sale, no one pays attention to the actual start time.

Needless to say, there was a line for the food, and of course, later, there would be other lines forming, for the bathroom.

A view from the seat of my VTX, parked at the Soup Run.

A view of the festivities.

On lookers, there is a lot of window shopping at the Soup Run.

The bike line, from the Driveway.

Bikes and Traffic near the Soup Run.

Believe or not, it is a VTX, there were a few bikes that you had to look to see what it started life as.

Not my brother's Concours, but there was another one there. There were more VTX's than just two, btw.

Now that is a row of bikes! It was a long walk, believe me!

Russian made Ural with a side car, you see about one of these at every rally.

More Soup Eaters, including Mr. Soup's Son, on the left.

Mr. Soup is in the back, on the right, looking over a Royal Star Venture.

You see about everything at the Soup Run, young, old, and classic.

A view of the al fresco dinning at the Soup Run.

Kevin and Virginia relaxing, letting the soup settle before the trip to the next hotel.

Mr. and Mrs. Soup know how to through a party, and decorate a tree knot!

For me, it was a typical Soup Run, only a lot bigger than ever. I saw a lot of faces I had seen before, but saw a lot of new faces. There were people that I know I had talked to in years past, we smiled as we glanced at one another. There were others that we exchanged a hello, and some other small talk. After sitting down with my first bowl of soup, I saw Gene, who I had referred to as the "starter wife" guy, as I didn't remember his name any more than he remembered mine. Maybe I should have read my own blog from last year, I probably did list his name!

I chatted with Gene and his wife, and walked the bike line with Gene. It was quite a hike! I would say there had to be close to 300 bikes, parked along one side of the neighborhood street.

My favorite first trip meal is a Brat, wrapped in a bun, and left plain. Then I get some Beer and Cheese Soup, and start by using it as dip for my brat. There is no other taste like it, and I have sate that right off!

After touring the bikes, waiting in line, and using the bathroom, and discovering some other Dream Theater Fans, it was time to say good by, and head for the next hotel.

We were headed to Kenosha this afternoon. We started out by heading into the edge of Fond Du Lac for a refueling of the bikes. Then it was back out into Wisconsin back country. More windmills were seen as they dotted the hills, spinning away at making electricity.

We had been keeping on a schedule of stopping about every sixty miles for a rest stop. Riding after the Soup Run was no exception. A stop here left only about 30 miles from the hotel, but it was time, and also a good time to layer a cool treat on top of that soup.

Big Bend was a little town for a huge name?

Wide shot from the gas stop.

Kevin and Virginia enjoying a snack on our last stop for the day.

As we drew closer to Kenosha, and the Super 8 I had stayed in before, things began to look more and more familiar. One of the places that jars my memory is the Birchwood Grill, a place I had eaten before, and remember riding away satisfied. I mentioned on the CB to Kevin and Virginia, and even though I was game for something new, they were ready to hit it. I have some kind of reputation for picking good eating spots, I should be a food critic!

As before, the Grill did not disappoint, but when you have a salad bar the size of a semi trailer, that would be hard. Virginia was happy they had snow peas, I guess they are not a staple in most salad bars. Our waiter was great also. Good food, good service, makes me nervous, as I know I need to leave a good tip!

It was a short trip back to hotel, and the bikes, as well as ourselves were parked for the night's sleep.

Not only this being my fifth Soup Run, but with the size of the Soup Run this year, I thought it begged some reflection. I remember being kind of wide eyed, and not having any idea what to expect for my first Soup Run. I made myself available for chat, and met many new friends, and some great conversations.

My second run I arrived a little bit of a celebrity. Beside taking a 1240 mile odyssey to get there, I was also arriving with a Car Tire mounted on the back of my bike.

My third run was a return to the shorter trip, making a three day vacation. I had another couple with me. I didn't have the celebrity, but did arrive in a driving rain.

My fourth run I found myself traveling alone again. Once I got there, I didn't feel alone, along with re-connecting with other Soup Runners from past years, I met new people like Gene the "starter wife" guy.

My Fifth Soup Run? Well it was great to have company again, in the form of my brother and sister-in-law. Not sure how many miles I have ridden with my brother in the last five years or so, but it is one of those, if I had nickle for every mile kind of things. I would be rich! Of course, I was really looking forward to riding with Kasey on this trip, and I knew that would keep it from being a great trip.

This year the run was huge, probably too huge! I couldn't believe the amount of people who came, ate, and ran. Some, Mr. Soup knew that was there plan. Many, he didn't even know. It appears his little event has drawn attention, and guests that he doesn't even know. This obviously had taken a toll on him and his resources. When I left, he was questioning whether there would be a tenth Soup Run. I hope he does, but he may need to change a few things. I have already warned him, official Soup Run or not, Kasey will be forcing me to ride up with her, so she can get some soup!

2009 Soup Run: Day 1: Reading, Riding, and Eating

2009-05-30T07:47:00.017-04:00

Friday, May 29, 2009

It is the end of May for another year, and for those of you who have followed my odysseys for a while, know that is Soup Run Time. The rest of you have probably gotten the idea from the title.

This is the fifth Soup Run in a row that I would be attending, and I was really looking forward to it. In the past I had invited others to come along and enjoy the fun I had been enjoying, oh yeah, and the soup too, but few rarely came. Once I was on the road, however, I did enjoy the ride. The first year, I just rode straight up to Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin, a little over 400 miles for the day. The second year, I made a real trip of it, going north through Michigan, reaching Mackinaw the first day (515 Miles), then across the bridge, and up to Lake Superior, then through Green Bay and on to Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin for the night. Day 3 was an early morning trip around Door County, the thumb of Wisconsin, and then to get soup. 1240 miles to just get there. My third and fourth years was up to Kenosha, Wisconsin as home base, my third trip, I did have company, another couple.

So was I going to have a huge group for my fifth running? Nah, just my brother and his wife, and of course my new riding partner, Kasey. But here it is, Friday Morning, and I find myself kissing her good-bye, and mounting up on The Pearl, to head out for the Soup Run. What happened? Thursday was the last day of school, and her daughter spent it, I am sure, hugging friends so long for the summer. One friend in particular has parents that don't rid their daughter of Head Lice, and sure enough, she got them bugs in her hair. Since no one would take her for the weekend with cooties, I was headed out alone once more.

I started out north on SR 39 out of Danville, Indiana. Eventually, I would wind myself through farm country to Thorntown. Then it would be SR 47 east to US 52. I headed north and west into Lafayette, Indiana. It was approaching noon, and time for lunch.

Did I mention that I was meeting someone to ride with me in Lafayette? After all that talk, you didn't think I was going to end alone, did you? My brother was still going to go, wasn't sure if his wife was still going, without Kasey, she would be the only gal for the ride. As I pulled into Christo's Parking Lot, I saw two helmets perched upon my brother's bike, and I knew it would be a trio for the ride.

Lunch was fantastic, as it always is at Christo's, this was my third time to eat at this place. We headed out of Lafaytette on US 52, heading north and west toward Illinois.

After Fowler, Indiana, we enter a part of Indiana that is kind of surreal. This is the where many of the Hoosier State's Windmill Farms are. It is like driving through Holland in the future. Huge blade cut up the scenery, flowing in the wind, making power for you and I. US 52 joins 41, and then takes us into Illinois. It is not long before we are on Illinois State Road 1, heading north. A few jogs in the road, and we are in Aroma Park, south and east of Kankakee, Illinois.

A look at Aroma Park, from the Gas Station.

My brother, Kevin, taking a break at the first gas stop.

Downtown Aroma Park, what a metropolis!

We made our way on county roads through town, and into Kankakee. North of town is a real nice river drive. It didn't disappoint once again. I am always amazed for a trip I only take once year, that I remember so much. I have taken this part of the route for the last three years. Last year, I had to duck into one of the hunting shelters to change into rain gear.

We spent most of this leg heading north on SR 47. All of this to avoid going through Chicago. We made another stop, not sure of the town name, but it said Yorktown on the water tower.

A view from the gas station

Yeah, we are bit from Chi-Town, I would say.

Virginia, my Sister-In-Law, taking a break.

Back on SR 47 and heading north. We were still not into the land of cheese, and of course soup. The day was growing longer, and it was looking like after checking to the hotel, dinner would be too late. Virginia, the only woman on the ride, suggested we stop for eat, and as the only woman on the ride, she is the boss.

We pulled into the town of Woodstock. I was looking for the field of the famous concert. I saw fields, but nothing that looked like hallowed ground. After cruising through the berg, I saw a place to eat on the north edge of town. Isabel's was the name, and the place didn't look like much, so I knew the food was going to be good.

We parked the bikes, and headed inside. I was ready for a bathroom break. Upon returning to the table, Virginia assured me that I had done it again, and picked a spot out in the middle of no where, that was going to provide and good meal. There was certainly a lot to choose from! Besides the regular menu, small type, three pages long, and quite extensive, but there were at least six other hand written pages of inserts. If you can't find something you like here, you are most likely starving, because they had everything!

After much debate, and consideration, we each choose our meals, received them, and enjoyed them. Virginia was right, somehow, someway, I had discovered a good place to eat. In fat, we agreed it was worth a motorcycle trip to return and eat again!

Another shot of Isabel's, and about the greenest Jeep I have ever seen.

If you are in Woodstock, Illinois, don't miss this sign!

Virginia climbs back on board after a great meal at Isabel's.

From Isabel's it was a short trip up the road to fuel up the motorcycles too. Then back on the road. It would be SR 47 again until we got to the boarder, then in Wisconsin, the road changes to SR 120.

At lake shore drive, it veers to the east, but we kept north, and pulled into Lake Geneva. This is a very pretty sight, and sometime I will stop and take pictures. This time would have been close to a good time, a little later, and the sun would have been setting on the lake. That would make a good picture. I have thought about over-nighting in this town, but it is a lake resort area, with prices to match.

After passing through town, and arriving on the north side, we picked up SR 12, and headed north and west again. Near La Grange, 12 heads due west, we kept heading north, this time on SR 67. This road also bends slightly back to the east, and toward Waukesha. Before it makes its way too far east, it turns into SR 59.

I thought we were in for some real scenery when I saw a road that was X-Rated. But I soon came to realize that it was County Road X. Still, it was not a disappointing way to make our way into town. I followed the pink line on the GPS, and made it to the hotel, once we found the entrance.

I will have more on the hotel with tomorrow's report, but the lobby and room was

Riding to Save the Ta-Ta's

2009-05-16T10:59:00.006-04:00

Friday, May 15th, 2009

First off, I want to let you know that I have ridden since my last post, but it was just to go from Kasey's House back to my own, and run to Kroger for groceries. Since this is my 251st Post, I wanted to be more than just a regular trip.

So, the main part of this issue will be about a very special ride. You see, last year in the summer, a woman bought a motorcycle in Florida. Trouble was, she lived in Vancouver, BC. At first, like others who had bought a bike from a distance, that she would just have it shipped. But this woman was looking for adventure, so she flew to Florida, and rode the motorcycle back homes 5,000 miles. After posting her intent on the Women Who Ride forum, she found that she would not make the journey alone. Other Women on the forum rode with her. Joining the dance across the country, they formed a supportive, conga line.

That was the summer of 2008, and this is 2009. That woman, Flo Fuhr, realized she missed Alabama on her journey last year, and with the encouragement of the same women that rode with her, a reunion was created. The reunion would have a cause, and raise money for Breast Cancer Research. With a goal of 10,000 dollars, they gathered over 7,000 before hitting Indiana. So today, we were riding to save the Ta-Ta's.

This time I was aware of this year's dance, known as the Conga II. Flo and her girls were coming through Indiana, and I was going to give them a scenic tour of Hoosier State. It would mean an early start, and my brother arriving at Kasey's House. I rolled out The Pearl, packed up the bike with the camera gear, suited up, and we headed out for southern Indiana.

The clear skies from the night before meant cooler temps in the morning. The wind made it even cooler. We started by heading down SR 39 to Monrovia, Indiana. Then we headed east on SR 42, which would take us into Mooresville, Indiana. After crossing SR 67, we would be on SR 144, and headed into Franklin, Indiana.

From Franklin, we headed south on US 31. Just before the interstate, we would take a brief break in Edinburg, Indiana. Kasey and I would don heavier gear to ward off the cold air, which would be cooler at Highway speed. Back in the saddle, and up on I 65 to head south to Scottsburg, Indiana. We would pick up the Conga II Line there.

We arrived early, and I knew the ride would run behind, also, so we had plenty of time to be ready for their arrival. We walked across the street, got some breakfast at McDonald's, and warmed our bodies. As we sat in the fast food joint, the Earth began to warm too.

We walked back to the bikes, and began setting up the video camera for their arrival. We shot some opening stand ups, and then awaited the arrival. It would be a little while, but we would see some bikes pull up the exit ramp from I 65. The bikes cruised over the bridge, and then pulled in to the gas station and in front of the camera.

After a couple of interviews, I checked in with the riders, and we saddled up to head out and meander our way across Indiana. We started going north on I 65 for a stretch. We exited at SR 250, and headed west. SR 250 had curves, but they just went up and down, not side to side. Kasey was running the video camera, capturing the group of bikes behind us.

The road lead us into Brownstown, Indiana. I had been to this little burg a few times before. Near here is a couple of parks, and stretch of road known as Indiana's Skyline Drive.

On the other side of Brownstown is the intersection with SR 135. We would snake along on this road north through Indiana. The further along we went, the twistier, and the more wooded the trail got. Closer to Nashville, Indiana, as it runs along Brown County State Park, the ride gets wonderful. One of the best roads in Indiana. There was a close call as we neared SR 46 with a deputy that had a horse trailer pulled over. There was some tires screeching, but no harm done.

After rounding the the turn on to SR 46, we headed west into Nashville. This is a tourist trap town, like it's namesake in Tennessee, but the music has been replaced with lots of crafty shops. If you have never shopped here, than you just have not shopped.

We cruised through town, continuing north on SR 135. We would veer off on SR 252 in Morgantown, Indiana. It would be a journey west to Martinsville, Indiana. We rode into and through town to SR 67. We would head north on this divided highway to Robb Hill Road. I veered off on Beech Tree Lane, and then onto SR 39.

SR 39 would snake our way north, and back through Monrovia, Indiana. As you know, SR 39 lead us out of Danville, Indiana earlier this morning, and so it would lead us north into town now. We found parking on the north side of the square in town, and parked the bikes.

After setting the bikes to be parked for a while, we crossed the street, and entered the Mayberry Cafe. Chantelle, Flo, and Rob, the Conga Riders left with us, loved the atmosphere, and the food when it came. Rob and Flo laughed at how long it had been since they had a Root Beer Float, with extra Root Beer.

After a great lunch with better conversation, we headed back out of Danville. Continuing on SR 39 for a few more miles, and then veering off on to SR 136 headed to North Salem, Indiana. In that tiny town, we headed north on SR 75.

A few more Indiana towns, and acres of farmland later, we headed east on SR 47 through Thorntown, Indiana. Just east of town, we turned onto SR 52 to head north and west into Lafayette, Indiana.

As we approached the town, the evidence was the Welcome to Lafayette sign across the intersection, Chantelle pulled up and mentioned she was low on gas. She also said she was missing the straight roads in Louisiana where she lives. I yelled over to her, we still have 250 more miles to ride today! Kasey let her in that we had only a little farther to go when she saw the look on her face.

A few miles down the road we pulled off of SR 52 to hit Eagle Harley Davidson. We toured around the dealership, and persuaded the trio to just hole up in Lafayette. One of the sales people even called his friend at a local hotel to book them a room.

For the first time today, I would follow, my brother, to his house. His wife offered to have a steak dinner for Kasey and I. We made our way through Lafayette, and to their home.

As we chatted after dinner, a brief rain moved through the area. Rain was not supposed to move through until after midnight. A check of the radar, and Kasey and I thought it better to head out before anymore storms brewed up. Well we were way to late for that! While at the Gas Station, thunder and lightning clapped and flashed in the sky that filled with rain. We waited for over a half an hour before we headed out, coated in our rain gear.

After viewing the radar on my phone, we decided to head west out of town to catch SR 231. After some confusion at an intersection, never had a semi pass me on the right side before, we headed down old SR 231 to meet up with the new one.

As we road the wet streets, lightning flashed through the sky. Sometimes it lit up the road, other than that, all I could really see was the reflectors dividing the lanes. Just north of Crawfordsville, we would hit rain, and a pretty good rain, at that. We carefully made out way through. I was never happier to have a car tire on the back of the bike.

In Crawfordsville, we hopped on I 74 to make time to get home. After 20 miles, we headed south on SR 39, leading us into Danville. We left Kasey's house before 7:30, and returned after 10:30pm.

I Rode, So It Was a Great Day!

2009-05-09T21:34:00.004-04:00

Saturday, May 9, 2009

It was one of those mornings that the wind rustles the leaves and makes it sound like it is a downpour. In the morning it was supposed to rain, but there was nothing but sunshine pouring on the leaves. Even with the sun, it was still chilly, and the wind was not making it any warmer.

I had to run to the bank before heading to the meeting spot, as I was low on dead presidents. After a brief stint at the ATM, we headed back west on US 36 to Shell/Circle K that I would meet my brother for today's ride.

We chatted for a bit, then headed out south on SR 267. It was a short trip, as we turned on CR 100 one mile south. We headed further west, passed Royal Troone, and then headed south on CR 525.

