Solo Road Trip to Tail of the Dragon: Most dangerous road?

I went on a road trip, alone, to the Tail of the Dragon. On the way to the famous road in the Smoky mountains, I stopped at Wheels Through Time, rode through Foothills Parkway, Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort, Cherohala Skyway, and Blue Ridge mountains. Thanks to Triumph Motorcycles for lending me the Tiger 660 for the trip to review.
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[@clurra]

"I'd rather ride alone than in a group and feel loney" hits hard! 🖤

[@samuelfink4799]

I thought I was the only one that felt that way, I enjoy solitude over being with the wrong people. They absolutely drain me.

[@davegutierrez3670]

Isn't that the truth. Glad I'm not the only one

[@OneFreeMan17]

Same! I don’t feel lonely when I’m alone. I’m actually at peace. It’s when I’m surrounded by other people the loneliness creeps in.

[@sheilanolagal]

Please, when anyone asks, "Are you riding alone?" - Say NO, my friends/spouse/someone is going to be here in a minute. Great video, love the scenery!

[@MotoBaumVirginia]

What I was thinking too. Why would they even ask.

[@HalfdeadRider]

@@MotoBaumVirginia Yes you have to watch out for weirdos no doubt, and it might be wise to do as the OP said. But they asked out of curiosity, it's rare you see brave women ride alone, especially on long trips, they just admire it that's all.

[@Brother-Huff]

That's smart thinking but being a local ,it's normal for bikers to ask that because riding alone is dangerous on the dragon. The video clips she was showing of that guy laying there .He was riding alone and died alone off the side of the road just 50 feet from help.

[@pennsyltuckyden9823]

@UCsXuRrENGUqE9nYRjaKESTw Maybe I'm old fashioned, but as a dad of a petit adult daughter, he might just be concerned about her traveling alone on a motorcycle. But I do know what you mean, it does sound a bit creepy. Some times you just can't win.

[@garyh7397]

@@Brother-Huff - no, the guy in the clip did NOT die. He did have to wait approximately 30 hours to be rescued….

[@gamb1t1]

i feel the same way about riding solo: something about being able to go at your own pace, not having to worry about keeping pace, waiting for slower riders, and being able to be alone with your thoughts. its always been my zen place... and always will be! thanks for sharing... and keep the rubber side down!!

[@michaelmorley331]

Nothing is as adaptable or adventurous as 1 person creating their own adventure....choose speed...route...motivation..stop when you like...loiter where you like... Group riding can be fun ..IF everyone rides for the group. Group dynamics are interesting and potentially risky. But nice to have help if script goes sideways

[@aluisious]

When you've got good friends who you gel with riding in a group is fun. I haven't had that for a while, people died (cancer) or got hurt and quit riding.

[@ericbuckland144]

Awesome video. I’m a big fan of independent bikers and I liked how you handled your bike that day. Thank you so much for taking our picture that day (9 minute mark). As I said when you met us, my buddy and I hadn’t seen each other since we were shipmates on our old submarine back in the day. Take care and keep the rubber side down!

[@savagefrieze4675]

Smart riders like you are very appreciated. Can’t tell you how much I appreciate the attitude that you don’t push unfamiliar roads! Got to know the rd, the bike and the skill level. Awesome, thanks 🙏

[@fallinginthed33p]

Yeah, it's the full send fools who give riders a bad rap. I would only go 5/10 or 6/10ths on a canyon or mountain road because the consequences of screwing up can be severe. Or even fatal.

[@squirel6025]

As a motorcyclist I always hate it when somebody starts a conversation upon meeting me with I've seen an accident today! Keep up the good work young lady.

[@GratefulOverlander]

Young lady, I have literally watched you since the beginning when it seemed you were white knuckling the S40..so that 1st scene of you on the freeway dancing with one hand in the air was AWESOME!!! I've told you this before, but as a rider of over 45 years I am so proud of your dedication and how far you've come. Very cool 👍

[@BaxterTheBiker]

There's probably more riders who go to the Dragon and the Smokies for fun and relaxation than for an adrenaline rush. You recently asked subscribers whether we show your videos to spouses or SOs. I showed this to my non-riding wife because you rode the Dragon sensibly and are very reassuring. Most Dragon vids seem to focus on the crazy. Also nice scenery shots. You captured what a trip to the Dragon is for me.

[@TheInfantry98]

That’s cuz most men/women live in pathetic fear

[@ecrusch]

Really love your channel Doodle. Everything, camera angles and shots, editing, music and just everything. Thank you for letting me tag along.

[@NyfLyf73]

Doodle,Doodle,Doodle this is the 1st time I have seen your channel. One word comes to mind ...... WHOLESOME!! Also Awesome, refreshing, generous. Generous of you to document and share what you saw, experienced , and learned along the way. You have a new fan. Thanks Again.

