The tail of the dragon has become the red badge of courage for many motorcyclists. I didn’t find it particularly challenging, but rather filled with other bikers who were bound and determined to see how fast they could ride it instead of taking a track day course at a local, motorcycle track and learning how to control their bikes better.
I didnt find it overly challenging either, but I can see it being pretty serious with ones trying to run through it at high speed and the tree of shame put some of that on display.
Agree completely. I found it monotonous. There are MANY far better, twistier, challenging roads with good sightlines and are void of squids and cagers in that general area and elsewhere. Deals Gap has EXCELLENT marketing but I wouldn't go back.
Hi Jess, I am a new-ish rider (3 years) and a friend and I rode the Tail of the Dragon plus the Cherohala Skyway this past June. It was 99% bikes on the Dragon. I didn't see anything scary like that box truck that went over the yellow line. My impression after riding the Dragon is "It's as dangerous as you want to make it." Yes, there is increased risk from drivers coming from the opposite direction, but from what I gather, many accidents are due to overconfidence of the riders themselves. My advice for first time riders of the Dragon is "1) Don't be a dumb ass. 2) Don't ride like a dumb ass." Also - I-75 through Tennessee and Kentucky was awesome!! Tons of gentle curves and rolling hills!!
Hi Jess. I'm an Australian and I have always wanted to visit your country and do what you are doing. Unfortunately, due to finance and life in general, it never happened. Instead I am now 75 and living my life vicariously through your adventures. keep doing you, girl. Ride safe.
You guys have way better stuff to ride over there. You dont wanna deal with Appalachian Americans anyway. The ride is fun the people and politic is indred
Cherohala Skyway is a beautiful ride. I did the Tail of the Dragon in 2017 on a Street Triple R at age 65. As you alluded to, the person that suffers my have done everything right, but it is the inconsiderate rider or driver that chooses to exceed their skill level and harms someone. Beautiful scenery . . . . love the mountain vistas at his time of year. At about 9:40 you offer the advice to riders that ride the Dragon to ride to the outside (or use the outer half or third of the road). That is GREAT advice. If you place yourself there you are riding with a greater degree of forgiveness of not only your errors, but those idiots that are incoming 700 - 1000 pound missiles with a closing velocity of 70 - 90 mph. Thank you for sharing.
I have to say I like everything that’s been on this channel. I love the traveling, the camping, the rallies, the motorcycle maintenance stuff in a fan since the channel started because of that.
Very nice ride. My first time on the Dragon was back in 1988. While using my sister's place in Asheville as a base I road all over hill and dale. I told her that I had ridden on the worlds curviest rode. The last time was two years ago too. Towed the beemer down to pigeon forge while on family vacation. While the fam slept in a couple of days, Dad went riding. US321, Foothills parkway, The Tail, back across to Cherokee, then up through the park back to Pigeon Forge. It made for a really nice loop. Thanks for the good videos. Keep it up!
I know a lot of people who have been to the dragon but I have no desire for some reason. There are so many roads here in New England I haven’t done and up here looks very similar to these videos you’re posting. Northern NH and Maine up to the Canadian border is absolutely breathtaking. I’ve yet to conquer it all but am trying. Glad you enjoyed your ride and thanks for sharing it with us. ✌️
There's a number of roads here in NH & ME that are as bad or worse than the "Dragon". My 10mi of back roads to work from Exeter to Seabrook is windy as heck. If you're stupid, you'll wreck. I rode home once at 2:30am blind in one eye w/an impact cataract on my 79' KZ1000 ST. Rode to work fine, after lunch, blind in my right eye. Drove to work that way for almost 2mo in my truck before I had surgery. Almost went off the road riding back roads on my 21' Vulcan 1700 Vaquero after I bought it, had to learn how to ride again.
I live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southern Virginia, THE REAL VIRGINIA. I live just 1 hour away from North Carolina and 1 hour and a half from Tennessee , so this video is really about my neighbors and my homeland. I was born in these Blue Ridge Mountains as was my family, with 250 plus years of heritage here in these Mountains.........There is truly no "Purty'er" (as we pronounce it here) place on Gods Green Earth. Im glad you enjoyed it down here Jess. Be careful and blessed going home. God Bless You
I enjoyed your commentary while riding. I have ridden the skyway and the dragon and the blue ridge parkway many times. Keep on riding and sharing. God bless America
I've ridden the Dragon years ago with no issue. Ride within your limits and don't cross over the center line. It can be a challenge if you are not used to riding in a mountain road environment. Weekends are bad due to the extra volume of traffic.
I live in Knoxville so the dragon is very close by. Most of the problems are the sport bikes going way to fast but also the 50 year old guys who bought their first Harley last month and think they are good enough riders to do the dragon. They are the ones who ride right off the side of the road in the middle of a turn.
Glad you had a better ride along 129 this time around! While I agree that when you need to get somewhere, the interstate is the way to go, I also agree that if you have the time, taking the side roads makes the trip 100% more enjoyable. Traveling through country roads and small towns is just a joy when there's no rush to get someplace. The scenery and the people can be really lovely. As someone who lives in a very flat part of the country, riding the Tail of the Dragon is something I look forward to traveling to on every motorcycle I've owned. It's just one of those fun adventures that really lets me get a feel for the full capability of each bike. As you and others have pointed out, however, it can be dangerous when people ride dangerously, because then they become hazards to the rest of us.
