Mountain Riding - warning from Deal's Gap

[Don in E Texas]

Some information for folks that will be going to the "Spyder's in the Smokies" Rally in September. The DealsGap.com web site has very good information on riding the Dragon's Tail safely. Makes for some good reading. Here is but one recent comment posted on that web site:

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It is with great sadness that we must mark the passing of yet another rider on #28. Yesterday am, a northbound rider misjudged the 10 mph curve at 20 mile Ranger Station and collided with a car. Unfortunately the rider did not make it, and this now makes our 6th fatality on #28 (between 129 and 72) this year. Our thoughts go out to all involved.
The turn in question is one with the 10 mph sign on it. This turn gets a lot of people and the message here is simple. When in the mountains please heed the yellow sign warnings. While they are not speed limits, they are recommended speeds for the upcoming turn. PLEASE believe these numbers if you are not familiar with what is coming up.



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Let's be careful out there..........


don

 

[BumbleBee]

Sad about the rider ray:.

There is a reason for those "yellow signs", especially in those areas that are particularly dangerous. I have family in the Knoxville area, and am much aware of the hilly and curvy roads in that area. Be extra careful, and watch for those signs. Ride safe.

 

[Smylinacha]

Yup, I believe there is a reason for those signs. When me and HDX were riding 219 in West VA we came up to some hairpin turns - signs literally said 5mph. Then it went into a bank that dropped off and there were no guardrails, if I screwed up, I would have dropped off the mountain. Gorgeous road and I am thankful I paid attention. Ikept saying bad words all the way down though LOL!

 

[Firefly]

I remember the first time I drove through the Smokies - some 25 years ago - came across a sign that said '5 mph when lit'. My initial thought was 'yeah-- right--- 5 mph????'.

Once the fog rolled in I found out why when it says 5mph--- they mean it!