A jog in the road would put us on Vestal Road. I was not prepared for how twisty and scenic this road would be. Kasey and I both agreed that a return trip to record this road on Video will be in order.

Before it hits US 40, we would head west once again along CR 350, run into Cartersburg Road, and then on CR 200 East. After this little trip south, we made our way west again on CR 400. SR 39 would arrive, and we would take it south.

At the south end of Clayton, IN, we headed west again on CR 500. Amo, Coatsville, and Fillmore would be the next towns we would pass through on our way west through the Indiana Country Side.

The GPS planned a different route that Streets and Trips, and so a little back tracking east would get us to another little stretch I just have to ride while I am in this area. It is near Edgewood, and is marked CR 525. It is a nice little meandering road with lots of trees, scenery, and a creek.

SR 240 veers off of US 40 east of here, and then leads in to the town of Greencastle, home to Depauw University. We rolled our way through town, turning south at the square, and then west on Walnut Street. The road changes names to CR 100 to CR 125, and then finally Greencastle Road.

Greencastle jogs as it crosses SR 57, but on the west side of the road it is gravel, so we headed a bit further south to 900 South. This road makes it way west to Bridgeton, Indiana. Even though the roads change names, there are signs that point your way to Bridgeton.

We cruised past the Brigeton Covered Bridge along Greencastle Road, and then headed north out of the little berg. As we had been getting more and more into farm country, we noticed the fields a blaze with yellow. I couldn't tell if it was Golden Rod, and I am no gardener, but it covered any field that had not been touched so far this year. With as much as there was, and how easily it must grow, someone needs to find a need for this stuff.

Parke County has a lot of gravel roads, so we snaked our way through tree farms north of Bridgeton on 80 East. We were making our way north to Rockville, Indiana. We made our way into town on the square, and pulled into Weber's Family Restaurant.

With lunch in our bellies, we swore that it got cooler, wait, not just cooler, but colder! Clouds had increased in amount they covered the sky, and how thick they were. Here we were, heading to a place for Ice Cream!

We headed out on US 36 west to near the border with Illinois. We came to the town of Montezuma, and parked just outside the Tasty Freeze. I asked Kasey to call me Jack, if I could call her Diane. We each got a small cool treat, and with our insides cooled, our outside felt warmer.

A few more miles west, we would hit SR 63, and head north. We would pass Newport, home to a chemical depot and an antique auto hill climb. Apparently, climbing long hills used to be difficult for cars? Way before my time, as The Pearl seemed to be able mount any hill.

SR 234 would take us east to US 41, which we would head north on to get above Shades State Park. South on SR 231 would lead us through Wallace, Indiana, and back to SR 234. 234 leads past Shades State Park and through the park on a great twisty wooded road. Another good place to video the ride.

We would continue winding our way along SR 234 to SR 75, and headed south at Jamestown, Indiana. In North Salem, we veered onto SR 236, and made our way south and east through some great country. SR 236 terminates at SR 39, which we took south to the northern edge of Danville, Indiana. We said good bye to my brother, which was really a see ya later, as Mother's Day would be celebrated at his house tomorrow. Kasey and I continued back to her house.

Lunch: Blessing or Curse?

2009-04-28T22:35:00.004-04:00

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Well, it finally seems like the riding season is here without any more interruptions, like a snowfall! Kasey and I were in the garage, working on the pad for her floorboard, when Jim Easyrider rode up the driveway.

The meeting spot was the Thornton's on Washington Street, so we headed over there to wait for any others to join us. I wasn't expecting many, as this was the first warm weekend of the year, and I could see a lot of Weekend Warrioring going on.

Carl was the other rider that showed up, and he was missing a bolt in his floorboard. Some duct tape secured it, and after a few more minutes, we hit the road.

This ride would be a shorter ride to go grab lunch, usually at a place that any of us had been. I had done some research on the internet, and selected a place in Anderson, Indiana.

We headed east on Washington Street and then turned south on Franklin Road. Then headed east again on Prospect. This would be less traveled by others, and fewer traffic lights to make our way out of town. Actually, it was a nice ride, and we headed north to get back on US 40 by the way of Munsie Street.

Just west of Greenfield, we veered north, and eventually joined up on Fortville Road. This is another favorite road of mine, and has a wonderful spot of houses surrounding a lake. Again, another place I could live. A jet ski was idling along the water today, as the temps were to break over the 80 degree mark once again.

We took SR 238 west out of Fortville, and around some of the construction, and then onto Connecticut Road. For an area that is thought of as flat farmland, this is a wonderful road. It meandered through woods, with nice lifts and drops.

We cruised along a county road, and one called Fall Creek until we pulled into the town of Pendleton, Indiana. Huntsville, and Ridgeview would carry us out of town, and then Main Street for Anderson. We were heading north into town.

With the place in sight, and no way to get there, I was beginning to wonder about the city designers of Anderson. About twenty feet before an intersection, the road goes one way, the opposite direction. The only option was to go through a strip mall parking lot, then make two squares around two diagonally opposed blocks to get into the parking lot.

The place didn't look like much, and proudly displayed a sign that it doesn't take checks or credit cards. Across the street sat a Lee's Famous Chicken. It was much busier, and appeared to be mostly church traffic. We had second thoughts before we stepped our destination.

Have you ever been in one of those places, where their main product is service, and you seem to be bothering them when you place your order? Well, that seemed to that kind of place. The one guy working was in no hurry to get anything. In fact, he brought out our food before our drinks. Even though their was a machine in plain site, he made them in the back?

As we were about to take off, in moved the rain, a heavy down pour! I got the helmets off the bike, and we sat inside waiting for the micro-burst to pass. The guy in the pizza parlor we were eating in, actually became friendly, asking more than once about refills.

We headed out of town on wet streets. They would be dry soon, as the sun was coming out and heating up the air once again. We headed north to 8th street, and then headed west out of town. By the time the neighborhoods gave way to farmland, the road was dry, and not even a sign of puddling. It didn't rain here, and we are barely a couple miles from where we just broke bread.

Eighth Street winds out into the country, and becomes Strawtown Road. We made out way through the farms until we got to SR 37. This would lead us south into the north edge of Noblesville, Indiana. Kasey and I turned on Promise Road, but Jim and Carl headed on south to go home.

We made our way along SR 38 and then Cyntheanne Road, arriving at 136th Street, and headed west. Oilo Road took us south, and across a portion of Geist Reservoir. Another turn back west, and we would cross over the reservoir surrounded by lush homes once again.

Boy Scout Road would take us back east and south, and allow us to us 56th Street to jog over to Franklin Road. From there, it was all south to Tenth Street, and back home.

So like a lot rides when you have never been to the destination, you don't know what you are going to get. With the traffic pattern, and the fact the place was not busy and seem inhospitable, I thought this lunch ride was cursed. The rain even furthered it, but then it became a blessing of shelter.

Dinner Ride

2009-04-28T10:37:00.004-04:00

Saturday, April 25, 2009

With the weather seeming to want to hold onto winter until early August, and a long day in general, Kasey and I both need a little getaway for therapy, aka a motorcycle ride. As we drove my truck from her house to mine, I formulated somewhat of a plan in my head. I had a place for us to go for dinner. I had no idea if this location was still open, so I also had a back up.

We didn't spend a lot of time stalling around my house before we donned our motorcycle gear, and headed down the road. We began heading east on Washington Street. At first it was a nice cruise. There had been a lot of construction work on this road, and the now six lane portion that was finished was traffic free. In front of Washington Square Mall the story was different, one rough lane, as the road work continues here.

As we approached Cumberland, I steered The Pearl south on Munsie Street. I really like this stretch of road. If I had the money, and the land was available, this is a road I would live on. It jogs at Prospect Street, and ends at US 52.

Another little jog east, and we would be heading south once again on Kitley Road. This is another tree lined road that is out of town enough, but still close to a cities amenities. It curves into Stinemyer Road taking us east.

Next is another leg south on CR 700 West. This is a road I often take off of US 52, and is on the western edge of New Palestine. It winds along a creek, and then past The Links Golf Course. I-74 creates a dead end, so a turn on CR 1000 North will take you east to CR 675 West, which you can take south over I-74 and to London Road.

If you are a frequent reader, you have heard me drool over rides on London Road. But not this trip. There is a "Y" in the road, and I have never taken the other road, so tonight is the night!

The first part of the road passes through a little burg by the name of London Heights. I followed the path of the asphalt, and veered to the east along CR 700 North. This lead us to a frontage road along I-74.

Since the beginning of the truck ride from her house, Kasey had been asking about the destination for dinner. I told her it was a surprise. We had gone round and round about it, by her trying to draw clues from me. She wanted to know the style of cuisine, but that would have given it away. Event he town name might have given it away, so I remained coy.

At Clover Village, we turned off the Frontage Road, and away from the highway, we were heading south, as the super slab headed south and east. CR 400 West becomes Main Street for Fairland, Indiana. As we exited town on CR 400 North, and turned south on Brandywine Road, Kasey asked if we were going for dinner in Vincennes. Apparently I was being so coy, not only with my words, but with my route. Before you go look it up on a Map, Vincennes is about two hours away.

Brandywine Road wound us down to Boggstown Road, which took us east into Shelbyville, Indiana. After cruising past the address twice, I decided the place had gone out of business, and it was time to head for the back up plan. We returned to the square, rounded it, and headed back north on SR 9. Just before you get out of town is the Cow Palace. It is a little place that reminds me of a Friendly's, if you have one of those near you. Think of it as a mom and pop, and little more extensive menu than Dairy Queen.

Though it was not the Italian Food I had my mouth watering, it was still a great dinner. Topped off with a great dessert, although I got chastised for having ice cream with fruit, like that made it health food!

The sun had set, and the sky was growing dark as we headed back for the Digital Castle. Started out heading north on SR 9. We passed US 52, as I knew the road was closed for repair. So we headed further north until we pulled into the town of Greenfield. At the center of town, we turned west on US 40, and headed back toward Indianapolis.

Kasey and I were amazed that the old roadside hotels that popped up when US 40 was the main road, no I-70 yet, were still open. Some still as hotels, some converted to apartments. Eventually, a lot of the rural gave away to the urban, and the light of the city bathed us as we got closer to home.

Driving around for an hour or so, going 20 to 30 miles for dinner was something that I have wanted to do for a while. I had done it a couple of times, but not as much as I wanted. From our conversation on the way back home, Kasey certainly sounds up for it, so hopefully there will be more trips like this!

Caught on Tape

2009-04-19T13:19:00.004-04:00

Friday, April 18th, 2009

With an hour long drive to cross town and then get fairly west of Indianapolis to Kasey's house in Danville, Indiana, I was up early and getting ready for what should be an interesting day. The air was still chilly, at least according to the number on the thermometer. It was still sitting in the forties. Usually I would slide on my rain pants to help keep my legs warm. I was nestled in my leather jacket, and already had in my mind to use my heavy winter gloves.

As I broke out into the morning air,I was surprised how not cold I was. I didn't even don the rain pants. I was actually quite comfortable, and the sun was going to raise the temperature quickly. As I passed the zoo, I saw an elephant perched up on the hill. It is one of those moments that makes you wonder what she is thinking as the traffic goes by. When I got through town, and out in the little part of country before Danville, the mercury was up into the fifties.

I had my video camera packed in the trunk of the bike, as today would be a test ride. As I cruised along some good, scenic, curvy roads, Kasey would be in the seat behind me running my video camera. I promise that I will put part of the video here on this blog entry. I need t review and edit it.

So after a brief lesson on shooting video, we mounted The Pearl, and headed out of Danville on a familiar route, Cartersburg Road. Sometimes work can be so tough, having to ride along a twisty road, and also direct a new camera operator. I figured I would be able to take the stress of the day.

This "research" is to find out several things. If it would even be watchable video shot from the back of the bike, if Kasey could shoot it, and what setting I want on the camera.

At US 40 we had a little discussion, then headed off west to get on SR 39. We headed south on this state road. We went over I-70 and headed into Monrovia, Indiana. There was a lot of construction going on, and some workers noticed and waved, and others just ignored the moving camera rig.

South of Monrovia, the road gets twisty and scenic, plenty of thing to shoot. We were both learning things about shooting video from the bike. Me telling Kasey what direction we are turning was a help, as being on the inside shoulder of a turn seemed more pleasing.

We arrived at Robb Hill Road, a favorite of mine, and headed east. It was a little bittersweet to get excited about the ride, I love the road, but this time of year, with everything brown, just was hard to get over. Soon the trees would be filled with green. At the end of Robb Hill, we pulled into the gas station, and took a break. This time the station was open and selling gas.

I viewed the footage, about 30 minutes worth so far, and decided we had enough to draw some conclusion. The camera was put away, and we headed out for lunch. We headed south down SR 67, and into Martinsville, Indiana. After cruising through town, we arrived at Sgt. Pepper Chicken. It was a nice meal, and I had been hungry for fried chicken.

After lunch, we went back through town, and then out on a country road called Blue Bluff. It was a nice road. I had been on it before going the other direction.

Before it was headed off by SR 67, we turned east, and meandered to Centenary Road, and then across SR 44 to Mann Road. We took a detour at Thompson Road, and went past her friend's house.

A gas stop along SR 67, we headed north and east. We turned straight north, and made our way back to US 40. We headed west along The National Road through Plainfield, Indiana and out to SR 39. Some good curves and a trek through some farm country would lead us back into Danville, Indiana.

After a break to review the video through the camera, which turned out very well, I would be ready to go on two more ride this day.

Second Ride of the Day

The afternoon was moving along, and when Kasey's kids arrived home, they were already deep in argument over who would be the first to ride the motorcycle. Kasey and I had already decided that Rose would get a ride around the area, and Will would ride with me over to my house.

With that discussion settled, Rose and I headed out east on US 36 to the edge of town. We veered onto county road under a scenic old bridge. The road would turn south and we would cruise past quarry. Another turn would lead us heading west. We turned at Cartersburg Road, heading south. Before getting to US 40, we turned west again on a County Road.

SR 39 would be the next turn, and we would head north. Sure, it was a section that I was just on with Kasey, but it is a nice ride to get back to Danville.

Third Ride of the Day

Afternoon was growing into evening, and it was time to head over to the other side of town for a cook out. Will suited up, and climbed aboard, and we headed east on US 36.

Construction traffic backed up the road near 465. We made our way through, and then back to US 40, Washington Street in town. Just like this morning, we spied an elephant up on the hill as we passed The Indianapolis Zoo. Judging from the tusks, it was not the same as this morning.

We continued on Washington Street until we got the edge of town, and turned on my street and headed for home, pulling the bike into the garage.

The First Run of the Year

2009-04-12T17:55:00.001-04:00

Saturday, April 11, 2009

It had been a struggle, but finally here we are, the first Cruiser Club Ride of the year. Two rides had been canceled, one for rain, one for snow! This ride was even going to be shortened and started later.

The meeting spot was the Thornton's near my home. Kasey and I headed down, fueled up The Pearl, and then went to wit for others to show up. A new couple to the club was already there and filling up there bikes already.

After introductions and a few instructions, we headed out in the cool Hoosier Air. We started east on Washington Steet to Franklin Road. We turned south and traveled to US 52. We stayed on Brookville Road until the edge of New Palestine, then turned south on a County Road.

After a few jogs, we arrived on London Road, south of I-74, cruising through the town of Sugar Creek. We weaved our way along and through Boggstown. We were out in the country, and headed toward Flat Rock. It has a really scenic bridge to cross.

At a turn near Saint Louis, Indiana, the other couple headed straight. Kasey and I turned around, and then chased them down. They were waiting at an intersection. He told me he was not feeling well, and needed to get to his brother's house. I told them we would follow until they got closer.

He then lead us down Edinburgh Road, it was a very nice road. Once on the north edge of town, we veered off into a gas station. He was able to use the bathroom, a necessity for his sickness. Apparently he had the stomach bug that has been going around. I had it a few months earlier, and Kasey's son thought I had spent Madagascar II in the theater bathroom. I could only imagine what vibration of the bike, and bounces in the road were doing to the poor guy.

Needless to say, the riding day was over for him. We followed the couple through Edinburgh. They went north on US 31, we went south. We cruised through Columbus, Indiana, and past the Cummins Television Studios. We headed out of town on SR-46.

We took another break at Sand Creek Road near Nashville, Indiana. We got some water and a little snack and a little seat break.

We left heading north on Sand Creek, and meandered our way into Gainesvile, Indiana, or did we. The sign proudly proclaims you are Entering and Leaving at the same time.

We would enjoy the curvy tree lined roads north onto Sweetwater Trail and then Beech Tree Lane. Then further north on Ninevah Road which would take us into Franklin, Indiana. Another break here to stretch our legs, and catch some brief after the great roads we had been on.

We took SR 44 through Franklin, and then north out of town on the back roads. Eventually, we arrive on Franklin Road. It meanders around Wannamaker, and then up to Washington Street. It would be a short trip to arrive back at the Digital Castle.

A Ride to a Familiar Eatery

2009-03-24T18:00:00.002-04:00

Monday, March 23, 2009

Well this was a quick trip that got planned at the last minute. Kasey's mom had been in town, for a farewell, I rode over to the same O'Charley's that Kasey I dined at the first time together to meet with her mom, kids, and friends.