And this is why I love to ride. All the twist and turns and getting to lean the bike into the corners and all of the site seeing. We don’t all get to travel much with our bikes so when you video your trips we get to feel as though we’re there with you so keep riding and we’ll ride along with you. Thanks for all you do!😊
OMG... This in only my second video of yours to watch but I absolutely LOVE everything about this channel ! Great content, information, music, scenery and there's your absolutely addictive, bubbly personality ! LOVE everything about it. Great work ! keep it up !
Hi Jess, I found your narration accompanying the video to be perfectly balanced and very enjoyable. As for pros and cons of the Interstate system, I'm a retired truck driver and if I never see another Interstate in my life I'll feel blessed!
I wrecked in Arkansas on April 21, 2023. Broke my back, requiring surgery. Lost the entire riding season. Lesson learned. Fast forward 6 months and I have another Harley (insurance totaled my previous one), and I’ll spend the winter getting this unit back to the shape the old was in. Th en in the spring, I intend to ride the same route on which I wrecked this year.
You and Jordan have both been putting out a lot of great content. Your last two videos have been really beautiful. I have a two year old daughter who loves to grab my phone and say watch motorcycles daddy. I put your videos on and she gets so excited to watch you ride. Keep up the great work! Happy to be here for it.
The Tail of the Dragon is only as challenging as you make it. I rode it on a Monday, at reasonable speeds when I was brand new to motorcycling. Honestly, the mountain switchbacks on my way to Deals Gap from Spartanburg was the most challenging part of the trip.
There are some incredible roads In between Spartanburg and Deals Gap. Was just up there last week. Cut short from rain and friends recently fully serviced bike with new battery wasn’t installed well and ended up with a short. Lately we’ve taken a break from that area to discover new roads on the other side of Asheville.
I enjoy these ride along type of videos. Seeing that view of the Tennessee River made the video a winner all by itself. Look forward to more ride along videos.
I live in NC and have ridden the Dragon several times. I'm with you and like to get on the dragon before the crotch rockets wake up. Some interstates are OK when trying to cover a lot of miles. I also like the fact that no one is going to pull out in front of me. I enjoy your videos!!!!
Love your videos! This last one was (as usual) well done!! LOVE the "giggle"! 😊 Rode the dragon LONG ago met a Ducati rider in a left hander (for me) with his knee down in my lane! Missed me by inches! NO desire to ride it again! I'll ride here in Colorado! 😉 Come on out next spring/summer!
Glad you got to enjoy the Dragon with light traffic. It really is a great ride when it is not super busy. Was there in the first of October and of course it rain on both trips through the Dragon. You really can spend a whole week riding in that area on roads no where as busy as the Dragon. I live about 2 hours east of Robbinsville in the Northeast corner of Tennessee and we also have some great riding here. Check out the Snake just outside of Bristol Tn. Have loved your last couple of videos.
If you ever come back to the Dragon area, recommend giving the Foothills Parkway a shot. My friend and I took my 80 year old father on his CanAm across the Blueridge, Foothills, Dragon, and the Cherohala as an epic adventure. Getting his action shot from KillBoy was the trophy.
Great Job, I live 20mins from the dragon and only ride it maybe once a year. So many great roads in the area there’s no need to mess with that death trap.
i've ridden the dragon several times, both directions. i think you over-hype the danger. that said, there are LOTS of better roads in the area, if one has the time to look for them, and explore. this is my first time seeing your channel. nice job!
Love the video. I rode that same route earlier this summer. Great riding. I agree with you too about the Cherohala Skyway......it is the best rode I have ever ridden. Thanks for the great content. God bless.
Great video Jess. I hear you about back roads taking more energy than the interstate. What I prefer depends on the goal of the ride. I've done skills classes and track days where I am absolutely exhausted at the end of the day but I only rode the bike 40 or 50 miles. 😂❤
Try riding off road at a 40,000 acre motorcycle park, loaded with mixed terrain, from rocks to grass to sand. Sand is the hardest. My 18 year old son had just completed cross country season, and I was past 50. I was exhausted.
Since you asked - I really love this style of video, you are just riding and talking and enjoying life. I stopped watching for a while when you were doing the other (I'm not sure how to describe it) style... The last few though, have drawn me back in and I can't wait for more. I think the other videos you were treating it more like a job ( I do realize that it is your job) and these are more down to earth and fun to watch. Also, I don't know if I missed it, but the Foothills parkway is a fantastic ride as well.
Even if you ride at your skill level, and use common sense, there's a good chance that an idiot who thinks he's a motorcycle racer (or a race car driver) will ride over their skill level and get you involved in their crash.
Actually it's not you it's them that make it dangerous, there are idiots that think it's a track. It's a highway and there is a reason there is a speed limit.
Ride that area several times a year... 129 between Robbinsville and Tapoco Lodge is by far one of my favorite sections. Cherohala Skyway is also a must in that area. So many great roads in that region... thank you for sharing! Also FYI the bridge just past Tapoco if you look east you see the Cheoah Dam that Harrison Ford jumped off of in movie The Fugitive.
