| Last April, Brian Jackson and the crew from Corbin's Ride On traveled to Maggie Valley, North Carolina, and the majestic scenery of the Smoky Mountains, for the 2 nd annual Thunder in the Smokies Motorcycle Rally and Bike Expo. After he arrived, Brian spoke with event organizer, Chris Anthony, who told him why this rally had become an instant success. Chris said that first of all, Maggie Valley is just a friendly place! Of course, he also added that the riding there was great. Maggie Valley is located just two miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway and as Chris said, "Every road is a scenic highway."
There were plenty of things to do at this great location such as sightseeing and camping. There were also several great hotels in the area if you didn't want to "rough it," but the main focus for these rallyists was riding and while he was there, Brian got a chance to get his "knees in the breeze" along with the help of a Victory Vegas that was loaned to him by the good folks at Asheville Motor Sports.
Chris went on to say that the great thing about the Blue Ridge Parkway is that it is not commercialized! There are no billboards, no restaurants, and no shopping malls, just riding in one of the most scenic locations in the country. He also added that because of this "natural" environment that many riders are a bit intimidated because of the lack of roadside attractions, but prospective riders can go on-line and print maps of the Parkway route so that they can better plan their trips; however, one rider who doesn't need a map is Nikki Green Rogers, better known as "Hollywood," who has been riding these mountains since she was seven. To put it simply, as far as riding goes, Nikki told Brian "Nothing beats Western North Carolina."
Now, while the riding was the main attraction, the rally also featured several events and other things to do. There was a bike show, a Veteran's Salute, plenty of games, live music, and several vendors. One special vendor was Frieghahlieghn Draco, a man who performed glass engraving while he was blindfolded! While the vendors and other attractions were great fun, then there were the bikes and their owners! Later that day, Brian had the chance to meet with some of the rallyists and talk to them about their bikes. First, Brian ran into Terry Rogers and what seemed to be his vintage Indian motorcycle; however, a closer look revealed a bit more. Terry told Brian that the bike was actually a 2000 Kawasaki Drifter 800! Terry said that he started shopping for aftermarket parts for his bike and that he decided to go with the classic Indian look. He told Brian that he picked up many of the parts on eBay and at swap meets. He also added some other cool "vintage" touches as a "suicide shifter" and a trumpet horn! Terry said that his bike receives many looks and many questions about his "vintage" bike! Thanks, Terry! Next, Brian ran into James Pigneri and his sweet custom ride. James said that the folks at Panama Custom Frame and Chassis in Panama City, Florida built the bike. Featuring a long and raked look, this baby will be a head turner wherever it goes especially with that 250 back tire!
As Brian spoke to organizer Chris Anthony one last time, Chris summed up the spirit of the folks who have already made Thunder in the Smokies a huge success. Chris said, "If you ride, then we have something in common." Enough said. If you would like more information on this year's rally, or want to see what's in store for next year, give them a visit on the web at www.handlebarcorral.com . That's it from the Great Smoky Mountains, so until our next ride, "Keep the shiny side up and Ride On!"
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