Post by: Patmo on July 03, 2016, 07:17:55 AM
Some things to consider when choosing a location.....
The ROADS....y'all know what we want
The Hotel.....we want enough rooms to get our whole crowd at one place....approx. 200-300 rooms
We need space for the seminars and a banquet room big enough for the wed. night banquet...350-450 people
Plenty of choices for dinner/lunch
Most people want breakfast included at the hotel and in the room price
Speaking of room prices.....have to be a reasonable price
And.....we need the rooms available from SATURDAY to Thursday morning and plenty of space to park the bikes, any trailers, and motor homes.....camping on grounds/nearby is a plus to!
Suggestions? Ideas? Please discuss.......
(I have a couple of ideas, but I'd like to hear what others have before posting them up)
Post by: RIDEMYST on July 03, 2016, 07:40:22 AM
Sent by using these little bitty keys on my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: tino on July 03, 2016, 07:21:19 PM
Post by: doug mcpeek on July 03, 2016, 11:50:36 PM
Post by: bcd on July 04, 2016, 09:54:38 AM
Post by: bcd on July 04, 2016, 09:59:07 AM
Post by: Patmo on July 04, 2016, 10:05:33 AM
Post by: Paco Bulto on July 04, 2016, 11:20:24 AM
There are lots of good roads in southern Missouri, but I have no idea if there is a hotel that fits our needs anywhere.Branson, MO is close to a lot of good roads and there surely must be a hotel or hotels big enough for our needs there. Lots of traffic in midtown, but easy in and out of it. Also, we have had STAR's in the past that didn't have one hotel big enough, but had adjacent hotels that combined, could take care of our needs. Marietta, OH STAR in 1999 for instance had a Comfort Inn and the hotel next door.
Post by: tino on July 04, 2016, 06:21:48 PM
Branson would be great in May or September. There are two Hilton hotels down by the river in the old part of town that could work.There are lots of good roads in southern Missouri, but I have no idea if there is a hotel that fits our needs anywhere.Branson, MO is close to a lot of good roads and there surely must be a hotel or hotels big enough for our needs there. Lots of traffic in midtown, but easy in and out of it. Also, we have had STAR's in the past that didn't have one hotel big enough, but had adjacent hotels that combined, could take care of our needs. Marietta, OH STAR in 1999 for instance had a Comfort Inn and the hotel next door.
Post by: donmoe on July 04, 2016, 06:42:23 PM
-- Don
Post by: Landon on July 04, 2016, 08:50:54 PM
Land between the lakes? I just went to that area for the first time this spring. Better riding there than I expected. Not sure about a host place though.
Post by: normkern on July 05, 2016, 09:46:43 AM
Plus, most members have not been there before.
Norm Kern
Post by: normkern on July 05, 2016, 09:51:22 AM
Land Between the lakes doesn't have the lodging available nearby. Also, if you're riding in KY, the best stuff is in the eastern half.
My 2c.
Norm Kern
Post by: bcd on July 05, 2016, 11:11:52 AM
Post by: STLTHMSTA on July 05, 2016, 11:24:14 AM
Post by: Landon on July 05, 2016, 01:43:05 PM
Land Between the lakes doesn't have the lodging available nearby. Also, if you're riding in KY, the best stuff is in the eastern half.
My 2c.
Norm Kern
I agree the riding in eastern KY is far greater then the Land between the lakes area, but LBL could possible meet the requirement that STAR being held in the middle of the country and eastern KY would not. Lots of things could be reached from that area also; one could visit Memphis and go to Graceland, a lunch ride to Lamberts would be within reach, a route focused on ferry crossings could be done, one could ride to Bowling Green to do a Corvette plant tour and museum visit. Just threw it our there as an idea, obviously when you start talking east of Colorado and West of TN the options are very limited if you want great riding.
Post by: africord on July 05, 2016, 05:29:07 PM
Post by: tino on July 05, 2016, 05:37:57 PM
There are many good roads between I-65 and an area that stretches from there, west to the Tennessee River. Basically in an area bordered by I-40 to the north, AL and MS to the south, I-65 to the east and the TN River on the west.
The best roads that come to mind are : NTP, TN13, TN99,TN 128, TN28, TN100, TN203. I led some LA riders up there last fall and all agreed the roads were fun.
Just something to consider...
Tino
Post by: HawkGTRider on July 05, 2016, 08:42:30 PM
Branson, MO, is close enough to the great Ozark mountain roads that it could be a good choice. IMHO, Springdale AR was a bit too far west of them. There are lots of great roads in MO as well.At Gettysburg yesterday, I was chatting with a couple who live in Branson. They encouraged me to visit Branson because they thought I'd like the shows and the riding. Interesting thought.