This is the first video I've seen of yours, but check out the Foothills Parkway and Skyway. Both are great rides! Beautiful, and similar to the Dragon but not nearly as bad. Goes from the Smokies into NC. I used to ride it ALL the time (I'm from that area)
Thanks for another great trip Jess. I am never nervous riding on the back seat behind you you are very safe driver been back there along time you showed me alot of places I will never see and the other thing I don't spend no money seeing all these beautiful places thanks Jess hope I can see you here in Michigan you got to take blue star highway yes you go through towns but you will see some great views of lake michigan
Yes of course I loved this video , Dolly is looking great ! Glad you got home safely and had a wonderful time on the Dragon and a safe ride home , thanks for what you do 👍😎
Sitting in my living room youtube surfing motorcycles, Victory in particular. Your video experience was both awesome and emotional. You're a brave soul and enjoyable to listen to. We live in Tellico Plains Tennessee which is the other end of Cherohala Skyway. I took the trip with you as we've been on those same roads any times. I'm glad you arrived home safely! You're a happy soul. "The Lord bless thee and keep thee, the make His face to shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee, the Lord lift His countenance upon thee and give thee peace" as you ride, live and enjoy life. Semper-Fi.
I love your videos whether they're your own rides and thoughts or travel style on your way to an event. You say your true thoughts and zero BS. Keep doing what you're doing! ❤
You asked us to comment on this style video.I thoroughly enjoyed this one also.I started watching you years ago when you were doing alot of riding videos(local mostly on the 1st Harley i think).Keep up the great job✌️
that was beautiful country side, way diffrent than the west Tennessee where im from. I personally perfer the traveling vloggs work a stressful job on night shift. they help me unwind after a long night. always appreciate any video you put out know theres a lot of time editing and making it look good as possible. hope everyone has a good week and safe travels!
Cherohola Skyway is amazing and if you love that you need to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's super long, very similar to Cherohola but it has tunnels which is super cool. We do the Dragon twice every year. Just have to go your own pace, pull off if you get guys going faster than you and for the biggest safety window ride away from the centerline in case the people that think they are Moto GP world champion but are just squids cross the center line.
This time of year is my favorite time in that part of the country. All the beautiful colors and the Appalachian mountains are so beautiful early morning when the fog is lifting. Yes you do need to show more. Just do what you enjoy not what everyone else tells you. If you get a chance riding or just driving the Rockies in fall is really beautiful too. The Aspen are extremely beautiful in the fall. Thanks for sharing. Much love. Stay healthy and safe.
Great video! I rode passenger with my hubby on the Dragon a couple years back. We're planning another trip next summer, in which I'll be on my own bike. Kinda nervous about it so this was good to see! Keep up the great videos! Us lady riders are inspired! ❤
Nicely done! That's a beautiful area, that section of 129. The Dragon looks like an amazing stretch of twisties. But I'd always be wary of the street Rossi types low siding into my lane oncoming and wiping me out. Glad you made it home safely though. Thank you for sharing!
After last weeks video, I went and enjoyed the Cherohala, 129, 28, and part of the Blue Ridge pkwy. Thanks for the inspiration. It was a great weekend.
3 weeks ago, I rode from Pidgeon Forge back home to Memphis and never got on the interstate. It took me 11 hours with gas and lunch stops but I got to see parts of Tn. that I've never seen before.
I am enjoying this. I particularly like your videos that have a combination of riding and short visits for coffee. Your early videos of going to get coffee sucked me in to your channel. I like how the channel has grown but I really like when you find a scenic place for a coffee or a burger. What do you have planned for your next video?
I love your videos! And thanks to a nice couple weeks of weather, I've been getting a lot of fall riding in. Maybe I'll run into ya here in Cbus! Stay safe and keep the videos coming.
That pretty view is what my wife and I get to see everyday now. We left the big city and live near the dragon. I too hate the road because of the danger and rarely ride it. We love to ride the Cherohala and did so a few days after your ride. We can kill 4 - 7 hours on the bike talking on the intercom and taking in the scenery and did so again today.
I've backpacked 60 miles by the Fontana Gap in the summer, it was crazy, up mountain all the way, saw many bears and snakes, I wasn't in the best shape but it was my first section of doing the Appalachian Trail (AT) for the first time in my 20s. I went down with my spouse at the time much quicker and stayed in a nice relaxing cabin on a creek in TN much of the time spent in a hot tub healing my muscles. I lost like 25 lbs in 5 days. From the trail head where you passed near the Fon. Gap to Sevierville, TN I got motion sickness driving a car with all the twisties. It was a great time and learned A LOT. Since, I've done many sections of the AT throughout the east side of the country, but nothing was as crazy as TN & NC and I hit the highest point. Beautiful ride on bike, Jess. I can't wait to ride around there on a bike, I haven't had time or means on previous trips there.
