[image: Image may contain: house, motorcycle and outdoor, possible text that says 'VFRD Memorial Spring Ride May 14-17, 2020 Franklin NC']
2020 VFRD Memorial Spring Ride May 14-17 Franklin NC
UPDATE 3/26/20:
Sorry folks its canceled due to road closures and quarantine. Updates will be posted if and when things change. Refunds are being sent out to those who registered.
But wait! I almost forgot....FREE BEER!
I just posted this because Bob is not actually on VFRD. He has posted this on FB as many of you will have seen. The rest of you...well I'll do what I can to help.
If you don't have PayPal, I'll let me know and I'll see how Bob wants to handle it.
This is a long way out, and I have a conflict that weekend, but the conflict is motorcycle related about 2 hours away in NC (First Gen V4 group). So, if I'm not shipping out during this time I'll try to swing by for at least a beer, probably Thursday the 14th. That makes it a definite maybe :).
If you come that far, your beers on me.[image: emoji106.png]
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Hmmm, if memory serves me right, at last years Fall ride you had excellent taste in beer.
Its on the calendar, lets see how long it takes my wife to notice. 🙂
I’ve missed these get togethers. I’ll be there this year.
Signed up.
I'm in! Like there was ever a doubt.
7 hours ago, SweeperI'm in! Like there was ever a doubt.
Me too! Can't friggin' wait. Winter has been too long already. PreRide route planning is in high gear.
- prelim route is extensive. Feel like doing 5 days this year? With designated photo and bbq stops (Ridgewood stop, of course).
Booked the room today. Will sign up soon. Sooooo ready to ride.
FIVE DAYS! Lets do it. No such thing as too much as far as I'm concerned. I sat out Saturday last year due to the weather and didn't regret it one bit after a week of riding.
Yeah,
Fly into Charlotte NC, ride to Little Switserland, onto to Franklin, Georgia, Alabama, visit Skuuter in TN, do the Tail of the Dragon a couple of times, get to Franklin, meet the TMAC contingent, do TMAC, ride to Charlotte, fly home............ :tour:
Gradus For President!!!
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:fing02: :tongue:
Isn’t it about time to do it again?
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I'd love to make it to this event. Historically this is just about the best event on the VFRD calendar. However, now that I've got a dog to care for, I'll need to recruit a dog sitter. She is quite the handful so that is not assured. Ergo, I'm a strong maybe.
" I'll need to recruit a dog sitter. She is quite the handful "
If the dogsitter is indeed a handful (but good looking) do post a picture. Am sure someone will volunteer to keep her occupied... :goofy:
22 hours ago, MaxSwellI'd love to make it to this event. Historically this is just about the best event on the VFRD calendar. However, now that I've got a dog to care for, I'll need to recruit a dog sitter. She is quite the handful so that is not assured. Ergo, I'm a strong maybe.
Hope you are able to make it.
If I get my butt n gear I will be there . Just have to reassemble the bike .
22 hours ago, gmtech94If I get my butt n gear I will be there . Just have to reassemble the bike .
Good point, I need to check my valves again. Last checked 16K ago, Everything in spec, but trending towards adjustment. Bikes got 83K now, so it may be time. Owned a second, third and 4th Gen and never have to remove the cams, a testament to Hondas engineering more than my maintenance skills I think. If I do have to go in, it will be my first time doing a Bucket and Shim bike as all my first Gens are screw and tappet. Read up on it about 18 months ago before I checked my clearances, guess its time for a review.
I'm in. Sent money to Bob and made reservation at Microtel.
MisterBill
Dutchy, 1/21/2020 at 1:54 AM" I'll need to recruit a dog sitter. She is quite the handful "
If the dogsitter is indeed a handful (but good looking) do post a picture. Am sure someone will volunteer to keep her occupied... :goofy:
Read my mind. Get the dog sitter and stay home with her. Might be more fun......
The ride is on a bad weekend for me, again.
WOOOOFF!!!
Dutchy, 1/26/2020 at 11:33 AMWOOOOFF!!!
Mojo is more of a howler.
Much to the delight of my neighbors. :pinocchio:
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OK, I've booked a room for Thursday the 14th, as noted I have another Motorcycle related event that weekend about 160 miles away. I'm really only doing this to make Sweeper forever regret offering me free beer :+). My door to the hotel is 1161miles, I don't own a truck or trailer, so It will be a long day on Wen, then a short hop Thursday, hopefully there early afternoon.
Of course 12 hours after booking I get a message can I join a ship in Italy. I cannot tell you how many MC trips I've had to cancel because of work. Turns out though the timing is fine and should not be an issue, which is good as riding my bikes doesn't pay particularly well.
Look forward to meeting a few new faces and of course the great group from last Fall.
8 hours ago, FromMaineOK, I've booked a room for Thursday the 14th, as noted I have another Motorcycle related event that weekend about 160 miles away. I'm really only doing this to make Sweeper forever regret offering me free beer :+). My door to the hotel is 1161miles, I don't own a truck or trailer, so It will be a long day on Wen, then a short hop Thursday, hopefully there early afternoon.