Land Between the lakes doesn't have the lodging available nearby. Also, if you're riding in KY, the best stuff is in the eastern half.
My 2c.
Norm Kern
Post by: normkern on July 06, 2016, 07:31:39 AM
Norm Kern
Post by: Patmo on July 06, 2016, 07:47:15 AM
When considering lodging, don't discount the possibility of hotels connected to Convention/conference centers and don't discount large Casino type establishments. These places are usually very experienced with working with groups our size. BUT....don't forget the need for adequate parking and vendor areas as well. Downtown locations also usually mean traveling through traffic on the way to, or back from, the good roads and can mean limited parking/vendor space.
When considering possibilities outside the general areas of cities, the choices for lodging AND food are generally more limited or even non-existent.
I'm liking all the suggestions so far........any more?
Post by: normkern on July 06, 2016, 08:26:10 AM
If we had STAR in LaCrosse and the membership got to ride these great roads, it might revive interest in a regional TWISTAR-like event.
Norm Kern
Post by: GlibGuy on July 06, 2016, 10:09:51 AM
At Gettysburg yesterday, I was chatting with a couple who live in Branson. They encouraged me to visit Branson because they thought I'd like the shows and the riding. Interesting thought.
At STAR in Springdale last year I visited Branson. It reminded me of the Pigeion Forge/Gatlinburg area(s) - tons of visitors and almost gridlock traffic in the town itself. It does have lots of hotels/eating places, and is close to some good roads. Maybe if we stayed on the perimeter to avoid some of the congestion
My parents used to enjoy going to Branson for the shows. My mom particularly liked Shoji Tobuchi so I went to see him. It was pretty darned good I'll have to say!
At Gettysburg yesterday, I was chatting with a couple who live in Branson. They encouraged me to visit Branson because they thought I'd like the shows and the riding. Interesting thought.
Post by: Patmo on July 06, 2016, 11:52:37 AM
Post by: stevegrab on July 06, 2016, 04:21:18 PM
This would be a killer for those in the Northeast and Northwest, but Texas Hill Country? Its two solid days for me to reach San Antonio, and I'm in Nebraska!Last time STAR was there it was held in April because of the heat. For those who deal with winter weather it is hard to be ready for a long riding trip that time of year (sometimes I've hardly ridden yet). Also that may be difficult for some that are used to planning around the traditional STAR dates in mid June.
Wisconsin sounds nice, and would be knew (at least in my 15+ years).
Pat thanks for getting this going, I was reading some info on another thread with talk about STAR host site needs. Often our "close to the great roads" conflicts with others like needing a large room for banquet and other things. So you end up in a more downtown setting with some traffic congestion near the site. Few places are perfect, I was wondering where the banquet would be at Stratton until I went to a meeting in that room (didn't realize they had something like that).
Post by: tino on July 06, 2016, 05:15:22 PM
Tino.....while I have a very soft spot for Franklin, Tn in my heart, I'm not confident that it would be a good location for a STAR. The main problem being the lack of LOTS of great riding. I will agree with you that all of the roads you listed are very nice, but there just isn't enough of them to fill 4 days of riding. 2 good days, yes. 4 days, no. BUT...if you include the are east and northeast of Nashville there is certainly enough very good riding in the area to fill 4 days. The problem becomes the seperation between the two areas. Murfeesboro is between them, but it's still a good 20 miles from the east side of Murpheesboro to the outskirts of Franklin, and then you still have to either go through the town, or around the town, to get to the good riding. If you set up in Franklin there is a good 30 miles on 840 to get by Murfeesboro to the good riding around Center Hill. A BIG plus for the area is the amount and variety of dining and entertainment options, along with the number of great places to visit in the area....the Trace, Liepers Fork, Jack Daniels, Broadway, downtown Franklin, etc.You are correct Patmo. It would be tough to find 4 days worth of goods roads. We unfortunately are very limited when it comes to the central part of the country. The MO/AR Ozarks are one of my favorite riding areas in the central U.S., I was just trying to mix it up a bit with this suggestion. I realize how hard it must be to find a spot that has all we need. My dream STAR would be in San Diego County California. Unfortunately, it does not seem like many members care to ride that far.
Post by: Landon on July 06, 2016, 07:20:33 PM
Post by: Patmo on July 06, 2016, 07:24:06 PM
Someone's going to have to show me the 4 days worth of great riding in the Colorado Springs area.
