July 26, 2009 - Ozello Trail

Nine riders met in front of the Whistle Stop in Plant City and moved to Snellgroves for breakfast. After breakfast, Robert headed home as his Harley is still in the body shop, and J.T. & Debbie decided to head to the Gulf Coast beaches instead of joining the rest of the group on the planned ride.

The remaining six riders turned their motorcycles towards Crystal River. The ride to San Antonio is fairly quiet with no really challenging roads. Once past San Ann, we picked up Jessamine Rd. and followed it up with a trip across Bayhead Rd. Once Bayhead crosses Bellamy Brothers Rd., it becomes a dirt road. While the rest of us waited at the intersection, Boyd took a short trip in the dirt on his new VStrom 1000. He claimed that he was happy with the way it handled there. We then turned north and headed to Brooksville via Bellamy Bros. (which becomes Culbreath), Emerson, Mitchell and Cortez.

After a short rest stop at Cortez & Cobb, we headed to Crystal Springs via Citrus Way. The intent was to visit Nature Coast Motorsports so Bill could look at a new VStrom 1000 for himself. I hasd looked this location up on the Internet a few days ago & called to confirm that they a the VStrom in stock. What I did not pick up on during that call was that they were no longer Nature Coast Motorsports and were no longer in Crystal Springs. Making a quick stop, I tried to locate and call Nature Coast. Unfortunately, my iPhone G was not up to the task. Fortunately, Boyd had his new iPhone 3GS with him and we found that the dealership had changed its name to Love Powersports and had moved to Homosassa. Since our planned lunch stop at Peck's Old Port Cove was on the way, we decided to put off the stop at Love's until after lunch.

Turning south on US-19, we soon arrived at the turn off for the Ozello Trail and turned west for the always fun run to Crystal Bay. For the uninitiated, this 10 mile piece of pavement is one of the best motorcycle roads in Florida.

After a great lunch, we headed back across the Ozello Trail and down to Love's. While Bill looked at the VStrom, the rest of us poured over the 2009 Victory Vision on the showroom floor. This is one weird looking motorcycle. I have to admit that, being vertically challenged, I liked the the lower seat height and swept-back handlebars. Overall, though, I think I'll stick with my GL1800.

Since it was after 2:00 p.m. by the time we left Love's, we decided to head for home via the fastest route, which from there meant US-98. Bill, Lloyd & Bob chose to leave the group at I-75, while Boyd, Eddie and I continued on 98 past Dade City where Boyd & I turned towards Lakeland & Eddie continued on to P.C.

It was another great day on the road, albeit a trifle warm.

To see our route, click here.

Be sure to check out Bill's blog, The Navigator's Rides, for more pictures and his " insightful, perceptive and accurate recitation of the facts."

Click here for info. on J.T.s ride.

RIDE WITH PRIDE

"Gunny"

July 18, 2009 - Ft. Meade, Frostproof & Avon Park

It was another good turn out for breakfast this morning, not as good as last week, but still a good crowd, including a new prospective member, D.J. Campbell. Notable absentees were J.T., who was visiting in North Carolina, and Boyd, who was flying to Tennessee to pick up a Suzuki V-Strom (what? the VMax wasn't quick enough in the corners?). Bill and Mercy were present but not in riding attire due to other pressing duties.

Leaving the parking area, we headed southeast to avoid the storms coming on shore around Bayport. We were joined by the new prospective on his sidecar equipped Harley. The first difficulty of the day came as we found Coronet to the closed at the railroad tracks. Making a u-turn, we returned to Jim Tucker and took that to Jap Tucker. All went well until we reached Cowart and found that someone had placed speed bumps every quarter mile or so. What a pain. Having negotiated all those #@%^& speed bumps, we turned south on Smith Ryals, heading for Old Hopewell. Reaching SR-60, we found that the new median blocked our way and we could no longer go straight across 60. After negotiating a short detour, we were able to return to Smith Ryals. Thankfully, that was our last unplanned detour of the day.

After covering a few more back roads and losing Robert who was not feeling up to par, we arrived at Agricola Mine Rd. We stopped there for some instruction for those unfamiliar with this piece of roadway. After all completed the run safely, we headed for gas and a quick break in Ft. Meade.

As Eddie, Barry and D.J. headed towards home, the remaining three riders continued on towards, Lake Buffum, Babson Park, Frostproof and Avon Park where it was time for lunch at the Wild Turkey Tavern.

