Arkansas

[Juice]

Arkansas

Where is the best riding in Arkansas? I might have to make trip up around Hot Springs. I am seriously considering taking the bike…....

[ka5ysy]

Contact Brad Johnson a/k/a Eor of AdvRider fame (Ulysses thread, and now owner of a 1200GS.)

contact information is here
http://www.advrider.com/forums/member.php?u=7103

He actually lives in Clarksville, somewhere around Little Rock if believe.

Doug

[Craig]

When are you going?

I'll friggin join you!

It's all good!



Arkansas

Where is the best riding in Arkansas? I might have to make trip up around Hot Springs for work. I am seriously considering taking the bike…....

[Navaho6]

Juice,

I have a book on Arkansas roads and an atlas. When you have time, I'll show you where I've been. There's a lot of good riding up there. I just got back from Hot Springs on Jan. 2nd. I rode my DR and my dirtbike. Unfortunately I got a little too much air under the KTM qwer and broke my hand New Years day so I'm "out of order" for a while.

[Shakey75]

.....Unfortunately I got a little too much air under the KTM qwer and broke my hand New Years day so I'm "out of order" for a while.
Dang. We're just a bunch of crips on here. Hope you heal up soon man!

[Juice]

Thanks Pat. As soon as I get the dates nailed down I will meet you for a coffee or something. Sorry to hear about the hand. What happened? How long are you going to be out?



Juice,

I have a book on Arkansas roads and an atlas. When you have time, I'll show you where I've been. There's a lot of good riding up there. I just got back from Hot Springs on Jan. 2nd. I rode my DR and my dirtbike. Unfortunately I got a little too much air under the KTM qwer and broke my hand New Years day so I'm "out of order" for a while.

[Juice]

I am considering riding up to Memphis then through Little Rock and over to Hot Spring. I will most likely just super slab 49 out of Shreveport for the return trip home. Is there anything of interest near Texarkana?

[Ritten]

Is there anything of interest near Texarkana?



http://growabrain.typepad.com/growabrain/images/deliverance.jpg
.....you sure gots a perty mouf.

[CajunRider]

I don't know if anyone mentioned it here yet, but leaving Hot Springs, take HWY 10 West (fairly staight, but nice long sweeping curves).

From HWY 10 take HWY 309 North. Here starts the really fun part. Hard Curves in the big hills. Follow 309 all the way to HWY 23 (The Pig Trail). The Pig Trail is HWY 23 between HWY 309 on the Southern end to HWY 16 on the Northern End.

You can then take HWY 16 East for a few nice miles.

Once up there, almost all the roads are nice. The little small roads going up and over all the big hills (What us Louisiana folks call Mountains) are quite nice.

I can map a few of the roads on GPS if you like. (Garmin)

[Navaho6]

I fell on my hand during a high speed get-off. I've been riding dirt for 13 years and done countless wheelies but never looped it until 1/1/07. I had just put on a new Pro Circuit pipe, replacing the smashed-up stocker. I wasn't expecting such a dramatic change in performance but when it hit the power band, it came alive like never before and at a bad time. I was doing a standing wheelie in 3rd gear (bad idea to begin with) and couldn't react fast enough so I let it go.

It's a complete break but not in a bad spot (base of middle metacarpal) so I'll be good to ride street in 3 more weeks but I'm staying off the orange beast until March 1st.


Thanks Pat. As soon as I get the dates nailed down I will meet you for a coffee or something. Sorry to hear about the hand. What happened? How long are you going to be out?

[Loss4wrds]

born and raised (20+yrs) in Arkansas 5+ yrs of riding in Arkansas
all the good roads are north of little rock an hour or two...
but there are some decent roads(pig trail) and cool stuff to see in the hot springs area on down. take a duck tour in hot springs if you have time and get away from the horse and dog tracks

[chuckklr04]

Been living in Houston after I moved from Houma. Right now I'm in Oklahoma City going to a DOT school. Such fun.

I'll be OK Feb 5 for an electrical class on Freightliner tractors. Who do you work for?

[CHAD1000RR]

Jucie, here's a route we've ridden last couple trips up there. It's an all day route, but definately worth it.