Never been out there, so I won't be any help with that.....but I'm hoping there is enough to fill the days!
Post by: Landon on July 06, 2016, 07:29:44 PM
Never been out there, so I won't be any help with that.....but I'm hoping there is enough to fill the days!
If you've never been I think you will really enjoy it. Rocky Mountain National Park, Mt Evans, Pikes Peak are all within reach of the rally. But don't expect roads like what are available in the Smokies, they are not nearly as technical. The Rookies are very scenic though.
Post by: stevegrab on July 06, 2016, 07:35:36 PM
Landon sounds like you know the area, and you're right it isn't the most technical twisty roads, Deal's Gap, VA 16, and even our SE Ohio roads will beat that. But we don't have the scenery, the mountains and all that. I'm looking forward to it.
First time I went out west to ride (Taos in 2010) I fell in love with it, and we spent about 7 days in Colorado and hit some of the standard places (RMNP, Ind Pass, etc.)
Post by: Mooose on July 06, 2016, 07:47:14 PM
Post by: Landon on July 06, 2016, 08:08:39 PM
Landon sounds like you know the area, and you're right it isn't the most technical twisty roads, Deal's Gap, VA 16, and even our SE Ohio roads will beat that. But we don't have the scenery, the mountains and all that. I'm looking forward to it.
First time I went out west to ride (Taos in 2010) I fell in love with it, and we spent about 7 days in Colorado and hit some of the standard places (RMNP, Ind Pass, etc.)
Don't get me wrong, Colorado is a beautiful place to visit. My brother in law and sister in law lived in Colorado Springs and we made the trip out to visit a couple of times so I have spent some time in the area. RMNP can be done in a day from CS, but its a full day and it will be difficult to make back in time for evening events. I am not sure where Taylor Lake is, but if its over by Aspen its 163 miles from Colorado Springs to Aspen, I believe that would be far greater than any out and back route offered this year at STAR.
My point though was not to criticize Colorado Springs as the location for STAR, but to point out that its not necessary to offer 4 great days of riding if there are opportunities in the area to visit or see other attractions that people may enjoy. I went to Ben and Jerrys because I wanted to see and do something different for a day. I know others went over to Manchester to a large outdoor store(name of it slips my memory right now).
Post by: Patmo on July 06, 2016, 09:18:35 PM
I will say that the Nashville/Franklin area would offer many many "destinations" and "attractions" for everyone. These would include distillaries/breweries, live music venues, historical areas, tours, Civil War sites, museums, lakes, national parks, famous restaurants, and of course all of the things that Nashville itself has to offer....they don't call it Music City for nothing.
Post by: africord on July 07, 2016, 10:36:08 AM
I got one suggestion for Brainerd, MN. I understand they have good roads and very little traffic.This works! I know that Brainerd has more than enough hotel space. Cragun's resort has 300 rooms all by itself, and there are several other options in the area. One of the companies I worked for used it for a business training session. Breezy Point is also an option. I would love to ride the Chippewa National Forest.
Post by: GlibGuy on July 07, 2016, 11:34:52 AM
Not far from Duluth.I got one suggestion for Brainerd, MN. I understand they have good roads and very little traffic.This works! I know that Brainerd has more than enough hotel space. Cragun's resort has 300 rooms all by itself, and there are several other options in the area. One of the companies I worked for used it for a business training session. Breezy Point is also an option. I would love to ride the Chippewa National Forest.
Post by: stevegrab on July 07, 2016, 12:13:48 PM
Having the option to do many demo rides also had some of us doing some of that instead of riding our own bikes for a long loop. I had considered some demos in the past but never did them. Since my brother was intersted, and others in my group as well, it was a welcome break from our group riding and having fun on new bikes.
If I am at STAR for 4-5 days I'm generally looking for a few large loops (250-300) and maybe a couple shorter ones for days I want to be back early. But since I don't leave real early for rides I often know that doing a full day and being back for meetings and seminars may not be practical. So I plan accordingly.
I also see that as our membership continues to age there are more people (espcially at STAR) that want to spend time visiting with others they only see every year or two. I'm starting to do that as well.
Landon,
Taylor Park Reservoir (not Taylor Lake) is the place I meant, it is north of Gunnison, to the east of Crested Butte. Very nice ride up there, beautiful scenery. Highway 742 goes there from CO135. There is a partially paved (some dirt/gravel) road coming out to the east over Cottonwood Pass that goes into Buena Vista at US24. We stayed in Gunnison one night, got in early and rode up there along with the free range cattle making their way up the road. Got some great pictures along the water as the sun was fading in the west. Direct route from Colorado Springs shows 130 miles, so probably a long day ride to go there and back.