The return trip went well until we approached Homeland on 640 where we ran into a light rain. Seeing that the heaviest rain was to our south, we chose to continue west on 640 and quickly ran out of the rain and into the warm sunshine which stayed with us the rest of the way home.

Click here for today's route.

See you next week. Ride with Pride.

Gunny

July 11, 2009 - Sunshine Skyway, O'Maddy's & Barney's of Brandon

Wow, I'm impressed. There were 17 of us at breakfast this morning. I think that was a record for a Saturday breakfast. Once we were finished with food and conversation, 12 people on 9 motorcycles headed out to enjoy this beautiful morning. Using selected back roads, we first headed for the Sunshine Skyway Bridge.

The weather was clear but had warmed dramatically by the time we arrived at the Sunshine Skyway's south rest area. The water here was much higher and more clear than it has been recently. Consequently, we were treated to great views of numerous skates, trumpet fish and other marine species, as well as a large group of brown pelicans.

Crossing the bridge, we arrived at the north rest area. This is a somewhat more shaded location but it was still very warm. While there were many nice boats to see in the bay, I think the most impressive sight was the bright yellow Ferrari in the parking lot. I'm hoping someone got a photo.

Leaving the rest area, we took the 9.5 mile ride to O'Maddy's Bar and Grill in Gulfport. As Bill opined, he wasn't impressed with the neighborhood we had to ride through to get there, but was happy with the neighborhood where we arrived, especially the restaurant. Located on the corner of 54th St. S. and Shore Blvd. S., O'Maddy's outside seating area looks out on Gulfport Beach Park and across a Tampa Bay inlet towards Long Key, St. Pete Beach and Isle del Sol. Luckily, they also have inside, air conditioned seating, and that is where we chose to dine. The menu is fairly typical for a waterside grill. What is not typical is the quality. From Bill and Bob's grilled salmon salads, Eddie and Marlena's fruit filled salads, J.T. & Debbie's hamburgers, my super roast beef sandwich (the house specialty), to Boyd's key lime cheese cake, everything was fabulous. And the price was more than fair.

After lunch, and while Bill finished up his photo session of the area, others gathered on the covered seating area right on the beach with the water literally right at our feet and with a nice view across the water aa well as a good breeze on our faces.

The four Richters headed home from this point while the remaining seven bikes headed towards Brandon where Boyd had an appointment to test ride a Suzuki V-Strom 650 at Barney's.

Boyd says that he would like to do more camping again and wanted to check out a bike that would allow him to get there on the highways, but also allow him to get into some of the more remote camping areas. Bill decided to test ride the 650, too. Both felt that it was a great machine that handled really well, but they also agreed that the V-Strom 1000 would probably better suit their needs. Do I see another test ride in their futures?

While the rest of us were waiting, I tried to talk Kyle into trading his M50 for an M109 but, sadly, was unsuccessful. Although he likes the M109, he has it in his mind that he would rather have a Harley. Forgive him, he's young.

With a rain storm looming in the west, the group broke up at Barney's and everyone headed for home by separate routes. I don't know about the others, but Bill and I were not able to avoid a brief, but heavy, shower. We soon out ran it and ended up with a dry ride the rest of the way home.

Click here to view today's route.

Click here for some pictures. Also, check Bill's blog for his take on this ride.

See you next week. Ride with Pride.

Gunny

July 4, 2009 - Sloans Ridge & Back

Happy Fourth of July, everyone. We had a large crowd for breakfast this morning, including a visit from Carl Lane. Around 9:00 am, six bikes mounted up for a holiday ride. With an eye towards the weather and an early return for family activities, we headed northeast seeking twisting roads and wooded lanes. The first challenge came on Swindell with it's quick succession of 90 degree turns. Next came short, narrow, twisting Hancock Rd. which led us to Rockridge Rd. and Green Pond Rd. These narrow, twisting roads run through the woods of the Green Swamp, ending at SR-33. It was then a short run up to Lake Erie Rd., Bay Lake Rd and, finally, to Sloans Ridge Rd. This led us eventually to SR-50 west of Mascotte. After a short rest stop, the group decided to head to Sky Powersports via 561, 33 and I-4. It seems that Boyd & Bill have an itch to investgate Suzuki's new dual sport bike. Unfortunately, Sky was closed for the holiday. So, while Boyd headed home to pick up Vicky for a weekend trip, the rest of the group headed to Fun Bike Center to see what they had to offer. While the rest of us browsed, Eddie decided that a half-helmet was needed to survive the hot summer rides. He selected a great looking metallic white job that should leave him free to chew without serious incident. Afterwards, we walked over to Mojo's for a good lunch. The group bike up then and all headed home. It was a great day and great ride.