[@PetesNikon]

I love this video, Doodle. I agree with your comparison of the Dragon against the Skyway. The Dragon is only dangerous to those who misuse it; the racers and the speed demons and those not paying attention. There are a few tricky corners where the camber of the road changes and comes up to your peg. If you are already close to dragging a peg, then you are going to come off. Driving 'normally' in all those situations can be enjoyable and safe. You can spot the trick corners because of the white scrape marks left by others. I enjoyed that whole scene, Dragon and Skyway and I had a good time. I'm glad you did too.

[@glennhurst7659]

couldn't agree more! Rode the tail a few times and i am not out to set any speed records... will be riding it again this summer but i am kinda over the hype.. over rated.

[@aluisious]

It's dangerous for everyone, because the knobs who crash can crash into you.

[@mzbrayzn7404]

Nice to see you still riding, very proud of you. As a female rider myself, I also ride conservatively. I believe riding is a joy and thrilling in and of itself. I ride alone all the time, I love the solitude and the ability to set my own schedule, stop when I want, see what I want, no apologies.

[@kevinfarrell4430]

Hi. I just found your channel. I like. I do a lot of solo riding for exactly the reason you talked about. Come on up to Vermont. We have some great rides with beautiful views.

[@TK-cl1jm]

@@kevinfarrell4430 Indeed we do! Got back into riding here in VT a couple of years ago, bought a Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX a couple of months ago. Woohoo! Love 100, 30, 117, 125, 15, etc, etc ,etc! And of course we have the 'Dacks on our left and the Whites on our right! Cheers!

[@dm1927]

Well said Mzbrayzn 👍👍

[@chrisdavisunofficial]

I've watched many of your videos, and I don't know what you've done differently, but this is an awesome video. Next level, if you will. The thing you said about "go with the flow and let your plans be broken".....yeah, that's what life is about. Enjoy the moment and the journey. Thank you for another fantastic video.

[@davidh.2477]

I agree, and was thinking the same thing. Doodle’s development as a motovlogger and content producer has been brilliant and so much fun to watch and follow over the past several years

[@dalekidd420]

You're absolutely right, Doodle... too many people just never get past "I can't"! You have to WANT it enough to really start searching to turn it into "I bloody well WILL!!". And when you want it BAD enough, you'll figure it out. You'll go to whatever lengths it takes to get it. Hope I meet up with you on the road... sometime, somewhere. Keep the shiny side up, kiddo.

[@pcmountaindog]

The fact you found it to be not scary, shows you know how to ride. Stay safe.

[@amyv6957]

“Go with the flow, let your plans be broken and enjoy the ride”...duly noted ✅ There is so much goodness in this video, it would take me paragraphs to comment my appreciation. Just know it made me smile so big! Your adventures are always worth the wait. Great job, Doodle 👏 👏👏

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Thank you for always being such a ray of sunshine in the comments section! And patreon! And channel member! ❤️❤️

[@amyv6957]

♥️ I feel the same way about your videos, always so uplifting and positive. Thank YOU!

[@Nathaniel7420]

Yes, so much goodness.

[@speedfinder1]

This is a lovely video, thanks for posting ... Riding on your own has many advantages. A couple being, you can go at your own pace and enjoy the stops you want to make. For me the most advantageous part of riding solo, is that you don't get stiffed at the restaurant by those five people who came along with you, against your better judgement, who eat two months worth of food and drink 10 beers each, and then say "Oh let's split the bill 6 ways, when all you had was a plain cheese sandwich and a glass of cold water! An PLB would have saved that biker from having to lie there for 24 hours. Garmin have a product along with many others. These should be mandatory on long solo trips. "Press the SOS button on absolutely any part of the planet and the rescue services know you are hurting." These operate on the GPS satelite system and not the 'phone signal. If you are not in the bottom of a cave, the system can see you! Ride safe!

[@JamesAllmond]

so, you know the folks I used to ride with...I recently upgraded my GPS to include the emergency contact...solo riding kinda requires it...

[@savage22bolt32]

I don't like "splitting the tab" unless I had the lobster lol. My daughter wants me to get one of those satellite emergency button things, but I don't like to carry a bunch of electronic gizmos. Paper maps have done just fine for 60+ years.

[@speedfinder1]

@@savage22bolt32 As I get older, I've begun to realize that the paper map approach allows you to travel slower and be more aware of the route you are travelling and the countryside around you. Oh, and yes, the battery never goes flat in a paper map! 😁

[@neilmeiskey5482]

There are more advantages to riding solo than the other way around....I agree.

[@savage22bolt32]

@@speedfinder1 I'm retired & even tho I don't want one, I am sold the SOS device. After I fell & got pinned under my CRF250L in my back yard, I decided to carry one in a chest pocket. Also will learn how to use a GPS. It will make a good backup for my "no batteries required" maps! Not too concerned about getting lost - I don't want to accidentally end up on someone's private land. This summer I'm doing some Backcountry Discovery Route (BDR) riding. Some of the most memorable experiences have happened while lost, or broken down on the side of the road!

[@marjanjakshoski4979]

Congratulations to the girl because she has the best teacher and expert in riding mopeds.