Post by: Rayk86ss on July 07, 2016, 12:54:28 PM
Do we really need a big hotel? I think a cluster of smaller hotels is fine. Paducah, KY comes to mind as such a cluster, but the roads are in the meh category. How about West Plains, MO? (probably too small), but Mountain Home, AR might work? If we can hold a great STAR in Nashville, IN we can have it a lot of places.
Post by: stevegrab on July 07, 2016, 02:08:07 PM
Based on my geography, a map and the description Pat gave from Dennis for the central area, I think Marietta would be too far east. I know they have lots of roads from the many MPFBs I've attended. I don't think they had a large hotel with a banquet room for STAR, recall people talking about a tent somewhere.
I do think that having one big hotel with enough rooms for the event is better than many smaller ones grouped together. The more people get spread out the more they're inclined to just hang out in their small groups of friends, instead of mingling with others.
When was STAR in Nashville IN? How many members attended and what was the club membership at the time? It must have been before 2000, I've been a member since then and kept up pretty well with STAR locations.
The first STARs were held at a campground with 40-50 members, doesn't make them suitable today.
Post by: Rayk86ss on July 07, 2016, 02:48:31 PM
Post by: Patmo on July 07, 2016, 03:06:51 PM
Post by: Paco Bulto on July 07, 2016, 04:18:21 PM
When was STAR in Nashville IN? How many members attended and what was the club membership at the time? It must have been before 2000, I've been a member since then and kept up pretty well with STAR locations.
Nashville, IN was 1994. I don't recall what the membership was at the time, but it was probably close to what it is now (did I read that it is now 1300?) We had the Honda demo fleet there and Nick Ienatsch was the after dinner speaker and spoke about his theory of "Riding the Pace". I was surprised at the quality of roads in the southern IN area.
Post by: Patmo on July 07, 2016, 08:56:35 PM
Branson, Mo
LaCrosse, Wis
Franklin/Nashville, Tn.
Southern Indiana
Guess it depends on just how far East we would want to go, but if 2019 is somewhere in states along the east coast we could go pretty far to the east and still be considered central. I do like all of the suggestions so far, and to be quite honest, the Southern Indiana and Central Tennessee choices are the closest for me and areas I am familiar with. But Branson and Wisconsin are areas I've not spent any time in, and like the idea of exploring new places. I think that any of these areas will work for riding, and all of them have the accomidations we want and need.
Post by: Buckeye56 on July 07, 2016, 10:12:48 PM
Ray,
Based on my geography, a map and the description Pat gave from Dennis for the central area, I think Marietta would be too far east. I know they have lots of roads from the many MPFBs I've attended. I don't think they had a large hotel with a banquet room for STAR, recall people talking about a tent somewhere.
The banquet was at a storage building Haas had just east of the Comfort Inn. I only recall tents at Avon. All of the suggested locations "can" work as long as folks don't OCD about every little detail. We all need to be flexible in what we want in a perfect world versus what is available at the chosen locale. Please understand that this is not meant as condemnation, only that there is NO perfect location that will satisfy everyone. I have attended STARs in areas that where not stellar, IMHO, but I did have a great time. Side note, some time ago, BL and I were at a bird watching event when conditions were less than optimal. Folks were complaining that it was cold, over cast, the birds were hunkered down.... An elderly lady looked at them and said, "Having fun is a decision". To me, those are words to live by.
Sorry to get side tracked, but for me, where ever STAR is held, I will do my best to go. And I will have fun there! I really don't compare one STAR against another, there is too much variability for that to make sense for me.
Keep the options flowing, I think this is a great way for the membership to have a voice in the future locations of the event!
Post by: stevegrab on July 08, 2016, 02:44:00 PM
You're right that not everything can be perfect, we need to be flexible, not easy for this guy, just ask people that ride with me ;)
Post by: STLTHMSTA on July 09, 2016, 04:28:02 PM
Steve, that's a big step you making there trying to be flexible. "I'm SAILING!!!" :^) TM
Post by: tino on July 09, 2016, 05:21:48 PM
Tino
Post by: RichGrab on July 10, 2016, 11:53:58 AM
Ray,
Based on my geography, a map and the description Pat gave from Dennis for the central area, I think Marietta would be too far east. I know they have lots of roads from the many MPFBs I've attended. I don't think they had a large hotel with a banquet room for STAR, recall people talking about a tent somewhere.