"Ride with Pride"
Gunny

June 27, 2009

Eight of us met in Plant City this morning and adjourned to Snellgrove's for breakfast. A good meal was capped off with a round of "Happy Birthday" sung for Boyd in celebration of his 60th birthday. We also congratulated Barry on the birth of his new daughter.

Then Bobby and Lloyd went about their mundane 4-wheel business while Boyd, Kyle, J.T., Barry, Bob K. and I set out on today's adventure. As it was Boyd's birthday, we let him decide where we would go. He did not care as long as Agricola Mine Rd. was included in the route. So we headed towards Keysville, then down to Jameson Rd., back to Keysville, Nichols, then across to Pine Dale where we picked up Old Hwy 37 en route to Agricola Mine Road. We made a short stop there to advise those who had not been there before on what to expect. We then set off with each of us travelling at their own pace. Most of us made multiple passes on this great road before heading to Fort Meade for gas and water.

While resting and swapping lies, we began to discuss that Boyd had badly worn down the buttons on the bottom of the VMAX's foot pegs. So we decided to lay it over by hand to see what it would take to touch the pegs to the ground. You would not believe what that takes. Luckily, J.T. was there with his camera to document the experiment.

Refreshed and gassed, we took off for Lake Buffim, then up to West Lake Wales. It started to rain lightly as we approached SR-60 on West Lake Wales Road. Kyle and Barry decided to head for Plant City at that point. After J.T. and Bob donned their rain gear, the remaining four headed towards Winter Haven via Lake Eloise. It rained a good bit until we were near K'ville, then the rain stopped.

Arriving in Lakeland, we made a stop at Fun Bike Center to look around then walked over to MoJo's for lunch. While most of us opted for the usual fare, Boyd, as he is want to do, just ordered dessert, a concoction called "Cream in the Hole" that turned out to be a fresh fry cake with a large scoop if vanilla ice cream, all covered with chocolate syrup. We also tried fried pickles. J.T. & I thought they were good. The other two disagreed. Over lunch, we also learned that one of Boyd's business endeavors, The Growth Coach, has been nominated for the Business of the Year in Brandon. Way to go, Boyd. You just continue to impress.

After lunch, J.T. & Bob headed for home. Boyd and I headed north to ride Sherrouse Rd. and Old Dade City Rd. After taming them, we headed towards home. The trip back was uneventful until we neared W. Campbell Rd. on Kathleen where a doe ran into the road just in front of us. Two cars and two bikes made panic stops while the deer ran back to safety.

Another good day on the Florida by-ways. See you all for a little Fourth of July ride next Saturday.

Click here for more pictures.

June 20, 2009 - Homosassa

Eight of us gathered for breakfast this morning, including our newest member, Barry Mauer. Having consumed an excellent breakfast, five of us mounted up to ride to Homosassa. Barry soon left us, though. The daddy-to-be didn't want to get too far from home.

It was already getting hot by the time we left Plant City. We headed towards Zephyrhills, then on to San Antonio. Just north of there we picked up Jessamine Rd. which has a few nice curves. Boyd decided to let the VMAX run a little and took the lead. It was fun watching him negotiate the curves, but a little dangerous, too. Not for him, but for me. I was watching him and almost forgot about traversing the curve myself. From Jessamine we ran over to Bayhead Rd., Bellamy Brothers Rd., Hayman, Powell and Emerson for a few more curves and scenery. After stopping for a break in Brooksville, we headed on to Homosassa. After passing the Yulee Sugar Mill, we arrived at the Riverside Crab House located right in the Homosassa River.

The food there was excellent and the river entertainment was especially good today. Just outside our window was Monkey Island, a small island populated by several very large monkeys who seemed to enjoy the 90 plus degree weather and were very active. While watching them, a bottlenose dolphin breached between us and the island. As we watched, we saw that there were at least two dolphins who were fishing the shallow water there. At times, they came right up to the restaurant windows. It was really interesting to watch them hunt.

Leaving Homosassa, we made our way back to Bayhead Rd. so J.T. could get some pictures. Our final stop of the ride was for a cold beverage at the San Ann Market in San Antonio. By then, it was about 97 degrees and a little shade and cold liquid was a welcome relief.