I had to stop along the post office, so I meandered my way through town after running the errand. I took Tenth Street into town, then followed East down to Mass Avenue. Michigan would take me outbound of town. Once outside of 465, I went south to US 36. I headed a little further west, and arrived at the eatery.

The large group had a good time and a good meal, and I headed back out for home. I started on US 36 heading east back into Indianapolis. When Rockville Road ended at US 40, I took The National Road east through town and out the side of town the sun rises on first. Near the edge of town, I arrived at home.

Warming Up to Another Season

2009-03-07T17:47:00.002-05:00

Friday, March 6, 2009

So for the first time of 2009, The Black Pearl spent a night in Kasey's Garage. It would be ready and waiting for us to take our first day trip of the year. I have written about the beginning of the season. It is an odd time, with everything still looking dead as they doing the winter, but my mind reminds me that life will soon come.

We started on a familiar route, out of Danville on Cartersburg Road. I was still getting my riding skills back, as this would be the longest that I would ride in a stretch this year. Finding the sweet spot in throttle, clutch and brakes was like learning to ride all over again. I eased into and out of every curve on Cartersburg Road.

When Cartersburg Road ended, we heaed west on US 40. It would only be a few miles, and we would make our way south again on SR 39. North of here, the road is much better, and after crossing over I-70 the road pulls through Monrovia. This time though, we veered off on SR 42, and made our way to Mooresville, and SR 144. This would take us into Franklin, Indiana.

We meandered our way through Franklin, and headed out of town going east on SR 44. We would not take it to far past I-65 to Sand Creek Road. This round curves and winds it way into Boggstown, becomes London Road, and makes it way north across I-74, and after a few turns on County Roads, arrives at US 52.

We headed east and south on US 52 into New Palestine, Indiana. Our destination and location for lunch would be Cafe 52. It is a diner kind of place, and has good food, and great service. After the meal, we braved back into the cool air, and hit the road once again. We headed north and west on US 52 heading back to Indianapolis.

We arrived back at my home, and because of the weather it would mean we would exchange The Black Pearl for the old Ford Ranger for the rest of the weekend, and the next time Mother Nature would grace us with a chance to ride.

The Worst Conditions to Practice Slow Riding

2009-03-06T17:45:00.002-05:00

Thursday, March 5, 2009

I returned home after dropping Kasey off at the Veteran's Hospital. I got home and exchanged my 1998 Ford Ranger for The Black Pearl. She was waiting, so I high tailed it on I-70 into downtown. I exited at MLK Avenue, and meandered my way over to the IUPUI Campus and the Hospital. Kasey came out of the hospital, we got suited up and hopped back aboard the bike.

I pulled out on Tenth Street and headed west. Indianapolis is as well known for its amount of construction as it for its notorious planning. Not only was Tenth Street plagued with road work, so is US 36, and US 40, virtually every corridor to the west side of town!

As we crippled our way through, we arrived on the bridge that goes over 465. Exposed to the elements, I could feel the wind. Kasey mentioned on the intercom that we could be practicing for the Slow Rides at the National Cruiser Cub Rally. With the blustering wind and the pot holed road, it made practicing difficult.

We continued on Tenth Street out of Marion County and into the northside of Danville, Indiana. We pulled into her house and parked the bike in the garage where it would sit in her garage for the night.

Recollection: Rides Before the Blog

2009-02-28T11:55:00.000-05:00

Rides from the Past.

From time to time I get inspired, and like to recall some rides I had been on before I kept a blog. These listings will be different, as they will offer little or no specific directions, and may include stories from other rides, too.

This one will deal mostly with a trip to the national rally for Cruiser Club, USA. The rally is always held in June, and I believe this one was in 2001, and held at the chapter located in Farmvile,Virginia. My brother and I had gone on motorcycle trips together before, some with our father in tow, and one even had my brother's brother in law along on the journey. My brother was now mounted atop the bike that in law once owned.

We were leaving Indianapolis, Indiana, with the thought of following the National Road, US 40, to Cumberland, Maryland. That would be our overnight destination. This was before either of us had delved into the world of GPS, as they were just catching on, and with high price tags. So armed with an array of maps and atlases, we headed off, knowing we would have to stop, pull them out, and find out how long ago that wrong turn was.

As I think about the first leg eastward, I am reminded of a trip east to another incarnation of the rally, this time in North Carolina, near Greensboro. We would start out on SR 52, just a few miles south, but it stretched more south as it treks east. Not more that 20 miles into that trip, I saw a black spot flapping off the side of the road. The small bird dove in front of the bike, then quickly veered away. Not quick enough, and as I held the bike straight and at speed, I followed the winged creature as it headed toward my body. I grimaced, thinking that the beak, the talons, or something was going to pierce my skin. I had no idea how I would react. I felt the feather graze my knee, and the body tumble along my thigh. It turned out to be no big deal.

When you travel off the beaten path, one thing you notice is the array of town names that you encounter. I had always thought that US 40 was refereed to as Cumberland Road because it passes through the gap, and to Cumberland, Maryland. Low and behold, this trip starts us in Cumberland. Just east of Indianapolis, along US 40, is the berg of Cumberland, Indiana. Makes me wonder how many people stopped here, think they had made it to the roads nickname.

We traveled further east, being slowed below the 55 mile per hour speed limit for town named Greenfield, Dublin, and Cambridge. At times it is hard to know if you are in the Midwest, or Britannia. We pass through Richmond, Indiana, the last town we ride through before we change states and enter Ohio.

As we passed through Dayton, Ohio, I am reminded of a trip that my brother and I took before we joined up with the Cruiser Club, and made these yearly escapades to the rally. We left from Lafayette, Indiana to overnight in Sandusky, Ohio, where we would spend the next day at Cedar Point, and amusement park that is the Holy Land for Roller Coaster fans. We were surprised that they had motorcycle specific parking. This was Monday, and there was not a huge crowd, but they still insisted on packing up at the gate, just before they flew open. My sibling and I sat on a park bench, watching the mass move it's way to the newest rides, to wait for another 30 minutes for them to open. After 15 minutes, we breezed in, and headed the opposite way of the crowd.

My brother is taller and bigger than I am, and so some of the coasters were not accommodating to someone of his stature. One of the major ones was Millennium Force. It had a harness that pullover your head, and latches you in. My brother was way too tall for that. I waited in line, and climbed aboard the train, the second row from the very front. The younger man in front of me marveled at the first hill, running nearly straight up in front of us, 31 stories in front of us. His machismo rung in his voice and enthusiasm. With the ride full, the elevator style lift system latched on, and began towing us the 308 feet. I had a young lady sitting next to me, probably not even old enough to drive. The car crested the hill, slowly increasing speed, leaving those of us in the front hanging, the rails gone from our view. The hands of the young man in front of me went from the sky to the hand grips. His low voice strained to a higher pitch. For the rest of the ride, I would think the little girl was in front of me, not beside me. So much for the posturing.

So this bring me to my first "Sometimes People Get it". When I told people of my 95 mile per hour coaster ride, they would away ask, "Were you scared?" After a little thought, I would answer. "I got there on one of the most dangerous modes of transportation? Why would I have been scared by a type of ride that fewer deaths in year than people using toothpicks?" And how do you manage to kill yourself using a toothpick?

So after a full day, we threw our legs over the bikes, and headed further east to Cleveland. Even with help of the natives, we were hard pressed to find a hotel. There is one at virtually every exit off the highway in Indiana, but Cleveland, none to be found! We went to Cleveland to see a Car and Motorcycle Museum, one that apparently no one knew about. Even a NAPA Car Parts store not more than five minutes from the place. Needless to say, the display of about 12 motorbikes was a let down, and we were ready to get the heck out of Cleveland!

From there we headed back to Dayton. Yeah, it has been long strange trip in this writing too, but I brought it back home, or at least to the route for you. We wanted to visit Wright Patterson Air Force Base. It has several hangers full of a history of aircraft. My first trip to the Air Force Base could have been a lot more adventurous than it was. I was in my pick truck, visiting a friend that lived in Dayton. He had advised me of a back way into the base. After being on a long winding wooded road, I arrived behind two cars waiting at a gate. Two guards, with the arm band marked "MP" and a shoulder cradling an M-16 waved the cars through. When in Rome, I thought. I waved and drove on through. Thinking what a great country this is. This was way pre-September 11, 2001. After cruising the air force base, one suspected of having alien technology, I about gave up on finding a museum. I found the annex, and have touring, was told if I was not active on this base, I need to get off, and get to the real museum! That would not have been a phone call I wanted to make to my parents!

For this trip to Virginia, we had no time to stop and looks at other forms of transportation. We pressed on for what was to be a 400 mile day. We tried to stay true to US 40 on this trip, but going through Columbus, Ohio was better done on the Interstate, so we hoped on I-70. We could see this highway most of the trip, sometimes we were moving slower, sometimes faster, and sometimes the highway traffic was not moving at all!

As we pulled into Zanesville, Ohio, and filled up the tanks, I had noticed that a bolt was missing from my exhaust. That would explain the back firing I was getting out of my 2000 Honda Shadow Sabre. Luckily, this town has a Honda Dealership, and was able to supply the nuts, and lock washers to hold the system on. With that fixed, and not putting us too behind schedule, we headed out. It would be a lot of miles to make it through Pennsylvania and into Maryland. We found the hotel, checked in, and went out for dinner.

Day two would show us to Farmville, Virginia. It was not going to be a lot of miles, but we knew it would take most of the day, as we were going to head down Skyine Drive. This is a good "Sometimes I Should Get It" moment. Whenever I plan a "short" day, that will be the most time we ride on a trip. It could be 150 mile day amidst a week of 400 mile days, and it will take the most time.

So we headed south for the town of Front Royal, the north end of Skyline Drive. Confusion at a city intersection early on our trip would force us to re-plan the rest of the day will out in the field. OK, I will admit it, we got lost. We happened upon a small town that had a Hardware Store, and a One Pump Gas Station. Our tanks were not empty, but our heads were as to where we were at, and how to get back on path. With my atlas in hand, and a road in mind, I stepped into the service station. I showed the man where I thought we were, it was an educated guess, and where we wanted to be. "Oh no, you don't want to go that way. The road is curvy!" As he told me this, my brother stepped in. "I didn't come 500 miles away from Indiana to ride on a straight road," I answered. The guy seemed to get it. He sized the both of us up, as he ran through the map in his head. "OK," He said, "Here is how you get there. When I take this route in my truck, it take me about an hour and 15 minutes. You two on those bikes, if you are not there in 45 minutes, you are lost again."

It had seemed as though he got it. It is like when I am out, I ask the front desk at the hotel, where is a good pace to eat. I never specify the cuisine, as I want that left open. If the reply is a chain that is plentiful in the Midwest, I am quick to specify that I am looking for a non-chain, mom and pop kind of place. Then, I am usually directed to a quality eatery, my kind of eatery, that is.

With this knowledge we headed out, and for more than 45 minutes. In fact, it was about twice that. One of the roads he suggested was out for repair, and the detour bit us. We had a long straight stretch, heading north, with the mountains rising just to the right of us. Rocky hills that we need to get over to get to our destination.

Eventually we would arrive at the mouth of Skyline Drive. We had a quick bite to eat, refueled the steel horses, and then headed down the scenic parkway. We would make occasional stops at overlooks, but also kept careful watch on the clock. We were traversing the Smokie Mountains, and we could see the namesake flowing up the tree covered rises. The sun was still shining, and we meandered our way south. As I rounded a shallow curve, I saw a small deer, standing about 18 inches tall, in the ditch on the right side of the road. I slowed, and moved to the center of the road. As he looked up, he jumped to the edge of the road. I scanned the asphalt further down the road, there was no traffic. I moved the bike left, to the edge of the road in the oncoming lane, slowing as I did. I made my way passed the little creature. I was nearly lugging in first gear, and I slowly began to accelerate, as I remembered my sibling was behind me on his bike. As I moved back into a proper position on the road, I continued my slow increase in speed. My brother was still a regular safe distance behind me. I searched the limited range of my mirrors, but couldn't see the little deer anywhere. Figuring that he had darted back into the woods, I turned down the throttle, drew in the clutch, and shifted to second gear. The needle on the speedometer crept up slowly. I searched again for the wildlife. Revving my way through second gear, and decided I need to increase my search pattern. I looked down, and to my right, where the exhaust opens to the environment. To my amazement, that little dear was there, running its little heart out along beside me, its ears tuned to the pipes. I was now about to shift to third gear. My fear increasing that mom, or even worse, dad was around somewhere. I turned to the road in front of me, and made my gear change. When I turned around, the deer was gone, apparently disappearing into the woods.

After several more miles, the smoke was now rolling across the pavement. It would not be long before the smoke would not turn to fire, but to water. The rain started sow at first, and then increased. We had time to put on rain gear, but the heavy rain made it hard to see. As we would meander to the west, the rain would pick up, then turning back east, sunlight was on the road ahead. It seemed as we drove south, so moved the sun. We spent the rest of the ride on Skyline Drive in the rain.

After the parkway ended, we headed off on more curvy Virginia Roads to get to our destinations. The road was full of tight turns mixed with long sweepers. We never noticed how fast we dried out along the route. We arrived at the hotel, and I had discovered the leather gloves I had purchased were not of the highest quality. The dye had run, and my hands were now black. It would take a few days before they would return to normal.

So that leads me to another moment of me not getting it. A few years later, after I had run through several other types of gloves for riding, and either wearing them out, or loosing them, my brother and I were headed through New York City to another Gathering of Eagles. You guessed it, I had forgotten, or hoped all the dye that was going to run had run, and wore them on my into Philadelphia. Once again, I was the black handed man at the rally.

If you look up Farmville, Virginia on a map, and you will have to, just like we had to, you will see it is small town. So small, that about 80 bikes rumbling around was a major show. The first night we found ourselves taking over a local bar. Not being satisfied with just being Patrons, as it was only our group of about 100, and a birthday party for an 80 year old resident. Well she got quite a surprise when most of the group gathered as near her table as possible, and sang "Happy Birthday."

Other than that, we were asked the same round of questions at nearly every stop in town. "Where ya'all from?" In which our answer was Indiana. "Where ya'all headed? And we would answer honestly, "Here". After a brief pause, and a look of awe on the quizer's face, would be faced with the third and final inquisition. "Why?" The answer could vary, but usually was an explanation of the rally.

Up to this point, I had not traveled that much at all, let alone on a motorcycle, So it was decided before we ventured off that we would take at least one day and venture out on our own. It was Friday, and we were headed to the coast, and Virginia Beach. We weren't looking to even out our farmer's tans, just ride along the shoreline.

As we pulled into town, I saw a Visitor's Center. We pulled in, parked, and stepped into the very cool air conditioned bureau. There was a younger man behind the counter. I approached, and told him that we had only a little bit of time, needed to eat lunch, and wanted to know what we couldn't miss in town, if we could only see one thing. Not only did he point into the direction of an attraction, but gave us very good directions, editing them after he found out we were on motorcycles. His guidance ended with a parking location.

We followed the along the path, and upon making one turn in town, we were faced down by the past military might of the past. Parked in the harbor, was the USS Wisconsin Battleship. The large barrels pointing right down the headlight of the bike. Kudos to be passed out, the Battleship Tour, even the little cafe was great. It hit the spot for time, and for our needs. With that all done, we headed back to Farmville. Or so we thought.

We had to pass through Richmond, Virginia on our way back, and somehow, we lost the highway we were on as we snaked our way through town. After 40 minutes, we found ourselves back the same point we lost the road. I looked down the cross street, and spied a highway sign. As we rounded the corner, my brother saw the turn sign we had missed on our first lap, positioned about 30 feet up the pole! So out short day trip to the beach and back ended up being about 14 hour oddest. Like I said, the fewer the miles, the longer the day.

So now it was Saturday, and time to make the two day trek back home again to Indiana. We would begin with myself, my brother, and a couple sharing a bike from the Terre Haute Chapter. She seemed very enthusiastic about the mountain roads we were returning on. He wanted to take it slow, and enjoy the ride. That was until we really got into it. Handling a bike with the extra weight of a passenger can be a blessing and a curse. It is nice to have the company right there on the bike, but it can make a good handling bike become unwieldy. When we stopped for lunch, the other gentleman was in the later category. We had stopped in Seneca Rocks, a place I had visited before, and knew of a good place to eat. Yes, any place I have been, I know a good place to eat. He was scouting a place for a helicopter to land, one that could ferry himself, his female passenger, and his bike out of the mountain passes.

Post lunch was more curvy rocky roads. By the time we had reached the hotel for the night, he had way more than enough, and announced they would travel the super slab the rest of the way home. My brother and I would continue on the route full of less traveled roads. Being just the two of us, we could push the limits of our abilities and that over our bikes. We carved up corner after corner, slicing through the warm air of Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. One stop for gas and a bathroom resulted in a new idea and attitude for me. We were in the middle of nowhere Ohio. It was a late Sunday Morning. My brother had won the coin toss to get the men's room first. The ladies room was free, no one was around, and nature was ringing that bell pretty loudly. I went for it, and dove into the lady's room. It was not a whole lot different than the average men's bathroom at a gas station. Sans the condom machine, but with more toilet paper strewn on the floor. Feeling like a dog in new territory, I felt compelled to leave a sign that a man had been there. Not marking my turf like the average hound, I made sure the seat didn't get put back down after I finished my business.