Download Arkansas.pdf (http://putstuff.putfile.com/36231/1178081)

[Booger]

Hey Guys, I butted in rudely and looked at the PDF file for Ark. SORRY! That is a great route marked on the map. I assume you are going on a sport bike and don't want dirt or gravel. The guy, whose name escapes me right now, from Dallas that puts on the FCT each year centers his rides around Clarksviile. He has a paved ride route and several easy dual sport and some more challenging routes that cross and criss cross the yellow route but generally stay inside what you have drawn. Oark is a stop on all his rides that are north of Clarksville plus the TAT (Trans America Trail) goes right thru that area including stopping at Oark Store also. if you go outside the yellow route either west and east and go to the north, there are incredible paved roads in every direction as you ride north. I have never ridden the dual sport trails outside the yellow line but they are many, many there. Nobody can say they have ridden all the good paved and dual sport routes in AR, I don't believe. I keep hearing about new roads and trails all the time.

I can get some of this together if you are interested and depending on when ya'll are going, I might like to tag along for some of it, The very challenging dual sport routes cannot be done on a KLR ridden by me. Its just too heavy. But the less challenging dual sport rides were perfect for heavier bikes like the KLR and some people went as big as a 1200 GS.

I already have bought the TAT gps points and charts for AR, MS, TN, and Colorado (which I plan on doing some of them this year) as well as some of the FCT routes. I could get even more routes if I knew the type bikes you will be riding, type roads you want, and how long you can stay.

Billy

[Ritten]

I just finished finalizing my accomodations for the weekend of Jan. 26th-28th up in Sedalia, Missouri. I'm going to be riding up into the Ozarks on the 25th, find a good camping spot and then head up to Missouri on Friday. I'll be coming back through on the 29th and will be taking two or three days to ride some of these great roads....camping in between. The GS will be loaded down, so no hard dual-sport trails, but I'll certainly be enjoying the curves. Anyone wanting to join in the ride on the 29th-31st??

[Juice]

Thanks Chad....That looks like it is going to be awesome.



Jucie, here's a route we've ridden last couple trips up there. It's an all day route, but definately worth it.


Download Arkansas.pdf (http://putstuff.putfile.com/36231/1178081)

[Juice]

Hey Billy

Thanks for the info. I will be going on my Strom. Company is always welcome. You are more then welcome to tag alone.. I am trying to get the dates nailed down. I will let you know as soon as I get confirmation. It is looking like late Feb. to early march.





Hey Guys, I butted in rudely and looked at the PDF file for Ark. SORRY! That is a great route marked on the map. I assume you are going on a sport bike and don't want dirt or gravel. The guy, whose name escapes me right now, from Dallas that puts on the FCT each year centers his rides around Clarksviile. He has a paved ride route and several easy dual sport and some more challenging routes that cross and criss cross the yellow route but generally stay inside what you have drawn. Oark is a stop on all his rides that are north of Clarksville plus the TAT (Trans America Trail) goes right thru that area including stopping at Oark Store also. if you go outside the yellow route either west and east and go to the north, there are incredible paved roads in every direction as you ride north. I have never ridden the dual sport trails outside the yellow line but they are many, many there. Nobody can say they have ridden all the good paved and dual sport routes in AR, I don't believe. I keep hearing about new roads and trails all the time.

I can get some of this together if you are interested and depending on when ya'll are going, I might like to tag along for some of it, The very challenging dual sport routes cannot be done on a KLR ridden by me. Its just too heavy. But the less challenging dual sport rides were perfect for heavier bikes like the KLR and some people went as big as a 1200 GS.

I already have bought the TAT gps points and charts for AR, MS, TN, and Colorado (which I plan on doing some of them this year) as well as some of the FCT routes. I could get even more routes if I knew the type bikes you will be riding, type roads you want, and how long you can stay.

Billy

[chappy]

Some say that Push Mountain Road (http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthEast/AR/AR_2.shtml) is the best in AR and I probably agree. If you get up that way try not to miss it.

[tino]

Some say that Push Mountain Road (http://www.motorcycleroads.com/routes/SouthEast/AR/AR_2.shtml) is the best in AR and I probably agree. If you get up that way try not to miss it.

10-4 on Push Mountain. They call it the Arkansas gap. (AR 341 south of Mountain Home.)

[ArkansasXC]

Looks like a GREAT route to me. Plenty of beautiful roads and scenery all along that route. I dont ride DS. I only have a dirtbike but I have driven those roads and ALWAYS wished I was on a streetbike. I think you will definately enjoy the route. Be safe! There are some winding, hilly roads along the route, all great though.

[Juice]

How about places to camp along that route? Any ideas or sugestions?




Looks like a GREAT route to me. Plenty of beautiful roads and scenery all along that route. I dont ride DS. I only have a dirtbike but I have driven those roads and ALWAYS wished I was on a streetbike. I think you will definately enjoy the route. Be safe! There are some winding, hilly roads along the route, all great though.