All-in-all, it was a great 180 mile ride. Although extremely hot, the humidity was not too bad so it was bearable as long as the bikes were moving or we we sitting in the shade.

Although I forgot my camera, J.T. came to our rescue. Select this link for his photos. See you next week.

Ride with Pride

Gunny

June 13 - Home Again

Well, we all made it home safe and sound. Other than a little rain around Ocala, it was an uneventful ride home. Boyd, Lloyd and I left Sylva, NC by motorcycle around 6:00 a.m., made a quick stop at the Huddle House for breakfast, then headed south on US-441. We stayed on that route all the way into southern Georgia where we picked up US-221 south to US-129 and, eventually to I-75 near Jasper, FL. I finally pulled into my driveway at bout 7:30 P.M., 600 miles from the day's start.

The rest of the crew, Bill, Eddie and Robert left about 8:00 a.m. pulling the trailer and four bikes home. They arrived home about the same time as we did. The four-wheeler requires fewer gas and comfort stops that on the motorcycle.

This link will take you to some of the photos that I took during the trip. Our official photographers, Boyd and Bill will have more at a later date.

Gunny

June 11 - Cade's Cove

Today we headed for Cades Cove, TN in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This popular historical site is hidden away in the farthest recesses of the park, down 78 miles of narrow, winding roads.

Once there, it was a beautiful, idyllic location full of preserved dwellings, churches, farms and a grist mill. The first dwelling on the Cove Loop Road is the John Oliver Place, a one room log cabin, which was built around 1820 and continuously occupied until 1945. The cove is also filled with wildlife, including deer, wild turkey and bears. Boyd and I encountered a deer almost immediately upon entering the cove. We has stopped a few yards apart to take some pictures when the deer ran across the road between us. Further down the road, a black bear crossed the road right in front of us.

While we were visiting the grist mill at the far end of Cades Cove, thunder began to rumble and the skies darkened. We quickly donned or rain gear and headed for the exit hoping to beat the rain. Unfortunately, about a couple of hundred other vehicles had the same idea. Before we got very far, the skies open up and released a very hard downpour. The traffic was so slow that we could not keep enough air flow on the face shields to keep them from fogging and the rain so hard that we could not see the narrow, rutted roadway. Bill, on the lead bike, soon decided to pull off at one of the abandoned log cabins where we all took refuge until the rain let up and the traffic cleared. We were soon underway again but encountered another problem. The rain had brought out the deer to feed. Every open field was occupied by grazing deer and at every open field cars would stop on the one-lane road to view the deer. It took forever to get out of the cove. However, as we exited the cove, a doe and new born fawn crossed the road in front of Bill and he managed to get some great photographs that he will be sharing in the future.

Once out of the cove, we headed for home as quickly as we could on the wet and winding roads. We were all happy to get home and into some dry clothes, but all agreed that the trip was worth the effort.

The day was capped off by a trip to Sylva for some great ribs at a small restaurant. We arrived just as they were about to close up due to a lack of business. However, the owner agreed to stay open to feed six hungry bikers. He even called back his waitress who had already left. It turned out to be a great decision for them and us. I will definitely go back there if I am ever in the area again.

Gunny

June 10 from Sylva, NC

Sorry to have been offline for so long, but Internet connections have been far and few between here in the mountains. Right now I am
sitting in a Wifi cafe in Dillsborough, NC with Lloyd Lowery. We arrived in Sylva last Friday. We have been riding hard ever since. All six of us have successfully navigated the Tail of the Dragon a couple of times and explored many a scenic mountain road. We are all doing well and having a good time. Lloyd, Eddie & I are taking an easy day while Bill & Bobby head to Ashville to meet their mother for her birthday. Boyd also went along because he can't stand to be separated from his VMax for an afternoon.

We will have many pictures to share when we get back but it just is not practical to upload them given the current conditions.

Ride with Pride
Gunny

June 4 - Down to Boone

We left Buena Vista, VA this morning with high hopes for a good day of riding on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Everything went great for the first hour or so. Then we started to get into some fog as we climbed the mountains. Soon we were creeping along just fast enough to keep the bikes upright. The fog was so thick I had to raise off the seat to see the yellow line. Not a lot of fun. Once we crested the mountain & started down the other side, the fog disappeared and we were able to make good time for a while.