I was pretty proud of this idea, and when I exited, there was no woman to be found waiting for the facility. My brother exited soon after, and we headed back out on the road. This would not be the last time I would use the other gender's bathroom. I did it in Williamsport, Indiana a few years later, at an Arni's Restaurant. However, when I emerged from this one, I was greeted by an older lady, waiting patiently. She had a stunned looked on her face, that was until she saw the line for the men's room, made up of all my fellow riders, including my father and brother. She was probably amused at the one time in history that the men's line was longer. When she left the area, a few men at the end of the line took my lead, and used the other rest room, too.

So I guess just when I think about that I am surrounded by people who just don't get it, I realize that just maybe, everyone else is surrounded by the same people, and that includes me! Hey, I think I get it, now!

With the Season Winding down

2008-11-12T22:32:00.002-05:00

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Well here it is, nearly mid-November, but the mercury seemed to be hanging on and wanting to stay high in the thermometer. It was an unseasonable day, and everyone seemed to be out enjoying it as if it were the last of the year.

Kasey and I went for a ride for lunch, but it is four months later, so I don't remember the route. Yeah, I got behind in the Blogging. I was spending too much time riding, I guess?

When we returned, Kasey's kids, Will and Rose were ready for rides. Will had more homework, so Rose was up first.

When I returned, Will hopped aboard, and we went riding. Spent a lot of time of the county roads in Hendricks County.

Halloween: A Scary Record

2008-10-31T22:29:00.002-04:00

October 30, 2008

Trick or Treat! Today is a day for a spooky ride, right? Maybe I should throw a hay bail or two on the bike? Well today would be landmark day, but for more than being a day when kids dress up as their true evil egos, and beg from door to door for candy. I like Halloween, just like have a strange take on it.

Kasey and I started out of Danville, Indiana heading south on SR 39. Cartersburg Road is another great we take out of town, and I haven't ventured down SR 39 in a while. We arrived at US 40, The National Road, and headed a little east, past Cartersburg Road, and turned south on Miles Road.

After jogging on a few County Roads, we arrived at SR 267 and headed south. This part of SR 267 winds it way south into Moorseville, Indiana. We turned left, heading east on SR 42 to cruiser further into town. We took South Indiana Street until we arrived at Grey Brother's Cafeteria. It is positioned just before the Indiana Street pours back onto SR 67.

Grey Brother's is known pretty well known for its food. In fact, you need divine intervention to get into the place on a Sunday after church. This was early fall, and the temps were unusually warm, but, since it was a Friday, the place was not as jammed pack as it can be. The parking lot was still quite full.

We parked the bike, and strolled across the to enter the building.

When food is this good, you take the time to savor it, and it was wonderful. We also had a great view of The Pearl sitting in her parking space. I think there was one or two other bikes in the lot, but it was mostly full of large, four door sedans, driven by the senor set.

We headed out into the Harvest Time Sun, making our way east on SR 144. At Mann Road, a great road that winds north back into Indianapolis, we turned north. At the south edge of this road, it is farm land, dotted by a few suburban houses. It gives away to parks and a golf course as it nears town. Shame, all this will be gone to build an unnecessary highway soon.

We turned east on Southport Road. We passed a few RV Parks that are on small lakes, and then to Bluff Road. We headed north on Bluff Road which offers a mix of neighborhoods, commercial and industrial buildings.

I guided The Pearl onto Pleasant Run Parkway and meandered our way through Indianapolis. We picked up Pleasant Run all the way to Arlington Avenue. I thought I might have back timed the ride to perfectly hit my house at my milestone.

As we approached Tenth and Arlington, the odometer flipped, one five followed by four zeros. When I rode this bike out of the dealer's garage for the first time, I knew I wanted it to be the first bike I record 100,000 miles. At this moment I was halfway there. Only once has a mechanic rode this bike, and it was only a few hundred feet. The bike had three tenths of a mile on it when I bought it, so I have certainly ridden all those miles myself. Besides, it was only the meter, and I knew it wasn't accurate, so I am probably closer to 60,000 miles.

We stopped in a parking lot, took a few pictures, and then headed off on Tenth Street and rode to my house.

The First Trip

2008-10-14T14:53:00.003-04:00

Friday, October 10, Saturday October 11, and Sunday October 12, 2008

Despite being October, the morning was warm for this time of year, and the day would get even warmer. Besides being a major first trip for Kasey on the bike with me, it was a trip that seemed like it was just not going to happen. With only a day or two to spare, the plans got firmed up, and here we were mounting up on The Pearl for Kasey's first overnight voyage.

We started out of Danville heading south on SR 39. To make some time in the morning, we hit the super slab known as I-70, and turned out some "blue collar" miles. We stopped in Terre Haute, Indiana, and took a break. We stayed on the Interstate until Greenup, Illinois, and then switched over to the parallel and original highway, US 40, also known as The National Road.

It was not to long on this more laid back, less traveled highway that we arrived in Effingham, Illinois. Our first stop here would be for lunch, at the apptly named Cruisers Cafe. It was a near fast food place, owned by a mom and pop, with great food and atmosphere, as we ate outside.

Once again, we did not travel all that far before I spied down a side road a Covered Bridge. We pulled down the lane, checked out the bridge, and the view from the windows.

Back on the road, we headed south US 45. This road was mostly straight, and got us to US 50, where we turned right, and headed west again. At SR 6, we turned south again, and meandered our way to SR 13. After passing through Zenith, we turned west again on SR 161. We rode another south to west exchange on SR 3 and then SR 15.

On the southern edge of Mount Vernon, Illinois, we took another fuel and rest break. We were now on SR 37, and we headed into Whittington. We turned west on SR 154 and crossed a beautiful and huge body of water called Rend Lake. Then it was south on SR 148.

You are not going to believe this, but along this road we pulled into the town of Chittyville. We were alerted to a sign for Chittyville Storage. The laughter had not subsided from that when we passed the Taco Trim. We have no idea what this business does, but our imaginations filled the helmets with laughter. So much that we missed our fuel stop.

If we weren't laughing enough, we turned at SR 25, and we were on our way to The Little Grassy Fish Hatchery. These places were all very funny to us, I hope have conveyed it enough that it was funny to you. If not, then you need to go there, when you see it, you will laugh.

We cruised on SR 25 to SR 24 to SR 23. All these roads meandered around, and lead us to SR 1 and into Giant City State Park. We got a little lost, and the glow of the Low Fuel Light was not helping my anxiousness. After riding through the park, we arrived in Anna, Illinois, and quickly found a gas station.

We rode through Jonesboro, Illinois, and down SR 9. Then south on SR 3, and into East Cape Girardeau. This would take us across the mighty Mississippi River. Now in Missouri, we hit another super slab, I 55, and head south until another back road arrived.

We took SR K through Scott City, and then south on SR N. This meandered south along the river. This road wound its way through farm fields and such, many of them being harvested. Then west on SR D for a bit to head back south again on SR 77. Sounds like stair stepped our way, and we did, but there were lot more than just ninety degree turns along the route.

We turned to head west for the last time on SR 62. Then we pulled into the town of Sikeston, Missouri. We could see the sign for Lambert's Cafe, Home of the Throwed Rolls as we rode into town. After checking into the hotel, that was our destination for dinner.

We woke on this Saturday Morning some 380 miles away from home. We were refreshed, got something for breakfast, packed up the bike, and began the day's ride. Once again we started on the Highway, I 57 to be exact, and headed back east. We veered off at US 60. We had a very brief moment back in Illinois, as we cross the Mississippi again, and then back over into Kentucky, crossing the Ohio River.

In Kentucky, the road kept the name US 60, and we made our way east through the state that hosts The Derby. We made our way into Paducah, and made our first stop for lunch. The ride so far this morning had been filled sun and perfect tempertures.

SR 60 would be the road of choice for after lunch as well. We made our way along the Ohio River. We rode through little Kentucky Town with the names of Burna and Salem. As we rode through the latter, Kasey reminded me that she had a ancestor that went through the Witch Trials in a town further east of here.

We took a refueling stop in Marion, Kentucky, then switched roads and headed north on SR 91. After a few miles of making our way through farm country, and seeing some crops being brought in, we came to a stop to await the Ferry Boat that would carry across the Ohio River into Illinois.

We weren't the only two wheelers on board, another couple pulled in behind us on the boat. The boat trip was a slow and tranquil ride across the river. It was a great chance to relax, and let someone else do the driving. We pulled off the ferry and headed through the town of Cave In Rock.

We would be on SR 1 heading north, and take that until SR 4, and then head west. We were riding into the Shawnee State Forest. After following some beautiful road deep in the valley of the park on SR 10, 17, and 15, we were heading north.

We found the road heading to the Garden of the God, and began our ascent. We pulled onto Garden of the Gods Drive, following a truck with a bunch of kids in the cab, and in the bed. When we arrived at the parking lot, we saw lots of motorcycles. In fact, I bet half the people here arrived by a bike.

After touring one of the most beautiful sites in the Midwest, we headed out north and into the town of Equality, Illinois. SR 13 going east would return us back to SR 1, and we head north.

Another gas stop would come in Ohama, Illinois. Then we were back heading north on SR 1. In the town of Carmi, we had to make a detour, around the town's parade. It was will marked with waving Police Officers, and we made our way through town, and caught some glimpses of the festival. Kasey probably got a better view than I did.

As the day was growing on, we pulled into Mount Carmel, Illinois. This would be where we would stay for the night, and the first stop was finding the hotel. We checked in, and wondered where there was to eat. We finally settled on a Bar-B-Que joint that sounded like a locally owned place. As we crossed the street, and pulled into to fuel up, the sun was setting behind us. It was not a long trip to the restaurant, but my mouth was watering for Bar-B-Que. But on what, Ribs? Chicken? I wasn't sure, and how was I going to decide? As luck would have it, I didn't have too, they had a Buffet!

My appetite was sated, and we headed back to the hotel. The sky was now dark as we parked The Pearl for the night and settled in.

The sun rose on Day Three, the final day of the trip. It was Sunday, and kind of a lazy morning. After the complementary breakfast served up by the Super 8 hotel, we made our way through Mount Carmel, heading north.

We started on SR 1, then used a River Road along the Wabash until we hit gravel. We turned around, and headed back to SR 1 through many farms. We didn't see anyone stirring for miles, just the wheat waving in the wind.

At US 50, we made our way east into my old college town of Vincennes. About a year ago I was back here for a interview to instruct the students in the area of what I learned here. We strolled around, touring the campus, and a few houses that I was looking at if I had got the job and moved here.

We then headed out of town. We were passed a time mark where I would usually take a break, but the timer was not going off in my iron butt. At the northern edge of Vincennes, we took SR 67, and began our way north and east back to Central Indiana.

After riding through a couple small towns, we arrived in Sanborn, Indiana, and Kasey announced that she needed a break. I am sure I was ready for one too. We pulled into a gas station, and relaxed for a bit.

Back aboard The Pearl, we continued on SR 67. SR 231 merges into this road, and leads us to Spencer, Indiana, our destination for lunch. We pulled into the parking lot, and I saw several motorcycles. This was not unusual, as it was nice day, and this is a biker friendly place. These bikes looked familiar. Sure enough, after some people poured out of the place, and I knew the faces. It was the Terre Haute Chapter of the Cruiser Club. After a brief chat and introductions of Kasey, we went to eat, and they hit the road.

Another delicious lunch, in fact, I think the only thing better than the food on this trip would be the weather! We lucked out on that no rain, just sunshine. The trip was coming to an end, we had passed the 700 mile mark. SR 67 lead us north of Spencer, but we stayed on SR 231 when it turned east.

We followed US 40 east to SR 75, and then north again. The rest of the trip was following county roads 300 South, 200 South and then 50 south into Danville.

Kasey's first big trip was over, and she came through with flying colors. We would talk about how we spent all this time together, over eight hours of the day against each other on the motorcycle. The music player never was turned on, we talked almost the whole trip! I was little sad that it was October, and not March or early April. I am going to have to wait until we can take another long trip, but I will be looking forward to it!

Dinner and a Block Party

2008-09-28T12:32:00.001-04:00

Saturday, September 27th, 2008

Well, I didn't figure the was a need for a map, as this is a pretty boring route. We rode from Kasey's house, through town, via US 36 to Washington Street. I strapped two lawn chairs to the back of the bike, and we headed back down Washington Street, into Irvington, and a parking spot infront of The Legend, a classic diner. We had dinner outside on the patio, and we could hear the band warming up for a street show down the road.

I knew the lead singer of the group performing, as she was an intern with Indianapolis Public Schools Television Department, and she had me for a mentor on several productions.

After eating, we grabbed the lawn chairs, and walked across the street, met my friend during a song break, and found a spot to sit and enjoy the show. There was somewhat of a party going on too, but all were invited.

When the show was over, we walked back to the bike, packed up the Lawn Chairs, and head back home. We took Ritter north to Pleasant Run jogs at Arlington, and then Tenth Street east and back home.

Having Lunch in a Friendly Place

2008-09-27T12:30:00.001-04:00

Friday, September 26th, 2008

Well in Indiana there is a chain of eateries called Arni's and is advertised as the place where friends meet. Most of the places feature pizza, and are dotted across Indiana in smaller towns. They are known by many, including me, as a comfortable place to eat with good service.

Of course, I was not meeting a friend there, that I knew of, I was taking her with me. So Kasey and I ventured out on this chilly September Morning heading north on SR 39, just west of Danville, Indiana. We veered off on State Road 236 and headed north and west into North Salem, Indiana.

We then headed due north on SR 75. At Thorntown, I turned to the left and headed west on SR 47. This road has some great sweepers that will let you ride hard, and then you hit one that tightens into more than a sweeper. When we first hit SR 47, and left the town of Thornton, I hit a speed burst that Kasey enjoyed.

SR 47 leads us right into Crawfordsville, Indiana, the town playing host to the Arni's we would be eating at. We pulled into town, then meandered around the city streets and arrived at the friendly place to eat.

The food and the service lived up to its reputation. With full bellies, we mounted back on the bike, and headed out of town. We found a windy, scenic road out of town, and into the country.

Out in the sticks, we arrived at a County Road, and headed south towards Shades State Park. The road just north of the park is nice and twisty, and very tree lined. One of my favorite little stretches. As we had done once before, we stopped in on the park, and toured the camp grounds to pick out sites for camping trips next summer.

We made our way back to Danville, along the way, we saw a truck with a trailer in tow, off into the ditch. The trailer was fully down the slope, and the truck looked like it could have been pulled in at any moment. We had to turn around because of the tow truck blocking the road.

We returned to North Salem, and followed SR 236 back to SR 39, and then to US 36. Thanks goodness we had a warm friendly place to eat, because the weather never got that warm.

The Big Introduction

2008-09-22T12:27:00.001-04:00

Sunday, September 21st, 2008

Well, it is the third Sunday of the month, and normally, I would be going on a Cruiser Club Ride, but, family matters called. My Sister-in-law, Virginia, was having a party to celebrate her birthday. But bigger for me, was the fact that Kasey was coming along to a family event, and meeting some of the relatives she had yet to meet. The major ones being my mother and father. Okay, so the major one was my mother.

We headed out into the mid Sunday Morning air along US 36 to street that took us north, and back way out of town. It winds it way around the northern Danville, and eventually turns into Tenth Street when it nears Marion County and Indianapolis.

We went this way east until SR 267. We took that north, which takes us through the town of Brownsburg, which for some reason favors the color purple? All the street signs backgrounds are purple anyway. At the north end of Brownsburg, we turned right, heading east once more, this time on 56th Street.

I picked this street because I knew it was the southern boarder of Eagle Creek State Park, and it crosses Eagle Creek Reservoir. I was hoping the tranquility of riding along park, and taking a bridge over water would help calm her nerves.

56th Street becomes Kessler Boulevard , which unlike 56th Street doesn't keep a straight line. It winds around and eventually pulls into Broad Ripple. Broad Ripple is a village area part of Indianapolis and is full of bars and little cafes that are ripe with 20-some things most nights.

Broad Ripple also signaled Kasey that we were getting close. I feared to come to a complete stop as I thought she might bail off the bike and head back home. Anytime that I thought I might have to come to a stop, I slowed so I wouldn't have to come to complete stop.

At Winthrop, we turned north. After a block, Winthrop turns into Westfield Boulevard. My parent's neighborhood is just off this street. This is the house I grew up in, as well. But, before we get there, we would make our way along White River, and the road would make a few curves to follow the stream.

We made it to my parents house, and the big meeting, the birthday party, everything went off without a hitch.

It was late by the time we got back to my parent's house, and we need to get to my house quick. I took the normal way that I do when I go home from Thursdays. We headed back south on Westfield Boulevard, then east on 96th Street. Then we would head south on Keystone Avenue, then on to 465. Shortly after hitting the super slab, Kasey made her feelings about riding on the highway. She didn't like it.

After rounding Indianapolis, we exited off of Washington Street, and arrived at my house. I needed to get a few things, then we headed off through town to get back to Kasey's. We took Washington Street west to Rockville Road. After passing under 465 on the west side, the road changed names to US 36. We rode all the way into Danville, and made our way to Kasey's House.

Breaking in the Rookie

2008-09-07T12:24:00.002-04:00

Saturday, September 6th, 2008

Here is it the first Saturday of the month, and of course that means we just had a meeting last Thursday. Oops, I mean that it is day for a Cruiser Club Ride! It was a crisp morning, but it was forecasted to be good day. It would also be a day of firsts, the first Cruiser Club ride that Kasey would join me.

