The Dragon

I did the “Tail of the Dragon”, “The Dragon”, “Deal’s Gap”, seems to have multiple names.  This is a ride that most bikers know about and dream of doing!  The Dragon is located in the middle of Route 129.  It’s 318 curves in 11 miles long.  It’s pretty intense, but extremely fun to do.  Some say I started from the end, I came in from Asheville and just before I started it there were a couple of stores with souvenirs and a restaurant.  I stopped and looked around and then ate lunch.  The owners of the restaurant race bikes on the side, and serve a great lunch.  I chatted with them and some other folks that had just come through.

The speed limit was 15 to 30 mph.  The Dragon is also a popular spot sports cars, they like to race through all the curves.

I pulled over twice to let a bike and a truck by.  I didn’t want to feel pushed or to slow them down, so when I could I let them by.  I had heard that the weekdays are a better time to go as it’s not as busy – perfect!

At the other end was a motel and a couple more souvenir shops.  I walked around and then sat down on the porch.  There were a couple of guys resting as they had done it a couple of times already today.  One of the guys said are you the one that’s been on the road since October?  That really surprised me, someone I was talking to at the other end mentioned me before I got here.

I had a gentleman the day before saying that my bike was to heavy and it would be difficult doing the dragon with all that gear.  I guess he didn’t think about all the miles I have already done with my bike loaded and have had no trouble….

I had a fantastic day of riding and meeting people!

Love and Light to you all!