The Tail of the Dragon Beckons: A Rookie Rider's Journey
(PART - 2 The ride to Deals Gap)
The Back of the Dragon was a thrilling warm-up, but now it was time for the main event: the Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap. The anticipation was palpable as we, a group of motorcycle enthusiasts united by a shared passion, prepared to tackle one of the most legendary roads in the world.
Arrival and The Recon Mission:
We had finally made it to the Simple Life Campsites and after unloading our bikes and settling into our accommodations, we couldn't resist the urge to get a taste of what awaited us. A quick reconnaissance mission led us to a nearby dam, where we took in the scenic views before embarking on a trial run of the Dragon's Tail.
The Initial Run: A Dance with the Dragon:
The Tail of the Dragon is an 11-mile stretch of Route 129, boasting 318 curves that wind through the Great Smoky Mountains. As a rookie rider, I was both excited and apprehensive. I decided to hang back, observing my more experienced companions as they navigated the twists and turns with ease. The initial run served as a valuable learning experience, allowing me to memorize the road's rhythm and prepare for the main event.
The Dragon's Dance: A Symphony of Curves:
The next morning, we set off to conquer the Dragon's Tail. The sun peeked through the trees, casting dappled light on the winding road ahead. As we leaned into the first few curves, a wave of adrenaline washed over me. The FZ-09, with its nimble handling and responsive throttle, felt like an extension of myself as I danced with the dragon.
The road twisted and turned like a serpent, each corner revealing a new challenge and a new thrill. The lush greenery of the Great Smoky Mountains whizzed by in a blur, the sweet scent of pine filling my nostrils. The rhythmic sound of our engines echoed through the valleys, creating a symphony of power and precision.
Each curve demanded focus and skill, but the reward was a sense of accomplishment and pure exhilaration. I pushed myself, gaining confidence with each turn, and soon found myself riding in a state of flow, completely immersed in the present moment.
A Shared Experience:
The Tail of the Dragon is more than just a road; it's a community of riders united by a shared passion. We stopped at various overlooks to take in the breathtaking views and capture the memories on camera. The camaraderie among riders was palpable, as we exchanged stories and tips, forming bonds that would last long after the ride was over.
Returning to Basecamp:
As we completed our final run and rolled back into Deals Gap, a sense of accomplishment washed over me. I had conquered the Dragon's Tail, a feat that had once seemed daunting but now felt like a natural extension of my love for motorcycling.
That evening, we gathered around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter, the bond between us strengthened by the shared experience of the Dragon's Tail. The sense of community, the thrill of the ride, and the stunning beauty of the landscape had made this journey unforgettable.
Coming up: The Long Road Home: Reflections and Lessons from My First Motorcycle Road Trip
In the next part of this series, I'll share videos of our accommodations, introduce our helpful guide, and highlight a few of the trails in the area. You'll also experience the trials and tribulations of my return journey from Deals Gap to Virginia Beach, including a relentless downpour, unexpected detours, and the valuable lessons I learned along the way. Get ready for more motorcycle adventures and insights into the world of two-wheeled travel!