[ArkansasXC]

In all honesty, Im not real familiar with all of the camping areas along that route. What I would do is goto the USFS website and look at the listing of campsites there, some have pictures, and then decide which ones to stay at. Sorry I cant be of more help on this.

[Juice]

Ok, I finally got the dates. They are as follows. I will be leaving Baton Rouge on Thursday March 1st. The plan is to spend Thursday night in Memphis. Friday in Hot Springs and Saturday in the Ozarks. I will be home late Sunday evening. Anyone interested post up.

[Navaho6]

I would but I already have plans to be at Brock Creek (Ozarks north of Russelville) the following weekend for the annual "WUDI" (WUDSracer Invitational) non-event: http://members.cox.net/jejb/Wudi9/wudi9.html.

[Juice]

Hey Pat

We still on for tomorrow? Can you bring that Arkansas book with you? I would love to check it out...




Juice,

I have a book on Arkansas roads and an atlas. When you have time, I'll show you where I've been. There's a lot of good riding up there. I just got back from Hot Springs on Jan. 2nd. I rode my DR and my dirtbike. Unfortunately I got a little too much air under the KTM qwer and broke my hand New Years day so I'm "out of order" for a while.

[Ritten]

Ok, I finally got the dates from the man. They are as follows. I will be leaving Baton Rouge on Thursday March 1st. The plan is to spend Thursday night in Memphis. Friday in Hot Springs and Saturday in the Ozarks. I will be home late Sunday evening. Anyone interested post up.



Count me in. I'm going scope things out this weekend and then will be returning with Juice in a month.

WOOO HOOO.........Let's ride!

[Dirt Track]

Saw your proposed route. I'm not familiar with Hwy 309, but the roads north of I-40 are all good. Hwy 23 (Pig Trail) is a lot of fun, Hwy 21 has a lot of elevation changes and curves, all the remaining highways are good. You will not find a lot of gas stops along the way. On Hwy 23 north of I-40 at the Mulberry river bridge is Turners Bend. It is a small convenience store, gas station that caters to bikers. They have cold sandwiches and snacks. In Fallsville there is a very small store with two gas pumps. On the stretch of Hwy 21 shown on this route I don't remember any gas stations. There may be one near Kingston with a small store. Highway 74 between Hwy 43 and Hwy 7 is intersting. There are some switchbacks and elevation changes. Early in the morning or late evening it is possible you may see some Elk, yes, Elk. I did not know there were any in Arkansas until I went through there for the first time. Jasper has all services and the Ozark Cafe which is an Icon in this area. Hwy 123 is good too. I would stay on Hwy 16 east on the way back all the way to Clinton. You won't be sorry. It is full of twisties. All the roads have good surfaces and little traffic. All services available at Clinton also. This will be a nice route to run. A lot to see and fun roads.

Just north of Turners Bend, on the left side of the highway you will see a brown street sign for White Rock Mountain (Dirt Road). This is a fun dirt area. Lots of dirt roads through there and it is part of the TAT. I spend a fair amount of time in this area running the highways and the dirt tracks.

Hope this helps.

[Navaho6]

Juice:

You asked me about gas stops. Running the route that Chad gave you, I would gas up in Ozark or any place near I-40. Your next gas stop might be Jasper, a good place to eat, too (I recommend the Ozark Cafe). If you ride the Richland Creek wilderness area, the closest gas station is in Mt. Judea at the corner of 74 and 123 I believe (might be closed on Sunday) Heading south, you might not find a station until you get close to I-40 again. As I've been warned before, "don't pass no gas".

[Ritten]

Well, I'm packing and heading out in the morning. I'm shooting for Mt. Nebo for tomorrow night, but there's no telling where I'll be camping come Monday or Tuesday night. I'll be scoping and riding most of the roads listed above in preparation of the return trip up there next month. Full report coming...

[Dirt Track]

Going up Mt Nebo gives you a feel for what Colorado can be like. If you haven't experienced very tight switchbacks and an 18% grade you are in for a surprise at Nebo. You get quite the view from on top also.

[nickatnite]

You get quite the view from on top also.

Sunrise OR Sunset point is wonderful........

And you are looking down on the Arkansas river valley!! To be able to sit on the edge like that and dangle your feet over is amazing...

[Navaho6]

The section of Hwy 7 running south from Jasper to Hwy 374 is fun. Turn left onto 374 running east and you'll connect to Hwy's 74/123. Just south of Mt Judea on Hwy 123 are the tightest, steepest switchbacks in the area.