I could feel as we were getting our gear on the warmth was rolling in. The sun was bursting over the trees. We started out on a familiar path, heading down Cartersburg Road to US-40. We turned south on the new Ronald Reagan Parkway, passing by the airport, and arriving south of the meeting place. I had not filled up with gas, and when we stopped at SR 67, the bike stalled. The light also seemed to last forever! Of course, Kasey reminding me that she wanted to leave 15 minutes early didn't make the light change any sooner.

So we showed right at the appointed time, instead of the time that I usually do, early. I know, it was my own fault. We pulled in, and Kasey got off the bike, and I fueled The Black Pearl. When I fired the bike and pulled around to park with the rest of the bikes, I was heckled about being be late. I made mention about Red Light, and apparently that sounded funny to them. Gee, you show up on time or a minute late, and you get all kinds of heck!

We started out by heading down SR 67. Jim "Easyrider" was at my wing, followed by Wade, Anna, and my brother and his wife bringing up the rear. The first stop was the Burger King in Spencer, Indiana. We had a little chat while taking a break to use the rest rooms. I had planned to stop at a gas station, but Spencer is a busy little burg, and the only fueling stop on the north side of the street was closed for remodeling.

SR 67 would take us further south and west until we had to veer off to make our way to Washington, Indiana. Indiana is one of those states that has a Amish Population, and they are spread across the state. Also spread across the state, are Amish Restaurants. Most of them are buffets, and have plentiful food and seating. We cruised through town, and pulled into the parking lot on the south side. I found three parking spaces in a row, and we pulled the bikes in and parked.

Once we dismounted and pulled the helmets off. Wade was joking with Kevin that we couldn't have a Cruiser Club ride without incident. As we walked into the eatery, they explained that at one corner, Anna got her rear tired rubbed by Wades. Neither went down, and I am not sure if Anna even knew it happened!

The place was packed, and so were our bellies when we waddled ourselves out of the buffet. We all got ready to get back on the bikes. We shared a quick kiss before donning the helmets, and headed out of their parking lot. It was a short trip, as we stopped just down the road to refill the bikes also.

We pulled out of the gas station, and began our journey back north. We were making our way north through some great and scenic country roads heading for Bloomington, Indiana. Kasey had noted that I was always checking to see if we all made it through lights and around corners. It was obvious when she started telling me when Kevin, bringing up the rear made it around. He was having trouble with his CB Radio. We rode through the home of Indiana University, and onto SR 45. This is a great little stretch with wooded lanes, and curves a plenty. It ends at SR 135 in Beanbloosom, Indiana. The corner also has a market, and a shade structure with a picnic table. A great place to take a break on a hot day.

It was an interesting break. First, I had realized with Kasey, Virginia (my brother's wife) and Anna on the ride we had almost as many women as we did men. It showed in the conversation, as Anna and Kasey seemed to hit it off, and talked quite a bit. And they had all our attention.

From there, we headed up further north on SR 135. Through Whiteland and into Greenwood. By this time, the rest of the group, with the exception of my brother riding with his wife, had all peeled off for home. I took Greenwood's Main Street east until we got out of town, and then jogged on a couple of road until we got to London Road. This twisty little road winds it way along Sugar Creek, and it gave me the chance to hang out a little on the bike, as I knew my brother, even riding two up, would be staying right with me. Kasey loved it too, and wanted to go back through one more time!

After this road jogs and changes names to a county number designation, we spill out on US 52. We take this north and west back into Indianapolis. Kevin and Virginia exited at 465, as they still had at least an hour long ride to get home. Kasey and I went north on Shadeland until Washington Street. I took the exit to head east, and then turned to head to home.

Morning Ride, Hot for September

2008-09-04T07:30:00.003-04:00

Wednesday, September 3rd, 2008

It was time for another lonely trip back home, with an empty back seat. It was a hot morning for September, hopefully there will plenty more, followed by sunny afternoons.

Even with this recent activity of riding with a passenger, I would still say that I have ridden 99.9 percent of the time without one, so it is hard to understand why I get such an alone feeling.

I would be distracted from my emotions when I passed a house with an older couple out in their front yard. They gave me a hardy wave as I passed. I continued meandering my way out to US-36, then headed east into Avon, and then into Indianapolis.

Rockville Road US-36 runs right into US-40, then leads me east all the way through the Circle City. This is also Washington Street, and leads me right to my house.

Motorcycle Picnic: Ride to Eat, Eat to Ride

2008-09-03T07:25:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2008

Okay, so the above map is incomplete, but I wanted to display the best part of the ride. The only part that is missing is the early morning part I rode to get from my house to Kasey's. I told you this would be a routine trip, and it might be until I find another way of getting there. For information, I rode west on Washington Street to Raceway Road or SR-267, then west again on US-36 into Danville, Indiana.

Kasey and I suited up, put a couple coolers in the bike's trunk, and then headed out. We made our way south out of town to one of our favorites way to escape Danville, Cartersburg Road. At US-40, The National Road, we jogged over to SR-39 and continued south.

A brief stint on the four lane divided SR-67 and we veered off on one of my favorite little stretches, Shelton Road. It gives you that out in the country feeling almost right away, and features what I have called Shelton's Switch, a vicious uphill right hander with a lovely little dip about two thirds of the way through. I have taken this corner at least 30 times, but it still commands my attention, and respect. In that honor, I have left a large amount of the right floorboard there, scraped into the pavement. This time would be no exception, and Kasey enjoyed it!

Shelton is just small portion of this path, which is probably my favorite route in Central Indiana. Shelton pours into Wilbur Road, which twists around until we veer off left to Upper Patton Woods Road. This road forks, one way into a dead end, the other to Berean Road.

Berean winds through lowering and raising. With the rainy season, ponds pop up, and by this time of year nearly evaporate The best part of Berean Road was behind us, so I turn off onto Little Hurricane Road. This is the horse and tree farm section of the route. I usually see more than a few horses in the pasture along this section of pavement. In fact this time, two very proud looking steeds were nibbling on grass right up against a fence. Not even flinching when we rode by on our steel horse.

Little Hurricane winds up at Big Hurricane, which we turn right onto, and follow. Big Hurricane starts with a path through cornfields, but gives away to nature. At one point you ride through a secluded section of road that feel like driving through a large cavern, made mostly of leaves. In the fall, with the colors, it is one of the most beautiful places in the world, I am sure of that!

We arrived back out into the open country, and then took a short break at Mount Olive Christian Church. We headed back out hitting Turkey Neck Road, then continued west to Cataract Falls State Park.

The creek that falls and flows through this park has a Covered Bridge over it. It is just a pedestrian bridge at this point. After taking a walk across the bridge, and hiking around the upper falls, we hope don the bike, and maneuvered through the park to lower falls. This area was obviously ravaged by the floods of the past year. There was nothing on the trees about 6 to 8 feet up. You could see the water line.

We parked the bike, unloaded the coolers, and walked over to the shelter at the lower falls. We began unpacking the picnic materials, I took care of the napkins and plates, Kasey took care of the food. And it was great food! She made some awesome sandwiches! She also made way too much, I think she is trying to kill my motorcycle's gas mileage by making me fat. I was told once that for every eight pounds you are overweight, you rob your bike of one horsepower. I think I might be heading back with a few less horsepower!

To help horsepower, we hiked around the lower falls, watching a couple of guys fishing. We also visited the Sister Falls, which had been flooded recently, but was nearly dry, with very little water flowing today.

We were ready to hit the saddle again, and we pulled out of the park, took the county road back to US-231. We rode that north, across SR-42 and I-70. We arrived in Greencastle, Indiana. We continued north to US-36.

Along this stretch back to Danville, Indiana, we had to stop and fix Kasey's microphone. I was trying to waste a little bit of time, as we were going to arrive back at her house before her kids got home. She really liked it when we pulled up on the bike and they could see that.

Well, thanks to the GPS and Bus Driver that is very predictable, we pulled up to the driveway at the same time the bus pulled up in front of the house. I paused in the street, and waited until her son and daughter got off the bus. Then I pulled into the driveway.

I have certainly carried food on the bike before, and this won't be the last time. Besides being cheaper than buying a meal on the road, I know have a great cook and riding partner, so I have lot of reasons to do this Picnic Ride again.

Heading Back Home, Alone

2008-09-01T07:22:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 31st, 2008

From time to time, I have reflected on riding styles. For most of my riding career, I have done two kinds of styles, Alone or In A Group. Now, I know there are lot more ways to ride a motorcycle, you could call Highway Touring a style, The Back Roads a style, and even a Racing Style. But you can do all those Alone or In A Group. The last two days I have been full time on a new style to me, riding with a partner on the back-seat. Sure, I have had others filling the back seat of the bike, but it wasn't like this. It was more than just having a second person along. I felt like I had a partner behind me.

So that all precedes this lonely ride back home. I was full of the happiness that this weekend had provided. Friday Morning everything started as just another date. Now, it is Sunday Afternoon, and the date is over as I head home. As the memories of this weekend are reviewed, they are replaced by the vision of looking forward to the next ride with Kasey.

I meandered through the streets of Danville, Indiana until arriving on US-36. I passed along the two lane road through the town, and arrived at the portion of Rockville Road where it is a four lane divided highway. This ends as it pulls into Avon, Indiana. With urban sprawl, it is hard to tell when Avon ends, and Indianapolis begins.

I arrived near 465, where the construction starts, and turned south on High School Road. I continued this way until US-40. A left turn to head east, and I was on Washington Street. I made way through the city, for the first time in a couple days with the music going. Wouldn't you know it? The battery went dead about half through town. Well, I had a lot to reflect on, and think about, so the music was just another distraction.

On the eastern edge on Indy, I was at my street, and I returned home. I remember arriving about a week ago, thinking I had been on the best date ever! And for me, it was the best date I had ever had, until this one. I was looking forward to it getting even better again!

This is Going to Become a Routine Ride

2008-08-31T07:20:00.000-04:00

Saturday, August 30th, 2008

August has just seems to have provided an endless number of days perfect for riding. This Saturday would not be an exception. It would also be a lazy kind of summer Saturday. The summer ends next weekend with Labor Day, so this is the calm before the big end of season storm.

Kasey and I climbed aboard The Pearl, and headed out for her house. I couldn't help but thing that this route would a routine ride with the regularity of the school board meetings, or other regular clients.

We headed west on Washington Street, making our way through the capital city of Indiana. Traffic was late, as it seemed that most people were staying, maybe using this weekend to get ready for parties?

We took Washington Street all the way through town, and arrived in the city of Plainfield, Indiana. At SR-267 or Raceway Road, we headed north, entering the town of Avon, Indiana. There we would turn west again on US-36 or Rockville Road.

Once again, the helmet chatter filled our ears, there was no music played. We drove out of Avon, and through an slightly empty space before we got to Danville, Indiana. We cruised through town, passed the park, up "The Hill", and into downtown. After passing the Mayberry Cafe, we meandered through some of the town streets to Kasey's House.

Sharing Covered Bridges and Good Eats

2008-08-30T15:50:00.000-04:00

Friday, August 29th, 2008

Well it has been a week since I last took Kasey for a ride. I had put quite a few miles on The Pearl, and August is shaping up to be a great month! I was really looking forward to today's ride. Kasey's voice saying, "This is so wonderful," was still ringing in my ears.

I remembered what a time I had with the construction on US-36 at 465 on the west side, and with a nicely cleaned up bike, limiting construction is a must. I headed west on Washington Street, and made my way through town, passing through warm Friday downtown traffic. Along the route, I passed The Zoo, and eventually arrived on the west side of town, passing under the beltway. I continued on Washington Street where it had also became US-40, or The National Road.

I stayed on the road until Raceway, then headed north. I would still have some miles on US-36, and it would be slow going through Avon, Indiana, but I would make out to the center on Hendricks County. I pulled into to fuel up before I arrived at Kasey's House. When the tank was full, I sent a warning text message that I was close.

It would be a short drive into Danville, and then to her house. She was up and ready to go. After a brief moment in the house, we were outside, getting suited up, and mounted on The Black Pearl.

We started out on Cartersburg Road once again, meandering our way south. A few county roads leading west took us through Coatsville and Fillmore. With all the jogs, we were heading south, and then took SR 240 west in Greencastle, Indiana. This is not the town with the tree growing out of the Court House, but rather the home of Depaw University, not the famous one either.

We would cruise through town on way to Greencastle road, even though we were taking it out of town, heading toward Covered Bridge Country. Once out of town, this road gets scenic, and then twisty. We cut through acres of farms and woods. After a nice section of turns, a small portion of the trees open up, and reveal the Conley Ford Covered Bridge. No longer in use, the bridge sits next to a concrete and steel structure that has replaced it.

After a little visit and study of the bridge, we hopped back on the bike, and headed to Mansfield, Indiana, home of he Mansfield Covered Bridge. This was a more than a century old structure that we could cross. One of the longest bridges in Parke County too. On the far side, we parked, and strolled around the bridge and town, including a visit to the grist mill.

We rode out of town, and onto SR-59. We headed south, and found a county road that would take us west, and into the town of Bridgeton, Indiana. I have been here several times, and a few times when a Covered Bridge was not in this town. Someone decided it had stood too long, and thought it needed to be burned down. In an inspirational way, the tiny town in the one of the poorest counties in Indiana, rebuilt the bridge. A shinny, new, and bright bridge stand proudly over the water. Like other Covered Bridges, it dwarfs the concrete bridge that gets use now.

Being a frequent visitor to the bridge, I have become friends with the mill owner, even knowing his family. We pulled into the parking, assured that he had not gotten tired yet today and close, as the hours, 10 am until tired are proudly displayed.

A chat went along with lunch, and I think Kasey could really see how much I enjoy a place where you can talk to the owner and the cook, and get more than just a meal. By the way, the meal was very good as always. If you make your way here, make sure you save room for Ice Cream, Sweet Potato Pie is my favorite.

Well there were more Covered Bridges for me to bore my riding date with, so after a review of the Bridgeton Covered Bridge, we took The Pearl north out of town. The next Covered Bridge was call Neet, and was off the side of the road in a park like setting. This bridge had not seen use in so long, you couldn't tell how the road used the it? We looked through the bridge, including taking a sit for a bit on a bench at the end of the bridge.

We were back on the county roads of Parke County once again. I hadn't turned on the music player, because, quite frankly, it would just be in the way of the conversation. We were talking a lot, and there was little dead air. Usually when a few could corners came up, but I could her Kasey moan with delight many times. She seemed to like when the floorboards scraped the pavement too.

Well, all the talking lead to me missing a turn, and after a reroute and U-turn, we were back on our route to yet another Covered Bridge. We rode past this one, and took a quick glimpse of it. I kind of felt like she was tired of seeing them.

The next little town was that of Rosedale, Indiana. I had been here for their Strawberry Festival, and it was a hoot! A great small town festival, done only the way that small towns can. One of those where the fire truck was is the major attraction.

Off the bike, and in-between rides, Kasey and I had had several conversations. Occasionally, one of those talks comes up along the road. We had both stated that we wanted to date others for a while. I had dated others, and while I had met some really nice women, I wasn't feeling the attraction that I was feeling for Kasey. Somewhere, along a county road outside of Rosedale, and before we arrived back at SR-59, she and I agreed to only see each other. The conversation ended like this.

"Are you asking me to be your girlfriend?" She asked. Seems like an odd label for a twenty-nine year old woman. (She is really not twenty-nine but I really, really like riding with her.)

"Yes, I guess I am." I replied. In all the world right now there was only she and I, the bike, and the asphalt in front of us.

"Well, are you going to ask or not?" Her voice rang in my helmet.

"Will you be my girlfriend?" I asked

"Yes," her answer was followed by her arms wrapping around me.

We joined SR-59 and headed north to get back onto Greencastle Road. Hey a good road deserves to be ridden twice. We arrived back in Greencastle, and followed the route back to her house.

After a brief rest at her house, we decided to embark on a little trip for dinner. It was a gorgeous night, and I knew the roof top on Shelbi Street Cafe would be the ideal place to go. We took US-36 into Avon, and then south on a County Road, making our way down to US-40. This would take us into town, and through downtown until we veered off on Virginia Avenue to head to Fountain Square.

I have never had a bad meal there, and this was no exception. Actually, the food could have been sub-par, but I had been on a great ride with a beautiful gal, and not the riding date was stretching into the evening. After dinner we had a brief discussion on where to go next. It was getting on the late side, and my house was the closest of the two.

We headed east on Prospect Street, then headed north on Emerson. This is a nice quiet, less traveled route to the east side. We arrived on Washington Street, and then headed further east to my house

Brithday Present Ride, Day 2

2008-08-25T11:31:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 24, 2008

You ever notice that you never realize how full a day is until you lay your head on the pillow? I may have been still swooning from the great day and ride on Friday, or it might have been two days in the August Sun, or even all the deep belly laughs, but I do know that I slept very well that Saturday Night.

I woke up Sunday, refreshed, and eager to hit the road again. First off was packing up, then taking the gear down and packing it on the bike. I am so glad that I have a good set of saddle bags, and a trunk. Makes things easy to stow away. I see some people spending countless minutes, riding time minutes mind you, strapping and re-strapping.

