Ordinary Biker Oz: Arkansas

Showing posts with label Arkansas. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Tail bag Review

Motorcycle Luggage

Extended motorcycle trips are a lot of fun and I look forward to those trips. The challenge with trips lasting several days is packing what is needed and/or wanted for the trip. Storage/luggage space can be a concern for all but a few touring bikes.

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For my June trip to the CMA National Rally in Hatfield, Arkansas and the Moto Oz Beat the Heat tour to Colorado I knew I would need some additional luggage. The Seahorse side cases are narrow (6.2 inches - interior) and I had a lot of camping and hiking gear as well as my food to transport.

Being a budget minded rider I wanted to get the biggest "bang for the buck" I could. I opted for the Viking Bags Economy Line Bag system. The bag is a combination of leather and Cordura. The stitching looked good and held up to tight packing and rough handling.

Both photos from www.vikingbags.com

The main bag's dimensions are 19X17.5X8 and the roll bag is 14X9. The mounting straps for the bags are sturdy and work to make a good tight fit. A rain cover, adjustable universal mounting system and backpack straps are included.

Photo from Vikingbags.com

The big zippered top opening allows for easy access which makes packing larger items convenient. It held up to being stuffed tightly, the seams did not appear stressed. The front pouch, with quick release strap, held smaller items for quick access.


Nice fit on the VStrom.

The D-hooks worked efficiently with the mounting straps or bungee cords to secure the bag on the bike and still allow for easy access to what is in the bag.

While on my trips I never had to use the rain cover so I decide to test the cover. The video below shows the rain cover works great. (Please excuse the amateur videoing)

I found the Viking Bag highly functional, well made and versatile. If you are needing some quality motorcycle luggage I would recommend Viking Bags. The Economy Line offers big bang for the bucks!

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* I have personally ordered from and/or visited this business and based on my experiences I recommend this company. I have an affiliate relationship with this business, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!

# Based on reviews, word of mouth and discussion with others I recommend this company. I have an affiliate relationship with this business, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!

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Thursday, November 10, 2011

Texas BBQ in Ouaticha Mountains

A good ride and a good meal is hard to beat. Mountain roads make for good rides. Combine the Ouaticha Mountains with a transplanted Texan who know bbq and you have great potential.

The Ouaticha Mountains stretch from Oklahoma into Arkansas (or I guess you could say they stretch from AR to OK) and there are numerous great roads in and around the mountains. The most well-known is the 50+ mile Talimena Scenic Byway. There are other lesser known roads that provide great views and an ample amount of twists and turns.

US 259 bisects Oklahoma SR 1 a.k.a Talimena Drive and runs north ending at US 59. US 59 parallels the Talimena Drive on the north side of the mountains from Arkansas until the US 259 intersection and then it turns north towards Poteau, OK.

Everyone is welcomed at the End of the Trail

Just about 3 miles north from the US 59/259 intersection sits the End of the Trail Saloon where Steve and Genise serve up great hospitality and awesome bbq. Less than 15 miles from the OK/AR state line and less than 10 miles off the Talimena Drive the End of the Trail Saloon is in the middle of some great riding.

Steve and Genise gave up wrenching on bikes in Texas for living the dream of

owning a biker establishment - good decision

The word on the streets is that the ribs are awesome! When I was there I tried the sliced bbq sandwich. The sandwich was great. The brisket was tender, flavorful, and juicy. I am ready to return and try the ribs.

True southern goodness!

In the short couple of years they have been running the place the reputation has grown.

Bikes fill up the parking area on the weekends

Treat yourself with a great ride through the Ouaticha Mountains and an awesome meal at the End of the Trail. You will be happy all the way home.

Tomorrow is 11-11-11, Veterans Day for us in the USA. I will not post tomorrow because I am taking my WWII veteran dad to the Dallas Veterans Day Parade. He and other Honor Flight vets are being honored with a Corvette ride in the parade and a luncheon at the Omni Hotel. So, I want to say "Thank You" to all the brave men and women who have served or are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces. I enjoy the freedoms that so many have fought and are fighting to preserve. These brave patriots have provided freedom and security for all of us. No words can adequately express my gratitude.

May God bless all of you who have served, are serving, and will serve this great nation. Happy Veterans Day!

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Oklahoma Scenic Highway

Anyone that has been riding motorcycles for long in North Texas, Oklahoma, or Arkansas has been asked "Have you ridden the Talimena Drive?" The national scenic byway is a well known road stretching along the top of the Ouachita Mountain in Eastern Oklahoma and Western Arkansas for 50+ miles and is a favorite destination for bikers throughout the region.