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Arkansas_Sept_2006_071.jpg

If you want to see some of the finest scenery and do a little off-roading, you should definitely head through the Richland Creek Wilderness area. It runs parallel to hwy 123 on the east side. It's a rough gravel road (FS 1205) that runs along a creek with several waterfalls: http://www.fs.fed.us/oonf/ozark/recreation/richlandcreekwilderness.html It's where this picture was taken:
http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Arkansas_Sept_2006_018.jpg

[Dirt Track]

Yep, Arkansas has a multitude of street and dirt areas that are fun to ride and full of nature's splendor. I keep going back for more and discover something new each time. I'm glad I live close enough to visit often.

[DukeRyder]

WOW those roads look Wickid! Hmmm this has me thinking real hard about making a trip up there, Mardi Gras maybe????

[CHAD1000RR]

Juice,

The info everyone is giving is consistent to what we experienced. The route I put up is just street riding, no dual sport (although I'm sure there are plenty trails and dual sporting areas there). I love the Arkansas roads and scenery.

Any of you frequenters to Arkansas familiar with this place? We were glad to see it....our bikes were running on fumes. I think it was somewhere around Jasper.



http://i12.tinypic.com/2i1i1ki.jpg


Highest octane sold at the place! Pack some octane boost.




http://i18.tinypic.com/4hhnded.jpg

[Navaho6]

Yeah, Low Gap is on Hwy 74 just a few miles west of Jasper, a couple miles before you get to Ponca Wilderness Area. That's elk country. They reintroduced elk to this area a few years back. This is the time of year that you're most likely to see them (on 74 too). The little town of Ponca has the finest cabin I've ever seen. It can be yours for $850/night!

Check this place out, especially the inside:

http://www.cedarcrestlodge.net/about.html

http://www.ozarkconnections.com/cedarcrestreview.html

[Ritten]

Sunrise OR Sunset point is wonderful........

And you are looking down on the Arkansas river valley!! To be able to sit on the edge like that and dangle your feet over is amazing...


Nick, I'm in Missouri right now and am just seeing your post. It's a funny thing to read this since I have pictures of me doing that very thing last night and this morning!!! The weather is absolutely GORGEOUS unfortunately, but at least it was down to 23 this morning! Mt. Nebo was great and is certainly a place to come back to.

[CHAD1000RR]

Yeah, Low Gap is on Hwy 74 just a few miles west of Jasper, a couple miles before you get to Ponca Wilderness Area. That's elk country. They reintroduced elk to this area a few years back. This is the time of year that you're most likely to see them (on 74 too). The little town of Ponca has the finest cabin I've ever seen. It can be yours for $850/night!

Check this place out, especially the inside:

http://www.cedarcrestlodge.net/about.html

http://www.ozarkconnections.com/cedarcrestreview.html


That lodge is very beautiful!

[Navaho6]

Here's some info you might find useful: http://www.motorcycleroads.us/ar.html

[Juice]

Hey Ted

Did you load that Route into your GPS?

[Ritten]

yyyyyyyyyyup.......I got the loop posted above as well as Mountain Push Rd.

[scootertrash]

Too bad Me and Nick are heading down to Daytona, this could sounds like a fun trip. Atleast there will be two ride reports..... be safe fella's1

[Juice]

8 More days!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[kenwelshons]

Juice and Ritten check you email... Let's try not to pack 40 lbs of the same tools.

[Ritten]

Same tools or not, I carry the same thing I always carry. Better to have three of the same thing than to have one and need two. Besides, I've always been a firm believer of carrying your own weight and having room in case of emergency. I'll have general and specific tools for my bike, camping gear, clothes, and not much else.

[scootertrash]

Whoa, just got my Givis mounted... now I can carry all kinds off neat stuff....

[Juice]

I will be leaving my Office on Sherwood @ 3:00 pm on Thursday afternoon. You guys want to meet at the McDonald's in St Franny for 4:00? How about we stop and grab some food in Natchez?

[dewnmoon]

I'll add a couple of places for you to note:
Camping: Gulpha Gorge outside Hot Springs, LK St Catherine SP (watch out for lots o deer), Mt Nebo SP, Petit Jean SP, Mt Magazine SP

Hwys: 27 & 28. nice sweeping secondary roads to clear the mind, these roads are lightly traveled
Hwy 309 to Mt Magazine (highest pt in Ark) from Havanna to Paris
Hwy155 to Mt Nebo (18 % grade w/ switchbacks). Just for the fun of it.
Hwy 23 Pig Trail (already mentioned)
Hwy123 & 16 in N Ark

Grub: Rivertown BBQ in Ozark (S 3rd st downtown. Tell um that "Boudreaux & Thibodaux" sent you)

Off the wall attractions: Quigley Castle (A couple of miles south of Eureka Springs)
Crater of Diamonds SP (bring your e-tool to look for diamonds)

Hang a Mtb Bike on the back of the ride as Ark has a lot of great trails

[Juice]

Thursdays chance of rain is up to 70% as of right now. Looks like we will get a wet ass on the ride up.