The first order of business was breakfast, my parent's in their car, and my brother and I on our bikes headed out in search of the morning meal. Gee, another thought, how long has it been since this family sat down to breakfast together? At this point, it was less than a birthday present, and more of a family vacation. For some reason, my brother and I were not fighting along the trip?

After breakfast, I would take the lead, as their was a Covered Bridge in the area that I wanted to see. After circling the park, we found an entrance, and cruised to the sheltered span. It was actually built in Connersville by the Kennedy Family of bridge builders, then dis-assembled, and moved to this location.

This was my stint of leading, so I was back to following as we rode out of town, and back into the farm fields of Indiana. One of the pleasant surprises, and a sign of the times was near Kentland, Indiana. Reaching high into the sky, catching the breeze as it flows over the flat land, was a wind farm. It looked like hundreds of large propped windmills dotted the landscape. It was Holland, projected a hundred years. Sure they were white, steel structures, devoid of imagination, but seeing he blades spin slowly just seemed to be such a sight.

After meandering around some more, and being disappointed that Naked City, a nudist colony, was not on the list of stops, we found ourselves at Fair Oaks Farms. This is one of the largest dairy farms in the world! In fact, they have some many head of cattle, they have new born every single day! The farm is set up as a tourist stop, and here we were. But dairy means ice cream, so it is a good stop in the afternoon for motorcyclists, and their parents in the car behind them.

After an icy treat, we headed back out once again. This time the parents were hitting the highway, and making their own way home. The two bikes would continue on state and county roads until Lafayette, Indiana. My brother and his wife would veer off, headed for home, and I would be back riding by myself again.

I had music from the MP3 Player to keep me company, but my mind could not stop from wondering. I was kind of going passed Danville. Maybe I could stop in on Kasey, and see her again, take her for a little ride? The debate would continue in my mind until I needed to stop for gas, near Lebanon, Indiana. After fueling up, I pulled out my phone, and there was a text message from her. I had to call her now, no more debate.

Well, as luck would have it, we would talk, but not meet, as she had homework from the college classes she was taking, and education has to be a priority for her, instead of joy rides on The Pearl. The rest of the ride was little joy for me, as I wanted to just get home,so I used the super slab through town. I-65 lead me to I-70, then 465 on the east side of town, and on to home.

I guess now, my birthday is finally over. I can say I have been there, done that to changing to forty years old. It took two weeks, but, hey, if riding is celebrating, I will be celebrating the rest of the season!

Birthday Present Ride

2008-08-24T11:41:00.000-04:00

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Well, I know it has been a little while since my birthday, but since I planned my own party, and ride, my present from my borther and sister would have to wait for a few weeks. Well this was the weekend! August has turned out to be a very good month when it comes to riding, and I know I will regret all the writing I have to do!

On this Saturday Morning, I started out alone, pulling down my driveway. I headed through town on city streets, and arrived on the northwest side, heading toward my brother and sister in law's house in Lafayette, Indiana. I was going to be earlier than the appointed time, but, geez, we are wasting riding time here people! Most of this part of the journey was on SR 52.

After reaching town, but before their home, I gassed up the Black Pearl. It was far from loaded down, as this was only a weekend get away.

After relaxing at their house, we pulled the bikes back out, and I followed along the route. I do a lot of leading, and I was happy that I have had a few times where I could follow. I must admit, those that have lead make the most appreciative followers.

We wound our way through northwest Indiana. Known more for acres upon acres of farmland, flat and plowable, I was surprised that Kevin was able to find some sweepers, and some scenic land. I love cruising through old towns. Their populations were frozen in time, but the buildings aged, and stores and people came and went. At some time, all these burgs were bustling little places. Even in the days with all the activity, still everyone knew everyone else. With the television, the internet, and other diversions, the fulfillment of knowing people has seemed to have been lost.

We pulled into one of these towns around lunch time. I can't remember what town it was, that is the beauty of following. Although, I will admit, when I am leading I don't always know what town I am in. This one had a magnificent brick town hall. It still stood proud, even though it was not the center of activity that it was in its past. We cruised the square. I think we might have been lost, but I will never tell. We returned to where we had been, crossed through an intersection, and pulled into a little diner called "Cruisers". When you see the perfect spot for lunch, you have to take it!

It was a good lunch, and we relaxed a bit, and then stepped back out into the warm August sun to finish the ride. We were heading to Crown Point, Indiana, a Hoosier suburb of Chicago. From this point, the small towns would become few, as the small towns that did exist had been swallowed up by the urban sprawl. There was still some corn and soybean fields to navigate passed first, though.

Soon the amber waves of grain, and the stalks of corn gave away to bricks and mortar. More and more buildings, less and less green space as we neared the hotel. We meandered our way into town, and around road construction, and arrived at the hotel. My mom and dad's car was already in the parking lot, and my brother and I pulled the bikes under the overhang at the front of the hotel to check in.

Unpacking and parking the bikes would be the rest of the day's activities when it came to the bike. The five of us would ride in mom and dad's Cadillac to dinner and then to the show we were seeing. The comedian Jim Gafagan was preforming, he had been on That 70's Show. His show was great, and I think he only uttered one foul word the whole show. Profanity doesn't bother me, but it goes to show you can get people like me, my parents, and the rest of the crowd rolling with out it. He did have to mention Bacon and Hot Pockets an awful lot.

It was kind of a strange experience to be at the show. I don't think I can ever recall my whole family at a show like this in my life? Sure we had gone to high school shows, when I was drug to them as a kid, but not as adults. The only thing it took me back to was when the movie Wild Hogs came out. The Cruiser Club went as a group, and since my brother and my dad are both members, my whole family was at that showing too. It must have been 20 years since my family had gone to a movie together!

The Casual Ride Home: The Long Stretch

2008-08-23T17:15:00.003-04:00

Sunday, August 17th, 2008

I won't vouch for how accurate the above map is, Julie did a good job of getting both of us lost on way back through Indiana. She was on her new bike, and had been a ride through the area, and did her best to remember how to get through.

Eventually, we made our way to Kendalville, and made a stop for lunch at the KFC. It had a buffet, so you could get what you wanted, and as much as you wanted. After lunch, she would head back to her house, and I would continue my journey to home. I had about 160 miles left to make it back to the Digital Castle.

I made my way along county roads, and through various towns. They each had their own character, and most of the had something that caught my eye. The weather was great, and I was really enjoying the ride. The towns offered stops, and I could stand up out of the seat, and stretch. Before long, I was almost home, I had 150 miles on the clock since my last stop.

I was able to hit some of my favorite roads close to home, like Fortville Pike. I pulled into a gas station, fueled up, had a little snack, then made the short journey home. I was on 21st street heading west, then Muesing Street south to Tenth Street, and the more west to home.

A Casual Ride to Work

2008-08-23T17:13:00.004-04:00

Saturday, August 16th, 2008

The good thing about working for yourself is you can pick jobs you want to do. Sometimes you like the work, sometimes you like the people, sometimes you like the location. This job had all three fro me. I was going to be Technical Directing, switching cameras, for a comedy video. I would be working with someone that I always enjoy working with, who also owns his own production truck. Besides being a competent engineer, he is just an all around great guy. Third, I would be able to travel to Northern Indiana for the job. I have not gotten a lot of jobs that I had to travel to, so I was looking forward to it. As the day approached, it also became obvious that I was going to be able to make the trip on two wheels.

Of course riding to the job meant that I would not take the direct route, and it also meant it would take a good part of the day, and I would have to get up early to make it time for crew call.

The first few legs of the trip would be super slabs, ok so US 31 is no that much of a super slab, but it is two lane divided. I took 465 around town on the Saturday Morning, and took the ramp to US 431 or Keystone Avenue. That joins US 31 on the north side of Carmel, Indiana. It would be several miles north on this road. I would be going through the town of Peru, Indiana, where my father grew up, and a few miles south of my mom's hometown. If I had a dollar for every time I had drive on US 31, I would be a rich man!

I veered off of US 31 to US Business 31 through Peru, Indiana, the Circus Capital of the World. Indiana was at one time, a haven for traveling circuses in the winter time. I rode through town, eventually joining on IN 24, then IN 115 and IN 15 to head north again.

I rode IN 15 north to IN 6, then headed a bit east, before going north once again. IN 5 would be the last road I would ride, and would take me north right into Shipshewana. If I had been to and through this town, it had been a while. It was a tourist trap. Complete with large eateries and theaters for live performances.
I cruised into downtown, carefully avoiding the masses of people. Most of them were my senior, and many were woman, obviously out shopping. I could see the production truck behind The Blue Gate, the theater hosting the comedians. I took the scenic route around the restaurant, then found a parking spot near the production vehicle.

It turned out to be an easy day of work, and around eleven, we had the truck packed up, and it was time to head home. Well they headed home, I had other arrangements. Not wanting to ride home at midnight to three in the morning, I was headed to a friend's house to crash for the night. Actually, it is the president of the Sturgis, Michigan Chapter of Cruiser Club, USA. Julie. I might have mentioned her before, and you might have read about her.

It was only about a 25 or 30 mile trip, but it was through Amish Country, dark, and there were few major roads to take. When traffic did approach from the other way, it was often and Amish Buggy, pulled by a horse.

I started out north on SR 5 again, to IN 120, which took me east. IN 9 would lead me north into Michigan, where the road changes to route 66. Not the famous one, this is Michigan 66. I was in Sturgis, Michigan, again not the famous Sturgis, either. It would be a few city streets, and I would be t her home. So before midnight, the horse was in the stable.

An Appreciative Riding Partner

2008-08-23T17:00:00.005-04:00

Friday, August 22, 2008

August is always a month that you never know what you will get. Trust me, my birthday has been in August well, ever since I was born. During my many celebrations, I have tried to have many different parties. When I had a party indoors, it was sunny and 85. When I had a pool party, it was cloudy and 68 degrees. Then, I will add the four years in a row that I went to Holiday World, the highest temperature of the four trips, 72 degrees! For this Leo, I just can't win. I blame my mom, it rains on her birthday every year, so it must be genetic!

Well, this Friday in late August was going to be a good day, I could feel it when I woke up. First off, I knew I was going for a ride. Secondly, I was meeting a new riding partner. This was not our first meeting. We had met for lunch about a week and a half ago. In my quest to play it cool, I ended up playing so cool, she didn't think I was interested. After 10 days or so of Instant Messaging I think I had convinced her otherwise, but I knew I had to show it.

I must admit that the morning ride across town was not relieving my nerves. It wasn't meeting her again, or even knowing that she would be spending a big part of the day on the back of The Pearl. When we had scheduled this second date, I felt compelled to bring flowers. Our first plan was to have us meet on the square in Danville, Indiana. She would leave her car, and we would go for a ride. I knew live flowers would perish in the August heat and sun that seems to come every other day in August but on my birthday. So I came with a plan to buy a plush flower, made of material, and stuffed with poly fiber. But the night before, the plan changed, I was now meeting her at her house. I could have brought real flowers, she could have taken them in the house. But I had to leave my house before any good flower show would be open, so it was the plush flowers or nothing. I debated what would make the bigger heal.

On the west side of town, I veered to the right onto Rockville Road. Traffic was light the direction I was going, out of town. After crossing 465, the road is better known as US 36. This state highway divides Avon, Indiana, and leads into Danville, Indiana. The GPS seemed as confused as I was, trying to make go the wrong way on one streets. The flower debate still playing in my head, as I played approaches in my head. Believe me, this debate had been ringing in my head since the change of plans last night. When I go on a motorcycle trip, I don't often sleep the eve of the first day. This was only a day trip, but I didn't sleep all that well last night.

I rolled The Pearl into the gravel driveway, maneuvering it with caution in the gravel. She, Kasey, came out of the house to greet me. It was one of those, I don't want you in my house just yet greetings. We hugged, and exchanged pleasantries. It was do or die time.

"Ok," I started. "Usually, on a date, a guy brings something that is alive. But since we had originally planned on you parking your car on the square, I knew something alive would not make it in your hot car all morning and afternoon." This introduction was met with an odd stare. Apparently my personality didn't come through on the first date, and from her look I was just digging a deeper hole! "So, close your eyes, and hold out your hand." From our previous discussions, I knew her favorite color was blue, so I took a flower out of the saddle bag that had blue pedals. I straightened the stem, another thing that would doom reel flowers, being stuffed into motorcycle luggage, and placed it in her hand. The flower looked to be a daisy, and in the middle was a smiley face. "Ok, open your eyes."

Her eyes opened, her face lit up, then came a chuckle. She looked away from the flower toward me, and invited me to another hug. "The color is all right, isn't it?"

"Yes," She answered.

"Well, since I know you have a daughter, and she might get jealous, I have one for her too." I turned to the saddle bag, and pulled out the other three color choices. I had to buy a dozen, so I had plenty. "I also brought one for your best friend's daughter, the one that picked me out on the website."

I was then allowed to step inside her house, as she wanted to place the flower for her daughter on her bed. Apparently, I have over come the creep factor, and I was ok. I didn't step in very far, just enough to see a montage of photos on the wall of family and friends.

We adjourned back out the bike, and I unlocked and opened the trunk to reveal the helmet I had for her to wear. I explained about the intercom system, and that she could talk to me in a normal voice, and didn't need to yell. She slid the helmet over her head, and tried to attach the strap. After I had suited up, and pulled out the extension communications cord, she had given up, and I put the strap through the double "D" rings, and secured it to her head.

Not only had Kasey ridden on a motorcycle before, but she had actually driven one once upon a time, but to be sure, I asked if she was ready to just hit it, or whether she wanted me to run around the block a couple of times. She was ready hit the road!

We headed south out of town, and eventually linked up with Cartersburg Road. I have been on this road numerous times before, and actually it was part of the route for my birthday. It has some great sweepers, and even a couple of turns that some might call twisties.

It also, like almost every Indiana Road, has it's places that are straight and flat. On one stretch, I decided to let my actions let her know that I liked her. I removed my hand from the left grip, and let drift behind me. I lightly glided it along the outside of her upper leg. I was expecting a scream in my ears, over modulating the intercom system. Maybe even a smack, or a brush off. What played in my ears was a about the fifth time I had heard this phrase from her, "This is Wonderful!" She said, her voice full of content. The previous times this was said was coming out a sweeper, or sharper turn. We were going straight, on road that divided cornfields. Maybe this time it was my hand grazing her jeans clad leg? I then felt her arms wrap around my mid section as she pulled herself closer to me. The moment would end with an impending corner, me slowing the bike, and the helmets knocking together.

After our stint on Cartersburg, we would shift our way to SR 39, and be south of US 40. The moving map on the GPS revealed yet another straight stretch of asphalt. I decided to go for another smoothing of the leg perched behind me. My hand left the grip, and with the winds help, drifted backward. I lowered my hand, not knowing that she had moved her hand, and it was resting on top of her leg. Like I was using the force, or some kind of ESP, my hand dropped, my fingertips hanging down, and landing the base, the place where your fingers web together. I felt her fingers spread, and my slide down in between hers. Her palm lifted slightly, and I was able to curl my fingers around her hand. Wow, we were holding hands for the first time. I don't know if it was that I was mounted on my mighty steed, or just how it seemed how expertly it all happened, but it was comfortable. The warmth would only last a minute longer. Another curve, and both hands needed on the handle bars.

SR 39 winded us around and further south, and to the west of Mooresville, Indiana. We had not yet made it to Martinsville, Indiana. At the intersection where SR 142 turns to Robb Hill Road, we turned left, to take the later route. Robb Hill is a great winding little road. I have ridden this rode just about every month of the year. I have seen the trees bare, green with leaves, then multicolored, with those same leaves now spread on the ground. I have even carved this path with snow littering the ground, just inches from the road.

I had a stop planned at the end of Robb Hill road. We had talked about the ride so far, and I got another two or more, "This is Wonderful" ringing in the headset. The gas station was closed, but I was just looking to give this riding partner a little break from the seat. I parked the bike in the shade, and we had a few sips from the water bottles I had packed on the bike. At least two people pulled up wanting to fuel up, but we had to give them the bad news that the place was not open for business.

She seemed perfectly comfortable, and even seemed like she didn't need the break, but welcomed it anyway. After a couple more sips of water, I helped her with the helmet strap, and we were back on the road. I can't recall all the conversations we had, but the music played would have been drown out by our conversation.

After heading north on the two lane divided highway, SR 67, we crossed the other lanes with a left turn, and headed up Observatory Road. I was hoping to pull into the entrance to she her that indeed there is a Observatory up there, but work was being done on the road. The road is very tree lined, and winds around north and west.

Another road, and we approached Lake Hart. On the map it looked to be a great curvy road around this small lake, and sure enough it was! I have no idea how many turns there were, but it was definitely curvy. I was paying so much attention to the road, I couldn't count the "This is Wonderfuls" that I was paid.

My new riding partner was certainly developing an understanding for why I like path that takes the longest, and is the curviest. In fact, I think she was developing as much of an appreciation for each twist and turn as I have.

We continued west, and eventually hooked back up on Cartersburg Road. Sure we were riding the same road as before, but this time in the opposite direction, so it feels like a different road. Honestly, there are some roads that I could ride up and down all day long. Some roads I love one way, and don't like the other.

We cruised back into Danville, Indiana proceeding to downtown, and then around the square, and into a parking space. It was lunch time, or a little after, and Mayberry Cafe was our destination for the mid day meal.