I have ridden the byway several times, but until recently I had not ridden many of the roads north of SH 1 a.k.a Talimena Drive (in Oklahoma). On a nice Sunday afternoon I found myself with enough time to add some miles to my trip to Mena, Arkansas. The map I had showed two roads with the little dots denoting "scenic" roads that would take me over the Ouachita Mountains and back, putting me in Talihina, the town just west of the entrance to the Talimena Drive.

Running on top of the mountains the Talimena Scenic Byway is spectacular (photo take from Rich Mountain Fire Tower, one of the stops on the byway)

At Wilburton, OK I turned east on US 270 and rode to Red Oak, OK (14 miles) where I turned back south on SH 82 and crossed the range again. SH 82 is being repaved in small stages. The new pavement is in great shape, the older portions are in good to fair shape (average road quality). I passed a lot of bikes while on the road, they were also enjoying the ride.

Twisties on SH 82

Once again the fun mountain road allowed me to lean the bike through some nice curves. 17.5 miles later SH 82 intersects SH 63 at the northern edge of Talihina, OK.

Although sadly closed on Sunday I stopped and took a picture at Treats and Treasures - one of my favorite spots in the area. It is an antique shop with an old fashion soda fountain. I was really hoping to get a shake or coke float, but the shop was closed so I had to settle for a snack and drink at a gas station in town.

Great place to treat yourself to an old fashion shake or ice cream -

at the intersection of SH 1 and SH 63 in Talihina

The loop from the SH 1/SH 63 intersecton to Wilburton, Red Oak, ending in Talihina is 50 miles. I am really glad I added the loop to my route. I enjoyed the roads and the scenery. If you are in the area plan on riding the loop before or after you ride the Talimena Drive. You will enjoy it.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

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* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company. I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Top Touring Motorcycle - What a Great Ride

I have now ridden the Yamaha FJR 6,000 miles since I got it in September. I posted my first impressions of the FJR shortly after buying it. Now I can give a more informed and experienced review of the bike.

Waiting for the start of a toy ride in November.

Having ridden a Yamaha VStar 1100 and a Yamaha Venture prior to get the sport tourer it took a while to get use to the more aggressive riding position. My knees being bent more and the added weight on the wrists took some time getting use to it, but it did not take too long.

The most impressive aspect is the sheer power. I went from nearly 100 horsepower on a 860+lb Venture to a 144 horsepower on a 644lb bike. The acceleration and speed is amazing and addicting. Passing someone is a breeze. Most time I don't even have to down shift. I just roll on the throttle and the power is delivered smoothly and effortlessly. I love it! If I had been on the FJR instead of the Venture I would have gotten out of the lady who ran the red light and hit me.

I quickly changed to seat to the Corbin. This is my first Corbin seat. It lowered the sitting position about 1.5 inches. The seat is comfortable and the pillion had a very noticeable improvement. The leather on the seat is tightly pulled and is high quality. I have found the seat to be comfortable, stylish, and well made. No complaints.

The handling is amazing. Low speed maneuvers are easy, especially after getting use to the large Venture. A quick U-turn is very manageable. Cornering in the twisties is awesome - now. I say "now" because it took me a while to get comfortable with the capabilities of the FJR, the greater ground clearance, and the different riding style.

This past fall I enjoyed a great weekend ride in Arkansas with some friends. (Previous post concerning Arkansas -Talimena Drive, Mena Mountain Top Cabins, Pig Trail, Country Store, Blanchard Springs Caverns) I was still learning the bike so I did not push the bike on the curves. After I got more miles in the saddle and I began to ride more aggressively. I really enjoy the twisties! The handling of the FJR is great! Drop a knee, shift a cheek, and press the handlebar - the bike eats up the corners with stability and smoothness.

Checking out the fall colors at an overlook on the Talimena Drive

I quickly discovered that I had to do something about the grips. My hands went numb quickly. After some research I decided to purchase and install Grip Puppies. The extra foam covering really made an impact. The bigger diameter of the grip and the extra vibration absorption alleviated the numbing. I also installed the ThrottleMeister throttle lock system. The added weight on the end of the handlebars reduced the vibration.

Grip Puppies and ThrottleMeister

The detachable lockable luggage is very convenient. They are so easy to remove and attach. With the twist of the key the bags are unlocked and can be lifted by the handle and removed. When in place and locked the saddlebags are also securely fastened to the bike. When feeling really sporty and I don't need to haul something with me I will leave the bags at home and show off the sexy design of the bike. (I need all the help I can get. :) )

Without the saddlebags

The detachable luggage is so easy to use.