[Harland]

If I wanted to meet up with ya'll on Friday morning, where would I find ya'll? Will the start on Friday morning be in Hot Springs or Little Rock? I am new to the site and am from around Yazoo City, MS so I would be coming from there on Thursday afternoon. Thanks for the info.

[Juice]

I am hoping to make Hot Springs around 3:00. Are you farmiliar with that area? Do you have a GPS? We can send you a way point for a meeting spot?



[/I]
If I wanted to meet up with ya'll on Friday morning, where would I find ya'll? Will the start on Friday morning be in Hot Springs or Little Rock? I am new to the site and am from around Yazoo City, MS so I would be coming from there on Thursday afternoon. Thanks for the info.

[Harland]

I have a GPS but am just learning how to use it. Send me the way point and I will try to figure out how to put it in the GPS. In addition if you could give me the location just in case. Thanks. Harland

[kenwelshons]

I have a GPS but am just learning how to use it. Send me the way point and I will try to figure out how to put it in the GPS. In addition if you could give me the location just in case. Thanks. Harland

Meet at De Soto Park. Also, I think we will be there by 1:00 at the latest... If Juice is dragging his butt that bad I'll hook a rope to him and pull him down the road.

De Soto Park on the north side of town on Hwy 7. Near the intersection of Stonebridge Road.

http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&z=16&ll=34.535816,-93.031282&spn=0.011861,0.019913&om=1

Mickey's BBQ is just to the south by a couple hundred feet if you get hungry.

[kenwelshons]

If I wanted to meet up with ya'll on Friday morning, where would I find ya'll? Will the start on Friday morning be in Hot Springs or Little Rock? I am new to the site and am from around Yazoo City, MS so I would be coming from there on Thursday afternoon. Thanks for the info.

Harland, If you want to meet up Thursday Night we are going to be near Visksburg Leony Percy State park maybe... or Famerville, LA at Lake D'Arbonne State park.

Or somewhere near those two areas. It is going to depend on the weather mainly. We will not really know till dinner in Natchez Thursday evening.

[Harland]

Sorry for so many questions, but is everyone camping or are some moteling? I will probably not get to Hot Springs until late so I may motel it. How will I identify ya'll, i.e. what motorcycles should I look for? What time do ya'll plan on pulling out Friday morning? Thanks.

[kenwelshons]

Sorry for so many questions, but is everyone camping or are some moteling? I will probably not get to Hot Springs until late so I may motel it. How will I identify ya'll, i.e. what motorcycles should I look for? What time do ya'll plan on pulling out Friday morning? Thanks.

At dawn I will be saluting the sun with a warm fart song to stir Juice awake. On the road Friday morning by 9:00 after breaky and Juice does his hair.

If is raining bad enough we are going to motel it. Otherwise camping all the way. We will get to Hot Springs on Friday most likely before Noon. If you aren't going to be in till Friday night maybe we can meet somewhere north of Hot Springs at a camp site or dinner spot. Email me your contact info and I'll send you ours.

A GS a VTX and 2 V-Stroms are the bike most likely.

[Harland]

In reading the various responses, I thought ya'll were going all the way to Arkansas on Thursday, but if ya'll are meeting in Natchez on Thursday night, I will meet ya'll there. Let me know the place where supper will be and at what time and I will meet up with ya'll there. Thanks.

[Ritten]

I keep seeing advertisements for "Wild Hogs" and can't help but think of us riding up there to Arkansas. This could get interesting...

"They may know how to ride......but when they hit the road, they had no idea it would hit back!"

[kenwelshons]

In reading the various responses, I thought ya'll were going all the way to Arkansas on Thursday, but if ya'll are meeting in Natchez on Thursday night, I will meet ya'll there. Let me know the place where supper will be and at what time and I will meet up with ya'll there. Thanks.


We will be in Natchez between 5:00 and 6:00 pm on Thursday March 1st, 2007. We plan to eat dinner then based on the weather decided how far to push into the night.