One thing about a hometown cooking type place like the Mayberry Cafe, you don't have to worry about the food, because anything you order is going to be good. It is also a sit down type place, and in the interest of being like the town it is named after, laid back, and your food comes to you in good time, but there is still a wait. Kasey continued about how wonderful it was to be riding. Mentioning the idea of going for a ride after lunch. I knew I needed to have her back by a certain time, as her kids would be getting off the bus. With each bite, my mind tried to come up with a route that would take just about an hour.

After finishing our meals, we found ourselves waiting at the corner for the light to change, stopping the traffic on Main Street, which is also US 36. I mentioned that we could ride out west on US 36 for 30 minutes, then turn around, and head back. That would get her home around 2 o'clock. There was a pause. One of the pauses that happens between when someone has an idea, and then they articulate. "You know what would be cool?" She asked. I looked over and down at her. "If when my kids get off the bus, they see there mom pull up on a motorcycle."
Now, I was in that moment of pause. "But, that would mean that I would meet your kids?" I returned. In our discussions, we had agreed that it is best to delay meeting the kids.

"Yes, I want you to meet my kids." It was evidence to me that things were moving within her as much as they were in me. The light changed and we crossed the street. There are key moments in a relationship, and we had held hands for the first time on this date. While chatting at the stop at the gas station, I knew the next big moment would be the first kiss. Call me sentimental, but I think that is something you should remember.

We crossed the side street on the west side of the courthouse. We approached the motorcycle, hand and hand. Before we mounted The Black Pearl, I turned, and we hugged. We slowly released, and her head tilted up, as mine tilted down. Her long brown hair framed her face without hiding it. I looked into her brown eyes, they seemed as big as the sun. Slowly, the rest of the world began to disappear. "You know I want to kiss you, don't you?" I asked. I had never done anything like that before.

"Uh huh," I am not sure she even knew that she had said anything.

"Do you want me to kiss you?"

"Uh huh," Whether I was sure or not she knew what she was saying, I went for it anyway. I have a few first kisses myself, but none like this one. It was not awkward, there was no head wiggles, no noses in the way, no bit lips, just one great kiss.

We embraced one more time, then released, grabbed the riding gear, and started suiting up. I threw my leg over the bike, and brought her off the kick stand. Kasey climbed aboard, slid into the seat behind me, and wrapped her arms around me. Nothing happened. "You ok?" She asked through the intercom.

"Yeah, I just need a minute to calm my nerves." After a few seconds, I turned the key, fired the motor, backed out the space, and made my way around the Town Square.

With an eye on the clock, we headed out west on US 36. It is mostly a straight route, but it was a very enjoyable after lunch ride. We made it across, and out to Raccoon Lake. Turned around in the entrance to the state park, and headed back to Danville, Indiana.

As we approached the driveway, we could tell that the kids were already home. As the bike rolled into the gravel, the front door flew open. First was her son. As he stood waiting for her to dismount, her daughter emerged from the home.

After the meetings, it was time for me to turn the motorized beast around, and had back east to my home. I returned on US 36, heading towards the capital city of Indiana. I ran into the construction traffic near 465, and veered south on High School Road to Washington Street to avoid the back up. I would take that east to my street and back home.

Traffic kept my mind occupied for the most part, but I couldn't help to think that I had just been on the best date of my life. Many might say it was all the bike, I think this new riding partner had a lot to do with it. As I pulled up the driveway, I couldn't wait for our next ride, as I know it will be Wonderful!

Another Board Meeting Ride

2008-08-20T17:11:00.000-04:00

Tuesday, August 19th, 2008

Just another quick trip for a routine job that I do. Look it up, you will see several entries about me riding to a board meeting to work.

It is a standard route, west on Washington Street, North on Delaware to the Indianapolis Public Schools Headquarters.

After the meeting, I return north on Delaware to I-70. I take the super slab east to another big slab of concrete, I-465, then south to Washington Street.

Trying Out a New Experience

2008-08-19T17:07:00.000-04:00

Monday, August 18, 2008

Okay, first off, the above map is incomplete. I was not leading, and I didn't save tracks for the route.

The part of the route that I do know, I started off heading east on Washington Street, then south on Franklin Road. After a few blocks of riding along 465, I arrived at US 52. I turned to take the road south and east, on my way to Brookville, another name for this road.

I was looking forward to taking SR 229 once again. It was mid afternoon, and after an hour of riding on mostly straight Brookville Road, I would be good a ready for some twisties. I hit the stretch of road, and it seemed like it passed way to quickly. Of course I was observing all the posted speed limits, wink, wink, but I was dying for some bends in the road.

When I arrived on the north side of Batesville, I stopped in to have some dinner under the Golden Arches. Not ever my first choice, sometimes the last resort, I really prefer mom and pop and I have yet to see Mrs. Ronald McDonald. The gal I was meeting had said they had something new and tasty on the menu. In addition to feeding myself, I was to pick up a sandwich for her.

I also had some time to waste before she arrived at home from work, so I ate slowly, and hung out until I was ready to cruise through town, and find her house.

We greeted each other, hopped on the bike, and headed for the same bar that we met for the first time, just over a week ago. Some of the group was already there, and other bikes arrived, surround The Pearl, parked once again across the street.

When the time came to take off, they were serious. The bikes were running and nearly moving before we even got on the bike! Being in a small town, it was a few corners and intersections, and we were out in the Southern Indiana Countryside. We followed many back roads and arrived in Greensburg, Indiana. You always know you are there is you can find the Court House, because a tree grows out of it's spire.

We were back into the country, and eventually arrived in some small town. I have no idea what town it was, but I followed the 6 or 7 bikes in front of me into the only bar in town. It was called Kizer Corner Bar. It was a nice little place. Short on variety, but heavy on personality.

After a few refreshments, I had Iced Tea, we were back on the bikes, and with the sun going down, we were motoring our way back to Benny's in Batesville. We started on SR 3, the first road I recognized, then a short jaunt on I-74, back to Greensburg, then SR 46 into Batesville.

I can't say this was a good ride, or a bad ride. I was really curious as to the experience that the gal had told me. She has said that ladies show up, looking to ride with the guys. However, many of the guys now had wives or girlfriends, so the back seat was off limits. I thought it might be a good idea for Indy to help hook up single guys with bike, and single women who want to ride. The actual route was nice, the leading was a little amiss. If I am going to be out in the sticks riding, and there are no string of curves, I want to cruise and soak up the scenery. They just ran it too fast.

It almost seems like sometimes I try to find a reason to ride, instead of the best reason of all, just to get out and RIDE!

Was This Crazy?

2008-08-11T22:07:00.000-04:00

Sunday, August 10, 2008

Well, here it is, the day after my birthday ride, and I have been 40 for three days. The house was empty, and all I had planned for the day was to make my way through the Sunday Paper and accompanying crossword. I wok up around 8 or so, and stepped out into the warm August air to get the paper. I was thinking, why am I staying inside, I should be out riding! I felt like I have been running the tires off the bike, but then again, that is why I bought it!

I had my breakfast, my paper, and I was ready to settle in for a relaxing, and inactive day. Once the morning meal was consumed, I pulled up my laptop, fired it up, and logged in. I checked my e-mail, and surfed around my forums and other sites. One site I had been on lately was one called Plenty of Fish. Yes it is a dating site. I am one of those people who just doesn't have any opportunities to meet new people. Plus, I could limit down a lot of what I was meeting by stipulating that I want someone to ride the motorcycle with me. It was funny, there was o middle ground, I had either women who were ready to ride, or women who would have nothing to do with it.

So I had a message from a single gal in Batesville, Indiana. She said she loves to ride, but never had a motorcycle, just been out riding with other guys she had met locally. I replied to the message. I then went back to my plan, and the Sunday Indianapolis Star.

Within about 15 minutes, I got alert that I had another message, from the women in Batesville. I checked it, and she mentioned that today was a great day to go for a ride. I replied that yesterday was a great day too, in fact I had ridden 250 miles yesterday.

Besides the e-mail component of the dating site, there is also an Instant Message gadget on the site. It was not long before she was sending these kind of messages. We chatted for a bit, then we were planning on meeting for lunch, today! And going for a ride. Before I knew it, I was in the shower, then in clothes, then on The Black Pearl, and then on Interstate 74, making my way to Batesville, Indiana.

The music was going, and the GPS was counting down the miles and minutes to the south eastern Indiana town. It hit me about halfway there, Is this crazy? I mean I only really met this gal about three hours ago, now I am on my way to met her and take her for a ride? How do I even know it is really a woman? For some reason, the argument in my head just pushed the motorcycle closer to the town.

I pulled into town, found the little bar that we were meeting at, and parked the bike across the street. I secured my gear, then I pulled out some magazines I had on the bike, and began reading. I was a little early, so I needed to waste some time. I was about to call, when I saw a car coming my way. When it got closer, it sped by, but I could see that a blond gal was in the car. I knew it was her. I thought maybe she was checking me out, didn't like what she saw, and was speeding her way back home. I decided to sit it out for a few minutes. I was about resigned to take off on my own ride, and make a good day out of it.

About a minute later she came around the corner of the bar, and said hi. We did the normal introductions, and stepped into the bar.

We spent about an hour chatting, and finally decided that the warm August air was calling way too loudly. We suited up, and boarded The Pearl, and headed out. We started heading east on SR 46. This was a fairly straight, and not very scenic start to the ride. I was not sure of her abilities as a passenger, so I took it easy at first.

SR 1 would take us north, and while it had a few more curves, it still was not a very scenic road. We approached Brookville, another little burg, German in heritage. The town has several bars, and parked in front of each was several motorcycles. Sitting in a bar, when you have a motorcycle? Hmmmmmm, may as well be home reading the paper?

We turned heading back west on SR 52. The road here features some good sweeping corners, and for the first time, I felt like I could get a feel for how well my new passenger could ride. We pulled off into the town of Metamora, and of course, I was there for some Ice Cream. After a brief tour of the town, and a cool treat, we headed back out for a short trip to a gas station.

The next leg of the tour would be the best. We would be heading down south on SR 229. This is a twisty hilly road like many in Southern Indiana. I was having a good time with these turns, as I have been through them a number of times. It ends in Batesville, and I made our way back to the bar we met at.

We sat in the bar for a few more minutes, enough time for me to get a burger and some fries down, and for us to talk a little more. She told me about a Monday Night Ride that the do from the bar every night. Someone is selected from a pool of riders to lead the group to another destination. Sounded like a cool idea.

It was growing late in the day, so I made my way back home, where that paper was waiting on me. I started on I-74, but had had enough of the super slab, and veered north on SR 3 and back to US 52. It does not have the curves that southern portion has, but, it was a quiet road, broken up with several small towns along the way. I would take it to Shadeland Avenue, then north to Washington Street. I was back home, safe and sound, still wondering if I was crazy for doing that or not?

Birthday Ride

2008-08-10T22:06:00.000-04:00

August 9th, 2008

Well here it is, two days after I passed the 40 mile stone. So to celebrate, we are going riding! I knew where I wanted my Birthday Lunch, so I made a ride out of making a big loop around Indianapolis. The weather looked fine, even though clouds would move in later. Several of us assembled at the Thornton's Gas Station on East Washington Street.

We began by heading East on Washington Street, and underneath 465 to Franklin Road. We made our way north on Franklin and the headed east again on 10th Street. We cruised along this route of town until we got to Cumberland, Indiana. A short juant north, and then back east on 21st Street. Once out of Marion County, the road cahnges to 100 North.

Before entering Greenfield, Indiana, we turned north on Fortville Road. This road winds it way north, and little west. The road is sceninc, and has a lake view with some nice lookig modest homes surrounding it. In Fortville, we jogged over to SR 13, and headed back north.

SR 32 would take us north and est to near Anderson, Indiana. We would begin back west on Strawtown Pike. This road winds and undulates through farm fields, and along White River. This is one of the best roads in this area, and always puts a smile on my face.

The road changes names a couple of times as it winds into Cicero, and settles on being 236th Street. It would be a straight ride from here, across the resevior, and then across US 31. A few more miles, and time for a gas stop. A trick I learned a few years ago was to plan a gas stop just before lunch. This gets everyone back on the bikes, and ready for chow. The Red Onion, which also has a bar attached called Rodney's Place, was the chosen location for lunch. The are known for their ample sandwiches, especially Tenderloins.

After a hearty meal, and lots of banter, we threw our legs over the bikes, and headed back down the road. Heading west on SR 47, we took it straight, letting the food settle, until we got over SR 52, where the road winds its way to and beyond Thorntown, Indiana. From there, it was on into Crawfordsville. After another stop for fuel and a break, we headed out once again. We were now heading south, and back east. We wound our way through a beautiful tree lined road passed Shades State Park. We continued past to SR 234, and then headed back east to Ladoga.

Then it was south on SR 75 to SR 236 through North Salem. The road was full of sweepers, and made a nice relaxing after meal ride. We would join SR 39, which would take us south into Danville, Indiana. We turned east on US 36, then passed through town to Cartersburg Road. This is a great little road that meanders south to US 40, the National Road.

We only followed this dual lane divided road for a little bit, then turned south on Miles Road. We were not even on this road more than 2 miles, and turned east on 600 East. A few more county roads that we changed around on, and we arrived in Mooresville on SR 267. We cruised the small burg, and got on SR 44 to head east south of Indianapolis, and bypassing the town.

We made our way into Franklin, Indiana, took another break for us, and refilled the tanks on the bikes. We continued east on SR 44 to 750 West, and began heading north. After a couple of County Roads, the numbers change to names, and the first one is Sand Creek Road.

We rolled into Boggstown, and the road changes names to London Road. This road starts with sweepers, then tightens to some great turns as it winds by Sugar Creek, and then into the town of the same name. We overpass Interstate 74, make our way on more county roads, and arrive on US 52, just west of New Palestene. This road would lead us north and west and headed toward Indianapolis. We turned north onto Franklin Road, and made our way to US 40 or Washington Street, getting close to home.

Waiting for us at my home was a Birthday Celebration. Yes, I planned my own Birthday Party. I wanted our group to arrive at five o'clock. At three minutes past that mark, we rolled up the driveway, parked the bikes, and was ready for other guest to arrive, and to celebrate my 40 years on the planet, 35 of them I have spent riding.

Breakfast a Computer Support

2008-07-28T06:57:00.001-04:00

Sunday July 27th, 2008

Sorry, no map for this one, as you will see, for part of the ride, I had no idea where I was. Ok, so the GPS told me where I was, but I didn't keep the tracks to recreate the map.

The Sunday Morning started with a trip to breakfast. This time, instead of heading downtown, I was heading north to a Golden Corral. To get there fast, so that I could maximize my sleep time, I headed up 465 to Shadeland Avenue, then up to just south of 86th Street, and into the buffet.

Wade wanted me to help him out with some issues he was having with his GPS Program, so I followed him west of town to his house. After some technical work, I was ready to head back home, on the opposite side of town. This journey would take me passed the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and today was Brickyard 400 Day. I would be lucky to get within earshot of the taxis going in circles.

Eventually, I would arrive back home, another day with a good mix of riding.

Another Tuesday, Another Board Meeting

2008-07-26T10:59:00.003-04:00

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008

Here is one of my routine rides, and I am sure that I have posted about here many times before. Yeah I know, if I were more tech saavy, wanted to work harder, or cared more, I would just put links to the ther posts. Hey, this one has a map!

Anyway, I headed west into downtown Indianapolis on Washington Street. At Delaware, I turned north. After a little over a mile, I arrived at the Indianapolis Public Schools Headquarters for tonight's meeting.

With the business to be voted on next week fully discussed, we packed up the production truck, and the crew headed its separate ways. I hopped on The Pearl, and off I went, north on the back alley, then short trip east on St Clair back to Delaware. I took that north about a half a mile, and to the ramp for the interstate. This is one of the few times you will see me on the super slab.

I quickly got up to speed on the ramp, crossed the two lanes I needed to stay on I-70, and then continued east until the beltway for Indy, 465.

I took 465 south until the next exit, Washington Street, then headed back west to home.

A New Rider: Intiated

2008-07-26T10:56:00.004-04:00

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

If you have ever ridden a motorcycle, or if you have read a lot of my blog, then you know one of the benefits of riding is freedom. Heck, just watch a few biker movies, and you will see that the motorcycle is Hollywood symbol of freedom. I think one of the reasons that it is so free is because there are so many ways to enjoy it. First off, think about the different kinds of bikes, from easy to operate scooters, laid back cruisers, futuristic sport bikes, and loungers on wheels touring bikes. Then there are different types of riding like off road, commuter, rural, back roads and highways. Then you can decide if you want to be the solo rebel that always rides alone, rides with a group of other motorcycles, or rides with a passenger on the back. Better yet, you can exercise any of these options whenever you want, and you don't have to stick to just one!

As you have probably read, I lead a lot of rides. There is some stress and responsibility that comes with being the head of a pack. Frankly, there are times that it feels more like work than it does fun hobby it is supposed to be. Well, I am lucky today, as someone else is taking the reigns, and I can relax and be part of the pack.

But before we packed up, I would have some leading duties. I was meeting a new rider, and future member of the Indianapolis Cruiser Club. He was very green, but I also knew our ride leader was also on the green side, especially when it came to leading, so it would be a leisurely ride. I met Mark at the end of my street, and we headed west on Washington Street, went north around the Zoo on River Road to 16th Street, then back west to a Shell Station at 16th and High School Road. We fueled up, and headed to the meeting point.

