Riding BlogThis weblog at mikeuhl.com is the personal web site of Michael "Mike" Uhl. Entries to this weblog and web site represent my personal opinions. The site is not owned, operated, or affiliated with my employer or any organizations other than those owned and operated by Mike Uhl.
Photo (right): That's Lisa and me stopped along US 550, "The Million Dollar Highway," in southwest Colorado on our way north into Silverton, July 2017.
Entries are copyright (c) Michael A. Uhl, as of date of posting.
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FYI: I ride a 2015 Harley-Davidson FLHTK Ultra Limited Special Edition.
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If you like to ride twisting mountain roads, western North Carolina offers two opportunities you'll love: Tail of the Dragon at Deal's Gap and The Diamondback. Along with these extreme twisties, the Cherohala Skyway offers a great alternate route back from Tennessee once you've completed the Dragon.
It's hard to be an active Harley rider and not encounter US military veterans. They make up a large portion of the Harley riding population. Organizations such as the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) and Rolling Thunder combine enthusiasm for riding with support for veterans' issues.
A big benefit to riding with veterans is exposure to rewarding experiences such as the annual Rolling Thunder event each Memorial Day weekend in Washington, D.C. Twice I have ridden to Washington to visit the Vietnam Memorial, also referred to as "The Wall." I myself did not serve in Vietnam but nevertheless find the experience of placing my hand on The Wall and seeing the many gifts and notes people continue to leave for Vietnam veterans a very moving experience.
One of the most beautiful and enjoyable places to ride in the Lower 48 is the Adirondack Region of northern New York State. I have ridden there multiple times since the early 1980s and have enjoyed it immensely. I have not camped more than a dozen times since 1980, but when I have, it's almost always been in the Adirondacks, along Middle Saranac Lake or the KOA near Jay.
I like riding motorcycles, but I love riding Harley Davidson (HD) motorcycles. This week I'd like to address what is often a hot topic with motorcyclists: are Harley Davidson machines worth the extra cost? Whereas BMW and HD bikes are comparable in price, typically, the Japanese bikes, i.e., Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, and Yamaha, are significantly less expensive for machines of similar engine displacement. For buyers considering only price, HDs are usually beyond their price target.
One of the first lessons I learned as young rider, circa 1980, was that bikers should look out for each other. If you see a biker stopped along the road, you should check with him or her to see if they need assistance. Most of the time they don't; they're usually making a phone call or taking an impromptu road-side bathroom break. But every once in while, you will find someone really does need your help.
Michael A. Uhl