Having grown up in N GA and riding motorcycles since I was 16 in the 80's, me and my friends would make the trip to the tail every other weekend in the summer.. we camped at TWO campsite and rode the dragon in both directions multiple times a day.. Loved it. A few times I pushed my limits, but only had a few close calls. Two of my friends became AMA racers so that's who I was riding with when I pushed my limits.. LOL.
Yes I enjoy these videos. I just got me a softtail and would love to ride with you one day. I also don't see many motovloggers worth watching anymore, but I have been watching you for YEARS! Keep up the great work!! I'm proud of you!
I’ve rode the dragon in the rain/fog and it sucked. I live close so I can go back anytime. The Blue Ridge and the skyway are my favorite. Thanks for all the videos. It’s awesome watching keep up the great work.
Good on you for pulling over to let the Grom's by....lol. That was funny. And that intersection of 411/129 can be confusing. If you're east of Knoxville, 25E off of 40/81 is a great road to bypass a lot of the congestion of Knoxville, and puts you out up in Corbin KY.
Across the Dragon to NC where I stayed last year was the shortest route. Was dark when I got to other side. Everyone trying to get there last run in before dark. Done it several times. Stayed away this year. Much better more enjoyable roads down there. Awesome areas to ride for sure. Good video!
If you want twisters go to West Virginia. The west side in particular. Every trip to the Dollar General is a more thrilling ride than The Dragon. Just alot fewer idiots to deal with.
Great vid...Great trip... Always feels good to be home......I kno u not gonna get wintered in over there...but I am...a few hours ride to day... Semi locally....Southern New Hamp...then temps plummet & moisture abounds....plus I fly to Texas on th 15th ...I am sure web I return @ end of month there will be ❄️ SNOW.....BUMMER
Loved the video! The Tail of the Dragon looks a fantastic road to ride, not so much in the rain and cold so good shout on missing the storms!! We have lots of the twisties over here in Wales, in fact it is mostly roads like that. Downside is it is also mostly raining! 🙂 Take care and ride safe. All the best from the UK
I love the motorcycle travel with commentary style of videos. I've done the Tail of the Dragon twice. The last time, a year ago hauling my Mini Mate tent trailer behind my old ST1300. I only did it for the photo op! Enjoyed seeing it through your eyes.
Excellent video... it's been 12 years since I rode Tail of the Dragon and this video brought back many good memories of riding my 2003 Harley Road, King Classic from Knoxville to Deals Gap and back to Knoxville.
I would have to say almost every video you put out is enjoyable to watch. But your travel videos either on the highway or back. Roads are usually beautiful, your stops to show look ouch, or wonderful and your commentary is often funny, but also enjoyable, thank you for letting us come along on the ride, and as somebody that I have never met and feel, I know, you’ll be good.
Loved Cherohala and the Dragon video. Being beyond familiar with the area, nice memory inducing journey. My OCD will forgive you for the blinking light :-).
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
The tail of the dragon has become the red badge of courage for many motorcyclists. I didn’t find it particularly challenging, but rather filled with other bikers who were bound and determined to see how fast they could ride it instead of taking a track day course at a local, motorcycle track and learning how to control their bikes better.
I didnt find it overly challenging either, but I can see it being pretty serious with ones trying to run through it at high speed and the tree of shame put some of that on display.
Agree completely. I found it monotonous.
There are MANY far better, twistier, challenging roads with good sightlines and are void of squids and cagers in that general area and elsewhere.
Deals Gap has EXCELLENT marketing but I wouldn't go back.
It’s not the road…it’s the drivers/riders.
Also, a key is to do that road on the not busy days. Used to be mid-week.
How much would a track course cost compared to just going to ride the dragon 🐉 ?
Hi Jess, I am a new-ish rider (3 years) and a friend and I rode the Tail of the Dragon plus the Cherohala Skyway this past June. It was 99% bikes on the Dragon. I didn't see anything scary like that box truck that went over the yellow line. My impression after riding the Dragon is "It's as dangerous as you want to make it." Yes, there is increased risk from drivers coming from the opposite direction, but from what I gather, many accidents are due to overconfidence of the riders themselves. My advice for first time riders of the Dragon is "1) Don't be a dumb ass. 2) Don't ride like a dumb ass."
Also - I-75 through Tennessee and Kentucky was awesome!! Tons of gentle curves and rolling hills!!
Hi Jess. I'm an Australian and I have always wanted to visit your country and do what you are doing. Unfortunately, due to finance and life in general, it never happened. Instead I am now 75 and living my life vicariously through your adventures. keep doing you, girl. Ride safe.
Wow,good on you...its never to late,even at 75 👍👍👍
Fro Ozz you can go to NZ easy enough. They have plenty of challenging roads with very few idiots on them.
You guys have way better stuff to ride over there. You dont wanna deal with Appalachian Americans anyway. The ride is fun the people and politic is indred
Cherohala Skyway is a beautiful ride.
I did the Tail of the Dragon in 2017 on a Street Triple R at age 65.
As you alluded to, the person that suffers my have done everything right, but it is the inconsiderate rider or driver that chooses to exceed their skill level and harms someone.
Beautiful scenery . . . . love the mountain vistas at his time of year.