[@scottaddicott8723]

We have a group from MI that has ridden the Smokies the last two years. We literally rode through the clouds this year on the Cherohala Parkway. Such a great experience!

[@Stuartrecardo]

I ride solo too, largely because of my job not granting me regular hours or weekends to enjoy with people but also personally it is so therapeutic and relaxing to just enjoy your own ride… picking the farthest Starbucks your gas tank allows gives me the best feeling when I can unchain my freedom machine and just chase the horizon. Your adventures inspire and I hope help more riders feel confident enough to take to the road less traveled… and of course find only the finest coffee or tacos in that place you decided to make memories.

[@robertgagne9355]

Riding the Tail of the Dragon and surrounding roads is fun, I would recommend it to anyone. My favorite roads are twisty mountain roads... I managed to hit a few mountain ranges, over the years and it never gets tired.

[@tobylopez445]

That is exactly how I like to ride, free of stress, direction and time schedule and stopping or turning to anywhere I want. That is what I call riding freedom. Be safe and Happy Trails Doodle! PS I am 74 yrs old and I will continue to ride my motorcycle 🏍 until the good Lord ask me for my final ride Home 🏡

[@tobylopez445]

Thanks 🙏 for the heart ❤️ Doodle, because I was missing mine after you won it with your lovely and delicate ways of making riding videos and being so humble and kind, God's blessings for you and your husband and family always. Be safe and happy trails 👌🙏👌🙏

[@FergusJohnston]

Ooooohhhh, I love the sound of that Triumph, of ANY Triumph, in fact...The whistley gruntiness...mmm

[@phil4986]

Nice video. I loved your lone rider explanation. You get to be with you.And that's freedom. Thanks for showing all the putting on the raingear,putting the box back on your bike,riding safely requires preperation and you showed that. You drove like as a sensible adult so no roads are dangerous when you do that . I love that bright yellow rainsuit. Someone says they can't see that,they need to not drive. Beautiful countryside. We have the same in Virginia and especially West Virginia too. Always somewhere else to road trip too. Enjoy.

[@ALICATMOTO]

"I knew you were Canadian because I saw shorts" Haha 😄 yup, it's a Canadian thing. You seem like such an honest and good person Doodle and I can tell you genuinely like what you do and that makes your videos even more entertaining. Love your channel. Keep up the good work.

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Canadians and their shorts when I’m cold!! 🤣

[@Whiskers74]

That last part really hit home for me. I stopped riding about 20 years ago because of a back injury. After life saving heart surgery in 2020 I was determined to get back on a bike. It took me a further 13 months, but I finally found my Intruder 1500 (became the Boulevard C90 in the US), and now I ride unless I need the car for carrying stuff that the bike won't, as I find the bike more comfortable. What an amazing ride. Even from Australia I've heard of the Tail of The Dragon's reputation, and it sounds similar to a few roads within a few hundred miles of where I live, but they don't have the same reputation. Once winter is over and it warms up a bit, I hope to do a 2000+ mile round trip from Sydney down to Hobart Tasmania, but I need a bike with a bigger fuel range to do it. Saving my butt off so I can hopefully update by the end of the year. Stay safe, stay upright, and I look forward to more videos from you in the future. 🤘

[@timokeefe8476]

I'm just like you in the fact that I will ALWAYS chose my bike over a 4 wheeled vehicle. I'll use ANY excuse to ride. So happy to hear your determination payed off and you're at it again.

[@RideHealCapture]

when you said, "Tail of The Dragon, complete!", it was so wholesome, I got teared up. thanks for all the hardwork and time you put in these vlogs!

[@virgil2738]

Truly inspiring. Still remember your older video when you dropped your Bonneville. Look at you now hey. Thank for the inspiration as it inspired me to start riding. Now 1 year later, 15000km later, watching your journey, i cannot stop enjoying my journey. Be safe and keep doing this. PS: never mind the trolls. In life there will always be bad people, negative people, crazy people, bullies etc. Be positive, be strong. Even more so when you the voice that other people look up to hear.

[@alanhall7213]

Thanks for the video. It brought back good memories of coming down from Canada to ride the same roads a few years ago. At the time Dale Walksler, the creator and owner of Wheels Through Time was still with us. While walking through the museum we heard the sound of a bike being ridden between the exhibits...coming to a stop where we were standing. It was Dale and he couldn't have been more generous of his time. He even took us into his... normally off limits... workshop to show us the bikes he was restoring. A really great guy!

[@TheLenaweeTrekker]

The Tail of The Dragon is dangerous if your riding beyond your skill level, but that can be said of any road. My trip to the Cherohala Skyway and Tail of the Dragon was my first time in the mountains on a bike, and I can tell you, I was blown away by the great views. I had no trouble with either location. Great video.

[@jasonnichols8532]

Been riding 43 years and still enjoy videos of others enjoying riding and encouraging others to get out there.

