One of the Most Beautiful North Carolina Town to Visit!

Indeed, I understand that if you search for Chimney Rock online, you'll discover there are numerous places with that name worldwide, yet only one is located near Bat Cave! That's correct - Bat Cave, North Carolina, and unfortunately it has absolutely no connection to Batman or Robin.

The community would greatly benefit from visitors as they are still recovering from the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene in 2022.  

Located southeast of Asheville, NC, along the scenic US 74 Alternate.  Coming from Asheville once you pass the small town of Fairview, NC you will enjoy 10 twisty miles before entering the quaint town of Bat Cave.  Here you will find the entrance to Chimney Rock Park. Bat Cave gets its name from Bat Cave Mountain, which features a cave filled with numerous bats, quite interesting! This charming town boasts several shops and eateries.

The first time I visited Bat Cave we spent the night in Asheville, NC, ate breakfast before making our way towards Bat Cave and Chimney Rock. US 74 Alternate is a pleasant route. Once we were three miles out of Asheville, traffic was quite light. The ten-mile stretch from Fairview to Bat Cave is truly enjoyable, featuring several tight turns and six hairpin curves about four miles from Fairview. Having ridden the Tail of the Dragon twice the previous day, I found this ten-mile route almost equally exhilarating and far less congested, making it much less stressful and highly enjoyable, although shorter.

The second time I visited Bat Cave I led the group out and back from Almond, NC which allowed for a lot more curvy and scenic roads.   

If you look closely, you can spot some of the curves leading towards Bat Cave

 

 

Less than a mile ahead, you will encounter another set of curves with a slope, which, although not as sharp, have some delightful bends. Along the roadside, the beautiful yet invasive Kudzu climbs up the trees and mountainside unchecked.

Main Street, US 74, in Bat Cave

 

Upon our arrival in Bat Cave, we decided to explore a few shops and search for a place to grab an early lunch before heading to Chimney Rock. The quaint shops were full of character and enjoyable to browse. There were plenty of fellow bikers in town, indicating it’s a popular stop.

Chimney Rock viewed from Bat Cave

 Based on a recommendation from one of the shop owners, we chose to have lunch at the Riverwatch Deli and Grill. As the name suggests, you can relax on the back porch or deck while overlooking the Rocky River. We ordered our deli sandwiches and enjoyed them while gazing at the river and Chimney Rock above. The lunch was satisfactory, but nothing particularly memorable comes to mind; nonetheless, I would gladly dine there again.

We rode up to the park entrance, paid the admission fee, and began our ascent up the mountain. The ride was pleasant and shaded, with numerous pull-offs featuring picnic tables. Upon reaching the parking area, we decided to hike to Hickory Nut Falls, which is a remarkable 485-foot waterfall. We descended a series of steps leading to the actual trail.

Some of the steps guiding from the parking lot to Hickory Nut Trail

The trail spans 0.75 miles in one direction and is easy to navigate while providing ample shade. There are several spots to pause, relax, and take in the views of the surrounding mountains or the Bat Cave below. Near the end of the trail, we crossed a wooden bridge that led us to the base of the falls. It was quite beautiful, and I’m glad we took the time to trek the trail.

Hickory Nut Falls

After returning to the main parking area, we took the elevator up to the gift shop and bridge that leads to the top of Chimney Rock. Chimney Rock towers 315 feet above the base at the parking lot, reaching an elevation of 2,280 feet. Once we arrived at the gift shop and snack bar, we crossed the bridge to stand atop Chimney Rock. From there, we could see all of Hickory Nut Gorge, Lake Lure, Bat Cave, and the surrounding areas.

Lake Lure as viewed from Chimney Rock

We also hiked to the Opera Box (a fantastic place to unwind) and up to view Devils Head, a rock formation resembling what we imagine the devil's profile to look like. It’s an intriguing formation.

Devils Head - reminds me of the Duke Blue Devil logo

We thoroughly enjoyed the scenery. The Chimney Rock Park website claims that one can see up to 75 miles from the peak of Chimney Rock. I can't speak to the exact distance, but it was an incredible day, with amazing sights, and definitely worth the visit.

Chimney Rock as seen from the Opera Box

Chimney Rock and Bat Cave, NC is worthy of visit.  You will enjoy the scenery and the roads as they twist, turn, rise and fall through the North Carolina foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

 

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

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"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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Biker Oz Interview on Motorcycle Men Podcast

 

I became a fan of podcasts in 2019.  I listened to a lot of different styles and various topics with motorcycle related podcasts occupying the largest portion of my listening time. Some hosts his/her show solo while others use a team approach.  Some are 30 minutes or less while others are much longer.

Some podcasts were entertaining, some informative and some educational.  I continue to listen to have kept me interested and engaged.  In 2021 I posted a list of some of my favorite at the time - check it out HERE.  

However, at that time I had not started following Motorcycle Men podcast.  Many are no longer active anymore while others have built a good following, so I may need to post a new list of favorites soon.