Of course 12 hours after booking I get a message can I join a ship in Italy. I cannot tell you how many MC trips I've had to cancel because of work. Turns out though the timing is fine and should not be an issue, which is good as riding my bikes doesn't pay particularly well.
Look forward to meeting a few new faces and of course the great group from last Fall.
Good lord! That's a lot of VFR riding. I don't think I'd want to look at it again for a while after a ride like that!
FromMaine OK, I've booked a room for Thursday the 14th, as noted I have another Motorcycle related event that weekend about 160 miles away. I'm really only doing this to make Sweeper forever regret offering me free beer :+). My door to the hotel is 1161miles, I don't own a truck or trailer, so It will be a long day on Wen, then a short hop Thursday, hopefully there early afternoon.
Of course 12 hours after booking I get a message can I join a ship in Italy. I cannot tell you how many MC trips I've had to cancel because of work. Turns out though the timing is fine and should not be an issue, which is good as riding my bikes doesn't pay particularly well.
Look forward to meeting a few new faces and of course the great group from last Fall.
I have a couple good friends who just moved to NC. Going to twist this around in my head a bit and see if I can come up with a plan that works. Fly out and back and rent, borrow or ship a bike is my best case scenario.
2 hours ago, VFR Capt.BobI have a couple good friends who just moved to NC. Going to twist this around in my head a bit and see if I can come up with a plan that works. Fly out and back and rent, borrow or ship a bike is my best case scenario.
You will have a great time! There is a place near there that has an 8th gen for rent. Sorry, I don't remember the name at the moment. Of course, you can attend on any bike. I'd offer my loaner but its already spoken for.
For all of you on the fence about this event.... Yes Rob is really kind of a big deal. Can't promise clear skies all week but that never stops the fun. Sign up. Show up.[image: IMG_5279.thumb.jpg.141e48f1e7dfcf8673ea3e70fefca1d7.jpg]
BUMP for attention.
Rumor has it that he leaves Skittles on the really exciting corners.
Hey everyone, I am signed up and could use a roommate. The room has two Queen beds. Let me know and we can split the cost. Call or text me.
Bill Mersch, aka MisterBill, 859-466-2174, May 14-17 at Microtel
With the current virus situation and my compromised respiratory system I'm going to be a no-show this year. Much to my own regret. Only the dog is happy about this.
I wish you all good weather, great,safe riding and fabulous partying. I'm hoping you'll post up a lot of pics on VFRD; I'll be there in spirit.
Terry Dactyl
I promise no one will touch you and the alcohol should take care most of the problems.[image: emoji12.png]
Sorry you won’t make it Terry.
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1 hour ago, SweeperI promise no one will touch you and the alcohol should take care most of the problems.[image: emoji12.png]
Sorry you won’t make it Terry.
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Thanks pal. I appreciate everyones understanding. I'm going to miss y'all. :sad:
If any of you are worried, the event is still on. The only thing that would stop us is if the state or federal government shut us all down. If there is any change, it will be posted here on VFRD. The only thing keeping me away will be the law. LETS RIDE!
Coming from IL.
I’m going to look at an AirBnB, to try and get around any potential hospitality shutdowns. In fact, we could rent a house a whole lot cheaper than everyone staying at a motel and have privacy, be able to sit around, cookout, hangout, etc.
Several examples:
14 hours ago, ducnutI’m going to look at an AirBnB, to try and get around any potential hospitality shutdowns. In fact, we could rent a house a whole lot cheaper than everyone staying at a motel and have privacy, be able to sit around, cookout, hangout, etc.
Several examples:
That very thing has been discussed. We are still too many for any house we can rent but its sadly heading that direction. The evening social gathering is a large part of the event. I prefer to stay on site so that I don't miss any of the fun. If the event is forced to cancel, some of us will still be in the area to ride I'm sure.
PayPal showed 10 people, I think. There are some BIG houses available. We can continue to monitor until we get closer, then, revisit this. But, the 3rd place I linked has 7 beds and is $59/night.
Just a few bigger places I quickly found, if anyone wants to consider it. I’ll be making a reservation, no later than first week of April.
17 beds at $296/night.
https://abnb.me/6ZWGaSKoZ4
10 beds at $289/night.
https://abnb.me/1l2IK2WoZ4
12 beds at $450/night. Amazing place!
https://abnb.me/W1c91K6oZ4
14 beds at $900/night. Private resort!
With all the bars closed, there won't be any Harley's on the road :)
That’d be nice, as I find that whole crowd a nuisance.
8 hours ago, ducnutThat’d be nice, as I find that whole crowd a nuisance.
You're very kind about that description......
Hopefully things will be starting to improve by May! Thinking most of this year will be a challenge for most folks.
Stay safe and rubber down!
I think the pis is the 2013 Texas Mac, same year i turned 100k miles on the VFR.
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Edited March 21 by BaileyrockI do hope to be able to hook up with Miguel in the area by Aug.
1 hour ago, BaileyrockHopefully things will be starting to improve by May! Thinking most of this year will be a challenge for most folks.
Stay safe and rubber down!
You’re alive! Was beginning to think you had forgotten about us. Hopefully May will be a good time and all of this weirdness will be but a memory. Good to hear from you.