[@mjordan812]

+1 on traveling solo. And - strictly speaking - when you're that high up, it's cloud, not fog. ;-) The Dragon is really technical, but, IMHO, not all that much fun. The Cherohala is just a lovely, relaxing ride. Looks like you stayed in the Microtel in Robbinsville (I recognized the flooring and window seat) - it's my usual place to stay when I'm in the area.

[@TheJhtlag]

Yeah, drove it in a car, pretty much got nauseous on the Tail (and even watching the two crotch rockets in this video makes me sick...really!) and the Cherohala, as you said, is a lovely, relaxing ride. I do remember some spectacular waterfall along the way.

[@ronfriedman8740]

Living in metro Atlanta, I'm four hours from the Dragon, so I've ridden it plenty. Now it's a bit more crowded than I like. On the weekends there are lots of eager riders on touring bikes and locals riding supermotos that'll pass you ...even on the right - it's insane. Besides the Cherohala, there's also the Moonshiner 28 & the Devil's Triangle and many others. The roads in North Georgia, western North Carolina and Tennessee offer some of the best riding on the East coast and I'd really love to retire to Ashville in a few years. Summer is here ...enjoy and ride safe!

[@TK-cl1jm]

@@ronfriedman8740 "...and many others." Taking notes here, haha, let's hear a few more suggestions! Back into riding up here in Vermont (I'm eyeballing that area to move to, also) and hoping to take a trip down there this Summer or Fall on new bike. Cheers!

[@ronfriedman8740]

@@TK-cl1jm As Billy Joel once said "it all depends upon your appetit". For me at 63 and riding a Goldwing, I no longer have the need to impress others. I ride my ride and enjoy the view. The Cherohala in the fall is spectacular. The morning sun burning off the clouds with the brilliant fall foliage is breathtaking. The sweeping turns aren't a challenge, but nonetheless demand respect. Dress warm with an extra layer packed in your bags ...it gets cold as you climb nearly 5,000 ft. and fill up before you head out for the 43 mile long trip to Tellico Plains, TN. Pick up a Tshirt from the H-D souvenir store on your left, if that's your thing, and ride it back. Then head over to Deal's Gap, grab another Tshirt and ride the Dragon so you too can say "veni vidi vici". Head back and hop on the Moonshiner 28 at Deal's Gap and head east to Maggie Valley, NC to visit the Wheels Through Time Museum. The museum was made famous with the popular TV show that displays over 300 American motorcycles Cars are plenty with everyone wanting to see the fall color so make lodging reservations and keep an eye out for cagers and other idiots. Those three rides together are certainly feasible totaling about 200 miles of the Great Smokey Mountains.

[@littlet-rex8839]

This past weekend I met up with some family from Florida, stayed in Suches and rode the Skyway, the Dragon , 28, Joice Kilmer and the Dragon hill climb, wolf pen Gap . 60 from Suches to Blue Ridge is great ride . I got in 650 miles on my t100 . Roads like the Dragon are my favorite ride.

[@korydyer8200]

I rode the Tail of the Dragon on Tuesday! I also ate at the Deals Gap station, took a picture in front of the giant metal Dragon, and met some amazing people! I've been watching your content for years, and you are one of my biggest inspirations for getting into motorcycles. Peace and Love, Kory

[@SmOoThYwOoDy]

My wife of 27 years and I like riding alone for the same reasons. We can go at our own pace and stop and see anything we want. We have a 2009 Electra Glide and got it for the comfortable ride. Safe travels

[@blackbart8451]

Ah the memories! I lived in North Carolina for 13 years and have traversed across NC, SC, Tenn, VA, Ky while living there. The mountains majestic the views humbling, and beautiful! Taking the back roads as much as possible. I miss riding those areas! You hang in there lady enjoy your videos and your perspective. Why is it that those who don't get it the first things they say is either something like "have you ever crashed" or "I saw a motorcycle wreck"? That always irritates me!

[@billemond6695]

You did good Doodle... Get out and explore, take a chance, most of the time you'll be glad you did. I enjoyed the video, really like the looks of the Tiger 660 and am looking forward to your ride report on it... I've been with you from the start and you have come a long way girl.

[@glennbrooks3615]

I loved the video, you make me smile from ear to ear through the whole video. Great job Doodle! You definitely are not a poser, you are now a professional rider, if you get paid for something it makes you a professional. Really really good. I will give you 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🏍

[@markjulius2006]

You're so lovely. Your energy and personality are awesome. Perfect for making these great videos. I have a 2023 Goldwing, and I would ride with you any day of the week. Good luck to you. I hope to see you on the road someday. ❤ A new subscriber.

[@ILOVERUSH101791]

I loved that last line about being more capable than you think. I started on a tiny Rebel cruiser and I recently tried test driving the bigger bikes adventure bikes like the 1250 GS and felt so uncomfortable because I couldn't flat foot and was scared to even test drive it out of the lot. Thought I'd never be able to ride those bikes and got really discouraged, but I came back 2 days later and just practiced on that thing for hours. Now my other bikes feel like tricycles and i'm very confident now! Amazing video btw, hoping to hit up the Smokey's at some point!