At about 9:40 you offer the advice to riders that ride the Dragon to ride to the outside (or use the outer half or third of the road). That is GREAT advice. If you place yourself there you are riding with a greater degree of forgiveness of not only your errors, but those idiots that are incoming 700 - 1000 pound missiles with a closing velocity of 70 - 90 mph.
Thank you for sharing.
I have to say I like everything that’s been on this channel. I love the traveling, the camping, the rallies, the motorcycle maintenance stuff in a fan since the channel started because of that.
Very nice ride. My first time on the Dragon was back in 1988. While using my sister's place in Asheville as a base I road all over hill and dale. I told her that I had ridden on the worlds curviest rode. The last time was two years ago too. Towed the beemer down to pigeon forge while on family vacation. While the fam slept in a couple of days, Dad went riding. US321, Foothills parkway, The Tail, back across to Cherokee, then up through the park back to Pigeon Forge. It made for a really nice loop. Thanks for the good videos. Keep it up!
I know a lot of people who have been to the dragon but I have no desire for some reason. There are so many roads here in New England I haven’t done and up here looks very similar to these videos you’re posting. Northern NH and Maine up to the Canadian border is absolutely breathtaking. I’ve yet to conquer it all but am trying. Glad you enjoyed your ride and thanks for sharing it with us. ✌️
Only live a few hours away. You haven’t missed anything. Ridden it a couple times. Much better roads within an hour any direction from the Dragon.
There's a number of roads here in NH & ME that are as bad or worse than the "Dragon". My 10mi of back roads to work from Exeter to Seabrook is windy as heck. If you're stupid, you'll wreck. I rode home once at 2:30am blind in one eye w/an impact cataract on my 79' KZ1000 ST. Rode to work fine, after lunch, blind in my right eye. Drove to work that way for almost 2mo in my truck before I had surgery. Almost went off the road riding back roads on my 21' Vulcan 1700 Vaquero after I bought it, had to learn how to ride again.
Living here in NH I would agree.
Please stay in New England
I live in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Southern Virginia, THE REAL VIRGINIA. I live just 1 hour away from North Carolina and 1 hour and a half from Tennessee , so this video is really about my neighbors and my homeland. I was born in these Blue Ridge Mountains as was my family, with 250 plus years of heritage here in these Mountains.........There is truly no "Purty'er" (as we pronounce it here) place on Gods Green Earth. Im glad you enjoyed it down here Jess. Be careful and blessed going home. God Bless You
I love this!! I haven't even been there (yet) but I got a little teary eyed when you pulled off for that spectacular view. It's just beautiful!!!!!
I enjoyed your commentary while riding. I have ridden the skyway and the dragon and the blue ridge parkway many times. Keep on riding and sharing. God bless America
I've ridden the Dragon years ago with no issue. Ride within your limits and don't cross over the center line. It can be a challenge if you are not used to riding in a mountain road environment. Weekends are bad due to the extra volume of traffic.
I live in Knoxville so the dragon is very close by. Most of the problems are the sport bikes going way to fast but also the 50 year old guys who bought their first Harley last month and think they are good enough riders to do the dragon. They are the ones who ride right off the side of the road in the middle of a turn.
If you can properly ride a bike youre good. If you cant properly ride a bike you dont need to drive one anywhere let alone the tale of the dragon.
We Love your vids, and the Fact that You ride by yourself. Be Safe and keep the vids coming !
great video!..love these types of rides for those who have put our bikes away for the winter already...this is welcoming!...keep it up!!
Glad you had a better ride along 129 this time around! While I agree that when you need to get somewhere, the interstate is the way to go, I also agree that if you have the time, taking the side roads makes the trip 100% more enjoyable. Traveling through country roads and small towns is just a joy when there's no rush to get someplace. The scenery and the people can be really lovely.
As someone who lives in a very flat part of the country, riding the Tail of the Dragon is something I look forward to traveling to on every motorcycle I've owned. It's just one of those fun adventures that really lets me get a feel for the full capability of each bike. As you and others have pointed out, however, it can be dangerous when people ride dangerously, because then they become hazards to the rest of us.
And this is why I love to ride. All the twist and turns and getting to lean the bike into the corners and all of the site seeing. We don’t all get to travel much with our bikes so when you video your trips we get to feel as though we’re there with you so keep riding and we’ll ride along with you. Thanks for all you do!😊
I hope you always video the travels you love to have. Make the video for yourself the rest of us will watch your joy. Be safe and have fun.
OMG... This in only my second video of yours to watch but I absolutely LOVE everything about this channel ! Great content, information, music, scenery and there's your absolutely addictive, bubbly personality ! LOVE everything about it. Great work ! keep it up !
Wow, thank you!
Love the channel. The camping videos are my favorite but the traveling ones are awesome too
You asked if we liked these types of videos and my vote is, a big yes. Thanks for taking us along!
Always in joy watching your videos, keep them coming and always be safe.
Hi Jess, I found your narration accompanying the video to be perfectly balanced and very enjoyable. As for pros and cons of the Interstate system, I'm a retired truck driver and if I never see another Interstate in my life I'll feel blessed!