Five of us grouped together, as Anna, today's ride leader, was joined by her friend and fellow club member Al, as well as an additional friend of those two. After giving ample time for others to show, we embarked.

We started heading west on US 136, then south on Girl's School Road to Tenth Street. We headed further west to SR 267. Four of us turned south, but the friend of Al and Anna's veered north? Al told me over the CB Radio that he was having problems, and decided to bail out. The quartet continued south to US 36, then further west into Danville, Indiana.

After tackling the big hill in Danville, we turned at Wayne Street. Well most of us turned. Mark turned, but not enough to make the turn. The bike wheels curbed the sidewalk, and the bike went over. I pulled in behind, flashers already blaring. Honestly, it was like slow motion in front of me. I could see his helmet perched toward the sidewalk. He fixed on it, and drove right into it. There were scrapes on the fender and turn signal, as well as on his arm, but I think his ego and confidence took the bigger hits. After making sure he caught his breath, and was relaxed again, we headed further along the route.

We went south out of Danville, and meandered our way south and west to the town of Greencastle, Indiana. From there, it was south through US 40, and over I-70 to a little eatery that Anna had picked out. We checked Mark's arm one more time, and headed in for some grub, and some discussion and advice for the new rider.

After a tasty lunch, we rode further south, and into a wooded lane, and passed the entrance to Lieber State Park. We were going to head to Cataract from there, but the floods from the previous year has washed out the bridge, and it was still out for repair. We back tracked, to the Interstate. Mark had told me that he had not every gone at highways speeds, and I was not sure he was ready for that, but her followed the line onto the super slab, and up to speed. It was a short jaunt, anyway.

We took the ramp south on US 231, and made our way into Cataract Falls State Park. We took a break, ventured down to look at the upper falls, and then prepared to begin our way back home. We went back out to US 231, headed north to SR 42, and then begin the journey eastward. This stretch was fairly uneventful, with few curves, and hardly no undulations. Mark was still timid and inconsistent through corners, he just needs some more practice. With our club, he is sure to get that.

Once at SR 39, we followed it north, and Mark and I veered off at US 40 which would become Washington Street once inside the city limits. We crossed through the city, parted ways as each of us went to our homes. Once I got inside the comforts and shelter of my home, the skies let go, and rained poured. I thought Mark had the time to get to his house. An e-mail or two later in the next couple of days would prove me wrong. So in addition to getting initiated with his first accident, first group ride, and first pouring of sage advice, he also gained wet weather experience.

Continuing the Education

2008-07-26T10:54:00.004-04:00

Saturday, July 19th, 2008

You know how sometimes you wake up, you know it is going to be a good day, and other times when you know it is going to be bad day? Then there are the days you wake up and you think, this will be an interesting day. I had spent 14 years riding with the same person on the back of the bike, and of course there were a few people that hopped on in that time to see what it was like. Now I was riding with a new passenger, and I do mean new, I mean the week before she was afraid to get on the bike!

C.Jay and head off be going south on Franklin Road. I have learned that newbies are afraid of speed. Believe me, I get that! I recently learned to snow ski, and even though my skis were always crossed, plowing out the snow, I felt like I was about to take flight! So we stayed on back roads, and those with speed limits below 45 miles per hour.

We meander our way down Franklin Road, and eventually arrived in, surprise! Franklin, Indiana. Surprisingly, she was very comfortable, as I knew on the end of the previous ride she was actually enjoying herself. The intercom system really helps, you don't have to yell, you can actually converse in calm, nearly quiet manor. We made our way through the home of Franklin College, and staying on SR 44 through town and to SR 135. This little leg south of town has some nice curves, and a good introduction to the hills of southern Indiana that are to come and increase.
We turned south on SR 135, a two lane country highway that continues the curves, hills, and small towns. Eventually, you arrive at Nashville, Indiana. Like the other Nashville a few more hundred miles south, this berg is a destination. The town is full of little shops run by artists and wood workers. Every little Nick knack you could imagine can be purchased, or made for you here. The street and sidewalks are always full of walkers, usually with shopping bags in their hands. We cruised through town, witnessing several other bikes parked along the way, and pulled into the gas station at the end of town. C.Jay dismounted, needing a stretch and a bathroom break, and I filled the tank of The Pearl.

We only had a few more miles to get to our destination, a cook out with C.Jay's Family. She had not seen a lot of them in a while, and I had never met them, so this was one of things that you should be nervous about. However, the great ride down had me completely relaxed. After our brief rest, we boarded the bike, and headed east for the entrance to the park. I had also taken the chance to get the park admission fee in a more convenient location. After paying the Park Attendant, we slowly rolled through the park. It was not long before we found the shelter that her family had staked out.

We had some good cooked out food, burgers and hot dogs, and some good conversation, and decided it was time to head back north. The idea of using a motorcycle for transportation was a novelty to this family, so they all watched as we strolled back to the bike. There was a chorus of "Awwwwwww," when I helped her strap on her helmet. We decided since we had paid the admission, we may as well take a tour of the park. Slowly we cruised through probably the most beautiful park in Indiana, if not the country. In a few months, the tree would be like a fireworks show, full of color.

We took the other side of the loop to exit the park, and thus didn't go back past the family gathering. This lead us back to SR 46, which we took east until Salt Creek Road. This road would take us back north, but certainly not in a straight, or flat path. I had been on this road several times, and I am no way near tired of it. Having someone along for the ride that had never ridden it, always fuels a rebirth of appreciation for this stretch of asphalt.

We turned when the road teed at Gainesville, Indiana. This must be the only thing in town, as the boundaries seem infinitesimal. The sign marker the hamlet proudly proclaims that you enter and leave at the same time.

Another turn, and we were heading back north on Sweetwater Trail. This would wind us north to Beech Tree Lane. With these stretched of pavement being recently paved, the ride was smooth as it twisted, rose, and fell. Beech Tree was a new site, as a tornado had passed just feet from the road, leaving twisted lumber, and a wide clearing where tress proudly stood.

The next turn would be onto Ninavah Road, through the town of Ninavah, and then to SR 252. This road divides section of Camp Atterbury, and spills out to US 31. We headed back north on the divided highway, and back into the circle city. Once into town, we veered onto Pleasant Run Parkway, taking the longer route back home.

So I had waken up with no expectations today, I was taking someone on their first long motorcycle trip, and meeting some family members. There is certainly no chance that I could call this a bad day. I was riding, so it has to be at least a good day. When I woke, the things that I thought would be interesting, were not the things that ran through my head as we approached the house. That is thing about expectations, having none lets your mind be free, and I have noticed when I do that, I tend to contemplate the good things.

To a Board Meeting

2008-07-26T10:53:00.005-04:00

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Motorcycling 101: An Introduction

2008-07-16T21:34:00.004-04:00

Sunday, July 13th, 2008

Well after a meeting two days earlier, this new gal, C.Jay and I decided to meet again, with the intent of going for a ride on the motorcycle. We planned to meet at the library in Beech Grove, on this sunny Sunday around one in the afternoon.

I headed out west on Washinton Street, then meandered my way along Pleasant Run Parkway south and west to get near Beech Grove. I had to back track a little bit, but ended up at the library about 20 minutes early. I rode passed, satisfied that I near where I needed to go, and went to chekc out the park she had told me about. She had taken dogs here for walks, and it was a nice city park.

After my tour, I returned to the parking lot, empty, as the library was closed on Sundays.

Meeting CJ, Coaxing on the bike, Parking lot, then a ride.

Ride home

Meeting Someone New

2008-07-16T21:33:00.002-04:00

Friday, July 11th, 2008

Well, here is a rare Friday Ride. I had met someone through my MySpace Page,and after chating, we decided a meeting was in order. She was interested in going for a motorcycle ride, but even for me, that seemed like too much for a first encounter.

I headed off west on Washington Street, and cruised until Emerson Avenue. I traveled south, under 465 and out of Indianapolis and Marion County. After a few miles I arrived at St. Francis Hospital where she worked. She told me where she parks her car, and where I would most likely find a parking space for The Pearl. I parked the bike, slid off the helmet, and gave her a call.

After a friendly meeting of dancing with words and body language, I was on my way back home. I cotinued on Stop 11 East to Arlington Avenue. Then I headed up north, returning to Washington Street, and heading east to home.

Retreating to a Familiar Stop

2008-07-16T20:42:00.005-04:00

Sunday, July 6th, 2008

When you use the same place as your starting point for rides, you find yourself on the same roads lots of times. You see roads that you want to check out by taking a stroll down, and see vistas you want to tour around to check out, and of course, you see places that you want to eat, but it is the wrong time, or you had planned to eat somewhere else. Today, I am going to at least correct one of these instances.

I have traveled down 421 all the way down to the Ohio River, and whether I am going there, or someplace else south in the Hoosier State. Most often the trip includes the town of Napoleon, Indiana. There is not much there but a gas station, which I have stopped at a lot of times, and a little eatery, Bonapart's Retreat. This would be the correct. I passed this Waterloo, or should I be proper, and say Watering Hole, several times, and wanted to eat there.

So I headed down SR 52 to SR 9, then into Shelbyville, Indiana. I got on 421, and headed down to Greensburg. It is known for the tree that grows out of it's court house. I stopped for a water break.

I headed on down, having to take some backroads around the construction for the new car plant, but eventually got back on track, and cruised into Napoleon. The retreat was waiting for me, as no one else was in the establishment.

After a good lunch, I headed out east, I needed desert next. Then I headed up north, through Batesville, and onto SR 229. The music was rocking, the back felt smooth and powerful, it was a great day for riding. Every once in a while the views were spectacular too!

It was at this point my mind wondered, thinking about how when things are good in life, we really don't appreciate them. If we spent half the time we do complaining, talking about how good things are, I think life would be better. With the comfort of this thought in my head, my mind drifted back to the song ringing in my ears.

My next stop would be in Metamora, for Ice Cream. If you have read any past entries, I am sure you have tripped across one of my Ice Cream Trips here. After a cool treat, a visit to the Covered Aquaduct, and little attention to the canal boat pulling horses, I was back on my way!

More back roads after a stint on SR 129, and I was heading back west. I ran through Carthedge, and Knightstown, having to wait for the train to pass. It was hot, and the stop for some water was much needed.

Eventually, I jogged west and north, and arrived on US 40, the National Road. This would lead back home, my belly full, my mind calm, my vision satisfied with another beautiful day and ride.

Independence Day 2

2008-07-16T20:18:00.002-04:00

Saturday, July 5th, 2008

Well, this was moving day for Nina, at least the begin of her move into her new home. Since they didn't need my truck, I was able to ride over the few miles, and help unload the items I helped pack.

It was just a short trip down Washington Street, then north on Arlington, and back east on Lowell.

I returned along Pleasant Run back to Arlington, north to Tenth Street, and then east back home.

Independence Day 1

2008-07-16T20:04:00.002-04:00

Friday, July 4th, 2008

Well, it is the day that we here in United States celebrate our fore fathers taking up arms, and creating a new nation. We can be free from a lot of things, but this morning, rain would not be one of them. But it stopped, and dried out in time for me to ride up to party number one. Of course, if it had kept raining, there would be nothing to read!

Around 2:30 in the afternoon, I took off and head out for the first party. I rode out to Washington Street, then headed north on Shadeland Avenue until Fall Creek Parkway. I swept my way around the Parkway until 86th Street, then headed back west to Mud Creek. After a short stint north, I entered the neighborhood of party number one.

After a couple of hours, I was ready to head out for party number two. I didn't want to waste time, so I found the quickest way to 465, and headed south. I took that to I-65, I am sure the bike thought we were going to Columbus. I turned at Main Street in Greenwood, and headed back east the Valle Vista Golf Club. Surround the course were the homes of Valle Vista, and where party number two was held.

Before I reveal my travel home, I thought I should mention that this is a bit of an Independence Weekend for myself. This is about the first time that I went out to something that I normally would have been with Nina. I did run into some people that knew us, but had no way of contacting them, so they heard the news for the first time. So being able to go to both parties, come and go as I please, and stay as late as I wanted, was a very freeing experience for me.

Now that trip home, sorry, it was not worth waiting for. I just headed back to I-65, then 465, and then Shadeland back to Washington Street.

Riding to Work: The United Way

2008-07-16T19:54:00.002-04:00

Wednesday, July 2nd, 2008

Well the weather and other items sure had a put a damper on my riding. And by damper, I mean not being able to ride everyday.

This is another trip back down to Columbus to the Cummins Television Network Studios. Not for a studio taping, though, but for field shooting. The first time they hired me for that, should be a lot of phone, and I am working with a lead videographer that I have a lot of respect.

So I took the usual route, west on Washington to the Shadeland exit, south to 465, and then I-65 South. I took the exit to US 31 South near Edinburg, and headed into the out skirts of the north edge of Columbus.

I took the exit to Indianapolis Road, and after the short stretch that was blocked last time, I pulled into the drive, and arrived at the studios.

I expected it to be a long day, and figured I would return on the interstate, just to get home quick. Well, we got done quickly, and I was able to take my time.

I started out up heading north on US 31. After several miles, I veered off into Franklin, Indiana. I meandered my way through the home of Franklin College, and exited out the north edge of town. After some stints on county roads, I cruised Franklin Road to Washington Street, and back home.

Back to a Charity Ride

2008-06-29T21:49:00.002-04:00

Sunday, June 29th, 2008

Well, I don't think I have done a Charity Ride since I started this blog? I am over 200 posts, so I can't remember them all. I think these rides are a great way to get people out and to raise money, but they are usually not for me. Lots of bikes, with lots of inexperienced riders, riding in mass, usually to a bar, where many have a few beers before hopping back on the bike. I do not ever drink and ride.

But yesterday, I got a text message from Shelly, friend and fellow VTX Rider. She was riding in a Charity Ride, and that end, her son's band, River County, was performing. I figured what the heck. I had been using the bike for more utility than anything else, and it would be nice to have a ride where I was just part of the pack.

So, Sunday Morning, I started out, heading to Shelly's house. I headed west on Washington, then south on Arlington to Thompson Road. The GPS took me right to her house.

After waiting for Shelly to get ready, get on her bike, then get ready again, then back on the bike a few times, we took off, with my eyes already tired from all the rolling.

We were heading to meet her mom at SR 37 and SR 144, near Martinsville, Indiana. We meandered our they. I was following, so I am not sure how we got there. Shelly filled her tank, and her mom arrived while we were waiting.

Shelly, came out of the gas station, and asked me if I knew where we going, and where the Eagles Club was. I had no idea, so after she made a phone call, we took off heading west on SR 144, knowing we were going to have to take a detour for a bridge washed away in the flooding.

After a brief stint on SR 67, we turned, and arrived at the Eagles in short order.

We registered, and waited for the ride to take off. I found out that River County was not playing until 7pm, and I doubted I would stick around that long. With no meeting before, or a very small one, we took off, about 50 bikes strong.

We headed down SR 67, with road guards, and turned on to Robb Hill Road. After that tree lined, curvy road, the slowest I have ever ridden the road by the way, we continued on to SR 144. After quite a bit, we veered off to come County Roads.

After cruising through farmland, we arrived a Lewiston, Indiana. We continued on to more County Roads, before arriving on SR 42, and headed west. We turned north on SR 231, and after pulling into town, we stopped, at guess what? A Bar. We stayed for a quite a bit, and several beers were downed. Oh yeah, it was also enough time for a guy to top off the oil in his Harley. Sorry, had to mention it, was one of those Mastercard Priceless moments.

Finally, we mounted up, to head back. Shelly's friend and roommate, Andy, was also along with us, and he got a new riding partner, because the gal was uncomfortable on her husband's ride. I saw them talking quite a bit while they rode.

We continued on SR 231 north under I-70, and then eastbound on US 40. We veered off on a couple county roads, part of the way on SR 39, and then eventually arrived back in Moresville, and the Eagles Club.

We waited for lunch, or dinner, or what ever it was supposed to be, then hung around for a while. I was getting antsy, and decided to head for home.

I headed north on SR 67, I had some company, in the form of sport bikers that were on the ride. They took the ramp to 465, I headed more north to Raymond Street.

I headed east on Raymond, and then took Shelby Street north to Pleasant Run Parkway. I followed the Parkway through town, and eventually arrived at Washington Street. I was getting on in miles on this tank of gas, so I pulled into the gas station, and filled up before I rode home, and parked The Black Pearl for the evening.

So it had been a while since I had down a Charity Ride, and I came out of it unscathed, but they are still just not for me. Just take my donation, I will find my own roads.

Riding to the PUD and Back

2008-06-23T11:43:00.002-04:00

Saturday, June 21st, 2008

Summer is family reunion, time and with that, I find myself heading around Indianapolis on my way to the Parental Unit Dwelling (PUD). I took the ramp at Keystone Avenue, no longer 431, as the state gave the road to the city of Carmel, Indiana.

The mayor took over the road to add round abouts, and I was on auto pilot and missed my first turn. After a detour up to 116th Street, I headed west to Westfield Boulevard, and then back south. I arrived at my parent's street, and pulled up the driveway, and into the garage.

My dad's Caddy had issues, so we turned around, and then got mom's Subaru.

As we returned, we could see clouds growing out west. It looked like it was hanging right over the road that my brother and niece would have to ride to get home. I had the time to make it, so after a piece of pie, I headed for home.

I returned the route I came, with taking 465 around town to Washington Street.