I was planning on Digging some BBQ at the Pig Out Inn Barbegue at the corner of South Canal St. and State St. Near Broadway and the Bluff over look.

http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=BBQ&sll=31.561551,-91.405113&sspn=0.01331,0.019913&layer=&ie=UTF8&z=16&om=1

[six fiddy]

juice; a little to cold up there for my blood; i'll try to make the next one-----six fiddy-----P.S. you guys are a little more gung-ho than me; yall be carefull and have a good time

[Juice]

Cya guys in Zachary about 3:30........Harland will see you in Natchez?

[kenwelshons]

juice; a little to cold up there for my blood; i'll try to make the next one-----six fiddy-----P.S. you guys are a little more gung-ho than me; yall be carefull and have a good time

Yea, I hear ya' fiddy. The whole trip will be in yankee land (North of I-10) so we are going to take slow and easy. (I bet SOMEBODY will take a couple of shot at me for that comment... In coming fire from the ridge)

[Craig]

If ya'll make it to Fayetteville I know a good place or two with cold beer!

[Harland]

I will be at the Pig Out Inn between 5 and 6 tonight. I will be the old bald guy on a GS Adv. Harland

[jeffrides]

juice, jeffrides here . i've been reading your arkansas plans , thinking about meeting ya'll friday . where do you think you will be friday night ? and what is the latest route?
you have weather movin thru monroe/jackson today, should pass before you get this far north.
i see natchez is thurs night meat and eat.
hope to catch you ,jeff

[Juice]

Camping somehere North of Hot Springs. Pm me your e-mail addy and i will shoot you over a GDB file.



juice, jeffrides here . i've been reading your arkansas plans , thinking about meeting ya'll friday . where do you think you will be friday night ? and what is the latest route?
you have weather movin thru monroe/jackson today, should pass before you get this far north.
i see natchez is thurs night meat and eat.
hope to catch you ,jeff

[Ritten]

CraigVTX1300 and I are heading out now while it's still dry here in Houma. See ya'll this afternoon!

[Doug]

Safe journeys fellers...

[Navaho6]

juice; a little to cold up there for my blood; i'll try to make the next one-----six fiddy-----P.S. you guys are a little more gung-ho than me; yall be carefull and have a good time

Lows in the low 20's and highs in the low 40's this Saturday. Bundle up!!
http://www.weatherunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=Jasper%2C+AR

[Harland]

Juice, Ritten, Ken and Craig: Thanks for letting an old bald headed guy ride with ya'll. Had a great time. Hope I did not slow the group down too much. Look forward to future rides. Harland

[Ritten]

Lows in the low 20's and highs in the low 40's this Saturday. Bundle up!!
http://www.weatherunderground.com/cgi-bin/findweather/getForecast?query=Jasper%2C+AR



Dude!!! You could have posted this last week and gave us a little warning! It was 27 when we left Little Rock this morning. I think Juice said he's staying in the hot tub for the next two days, CraigVTX1300 is going to go buy a heated everything, and I'm just getting feeling back in my fingers after letting my insulated gloves go to the planner of the whole trip.

HOWEVER.....this trip was AWESOME in every respect. We hit some great roads, enjoyed some beautiful weather, and laughed a good bit. Pictures will trickle in I'm sure as the guys thaw out. It was great meeting you Harland and I'm glad to see you made it home ok. I see that Kenny hasn't posted up yet. He must still have midgets on his mind.

[UA99003]

Glad to hear everyone made it back .... cold but safe ...... Plus it looks like Juice made a complete ride with him and the bike in one piece !!!!!
Can wait for report and pics

[kenwelshons]

I made it back to the house at 12:36 am. I rode 717 miles on Saturday in roughly 15 hours to beat the cold front. When I got home the only cold part was the sides of my hips. It took some hot tube time to warm them up.

I had a good time and I loved the company, but I couldn't shack up in a hotel room with the Snore-a-zilla knowing the ride home on Sunday was going to be in the twenties.

I was in a prime alien abduction section of AR too at one point. The GPS routed me down a dirt road at night that was two tire tracks into the darkness and to top it off I couldn't see a light any directly... car or house. I had that "what the hell did I do feeling..." My pictures were lacking from this trip because I had to bring my big camera. I'll post them tomorrow.

The man in black gets my vote for Most Hard Core on this trip. I'll ride with Craig any time.

[kenwelshons]

Camping at it's best... on the ground. (It was Juice's idea)

http://images21.fotki.com/v578/photos/3/302107/4679971/IMG_5242-vi.jpg

[Juice]

That's just cause I'm a lazy bastard. What one does not put up today does not have to take down tomorrow......