Around noon it started to rain lightly so we decided to get off the Parkway near Roanoke to find someplace for lunch. Unfortunately, it was about a 7 mile ride to the nearest open eatery & by the time we arrived at the Mountainside Cafe it was raining hard. The place turned out to be more tavern than cafe. The place was populated by various bar flies and ladies of questionable virtue. It took about 15 minutes to find someone who could make a bad cup of coffee. For lunch we ordered the specialty - a cheeseburger. It turned out to be an old fashioned grease dripping off your elbows burger. Tastes great but will stop your heart if you consume more than one.

After lunch, with the rain all but stopped, we mounted up & and headed back to the Parkway. Now Boyd & I had the foresight to put on rain gear before we left but Lloyd had decided that the rain was over. He was very, very wrong. And not only was the rain not over, but the fog decided to return. It was another 30 miles before were rode out of the weather. We were then able to make a relatively smooth run to Boone, NC where we stopped for the night.

Hopefully tomorrow will be better but the forecast is not hopeful. The good news is that we should hook up with Billy, Eddie & Robert tomorrow afternoon.

Gunny

June 3 - Fredericksburg to Buena Vista, VA

We left the motel in Fredericksburg, VA at about 7:30 am this morning & travelled the 75 miles to Front Royal, VA. From there we entered the Shannandoah National Park, taking the Skyline Drive south.

The road is about 120 miles long and the maximum speed is 35 MPH. At first I thought the speed limit was due to the many tight curves & beautiful vistas, but we soon learned a third factor causing the limited speed. There were more deer on and along side the roadway than I had we seen before. What made it more exciting was their tendancy to pop-up around a blind curve. We were also slowed by several wild turkeys. Very entertaining.

The Blue Ridge Parkway picks up right at the end of the Skyline Drive. Here, the speed limit picks up to 45 MPH, which makes the curves and hills a lot of fun. About 5:00 pm we began to hear thunder in the distance. By 5:30 it was getting serious & we made the wise decision to look for shelter. We left the Parkway on US-60 & headed the 4 miles to Buena Vista, VA. By the time we got there the winds had picked up dramatically and by the time we got into a motel room the severe thunderstorms struck. Timing is everything.

Tomorrow we hope to continue down the Parkway to Pineola, NC. However, continued rain may slow us down. Keep your fingers crossed.

June 2, 2009 - Day 2 - Pooler, NC to Fredericksburg, VA

Day 2 started poorly. Boyd & I were at breakfast when Bill came in to inform us that his wife's mother had passed away overnight. That meant that he would have to return home today. We sadly said goodbye to Bill with the hopes that he could rejoin us later in the trip.
After some discussion between Boyd, Lloyd & I, we decided to forego the 8th Air Force Museum in order to get as far north as we could today so we could spend more time on the Skyline Parkway & the Blue Ridge Parkway. We left the motel in Pooler, NC about 8:30 am & headed north on I-95. The day started beautifully with great weather and a scenic ride through the northern Georgia woods. However, the day quickly warmed to the mid 90's. By the time we entered Virginia, it was holding at a steady 95 degrees. Boyd put on his cool scarf & I put on my cool vest. Lloyd had to tough it out with no warm weather gear. As we neared the end of our 519 mile run to Fredericksburg, VA, the temperature dropped 10 degrees in about 2 minutes and a few minutes later the rains started. Luckily it did not rain too hard until after we got to our motel. Glad to ben inside now since it is raining very hard with frequent lightening.
Tomorrow we will head for Front Royal, VA & head south on the Skyline Parkway.

Ride with Pride
Gunny

June 1st - Plant City to Savanah, GA

Boyd & I showed up at the start point 30 minutes early. Lloyd arrived right on time. Bill was only 8 minutes late, which translate to 10 mnutes early. Eddie & Jerry showed up to send us off. We hit the road at 10:18 am taking I-4 to I-75. We left I-75 at Ocala and headed northeast on 301 with a stop in Starke, FL for lunch. We stayed on 301 to Jesup, GA, then took 84 to Fort Stewart where we hooked up with 144 east to I-95. 144 was a nice drive through the woods but was very slow. We finally made it to Pooler, GA (outside of Savannah) about 6:30 pm. Tomorrow we plan on visiting the Mighty 8th Air Force Museum before rejoining our trek north.
Ride with Pride
Gunny

May 30, 2009

Breakfast this morning was at Snellgroves. Originally, there were only three of us, but others began trickling in one-by-one. The last to arrive was Kyle. Being the youngest of our group, the waitress took special notice and presented him with a special meal, a Mickey Mouse pancake.