[@FasttoExcellence]

As a new female rider, I love your content! It makes me feel less scared and excited to ride when I commute to work and back! You're awesome! If Doodle can do it, I can too.

[@JC-hg5bg]

Keep that attitude, welcome to the club lol, I commute daily on my bike and its so enjoying, i've ridden for quite a few years.

[@VKWFIAT]

I have ridden here many times and have never gotten bored with it. The scenic views and the curves keep me coming back. I especially like running the full length of the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Skyline Drive for a longer scenic ride. Good work on this video. I enjoyed watching it.

[@gamingraptrcom9488]

If you've gone down on the Skyway or any lengthy mountain roads, you know it can be hours before AAA shows. Even longer if you can't walk and are waiting for other cyclists to see where you went down. So while the Dragon itself has more turns on it than any track ever will, there are a lot of cyclists running laps on it on the weekend. So getting out there while there are lots of other riders who can go by Deals Gap to let them know what mile marker you went down at lets them call in the 100% Privately Operated Volunteer Rescue Team. So while running laps on the dragon itself may be dangerous, I've spent enough weekends on it to stop and talk with the other cyclists who are all really good about looking out for their fellow motorcycle and sports car enthusiasts. If your really going to find a road you enjoy enough to run laps increasing your comfort and confidence in the mountains. The Dragon is one of the most technical and highly lapped by motorcycle enthusiasts and their are no side roads of any kind that might ignore the motorcyclist's right of way, or any two lane traffic that will continue to move into your lane after you honk at them and have to accelerate out of your current lane position when they don't immediately start going back into their own lane after you've honked at them. It's definitely more technical and constantly lets you feel that as you accelerate out of the apex of it's corners, but it's also one of the best roads for motorcyclists to gather on and plan events around. The motorcycle enthusiast energy on the weekends is always impressive and it makes you feel like taking the time to relax with some ice cream every few laps and take a bit of extra time enjoying the atmosphere while eating one of Deals Gap's Pineapple Burgers named for the turns 1.4 miles up from Wheelie Hill known as The Wall. It's a great burger and a good meal to enjoy before climbing the switchbacks of The Skyway. Glad you enjoyed cycling The Dragon and I really like that you took the time to mention how different it can be throughout the mountain weather. ^_^

[@marty3828]

Showing the views of your videos and the honesty of the bikes you ride is why all of us fallow you you show the good and bad .happy and safe riding.

[@ChaseJasperDown]

I’m so envious! What an awesome adventure and I love the voice over. It really made for a great video. Nicely done and thanks for sharing!

[@Farwalker2u]

Coincidentally, my son and I did the Cherohola Skyway a couple of days ago. Sunny day, Temps from 59 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit, 7 hours including two gas stops and a lunch stop; about 275 miles total. I agree with your opinion as to Cherohla being more scenic and the Dragon more challenging. I am predicting that your channel will achieve 100,000 subscribers before the end of this year. Your videos get better and better.

[@gittar]

"I can't" has followed me around my whole life and is a Nemesis. It stops people in their tracks and it is dangerous. After a career in the military, I irritated my bosses by proving it wrong, and got rid of people who lived it (because my life, and theirs depended on a can do attitude). BTW, wonderful video. I love the Smokies and Appalachians. I live in the Ozarks, retired, and I just breathe easy.

[@michaelmorley331]

You are correct. " CAN'T" is a serious problem...gets in way of learning and living...it is ego driven...ego is judgemental...the word "can't " can impair much! I do not tolerate it in my children or in my self...it limits potential and is self defeating.. when teaching anything....tennis...tablevtennis...riding a motorcycle...or motivation....learning ANYTHING! the single worst thing you can tell yourself.. I am missing my lower right leg...it is no problem!

[@CaliWaliDoDaDay]

I know this is my third comment, but I encourage you all watching to share this vlog with every young girl you can. You really know how to put together a great vlog, I totally enjoyed it.

[@lynnsample4549]

Great video! Riding within your skill set is always a must, so very glad you promote that. Glad you didn't give up riding! Hope to "run into you" one day on the road. Ride safe!!

[@ridesar]

A truly excellent trip vid Doodle! Really took us along and I very much enjoyed the laid back vibe. While the Dragon is technical, you have already done far more formal training than most riders ever do. It shows in your riding, the smooth lines and smooth control inputs because you've already thought ahead as to what you needed to do long before the bike got there. Folks who haven't put in the work to master the machine in a focused manner are going to have more trouble. Great "ride your ride" trip. Totally agree on riding solo, even when I head into the backwoods.

[@troyholt9728]

Thanks you inspire me! I’m a 57 year old new rider. I love your channel no posturing just good feedback on your motorcycle journeys.

