Shady Valley, Tennessee

June 5th, 2004

By

Bobby Smith

 Paul Randolph and I left Farragut, wove our way up the interstate and met an impressive group at exit 407.  Waiting for us were Jim and Linda Hickey, Ned Goodman, Herbert “Peanut” Davis, Glenn and Audrey Owens, Lee and Julie Gann (1^st timers!), Terry and Ruth Ann Elmy and Bruce and Yvonne Pirtel.  Sandee Bible paid us a visit but didn’t ride with us. Good to see you Sandee.

 We left McDonald’s, topped off the tanks and made our way to the intersection of Highway 107 and state road 81 just northwest of Erwin.  We were to meet Dan Robinette, and Michael and Sharon Trudgeon at a small store at the intersection.  Michael and Sharon greeted us and said that Dan had called to let them know he had overslept but would arrive shortly.  Apparently Dan made good use of his FZ1 as he arrived about 10 minutes later.  Dan took over as leader since he knows the area like the back of his hand.

  Mountain City was the next stop and Dan took us over some great roads on our way.  Beautiful scenery, sweeping turns and we soon pulled up to Mike’s Pig Out.  The barbecue was great.  They had no inside seating but had covered picnic tables which were perfect in the mild temperatures.  Full and ready to ride Dan led the way up 421 into Shady Valley .  The ride was amazing.  In my opinion, this road is much better for our type of riding than the Dragon.

 After a short break we started down highway 91 through the Cherokee National Forest .  The combination of the forest and the road made for a wonderful ride.  Dan left the group just south of Johnson City , Glenn and Audrey headed out for Morristown and Michael and Sharon left for South Carolina .  The rest of us made our way back toward Knoxville with riders peeling off to make their way home.

 Thanks to everyone who came to ride and especially to Dan for showing us some great roads.  Dan said we’ve just scratched the surface so we’ll be sure to return to this area so he can take us on what promise to be more great rides.