Afterwards, it was off to Eddie's house for bike maintenance in preparation for next week's trip. Boyd has decided to ride his Gold Wing to Sylva, NC and back, but wants his VMax in the mountains, so he loaded his VMax into Eddie's trailer for transport. Eddie and Robert will also be trailering their bikes to Sylva later in the week.

Eddie and Bill prepared a good pepper and sausage lunch which was served in Eddies newly renovated lanai. This air conditioned dream is a great improvement. In addition to the dining area, it includes comfortable seating and a state-of-the-art television. Good job, Eddie.

Bill, Boyd, Lloyd & I will be leaving Monday morning on our respective motorcycles. Robert & Eddie will follow on Thursday with the trailer. Should be a great trip. I will try to keep up with the blog as we go, when internet access is available.

Make sure to checkout this week's photos.

Gunny

May 23, 2009

We were happy to have Kent Andrel and Bill's wife, Mercy, join us for our Saturday breakfast this week. After breakfast, Eddie headed south for a short fishing trip while Kent & Bill decided to take advantage of the respite from the rain to get some yard work done. Bobby was still on call for work, so it was Boyd, Lloyd and I that headed out for a ride.

With an eye to the weather which would surely bring rain sooner or later, we decided to keep the ride local so we set off on a circuitous route through Hillsborough and Polk counties.

Breakfast held off the hunger pains so we decided to skip lunch and ride while the weather held. Our final stop was at Lloyd's for a liquid libation. As we left that location, I could hear thunder beginning to roll in the eastern skies. That convinced me that we had ridden enough for that day so Boyd and I headed for home. The rains started in earnest about 30 minutes after I got home. Timing is everything.

Sorry for the lack of pictures this week. I forgot to pack my camera.

Gunny

May 16, 2009 - Sunshine Skyway & Taste of Boston

I tried something different today. Instead of embedding photos in the blog, I have posted them to a web album. Click here to see the photos.


It was a beautiful central Florida morning as we gathered at the Whistle Stop in Plant City. After a group breakfast, the riders mounted up and headed the Sunshine Skyway Bridge (see the route at the link above). Of course we took the back way through Lithia, Balm, Wimauma, and Parrish.

We soon arrived at the bridge and stopped at the south rest area for a break, a bottle of water, and a view of Tampa Bay. I was happy to see that the heavy rains of the past few days had brought the water back enough to completely cover the flats. After taking a few pictures, we re-mounted and headed north across the mouth of Tampa Bay on the Sunshine Skyway. J.T. was able to get a few good pictures as we crossed.

Arriving at the north end of the bridge, we decided to check out the parasurfers. This time, we rode the sand down to where the surfers were gathered. That allowed us to get some very nice photos.

The next leg of today's trip took us to Barney's motorcycle shop in St. Petersburg. It is always fun to look around their large selection of vehicles and accessories. Besides, I needed a new kickstand support since mine broke in the sand at the last stop. It didn't dump the bike, but I did not want to chance it again. Barney's had a new VMax on the sales floor and Boyd, who had ridden his Wing today, tried to get the salesman to say something foolish about the VMax, but the guy was pretty good and didn't provide Mr. Sarcasm with any ammunition. Check out the photo of the Blue Knights themed Goldwing on the link above. It belongs to a FL XVII member who was also visiting Barney's today.

The next portion of the trip took us across the Gandy Bridge to the Tampa peninsula then over to Ballast Point Park where we stopped for lunch at the Taste of Boston. For those who have not been there, the park is a nice, quiet and shady spot with a good fishing pier and really nice views of downtown Tampa across the Hillsborough Bay.

After lunch and a walk on the pier, we headed towards home via Bayshore Blvd. where we got some good views of the bay, some impressive real estate and a bikini or two. Traffic was very heavy around the Forum and around the grand opening of the new IKEA store at Adamo and 22nd. Thankfully, we all had liquid cooled engines and survived all the long stops. Forced by traffic and the Hillsborough Sheriff's deputies to forgo turning onto 22nd, we detoured to another entrance to I-4 where we could finally pick up enough speed to shut down the radiator fans.

Arriving back in Plant City, we stopped for desert at Parksdale's (alas, it is too late in the season for strawberry shortcake).

It was a great 130 mile ride. Come and join us next Saturday.