[@Madmaxthecrazy]

You have inspired me to do solo rides. Unfortunately since covid most of my close friends have pulled away and phased everyone out and its been lonely but when I am on my Road king all that goes away and i just love the wind and the beautiful scenery wherever I go. I pick a town on the gps and select avoid tolls, highways and un paved roads and its just me and the backroads. It’s the greatest feeling in the world for me. In 2023 I am playing on hittin all the rides. Tail of the dragon, Daytona bike week, sturgis, and Laconia. I am disabled and on a fixed income so it might be very hard but I am hoping i can do most of them. My girlfriend of 23 years has been so supportive and does sooo much to help me be able to ride and I can never show her the love and gratitude for her. Keep up the great videos and stay safe on twos..

[@jorelplay8738]

Omg, Doodle, I can't express how much I love these roadtrip narative videos, they're just wonderful and make my soul warm. Take care and have Fun!

[@carolyneakili1]

Just beautiful! Tail of the Dragon is on my list and now there’s more! Thank you!

[@rockyrauf2529]

I have been riding since 1975. I truly enjoyed your video. Respectfully, Rocky

[@myclassiccarstory]

I 100% agree with riding alone. 99% of the time I ride alone for the same reasons that you do. Continue to have many safe and fun travels.

[@Ridehard4today]

Riding solo has its freedoms! Kudos to you for tackling the Dragon on a new to you bike. The second time I visited, I had just bought a new bike and opted not to ride the Dragon again. Technically challenging roads are great fun. Exploring and finding new ones are even better! Enjoy the ride! ✌️

[@Rebel_Canuck]

Love this type of video of yours. Both the ride and the 660 seemed like a good fit for you. However, I think it would freak me out having people (strangers) recognize me everywhere I went. Glad you mentioned Lea at Got2Go. She’s in Oman now. Amazing place. Keep doing what you’re doing and have fun doing it. Thanks for sharing!

[@WhtGooz4841]

Since 34 years I've been riding by myself. Never felt comfortable in a group. Just you and your bike is the ultimate freedom and peace When I miss my dog he and I head out in the convertible together, lol

[@donniebooth8478]

It’s so beautiful much more beautiful when it’s clear sunny day

[@motodiablo]

From a riding standpoint, I'd choose the Dragon. They would be close however, due to the excellent sweeping curves of the Cherohala Skyway. All in all, definitely worth riding both as well as the southern section of 129 towards Robbinsville. It was nice to meet you and I'm thankful that you had a great ride. Take care. :)

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Nice meeting ya, Charlie!

[@spaceflight1019]

Cherohala was a much better ride than the Dragon.

[@TheMeaningfulWorkMaven]

Thank you for sharing your ride on the Tail of the Dragon, Doodle! I am feeling more encouraged to get over there to ride it! Before, I was a bit tentative because of its infamous reputation! ✨️🏍💨

[@littlet-rex8839]

The Dragon is a lot of fun, best on week days because the road isn't dangerous the drivers are. Ride safe 🙂

[@jeremiazxongales639]

That's so cool how the rear bag comes off the bike and functions as a briefcase...

[@Preacher26]

Hey, that's the whole point. Having only 2 wheels is getting lost, and not even worrying bout it it's awesome. Oh, and love ur videos so far. I watched ur Sturgis "series," and my hats off 2 ya young lady ur a trooper and dedicated rider. Probably more dedicated and tougher then most men honestly lol but I'd keep up wit'cha haha. Keep riding keep sharing, keep posting, and God bless

[@markfisher2683]

Another great upbeat adventure;)! Thank you, as always- I think it amazes me most how positive you do your best to remain, regardless of conditions (which I'm assuming is your "natural effervescent " personality, and not just for the video)? Anyway- I'll give you the benefit;)! You handle all the "bizarre" , "simple" face to face comments from certain individuals with class , though I'm sure if we listened really closely, we could hear your eyes roll😅😂! "Doodle on a NOODLE", anyone🙃😂?? ha- You rode like a responsible adult, still had fun, and made the rest of us 2 wheel adventurers look good- And i agree with you about solo riding....a much more "zen experience". Take care! I hope you're enjoying the 660 Tiger still!

[@robspear6004]

Hi Doodle. I've only recently found your KZbin page. With every view I am getting more engaged in your adventures and learning from your advice and experience. Thanks for sharing! You are motivating me to ride better and more.

[@stephenhall6922]

Just completed the T.O.D. and Cherohala Skyway last week. It was a great ride. On our way there, coming from Charlottesville VA, rode Blue Ridge to Bedford and then over to Tazewell VA to ride the Back of the Dragon. 24 miles of twisties and elevation changes over to Marion VA. Just as challenging as the TOD if not more so. It was a blast riding 6 days through the mountains of Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina and Tennessee. Looking forward to more of that type of riding.

[@bradtanner6047]

We've ridden The Dragon and Cherohala many times. Glad you enjoyed it.

[@evemariedumais1461]

I've done the Skyline and the Blue Ride so far. I've also been un Mt Washington and went on many rides in Vermont and New Hampshire. Always on my trusty Road king mostly solo and sometimes with a passenger. I hope one day to do the Tail of the dragon😄

[@codemonkey181]

Love this video, the content and pace is fantastic. Makes me want to do a road trip right now!

[@TheSerenity63]

Thanks for the share. Great insight!