I wrecked in Arkansas on April 21, 2023. Broke my back, requiring surgery. Lost the entire riding season. Lesson learned. Fast forward 6 months and I have another Harley (insurance totaled my previous one), and I’ll spend the winter getting this unit back to the shape the old was in. Th en in the spring, I intend to ride the same route on which I wrecked this year.
You and Jordan have both been putting out a lot of great content. Your last two videos have been really beautiful.
I have a two year old daughter who loves to grab my phone and say watch motorcycles daddy. I put your videos on and she gets so excited to watch you ride. Keep up the great work! Happy to be here for it.
I love videos like this. I started following and watching channels like yours because I’m thinking of getting a motorcycle. Please keep them coming.
Go for it!
The Tail of the Dragon is only as challenging as you make it. I rode it on a Monday, at reasonable speeds when I was brand new to motorcycling. Honestly, the mountain switchbacks on my way to Deals Gap from Spartanburg was the most challenging part of the trip.
There are some incredible roads In between Spartanburg and Deals Gap. Was just up there last week. Cut short from rain and friends recently fully serviced bike with new battery wasn’t installed well and ended up with a short.
Lately we’ve taken a break from that area to discover new roads on the other side of Asheville.
I enjoy these ride along type of videos. Seeing that view of the Tennessee River made the video a winner all by itself. Look forward to more ride along videos.
I live in NC and have ridden the Dragon several times. I'm with you and like to get on the dragon before the crotch rockets wake up. Some interstates are OK when trying to cover a lot of miles. I also like the fact that no one is going to pull out in front of me. I enjoy your videos!!!!
Love your videos! This last one was (as usual) well done!! LOVE the "giggle"! 😊 Rode the dragon LONG ago met a Ducati rider in a left hander (for me) with his knee down in my lane! Missed me by inches! NO desire to ride it again! I'll ride here in Colorado! 😉 Come on out next spring/summer!
Stunning video Jess!🥰
I was just talking with a co worker about the tail yesterday. Thinking about doing it myself.
I love this. I went home and made my wife watch your last video because it was just so beautiful and peaceful. Thanks for what you do.
Glad you got to enjoy the Dragon with light traffic. It really is a great ride when it is not super busy. Was there in the first of October and of course it rain on both trips through the Dragon. You really can spend a whole week riding in that area on roads no where as busy as the Dragon. I live about 2 hours east of Robbinsville in the Northeast corner of Tennessee and we also have some great riding here. Check out the Snake just outside of Bristol Tn. Have loved your last couple of videos.
Great video as always Jess.👏👍keep on keeping on✌🏼
If you ever come back to the Dragon area, recommend giving the Foothills Parkway a shot. My friend and I took my 80 year old father on his CanAm across the Blueridge, Foothills, Dragon, and the Cherohala as an epic adventure. Getting his action shot from KillBoy was the trophy.
Second the Foothills Parkway. I live in Sevierville and work in Maryville, so I take the FP about once or twice a week to break up the ride.
I enjoyed Foothills and Cherahola much better.
That view at 6:01 is insane..the view alone is worth the trip. Good job Jess. Shout out from westmonre la.
I was hoping to take that trip in 2 weeks. Looks like we may miss the colors. Your ride was epic. Stay Safe!!
I live in the area. Our leaves are gone now by about 90%
Great Job, I live 20mins from the dragon and only ride it maybe once a year. So many great roads in the area there’s no need to mess with that death trap.
i've ridden the dragon several times, both directions. i think you over-hype the danger. that said, there are LOTS of better roads in the area, if one has the time to look for them, and explore. this is my first time seeing your channel. nice job!
Love the video. I rode that same route earlier this summer. Great riding. I agree with you too about the Cherohala Skyway......it is the best rode I have ever ridden. Thanks for the great content. God bless.
Yes, I want to see more vids like this. I like hearing your thoughts, random or otherwise, of your views and experiences.😊
Will do!
So glad to see you enjoying a BMW. Enjoy your "Real Time" Vlog as you go. Your choices for food / pictures / random stops is always interesting.
Great video Jess. I hear you about back roads taking more energy than the interstate. What I prefer depends on the goal of the ride. I've done skills classes and track days where I am absolutely exhausted at the end of the day but I only rode the bike 40 or 50 miles. 😂❤
Try riding off road at a 40,000 acre motorcycle park, loaded with mixed terrain, from rocks to grass to sand. Sand is the hardest. My 18 year old son had just completed cross country season, and I was past 50. I was exhausted.
Since you asked - I really love this style of video, you are just riding and talking and enjoying life. I stopped watching for a while when you were doing the other (I'm not sure how to describe it) style... The last few though, have drawn me back in and I can't wait for more. I think the other videos you were treating it more like a job ( I do realize that it is your job) and these are more down to earth and fun to watch. Also, I don't know if I missed it, but the Foothills parkway is a fantastic ride as well.
It's only dangerous if you ride beyond your skill level and common sense rules.
Even if you ride at your skill level, and use common sense, there's a good chance that an idiot who thinks he's a motorcycle racer (or a race car driver) will ride over their skill level and get you involved in their crash.
Actually it's not you it's them that make it dangerous, there are idiots that think it's a track. It's a highway and there is a reason there is a speed limit.