Motorcycle Men is a four man team with the host Ted Kettler aka "Wrongway" and co-hosts Tim aka "Buktu", Chris aka "Joker" and Justin aka "Shoes."  The four guys "share with you their exploits of the road, the roads, the people, the destinations and everything that goes along with it." (Motorcycle Men website)

Broadcasting from the "V-Twin Cafe" stories, motorcycle information and laughs are plentiful.  One-on-one interviews with a wide range of people in the motorcycle world are frequent.  The range of topics and personalities has made the Motorcycle Men podcast one of my current top 5.

While listening to a particular interview with a man who rode to Alaska I was struck by how my experience riding to Alaska was quite different.  I emailed the show and mentioned how much I enjoyed my ride to Alaska with some friends.  Ted responded he was interested in my story.  After communicating we scheduled a time to talk.  I also go to share some of my experiences of track marshaling for MotoGP and MotoAmerica.

2024 I gave Joe Roberts a USA flag to carry as he celebrated his 2nd place finish

 

Follow this LINK to listen to any or all of their shows.  I believe you will enjoy them so give them a listen.  You can find the Motorcycle Men Podcast on various podcast platforms.   Check out past episodes and let me know what you think.

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!

* 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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The Rattler, North Carolina

It was a nice sunny Sunday in North Carolina (June 2014) and we had enjoyed a morning at the Wheels Through Time Museum and a satisfying lunch in Maggie Valley now it was time to ride.  I had planned a route which included a lot of curves, but I did not realize at the time NC 209 was also know as "The Rattler."

Nine of us on seven bikes jumped on NC 209 just north of Waynesville, NC at the intersection of NC 209 and US 23.  After 4 miles we rode under I-40.  The Rattler started off with 8 miles of easy long sweepers without a lot of curves.

Photo opportunity under the canopy near a river on The Rattler

Without much warning the road got really interesting and twisty!  The next 24 miles of NC 209 earned its name.  Fun tight turns with a few stretches of straights and a sweeping curve or two all under the canopy of the big trees and at times tracing Spring Creek made for some great riding.

My son, Richard, on his 2009 ZX6R Ninja

This was a great opportunity to get time on some Smoky Mountains roads before riding The Dragon (US 129) the next day.  This was my son's first summer trip on his new ride and on mountain roads like this.

We shifted a cheek and dropped a knee into the corners enjoying every mile.  The scenery was great and the shade nice, but going from shade to sunlight and back made for intense concentration due to the change in visibility.

MAP

Another factor adding to the fun and pleasure of the ride was the lack of traffic.  I am not sure we saw over 6 cars/trucks on the 33 mile ride.  We were able to ride at a nice pace and not be concerned about traffic.

The Rattle had a good amount of elevation change.  There were some uphill grades at 15.5% and down at -10%. Here is a website with more detailed information.

 Old country barn on NC 209

My only regret is not turning around at Hot Springs, NC and riding The Rattler back to I-40.  It is a great road and I will make sure to hit it the next time I am in that area.  I highly recommend it.

Honda VFR 1200 Review

Sport Touring Bike #2

The Honda VFR 1200 is my second sport touring motorcycle and here is a 11,000+ miles review of the 2012 VFR 1200.  Updated at 60,000+ miles

March 23, 2014 

 Shopping for a new Bike

I wasn't looking at the VFR originally, but a friend and R1 rider at the time suggested I consider it.  After some research on my own I decided I should at least sit on a VFR. 

I had a Yamaha FJR 1300 for almost 4 years (60,000+ miles) and was considering another one along with the Aprilla Copone and VFR.  After sitting on all three, looking at options, features, maintenance, insurance and overall "gut" reaction I decided the VFR was top of the three and I should test ride it. 

June 2014 ride to Nocona, Texas

My First Honda

After the test ride the negotiations began.  The discounted price was a big "plus" along with the fact my insurance company priced it as a two year old bike. Saddlebags would have to be ordered, but I could roll the cost into the final amount.
 
On May 31, 2014 I bought my first Honda motorcycle.  A new 2012 VFR 1200 with less than 5 miles on it, even after Mac and I took test rides on it.  For reasons unknown to me the VFR 1200 does not sell that well here in the USA, so this brand new two year old bike was mine at a great price.

The fit and finish is top of the line.  The sleek lines and curves gives the impression the bike is "fast" and the looks are not deceiving.  The 1237cc V4 produces smooth consistent power.  The stock seat is plenty comfortable for me and I have never felt like changing it.

Making it My Bike

I was not as confident as I wanted to be with the stock tires, but once I mounted the Michelin Pilot Road 2, confidence in the curves increased greatly.  I have since used the PR3 and PR4, both great tires.

I ordered the saddlebags for the bike, they do not come stock. I replaced the stock windsheild with the  Zero Gravity windshield.  The tinted windshield looks good and greatly reduced buffeting. I swapped the big bulky stock exhaust with the Two Brothers slip-on exhaust, which greatly improved the looks and the sounnd of the bike as well as dropping 12 lbs! 