[@firesail6707]

I like how polite (southern) Charlie was. Very nice video and the bike looks great too.

[@bassbender7847]

I love your content. It's so well thought out with the way you edit it and it really brings a personal touch and perspective to the journey. Keep up the great work!

[@Mr20west]

I really like the just go with the flow. Some times your plans dont go as planned .Dope vlog

[@Surfrz3]

Thanks for taking us along on this beautiful road trip. I love the bike, it fits you perfectly. Be safe riding alone though. Peaceful vibes, awesome. 🧡😎👍

[@mikesalinas7198]

I am a New Orleanean who lived in Dandridge, TN for several years! And, I, like you, enjoy riding alone! I’m back near New Orleans, but I’m leaving in a couple days to ride up to Jefferson City, TN to visit my Daughter and Grandkids!

[@nobodyofconsequence9930]

You touched my soul. When you stopped at the top of the "Dragon" and said "the view is better from this side" I agree. My best bud, my father and I have ridden there for over 40 yrs. I spread his ashes there. I visit that spot every year. The view IS better from that side. Safe journeys to you.

[@MichaelH416]

The speed limit on the dragon has been lowered since it was designated a “dangerous road”. Still lots of hooligan riders that push their limits. The Cherohala Skyway was far better than the Dragon for me and my crew. Sorry the weather wasn’t great. But it was a good video. Thank you for sharing.

[@simoesc]

Thats what I do every now and then, ride solo through Europe. Just back from a one week trip to northern Europe. Its always amazing! And its just like Elspeth Beard says: Get lost!!! Its the best part.

[@aproperhooligan5950]

Love this. Thanks, Doodle!

[@johnwood551]

I’m so amazed that today’s bike riders crash and burn on this road and build it up to mythical status to ride it. I rode these roads 50 years ago on bikes no where near as good at handling as modern bikes. ALL the roads around East Tenn and NC were like this or worse .No Interstates to get you there. This road has actually be improved ,widened, signed and marked. We rode through the Smoky’s fogs at night on these roads. So ,LEARN TO RIDE FIRST, take your time and enjoy the cruising.

[@moppedbuaontour]

For me it‘s amazing, what people say about the tail of the dragon. I am an European, living in the Austrian mountains and in my area there are dozens of roads like this (as you can see on my videos…) and nobody has any problem on these roads😉

[@fundayatthepark9667]

US riders don't go through the rigorous A1/A2 training like those in the rest of the world and the vast, vast majority of riders are mostly used to straight roads and long distances, likely on heavy cruisers. Not to mention the chillaxed attitude many US riders have on gear and safety features. Helmet wearing is not enforced in many states and many new bikes are sold without ABS / TC. In the Land of the Free anyone can start directly on a powerful bike, hanging on for dear life in the curves. I find it really insane that you need to be 21 years old to buy alcohol in this country, but anyone can ride an R1 w/o helmet or gear at 16 with minimal 2-day MSF training (or without - police don't enforce it, really).

[@moppedbuaontour]

@@fundayatthepark9667 Thanks, that sounds like a good reason👍

[@kimberlymcfadden9010]

Love it Doodle, stay safe.

[@Sehk009]

"You are always more capable than you think" that line hit me hard... thanks Doodle

[@carlkristoffersen]

I've been down there many times over the years. Last year, I went twice (the real reason was looking for land in TN. coming from CT). First time on a Sprint 1050, the second on a Daytona 675. Each bike has a favorite choice of the two roads. My preference was the Daytona on the Dragon. In prior trips, I did it with the guys and we spent a week based out of Fontana Village, which is on 28, another favorite road. I'll be waiting on your review of the 660 to see if it's my next bike. :-)

[@TK-cl1jm]

Hey Carl, that's all well and good, but the REAL question is, how have you done in your land search?! I'm in Vermont now, but will be looking for land in TN and NC over the next year. Any thoughts on general areas I should check out? Cheers and have a great Summer!

[@carlkristoffersen]

@@TK-cl1jm My plans were put on hold due to market considerations. This is not the time to buy a few hundred acres and build houses. Maybe in a couple years. I was looking south of the Maryville area, which is close to the Dragon. I actually have a few friends in that part of TN. If you like, you can contact me on FB.

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

Here's my FIRST solo road trip on a Harley Street Glide kzbin.info/www/bejne/lZ3XmaN9Z5t7mZo Here's the short rider tricks I apply to the Tiger 660 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKmqdqehebR3Y8k

[@brucegerken1063]

Goodmoring great video I love that aera I have road the dragon at night .the Vintage Japanese motor cycle rally is September 23 to 26 come join us we would love to have you. We will be staying at the iornhorse. There will be all kinds of bikes great people all are welcome this will be 22 years running.