I agree, however you need to pay strict attention to the road, traffic and speed because it will bite you if you don’t! Peace.
Beautiful BMW. Absolutely beautiful.
Ride that area several times a year... 129 between Robbinsville and Tapoco Lodge is by far one of my favorite sections. Cherohala Skyway is also a must in that area. So many great roads in that region... thank you for sharing! Also FYI the bridge just past Tapoco if you look east you see the Cheoah Dam that Harrison Ford jumped off of in movie The Fugitive.
Yes Jess great job more please! Glad you got back safe from the Dragon! 😊
Hello Jess, Nice ride! Ride safe! Regards from Aruba Dutch Caribbean!
Great video! Smart riding, wife and I both love it. Looking forward to the next one.
This video and the last one have been some of my favourites that you have done. You can tell you had a lot of fun editing these.
This is the first video I've seen of yours, but check out the Foothills Parkway and Skyway. Both are great rides! Beautiful, and similar to the Dragon but not nearly as bad. Goes from the Smokies into NC. I used to ride it ALL the time (I'm from that area)
Thanks for another great trip Jess. I am never nervous riding on the back seat behind you you are very safe driver been back there along time you showed me alot of places I will never see and the other thing I don't spend no money seeing all these beautiful places thanks Jess hope I can see you here in Michigan you got to take blue star highway yes you go through towns but you will see some great views of lake michigan
I've watched both of your last two videos. Keep up the good work!
Some gorgeous views, from a looong day. Thanks for sharing.Thankful for the safe trip home.
Hey Jess, yesssss I throughly enjoyed your travelling content. You seem to enjoy them too, so serene. Nice job
Another very good vid, keep up the good work. The freestyle of this one worked very well.
loved the last video with all of the new music and narratives etc. i see Jarod is kind of doing the same thing. i likey
I love my R18 B and, from watching your videos, it appears you do as well. Lovely.
Yes of course I loved this video , Dolly is looking great ! Glad you got home safely and had a wonderful time on the Dragon and a safe ride home , thanks for what you do 👍😎
Sitting in my living room youtube surfing motorcycles, Victory in particular. Your video experience was both awesome and emotional. You're a brave soul and enjoyable to listen to. We live in Tellico Plains Tennessee which is the other end of Cherohala Skyway. I took the trip with you as we've been on those same roads any times. I'm glad you arrived home safely! You're a happy soul. "The Lord bless thee and keep thee, the make His face to shine upon thee and be gracious unto thee, the Lord lift His countenance upon thee and give thee peace" as you ride, live and enjoy life. Semper-Fi.
I love your videos whether they're your own rides and thoughts or travel style on your way to an event. You say your true thoughts and zero BS. Keep doing what you're doing! ❤
I appreciate that!
You asked us to comment on this style video.I thoroughly enjoyed this one also.I started watching you years ago when you were doing alot of riding videos(local mostly on the 1st Harley i think).Keep up the great job✌️
that was beautiful country side, way diffrent than the west Tennessee where im from. I personally perfer the traveling vloggs work a stressful job on night shift. they help me unwind after a long night. always appreciate any video you put out know theres a lot of time editing and making it look good as possible. hope everyone has a good week and safe travels!
Cherohola Skyway is amazing and if you love that you need to ride the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's super long, very similar to Cherohola but it has tunnels which is super cool. We do the Dragon twice every year. Just have to go your own pace, pull off if you get guys going faster than you and for the biggest safety window ride away from the centerline in case the people that think they are Moto GP world champion but are just squids cross the center line.
This time of year is my favorite time in that part of the country. All the beautiful colors and the Appalachian mountains are so beautiful early morning when the fog is lifting. Yes you do need to show more. Just do what you enjoy not what everyone else tells you. If you get a chance riding or just driving the Rockies in fall is really beautiful too. The Aspen are extremely beautiful in the fall. Thanks for sharing. Much love. Stay healthy and safe.
❤ Thanks for sharing! The Tail is on my bucket list, love the twisties! You are AMAZING! ❤❤
Great video! I rode passenger with my hubby on the Dragon a couple years back. We're planning another trip next summer, in which I'll be on my own bike. Kinda nervous about it so this was good to see! Keep up the great videos! Us lady riders are inspired! ❤
Nicely done! That's a beautiful area, that section of 129. The Dragon looks like an amazing stretch of twisties. But I'd always be wary of the street Rossi types low siding into my lane oncoming and wiping me out. Glad you made it home safely though. Thank you for sharing!
After last weeks video, I went and enjoyed the Cherohala, 129, 28, and part of the Blue Ridge pkwy. Thanks for the inspiration. It was a great weekend.
That is awesome!
I do like this format! Thank you for sharing your adventures with us.
Awesome, thank you!
3 weeks ago, I rode from Pidgeon Forge back home to Memphis and never got on the interstate. It took me 11 hours with gas and lunch stops but I got to see parts of Tn. that I've never seen before.
The video was great...your descriptions are entertaining!
I am enjoying this. I particularly like your videos that have a combination of riding and short visits for coffee. Your early videos of going to get coffee sucked me in to your channel. I like how the channel has grown but I really like when you find a scenic place for a coffee or a burger. What do you have planned for your next video?