Camping at it's best... on the ground. (It was Juice's idea)

http://images21.fotki.com/v578/photos/3/302107/4679971/IMG_5242-vi.jpg

[Juice]

The Players were:

Harland From Yazoo City, MS.


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Harland_From_Yazoo_City.jpg


The boys from the 69 myself and Kenny

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/juice.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Kenny.jpg


Ted From Houma


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Ted.jpg


& The winner of the hardcore award The man in Black "Craig" from Houston Texas.


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Craig.jpg

[jeffrides]

juice, i'm kinda sorry i didn't show up in ark .butt it was cold . i did ride down to centreville ,macidonia road,liberty road to natchez. cold as hell after dark coming back to jackson.
glad to read ya'll had a good ride.
what's next? i need to go camp/ride soon....
jeff

[kenwelshons]

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Ted.jpg



Ted's bike has wood...

[Ritten]

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Ted.jpg



Ted's bike has wood...



.....an extra 200lbs of wood to be exact! Let's see a 'Strom do that.

[kenwelshons]

.....an extra 200lbs of wood to be exact! Let's see a 'Strom do that.

Maybe that's why it was "knocking" down the front door when it got chilly...

[Juice]

Here are a few of the pictures from my Camera


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0261.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0212.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_020.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_019.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_018.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Kenny1.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP00111.JPG

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP0007.JPG


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP0006.JPG

[Juice]

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_110.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_1051.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_098.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_097.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_096.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_094.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_089.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_086.jpg

[Juice]

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_085.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_081.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_078.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0581.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_050.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_047.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0451.jpg

[Juice]

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_043.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0422.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_041.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0381.jpg

http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0341.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_0331.jpg




http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP00051.JPG


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP0004.JPG


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/IMGP0001.JPG

[Fitty]

Great pics. Looks like a good time.

[Navaho6]

Did you guys make the entire loop Chad had mapped out?

[Ritten]

Starting out, Craig met me at my house and we headed up to meet Kenny.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3158.jpg

Kenny was packed and ready when we got there and we were waved off by the next superstar motorcycle racer.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3165.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3167.jpg

Just a quick RAM mount malfunction early on in the trip, but with a spare I had, and 15min.......all was good.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3168.jpg

We met up with Juice at a Rally's.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3170.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3171.jpg

And the trip was on.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3173.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3175.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3178.jpg

We hit Natchez and stopped by the river for a few pictures and to line out where we would eat.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3179.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3181.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3182.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3183.jpg

We headed on to the Bar-B-Q place that Kenny recommended and I must say that there was no lack of good food here! Harland showed up with his brand new R1200GS Adventure.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3187.jpg

The grill
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3188.jpg

It was nearly dark by the time we left Natchez, so we just figured "what the hell" and rode on up to close to the state line. In the dark it was slower than normal, but we still hit some AWESOME back roads that I'd love to go back and ride on a nice day. It's always something to see a "night train" undulating through the twisties when you have this many bikes on a night ride though.

We stopped for gas and a quick warm up.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3190.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3193.jpg

Finally, we found the state park, but the gates were closed. No problem for dual-sports and one adamant cruiser though as we just did a little bit of "entrance redirection". We picked an open campsite and set up.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3194.jpg

There really wasn't much long discussion or stories that night since we were all pretty worn out. However, there were reports in the hours of the following morning that the loudest damn bear you've ever heard made an appearance in our camp. I don't know what they were talking about....qwer

[Pentabilly]

Ahh, great pics guys!!! Looks like a great time was had, despite the cold weather. Cool12 You guys rock!

[lovethewater72]

I love the pictures thanks for sharing!

[UA99003]

Juice

Did you get any video with new cam ????

[Juice]

I didn't but kenny did. I'm still waiting to see it myself? Post Up Kenny?



Juice

Did you get any video with new cam ????

[chappy]

Great pictures!
I see the sign for Petit Jean in one and I recognize the view from atop Mt Nebo. Did yall camp at both?

[Juice]

No, we camped at Lake Darbonne in farmersville the first night and atop Mt Nebo on Friday. It was in the 20's on saturday night so we grabbed a motel 6 in Little rock......


Great pictures!
I see the sign for Petit Jean in one and I recognize the view from atop Mt Nebo. Did yall camp at both?