[@tomandriello3575]

"Short Video"

[@DoodleOnAMotorcycle]

@@brucegerken1063 I’ll be at a wedding reception that weekend - mine, actually! 🤪

[@brucegerken1063]

Congratulations mabe next year always the last full weekend of September happy for you

[@jasonlazenby8895]

Come to the UK we some very twisty roads and scenery . I'm from Lincolnshire UK

[@brucerhodes8197]

I just stumbled on to your channel today for the first time. Took a quick look at some titles and had to watch this one... I spent the winter of 2009-10 in Robbinsville, have family there. My sister's husband is Ken Wheeler who owns and operates the only motorcycle shop in town, Wheeler's Performance... if you came from the Dragon into Robbinsville, you drove right past it... I'm with you, the dragon's twisties are better than the skyway, but the views from the skyway are breathtaking... Had a fun trip in my pickup down the skyway into Robbinsville when my serpentine belt broke, truck overheating and no power steering, minimal braking power... she was a standard, so at least I had that going for me... fortunately I knew the parts store was right at the intersection at the bottom and was able to coast the truck right into the parking lot.... ahh good times...lol

[@silverstar4289]

Hello fellow Triumph rider. My first time watching you channel. My only trip on the Dragon was in the early eighties. A friend knew about from a magazine article. I just tailed along with him , ignorant of what I was on. Finished and thought wow! That was a curvie road!

[@markmath2883]

Interesting watching videos of someone riding the same roads I am riding at the same time. I started in Huntsville, AL Monday riding up the Blue Ridge Parkway to Williamsburg, VA and returning to Huntsville after nailing the classic routes around Kingsport tomorrow and Monday. Today was rain and 50 degree temperatures; the same front you were riding in. I prefer the Cherohala Skyway over the Dragon, but will normally ride both of them.

[@joedangelo5640]

I rode the dragon for the 1st time during a thunderstorm (I had to - my cabin was on the other side). I have ridden it three times after that. Honestly, if you don't ride like a daredevil, it's not that challenging. 420 "The Snake" is more challenging than Deal's Gap.

[@tomandriello3575]

Yes 420 the snake into Tennessee is a very challenging road but amazing. Also "Back of the Dragon not far from Mount Mitchell off of the Blue Ridge Parkway, tight twisty turns.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

Isn't that true about any paved road? The first time I rode the dragon I didn't even know I was on it until I pulled into Deal's Gap. When I rode back the other way the psychological aspect of the "Dragon" kicked in and I kept noticing skid marks going off the road. Funny how I didn't notice them going the other way. I had to keep telling myself to look through the turn instead of at the skid marks. LOL! I didn't find the Snake as hazardous as the Dragon because there were fewer vehicles and the blind curves weren't as blind where you risk a vehicle over the yellow line like on the Dragon. There are way more challenging roads that aren't tourist roads, and way more challenging roads because they have driveways and tractors to contend with.

[@dannyh982]

421

[@carlosmarroquin1156]

So brave, thanks for sharing

[@charlesharper7292]

Your videos are so much fun! Thanks!

[@Paiadakine]

That old guy at the hotel reminded me of my dad. My dad was a surgeon, he would tell me about working on someone who crashed their motorcycle after he helped me get my first street legal motorcycle in high school. His way of telling me to ride safe.

[@brucebaughman3283]

I just found out my 18-year younger sister had never been on a bike. I took her on the same trip about a week ago. It was about 500 miles for her first ride. She really seemed to enjoy it. We got rained on about 4 different times on the trip. She was a trooper. Never complained a bit.

[@sonboogie]

Excellent video. Thank you. 👍

[@turbolag5107]

This video randomly popped up on my feed. I'm glad I watched it. I love your bubbly attitude and your level of enthusiasm. Stay safe out there.

[@artphrabbit6078]

Hello Doodle, I am PH Rabbit from NWA. I myself just did the Tail of the Dragon this last weekend. In a group ride. Wasn’t planned. Lol I ride a Suzuki Boulevard c109rt. Big back tire not the best for twisties. Never ever rode twisties like that. So i just rode my ride. And survived. Unfortunately there was a crotch rocket that went of the cliff. Not sure if he made it. Wanted to stop and pray for him or her. But would have put other lives in danger. EMT was on seen. So I prayed while riding. Would loved to go again on a Harley. Also I wanted to thank you for keeping your channel clean as for your language. I know some on here dont. But im no judge. I am apart of The Priesthood MM in Northwest Arkansas. And again i love your channel. And have mad respect for your husband. My wife lets me do my passion as well.

[@human1513]

Wheel Through Time is a great place. I spent more time there than I anticipated. It is cool when the owner starts an old bike and does a smoke show across the concrete floor indoors. Love riding in that area, the Smokey Mountains. I agree most of my trips are best when done alone. Whether a 2 day or 2 weeks or a month long trip. So many places to experience and people to talk to. Like when you stopped and took pictures for the 2 guys that where gettting together for the 1st time in 42 years.👍 It is cool how the motels have rags we can use to clean out bikes down there. Dragon: 11 mile 316 curves.

[@huangfroid]

I love everything about this video. Thanks for sharing

[@georgearevalo781]

That was awesome..thank you

[@hdatontodo]

Great storytelling. Thanks from MD.