MSTA SPARTA Rally (Tristar) 5-22-15

[Bob]

On Friday 5-22 Yarbi, Keith (kpax the new/old guy), and I headed up NC18 to Sparta. Yamadog also rode along but didn't stay for the rally. We met up with Marc K and his wife and they led us over to Motley’s BBQ where we had a great lunch. After lunch Yarbi, Kpax and I made a scenic loop up thru the foothills of the Mt. Rogers Natl. Rec. area (Comers Rock Rd). Dinner was burgers and dogs cooked by Iggy Joe with MSTA. Tire kicking happened.

The next morning was severe clear but a little chilly as we headed out for Hwy 16 (Back of the Dragon) from Marion to Tazewell, Va. Then we detoured into Burke’s Garden for lunch provided by some nice Mennonite (I think) ladies. The large cherry turnovers they had just baked were also tasty. Then a romp down VA 614 & 61 to Narrows and back up to the “Scenic Hwy 52” over Big Walker Mtn, thru Wytheville, and US21 back to Sparta. Around 240 miles for the loop.

Dinner Sat. night was provided by Motley’s BBQ, the same place Marc took us to lunch the day before. It was great! Doug Pippin honored us with his presence at the dinner table. Sunday Keith and I made a bee-line back home (Don left early Sun.). My GS ticked over 600 miles as I rode down my street. Good timing, ready for the running-in service! Man, the weather was just fantastic.

[Yarbi]

Yep it was a great rally and time. Al. Went perfect. Thanks again Bob for leading the whole weekend. Great routes, weather and roads. And the lunch on Saturday was great!!

[Bob]

If you guys took any more pics, feel free to post 'em.

[Marc K]

Looks like y'all had great weather and roads. Motleys BBQ twice - Bob must be in BBQ heaven !

[Bob]

Looks like y'all had great weather and roads. Motleys BBQ twice - Bob must be in BBQ heaven !

Their BBQ chikn was even better--melt in your mouth tender.

[Brick]

It was great seeing Kieth at Sparta. Keith are you going to be able to ride more with us?

I too had a great weekend. Friday I lead Ohio Howard, John Romine from Indianapolis and Valerie and Clyde. All are old friends. Clyde and Valerie live in Maryland but now have a house on the lake/Catawba river near Hickory. Since I live like 90 miles from Sparta I stretched it out to like 250.

Kicked tires and told lies Friday night. Also Yarby gave me $5 in Euros for my trip. Cool! Thanks Don.
Saturday Doug Pippin, Howard, John and I rode the Indian Valley 235 route.
I don't know why that app puts a straight line in sometimes!?
Saturday evening's door prizes and food were good. Thanks to Iguana Joe Thomas and Anita for all the work organizing the event!
Sunday's ride home was another round about to find a few more curves before I got home.
It was great fun too. It had been a while since I had ridden George's Gap down and I think I like it even better that way. All good and got home at 4:00pm. More photos on my camera. Later.


I must be out riding my Super Teneré'!