I added T-Rex Racing sliders and Grip Buddies. I wanted to sit up more so I changed the clip on handlebars to Helibars.  I loved the comfort and the improved feel I had of the bike/road connection.
The Grip Buddies were added because I like the comfort of the bigger grip and the vibration reducing neoprene.

I added the Givi 46 litter top case since I am able to do a good amount of multi-day trips.  The Givi is durable, convenient and well made.  It is also a substantially less expensive than the OEM top case. 

Zero Gravity tinted windshield is about 2 inches taller than stock and works great.

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 That's a Wrap!

After about 2 years I decided to have a good friend put a wrap on the bike.  I knew what I wanted so I discussed it with Mike.  I left the VFR with him while I was riding in the Alps in Italy and Switzerland.  When I returned I was blown away by the work Mike had done!

In Wyoming on my way to Alaska.

In Wyoming on our way to Alaska

 June 2014 on US129 a.k.a The Tail of the Dragon - photo by Killboy.com

Putting on the Miles

I have commuted, ridden back roads with twisties, ridden in Dallas traffic, taken weekend trips and extended trips.  The VFR has taken me on the windy roads in the Smokey Mountains, including the Tail of the Dragon, and over many mountain passes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and New Mexico.  I have ridden a few miles in a day up to 650 miles in a day.  I have travel without saddlebags, with saddlebags and even fully loaded for camping.  I have put the bike to the test and I have found myself always smiling.

In Alaska on our way to Valdez
  
New Features for Me

This is the first bike I have owned with traction control and/or a slipper clutch.  I like the both features; however, the first time the traction control engaged was a little surprising and at the same time comforting.  I was glad to feel it work so much quicker than I could react.  The slipper clutch works great and makes downshifting smooth.  The single-side swingarm not only looks sharp it makes changing the tire very convenient.  I love that feature!

Enjoy the view from the Pikes Peak Veterans Memorial outside of Cripple Creek, CO

The seating position is slightly more aggressive than the FJR which took a little getting use to.  I like the lighter weight (589 lbs - wet - although I know that is heavy compared to some bikes) when it comes to backing up or moving around in the garage.  The detachable saddlebags are a great feature requiring just unlock the bag and lift the handle - very convenient.

Very easy to remove saddlebags
Final Impressions

The VFR's handling is solid and breeds confidence in the twisties.  There is plenty of ground clearance for leaning hard.  The levers are adjustable and operate smoothly.  Breaking is the best I have had (6 bikes so far).

I love the bike.  I can not stop smiling when riding (except when a distracted cager makes a bad move).  It is more "sport" than "tourer".  MPG for me has been consistently 39.5 with a mixture of city and hwy. 

If I were to retire and tour for weeks at a time year round I have to admit I would go back with the FJR due to comfort, storage, fuel economy (40mpg vs 44mpg) and sitting position.  But, for now I am loving every mile on the VFR!

Video Review

Video review after 35,000 miles 

Top Five Oz Videos

  

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us 

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* 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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2011 Thanksgiving Trip

Tomorrow my wife, son, and I depart on a highly anticipated and long planned trip.  Although, there will be no motorcycling involved I having be looking forward to our trip.  We are heading to Washington DC for 7 days/6 nights.  We will attempt to see as much as possible in and around the Capitol.

I have booked tours of the White House, the Capitol, and the Pentagon.  I was unable to secure a tour of the US Treasury Building.  {I was hoping to arrange a "summit" in the Rose Garden, but my conservative views disqualified me. :)  }  We will visit the Supreme Court Building, the Library of Congress, the National Archives Building, and the congressional chambers.  Neither House of Congress will be in session.

National Archives Building - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

I will take my wife and son to the see many of the same sights my dad and I enjoyed during the Honor Flight in October 2010.  We will visit the well-known Lincoln Memorial, The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, The Korean War Veterans Memorial, The Jefferson Memorial, The Washington Monument, and of course the World War II Memorial.

WWII Memorial - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

Lincoln Memorial - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

There are too many memorials and monuments we plan on visiting to list all of them.  We will make a special trip across the Potomac River to visit the Arlington National Cemetery.   While there we will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watch the changing of the guard ceremony.  The Marines Corps War Memorial a.k.a Iwo Jima Memorial is located in the National Cemetery which we will also visit.

USMC War Memorial - - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

Many of the Smithsonian museums are on our agenda.  Top on the list is the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, Air and Space Museum, Museum of American History, and the Museum of Natural History.  If time permits we will other museums of the Smithsonian.  We also plan to tour the National Cathedral.

The Washington National Cathedral - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

We have been planning this trip for a long time.  We were waiting for Richard to get old enough to understand and appreciate the trip.  He is now a freshman in high school and the time is right.

I will be posting about the trip, the sights, and the restaurants.  Of course I will post plenty of photos.  I know this nation is not perfect and our government needs some housecleaning, but I am proud to be an American and I am looking forward to visiting the Capitol of the United States of America.

Washington Monument rises above the soundings - photo take Oct. 2011 - Honor Flight trip

Happy Thanksgiving!