Ride with Pride

Gunny

May 9, 2009

Yielding to a request for a change of pace, we eschewed our usual breakfast eatery and headed for The Brickyard today.

We had no sooner been seated when Boyd rose to make a presentation. For the uninformed, a friendly competition for photographic supremacy has developed over the past few years between Ace (Bill) and Mr. Sarcasm (Boyd). Today, Boyd formally presented Bill with a specially designed T-shirt and cap designating Bill as the #1 Official Photographer for Navigator Image Productions.


Bill was highly pleased with the presentation.

And, in a manner consistent with being Bill, he acknowledged the gift by calling the entire restaurant to attend his acceptance of the title.

It was all very entertaining. I would, however, caution Ace to remember Boyd's well earned nickname when wearing his laurels.

After breakfast, Boyd, J.T., Debbie and I headed out for our ride. We started in a generally southwest direction which soon found us crossing the South Prong of the Alafia River (that's the creek that passes under Jameson Rd.). As we passed, I saw a wood stork out of the corner of my eye and we stopped for some photos.

There turned out to be a whole flock of them.

What was also apparent was the extremely low water level. The river here was just a series of shallow pools.

J.T. & Debbie waited patiently while photos were taken.


From there, we headed towards Agricola Mine Road.

As the morning progressed it became readily apparent that:
1) the day was going to be very hot;
2) the lovebugs were back in full force;
3) road kill was plentiful; and
4) the buzzards were enjoying the bounty.

Our windshields and fairings were soon a mass of lovebug remains and we had to slow repeatedly to avoid the flocks of buzzards consuming the road kill. Coming around a curve on Agricola Mine Road, a particularly large flock of buzzards rose from their meal directly into the path of my motorcycle. There was insufficient time for me to do anything but duck behing the windshield before I hit one in the center of the fairing. After stopping, I found buzzard feathers lodged in the center air intake, but, luckily, no damage to the bike. Boyd, being Boyd, made some remark about being glad he was riding behind the "cow catcher".

Continuing our ride, we headed over to Homeland, Lake Hendry, and Lake Buffum. Picking up N. Scenic Highway, we headed south to Avon Park where we stopped for lunch at the Wild Turkey Tavern.

After lunch, we headed towards Lakeland for a quick stop at Fun Bike Center before heading for home and a thorough bike wash.

Gunny

April 25, 2009 - Leesburg

Another glorious day in paradise started with a group breakfast at Snellgroves in Plant City. Afterward, Boyd, Bob & I headed to Leesburg via some of our favorite roads, including Green Pond Road and CR-561.

Our first stop was at Champions Honda where they were celebrating the Bike Fest with a great sale, pizza and a couple of stunt riders. The main reason for our stop, however, was for Boyd to have a new rear tire mounted on his V-Max (yes, already).

Before I continue with my story I have a small quiz. You can identify the object pictured below?

No, it is not a bird's nest. Give up? Remember that Boyd was there to get a new tire and he chose not to leave any good rubber on the old tire, so....

He smoked the tire. Check out the video below.

What was left on the pavement after the tire blew was a pile of burned rubber.

What was left wrapped around the V-Max's rear axle and inside the differential was the tire wire shown in the first photograph.

While Boyd and I waited for the tire change, Bob headed downtown to the Bike Fest.

With the new tire mounted, Boyd and I headed to the Lakeridge Winery to check out their Jazz Festival. We had hardly gotten off the bikes when we heard a familiar voice. It turned out to be Lloyd who had brough Julie and her parents to enjoy the music, sunshine, wine and beer.

Jule & her mother.

After visiting for a while and enjoying the scenery (we developed a new appreciation for green Chiffon), Boyd & I headed home. Another great ride, great day and great memories.

Ride with Pride.

Gunny

April 18 - Drills

Today was something a little different. We met as usual for breakfast then adjourned to the Plant City PD practice pad.

As we gathered for some parking lot drills, Tommy Traffic brought out a new piece of test equipment.

It turned out to be a Buell Ulysses Police Motorcycle.

Powered by a 1203cc V-Twin, this special duty cycle is designed to travel a variety of surfaces from highway to dirt roads. Interestingly, the Ulysses carries its fuel inside the frame rather than in a traditional gas tank. That allows the cycle a lower center of gravity. The high ground clearance supposedly allows the Ulysses to go where a Road King dare not tread.

We eventually moved on to the pad, replacing the usual traffic cones with tennis ball halves to protect our more delicate street bikes from the indignities of contact with the unforgiving traffic cones.