I love your videos! And thanks to a nice couple weeks of weather, I've been getting a lot of fall riding in. Maybe I'll run into ya here in Cbus! Stay safe and keep the videos coming.
That pretty view is what my wife and I get to see everyday now. We left the big city and live near the dragon. I too hate the road because of the danger and rarely ride it. We love to ride the Cherohala and did so a few days after your ride. We can kill 4 - 7 hours on the bike talking on the intercom and taking in the scenery and did so again today.
I got that far & watch till the end. I love to watch your travels.
I've backpacked 60 miles by the Fontana Gap in the summer, it was crazy, up mountain all the way, saw many bears and snakes, I wasn't in the best shape but it was my first section of doing the Appalachian Trail (AT) for the first time in my 20s. I went down with my spouse at the time much quicker and stayed in a nice relaxing cabin on a creek in TN much of the time spent in a hot tub healing my muscles. I lost like 25 lbs in 5 days. From the trail head where you passed near the Fon. Gap to Sevierville, TN I got motion sickness driving a car with all the twisties. It was a great time and learned A LOT. Since, I've done many sections of the AT throughout the east side of the country, but nothing was as crazy as TN & NC and I hit the highest point. Beautiful ride on bike, Jess. I can't wait to ride around there on a bike, I haven't had time or means on previous trips there.
I enjoy this video and all of your other videos! Be safe!🤘🏍
Having grown up in N GA and riding motorcycles since I was 16 in the 80's, me and my friends would make the trip to the tail every other weekend in the summer.. we camped at TWO campsite and rode the dragon in both directions multiple times a day.. Loved it. A few times I pushed my limits, but only had a few close calls. Two of my friends became AMA racers so that's who I was riding with when I pushed my limits.. LOL.
Yes I enjoy these videos. I just got me a softtail and would love to ride with you one day. I also don't see many motovloggers worth watching anymore, but I have been watching you for YEARS! Keep up the great work!! I'm proud of you!
I’ve rode the dragon in the rain/fog and it sucked. I live close so I can go back anytime. The Blue Ridge and the skyway are my favorite. Thanks for all the videos. It’s awesome watching keep up the great work.
The Smokies in the Fall is one of the best things in life! Glad the ride was better than anticipated. Ride safe!
Liked the way you ride .very safe and enjoyable.
Good on you for pulling over to let the Grom's by....lol. That was funny. And that intersection of 411/129 can be confusing. If you're east of Knoxville, 25E off of 40/81 is a great road to bypass a lot of the congestion of Knoxville, and puts you out up in Corbin KY.
It’s always fun being apart of the ride!!!! Thank you
Always!
When you go back, ride The Foothills Parkway from 129 to Wears Valley just outside Pigeon Forge, TN
Across the Dragon to NC where I stayed last year was the shortest route. Was dark when I got to other side. Everyone trying to get there last run in before dark. Done it several times. Stayed away this year. Much better more enjoyable roads down there. Awesome areas to ride for sure. Good video!
Started my Monday watching your new video! 🥰
If you want twisters go to West Virginia. The west side in particular. Every trip to the Dollar General is a more thrilling ride than The Dragon. Just alot fewer idiots to deal with.
Love riding the area! Will only ride the dragon in the mid week, weekends are too crowded. Beautiful part of the country!
Great vid...Great trip...
Always feels good to be home......I kno u not gonna get wintered in over there...but I am...a few hours ride to day...
Semi locally....Southern New Hamp...then temps plummet & moisture abounds....plus I fly to Texas on th 15th ...I am sure web I return @ end of month there will be ❄️ SNOW.....BUMMER
I very much enjoy this type of video.
The music you've been using lately is really nice.
Thank you very much!
I love your videos. Keep them coming!
Loved the video! The Tail of the Dragon looks a fantastic road to ride, not so much in the rain and cold so good shout on missing the storms!! We have lots of the twisties over here in Wales, in fact it is mostly roads like that. Downside is it is also mostly raining! 🙂 Take care and ride safe. All the best from the UK
I love the motorcycle travel with commentary style of videos. I've done the Tail of the Dragon twice. The last time, a year ago hauling my Mini Mate tent trailer behind my old ST1300. I only did it for the photo op! Enjoyed seeing it through your eyes.
Excellent video... it's been 12 years since I rode Tail of the Dragon and this video brought back many good memories of riding my 2003 Harley Road, King Classic from Knoxville to Deals Gap and back to Knoxville.
These types of videos are great. The dragon is on my Bucket List. Hopefully, I'll get to it next year.
I would have to say almost every video you put out is enjoyable to watch. But your travel videos either on the highway or back. Roads are usually beautiful, your stops to show look ouch, or wonderful and your commentary is often funny, but also enjoyable, thank you for letting us come along on the ride, and as somebody that I have never met and feel, I know, you’ll be good.
I love these style videos! They are the most enjoyable to watch for me
I LOVE taking my Porsches on the Dragon. I don't ride a bike anymore and I do miss it.
Loved Cherohala and the Dragon video. Being beyond familiar with the area, nice memory inducing journey. My OCD will forgive you for the blinking light :-).