If This Thing clears up later in the summer, I'd be hugely driven to join my online second-family out east for some Best Riding, Best Frivolity, Best Partying, and Best Bovine Excrement Slinging there is to be had in the Good Old USA.
County to the north of Franklin.
I’m saddened to see this event cancelled, as indicated by the refund I’ve received. If members would want to do something later in the year, I’d be interested.
I’m going to continue to monitor the virus situation and may still head down there. I’m looking to move to the area and would like to look at properties. I have friends in the area who are keeping me fairly informed.
I plan on keeping our hotel reservations and hopefully this panic will be calmed down by then.
Bob and I talked last night and there really was no way not to cancel. If things change, we can still have the event there just won't be shirts, food, tents, chairs, etc. Like a lot of you, this is my big event of the year and I plan to see it happen if at all possible. I've seen a lot of discussion on riding during the quarantine and folks not concerned about road closures. One thing you should check if you decide to go ahead is your insurance. Most companies will deny coverage if you are on a closed road. That could include your medical coverage in an accident. Be safe out there!
Stay tuned for updates on IF and WHEN.
Highlands Police Dept performing checks.
People are flocking to the mountains, during their time off, instead of staying home. Locals are reporting hiking trails, waterfalls, and other points of interest are packed.
*Highlands is the next town SE of Franklin, through the Cullasaja Gorge (fantastic road, BTW).*
Sweeper, 3/26/2020 at 8:54 AMBob and I talked last night and there really was no way not to cancel. If things change, we can still have the event there just won't be shirts, food, tents, chairs, etc. Like a lot of you, this is my big event of the year and I plan to see it happen if at all possible. I've seen a lot of discussion on riding during the quarantine and folks not concerned about road closures. One thing you should check if you decide to go ahead is your insurance. Most companies will deny coverage if you are on a closed road. That could include your medical coverage in an accident. Be safe out there!
Stay tuned for updates on IF and WHEN.
Thanks for the heads-up on the insurance. Travel between states may be tough if non-essential travel is banned in some places. I'd feel conspicuous hauling a motorcycle on a trailer. (Arthritis prohibits my riding there. NUTS!)
I agree with Maxswell, travel to and from may be a problem. I have to go through 9 states to get to Franklin, some of them not doing well at the moment. I don't mind if I get turned back on the way down, but if any of them put travel restrictions in place after I got there I'd be toast. I can't even run up to Canada and head east from there anymore.
I haven't canceled anything as yet but I'm going to think long and hard before I swing a leg over the VFR this May.
Nevermind The Constitution. Amazing how quickly some people follow the herd instinct into Nazi-ism. Swain county is up for lawsuits as are many other jurisdictions. Problem is, no govt. "institution" would be like to hear any of that. Power corrupts. Motorcycles are just too much fun to allow them to operate...... Where there is a will, there is a way. Is camping on private property likely to be discovered?
Bent, 4/12/2020 at 12:05 PMNevermind The Constitution. Amazing how quickly some people follow the herd instinct into Nazi-ism. Swain county is up for lawsuits as are many other jurisdictions. Problem is, no govt. "institution" would be like to hear any of that. Power corrupts. Motorcycles are just too much fun to allow them to operate...... Where there is a will, there is a way. Is camping on private property likely to be discovered?
I'm not sure rediscovery is a good description of the situation. I've had a long history of camping, starting with Cub Scouts in grade school and up to light-weight backpacking, including winter camping, all my adult life. The backpacking regimen transfer extremely well into long-distance mc travel. And I've encounter other riders doing the same things.
I've done a lot of camping on long tours out west. There is a lot of free camping on federal Bureau Land Management (BLM) in the U.S. It is multi-use w/o restrictions. A local in a town just west of Capital Reef Nat'l Park in Utah explained "If you see a "driveway" w/o a mainbox off the highway or road, it is likely BLM land. National Forest land also allows "wildernes" camping unless noted otherwise. I've spent many nights in those places. It can involve primitive (no picnic table, no bathroom facilities) but that is just another chalenge to be met. Just make sure you have your own tp and a trowl.
And many small towns with public parks allow camping in those parks which I also taken advantage of. I've found small town city parks to be another option. I would stop into a small town tavern for a post-ride beer and inquire if there was any camping in the area. Much of the time it's "Sure." it's just down the street. And then they'll tell me where to get a good supper and breakfast.
I cannot speak to the situation in the eastern U.S, but the local city parks may allow it if they are open and have no "crowds" bigger than one or two people.
The interweb is a great resourse for research.
However, at 70 years old and arthritic, that regimen has become extremely tough and I do not do much of it any more.
I will not make this meet . In Ontario ( great white north ) we are in lock down mode for another 28 days starting April 23 taking us until the end of May . It is going to be tough to get out and ride much for a while . Everybody take care and stay safe .
I'm disappointed to hear the ride is postponed or canceled, but I understand. Here in Ohio we have a stay-at-home order, but I've been going for occasional drives and rides just to get out of the house. I'm hoping by the time summer hits things are more relaxed and I can do a proper motorcycle trip, even if it isn't part of an organized event.
Stay healthy, everyone!
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