After a couple of hours of much needed practice, we headed to Lakeland for a very enjoyable lunch at Mojo’s. The food was excellent, the prices fair and the service was unique.

Next Saturday we will be heading to Leesburg.

April 4, 2009 - Ozello Trail

What a beautiful day for a ride! The temperature was about 60 degrees when seven of us met for breakfast in Plant City this morning and climbed steadily all day, reaching a sunny 88 degrees this afternoon. It just doesn't get much better than that.

Leaving those with other things to do in Plant City, Eddie Richter, Boyd Harrell and I headed north en route to the Ozello Trail and Peck's Old Port Cove. By the time we reached San Antonio, our tires were warmed enough to take on Jessamine Road which is always a fun ride. We then rode on to Spring Lake, then Brooksville. Traveling north out of Brooksville on Citrus Way, Eddie fired up his CB and began talking about someplace on our route that he had always wanted to investigate. As he was not exactly sure where it was, I had him take the lead. After much searching, he pulled off the highway somewhere just north of Stage Coach Trail. The street sign said Lone Ct. and Lecanto Hwy., but the closest I could see to Lone Ct. was a cow path.

They could not have meant this trail. It is listed as Trail 22 on the map.Anyway, Eddie told us there were caves down this forest trail and he set off to find them.

After a long walk in the woods, we found the first cave and Eddie immediately headed down into it.

Boyd and I quickly followed him down into the cave where we examined some modern day cave art.Now, the cave did continue underground for some ways, but the passages seemed a little restricted for men of stature such as ourselves, so we exited the way we came to explore from above. In Many places, the caves have collapsed leaving them exposed to the sky.You know Boyd. He can never be satisfied with a normal picture. Here he is videoing the photographer.Making our way back to the trail head we located our waiting steeds and prepared to complete the trip to Ozello.The rest of the trip to Peck's via the Ozello Trail was fairly uneventful. The Trail was as beautiful and challenging as ever. Lunch at Peck's was the usual excellent fare. Then came the ride out. One of the best things about going to Peck's is that you get to ride the Ozello Trail in both directions.

We took the opportunity on the way home to have a little more fun on Hayman, Bayhead and Bellamy Brothers Roads.

We eventually had to call the day to a close, but not without a stop to see Eddie's new Boat. I hope this thing brings Eddie and I a lot of future fun.See you all soon,

Gunny
Ride with Pride
Not All Who Wander are Lost

March 28 - Montverde, Winter Garden & Lake Minneola

Six of us met for breakfast this morning with the intent of riding to Ozello. After the morning fog was cleared by food and coffee, lots of coffee, only two of us were able to saddle up for today's ride. Bill was still feeling the effects of the creeping crud he had been fighting all week. Eddie had to head home to prepare for his 1st grade class reunion. Robert was called in to work. And Greg Horn, well I forget what he had to do but I am sure it was something important.

Anyway, Lloyd and I decided to save Ozello until more people could make the trip, so we turned northeast and headed toward Montverde. As you can see from the map below, I believe that the best route between any two points is a curvy road. Today, those curvy roads included Swindell, Rockridge, Green Pond, CR-455 & CR-561.

After arriving in Montverde, we decided to head over to to Performance Honda in Winter Garden so Lloyd could look for a new helmet. The last time I was there, the back third of the store was filled with accessories. Now, their accessories are limited to what can be mounted on the walls. All floor space is now dedicated to the display of new motorcycles.

Performance Honda did not have the helmet that Lloyd wanted, so we headed next door to Champions Yamaha. (Yes, its the same company that owns Champions Honda in Leesburg,) Lloyd was able to find a helmet he liked and came away with a new white HJC Sy-Max II. All the way home, I got the oddest feeling that I was seeing myself in my rear view mirror - same bike, same color, same helmet style and color - weird.

Anyway, buying stuff made us hungry so we headed over to Lake Minneola where Lloyd introduced me to the Tiki Hut at the Lake Minneola Inn. It is tucked away on the east shore of Lake Minneola and sits right on the water, or would if the water levels weren't so low (it is point D on the map above). Believe me, you won't find this place by accident but the food was excellent as was the atmosphere and view. It is definitely someplace we will visit again.

Sand Sailors

Our waitress.

Lloyd waiting for lunch to arrive.

After lunch we headed home across 561 and a second trip across Green Pond Road. Another great day on the road.

"Not all who wander are lost."

Gunny