[JayD]

Great pix guysCool12
Looks like a memorable ride

[six fiddy]

yall sure had a great trip; you guys sure are a salty bunch; great ridiin in north arkansas ; my hats off to yall ----six fiddy

[Ritten]

The morning came quick and the typical moans and groans were heard. Brian was snorting some water hoping it would help open his lungs up........no such luck.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3195.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3196.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3198.jpg

Believe it or not....there really is a bike under all of that gear.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3199.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3201.jpg

Kenny was showing us how to pack the right way. Either that or he was just really lonely.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3202.jpg

We rode down to the lake before exiting the park.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3204.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3205.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3208.jpg

And then, back on the road...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3209.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3211.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3213.jpg

Breakfast was just enough of a blend of home cooking and sass. Juice will never park in a handicap space again.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3214.jpg

That night Brian found out just how uncomfortable a mummy bag can be and it was unanimously decided that we would hit Wally world some time during the day for more gear. Some guys needed heating packs, some needed gloves, and one individual needed an entirely new sleeping situation.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3219.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3220.jpg

Craig decided to catch a suntan while waiting.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3223.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3224.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3226.jpg

We hit Hwy 7 up through Hot Springs and ended up on top of Mt. Nebo for the night. The wind was starting to kick our ass and we were grateful for the break. However, if you ever have the chance to ride it, 7 is a magnificent blend of vistas, great curves, beautiful roads, and just a great ride overall. The campground is amazing as well and we were glad to get there a little early and be able to set up in daylight.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3228.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3229.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3235.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3238.jpg

That night, Kenny, Craig, and myself stayed up to finish burning all of the firewood. I don't think I'll ever be able to see a Mexican holding a bottle of windex and not bust a gut laughing. At some point, Ken and myself made a beer run into town and when the lady at the local convience store informed us that it was a dry country, I kinda remembered Nick saying something along those lines...qwer Oooops, sorry Ken.

[Ritten]

After a windy cold night up on the mountain the sunrise came and apparently I was the last one awake. The wind was still howling which made packing up that much slower and Harland let everyone know that he was planning to head home. He headed south, and the rest of us headed north following the planned route.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3255.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3256.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3257.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3258.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3260.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3259.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3265.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3266.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3267.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3269.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3271.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3274.jpg

Later on that evening Kenny decided to just made a straight run back home, and with the temperature dropping, Juice, Craig, and I decided to ride on to Little Rock and get a room before tackling the superslab ride back.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3275.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/RSTed1000/DSRL%20Arkansas/IMG_3278.jpg

[Dusty]

Wow, You guys kick ass. Looks like a good time despite the cold temperatures. I'm heading up that way on Monday. I'm going to spend a few days alone riding in the Ozarks.

[Juice]

So where is the ride report?



Wow, You guys kick ass. Looks like a good time despite the cold temperatures. I'm heading up that way on Monday. I'm going to spend a few days alone riding in the Ozarks.

[Juice]

Arkansas anyone? I'm thinking midsummer?

[Britton]

I would love to go but it would have to be after the week of July 16th. I know Weave has been wanting to go as well.

[nanohiccup]

i'd be interested

[kenwelshons]

Kit is living in Fayetteville now. We are going up for a week in late May or early June. We could plan a weekend where we could meet up and hit some local rides and bars.

[Juice]

Anybody up for late summer, early fall?

[LiteHeaded]

My brother lives in Stuttgart. I would make the trip up.

[Navaho6]

How long are you wanting to stay? I was planning on going to TN mid October for one week in lieu of AR this year. But I'd still like to do a 3 or 4 day ride in Northwest AR.

[Juice]

I was thinking that we could ride up on a Thursday evening after work. Ride all day Friday and Saturday then head for home Sunday.



How long are you wanting to stay? I was planning on going to TN mid October for one week in lieu of AR this year. But I'd still like to do a 3 or 4 day ride in Northwest AR.

[Ritten]

I was thinking that we could ride up on a Thursday evening after work. Ride all day Friday and Saturday then head for home Sunday.


If it's a weekend that I'm in then I'll be game for it.

[Rocky]

How about you throw some dates at me?

[Navaho6]

You can be in Arkadelphia in 6-1/2 hrs (+ stops). Stay there on Thursday night, then get up early on Friday, ride up Hwy 7 and see most of the good roads around Jasper. Plenty of Cabins in the area. Then on Saturday, head West towards the Oark/White Rock area or go East toward Mountain View/Push Mtn Rd. If you want to go offroad, you could ride for several days between Russelville and Harrison.

[Zutopong]

Nice photos.

[Steve Diaz]

Cool pictures. I did not know that Arkansas had such elevations.
http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_110.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_1051.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_098.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_097.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_096.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_094.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_089.jpg


http://www.dualsportridersoflouisiana.com/photopost/data/500/Picture_086.jpg