The adjustable windshield is a nice feature. Passengers tend to like to have it at maximum height. I like that feature at times although I leave it down most of the time. The wind buffeting is great reduced when the windshield is at full height but, so is the gas mileage. The windshield goes down when the key is turned off which I don't mind but some riders would like it to stay at its current position until they manually change it.

The adjustable windshield allows for wind protection customization.

I have purchased some risers that will allow a more upright riding position but, I have not installed them yet once I do I will let post about them. I am not for sure I need them but, I do think they will make long rides more comfortable.

I am completely satisfied with my purchase - no regrets. I love riding the FJR. My biggest challenge is keeping my speed down when leading some cruisers on a ride. Not that I am running 100 mph but, I don't have to squeeze the breaks as much when approaching corners and acceleration comes so easy. I have to keep an eye on the mirrors to make sure they are still back there. :)

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

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Wednesday, February 9, 2011

One of The Best Scenic Roads in America

Southeast Oklahoma is home of one of the best National Scenic Byways, but possibly, one of the least known in the country. The drive was designated a National Scenic Byway in 2005. The Talimena Drive is 54 miles of curves, switchbacks, and rolling hills running along the ridge of the Ouachita Mountains from Talihena, Oklahoma to Mena, Arkansas.

West Entrance

In Oklahoma the drive is known as Oklahoma 1 and in Arkansas it is Arkansas 88. The road travels through the Ouachita National Forest and on the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain. Rich Mountain is Arkansas' second highest mountain at 2,681 feet. There are 22 scenic overlooks and several historic locations allowing for great vistas and good locations to stop and enjoy the views.

The Talimena Drive - miles of fun.

The two lane road is well maintained and well traveled. One has to watch for rocks on the road that come from rock slides and/or gravel from side roads and overlooks. There are several long straightaways that allow for some great acceleration, but be forewarned, the road is periodically patrolled. No trucks are allowed, but you will come across so RV's at times.

Notice the road on the top of the far mountain.

Any of the overlooks will provide a great view of the Oklahoma and/or Arkansas landscape. The drive also has its share of wildlife. I have seen deer, bear, rabbits, and other small mammals. Golden Eagles are active in the spring and winter.

Golden Eagle - seen from Eagleton Vista

The east 18 miles of the drive are in Arkansas and runs through the Queen Wilhelmina State Park. The park is home of the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge, one of the most historic lodges around. The lodge's restaurant has an awesome lunch buffet daily. Many times we have ridden up for lunch and then headed back home.

The lodge has spectacular views, hiking trails, and great food.

The views can make you take your eyes off the road, but don't.

Historic train at Queen Wilhelmina State Park, Arkansas

The road is awesome and well worth the trip. Several of the roads to get there are also scenic and great motorcycle roads. After you complete the drive you will want to turn around and run it back! It is a premier motorcycling road and screams to be ridden.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!

Top Five Oz Videos

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Awesome gear for every rider!

Feedback on these businesses is appreciated. You may comment below.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

HOME

Monday, September 6, 2010

Pig Trail Scenic Byway - WOW!

Arkansas has a lot of great roads with numerous twisties, tall trees, great vistas, and plenty of potential wildlife sightings. One of the well know roads is a 19 mile stretch of AR 23 in the Northwest part of the state. This section of AR 23 is designated The Pig Trail Scenic Byway and once you ride it you will understand why it is a Scenic Byway.

Northern end of the Pig Trail Scenic Byway

The Pig Trail runs between the towns of Ozark on the southern end and Brashears on the northern end. The Pig Trail runs through the Ozark National Forest and at times the trees create tunnels of green which to ride through. There is always the potential of wildlife sights, especially deer. One crossed our path shortly after this taking this picture, but could not get the camera out fast enough to photograph it.

The foliage is awesome.

It was late June, 2010 when I road the trail my second time. The grass was green, the trees full, the sun high, and the temperature in the low 90's. It was a great day for riding and the Pig Trail made for a great ride.

The road curves and twists through the Boston Mountain region of the Ozarks. There are sweeping curves, curves on hills, and tight twisties. Not the kind of road for a newbie or the timid. This LINK will give you a mile by mile account of the Pig Trail.

Watch for deer. We had one cross, but no picture of it.

According to others I have visited with, the wildflowers in the spring are numerous. The first time I road the Pig Trail was in October 2008 and the fall leave colors was spectacular.

There are plenty of curves on the Pig Trail.

If you are headed up to Eureka Springs, AR or Branson, Missouri plan your route to include the Pig Trail Scenic Byway. You will enjoy it and you may even want to turn around and ride it again!

In a lot of ways it reminds me of the Tail of Dragon - there are not a lot of access roads. It is longer than the Dragon and well worth the ride.