The banquet was at a storage building Haas had just east of the Comfort Inn. I only recall tents at Avon. All of the suggested locations "can" work as long as folks don't OCD about every little detail. We all need to be flexible in what we want in a perfect world versus what is available at the chosen locale. Please understand that this is not meant as condemnation, only that there is NO perfect location that will satisfy everyone. I have attended STARs in areas that where not stellar, IMHO, but I did have a great time. Side note, some time ago, BL and I were at a bird watching event when conditions were less than optimal. Folks were complaining that it was cold, over cast, the birds were hunkered down.... An elderly lady looked at them and said, "Having fun is a decision". To me, those are words to live by.
Sorry to get side tracked, but for me, where ever STAR is held, I will do my best to go. And I will have fun there! I really don't compare one STAR against another, there is too much variability for that to make sense for me.
Keep the options flowing, I think this is a great way for the membership to have a voice in the future locations of the event!
I couldn't agree more. As a first time STAR attendee, weeks before the event I got a call from a member of the EC welcoming me to my first STAR and inviting me to a first time attendees meeting as well as to make use of the ambassadors on site if I needed anything. They asked if I'd seen the schedule, routes etc. which I had. Call finished with this EC - "I hope you have fun at STAR." ME - "With the schedule, ride routes, and locale, you'd have to work at not having a good time." What I'm getting at is just what the lady said "Having fun is a decision." One that I choose to make in favor of fun, every time I ride my motorcycle.
Post by: Patmo on July 10, 2016, 03:35:05 PM
Post by: busavan on July 10, 2016, 04:56:30 PM
Post by: TN2Wheeler on July 10, 2016, 05:42:31 PM
The fact that we are smaller now should make some "lesser" venues viable. Finding a facility to host 250 is far, far easier than finding one for 500.
Post by: RichGrab on July 10, 2016, 06:27:47 PM
And it is REALLY fun when you win a bike, right Rich? :)Oh yeah, and that helps too Pat. (Can you see my smile from KY?)
Post by: Patmo on July 10, 2016, 06:56:24 PM
Anybody look for a national or regional listing of casinos/resorts rather than "just" a convention hotel? Might find something just the right size in a more rural area...
been waiting for someone else to bring this up.....
Last summer my wife and I, along with another couple, spent a night at the Belterra Casino and Resort, located on the Indiana bank of the Ohio River and half way between Cincinnati and Louisville. If anyone watched the NASCAR race from Kentucky Speedway last night, this is located about 10 miles north of the track and is a very rural area. The closest towns are Florence and Vevay, Indiana and Warsaw, Ky. The resort is a 4 Star hotel with 6 different restaurants and a lobby bar. it has plenty of (nice!) rooms, parking, and meeting rooms. I can't remember exactly how many rooms it has, but there is also a small motel across the road and hotels in Vevay and by the Speedway if we needed more. Pretty sure it has a banquet room big enough for our group (9500 sq feet) There is plenty of good riding on both sides of the river in Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky, along with the Markland Dam crossing about a mile from the resort. This may be considered too far east to be a "central" STAR, but it should at least be considered a possibility. I passed along the contact information for the resort to another member that asked me to check it out.
In addition, here's something I hadn't realized....those meeting rooms and the audio/visual equipment is NOT free......these places charge considerable amounts of money for it, and for such things as "free" coffee and refreshments in these rooms. So if you ever wondered why the cost of attending a STAR is so high, this is part of the answer. AND....those costs have to be considered when choosing a host hotel. Some places just cost to much to allow them to be break even, let alone profitable, facilities.
Post by: tino on July 10, 2016, 08:21:22 PM
I've been to Memphis on a motorcycle in the summer. I simply can't imagine why anyone would want to do that. In truth there's really not much good riding west of Nashville. We considered Cookeville in 2011 but the accommodations weren't quite adequate. Arguably neither was Johnson City but at least the riding was good.
The fact that we are smaller now should make some "lesser" venues viable. Finding a facility to host 250 is far, far easier than finding one for 500.
When I suggested Middle TN, I wasn't thinking of June. Personally I favor dates for STAR based on the locations. The weather in the mid -south states is usually great in September. They are all too hot in June unless you have some altitude, which you won't have in any south central location.
Post by: stevegrab on July 11, 2016, 11:13:57 AM
In addition, here's something I hadn't realized....those meeting rooms and the audio/visual equipment is NOT free......these places charge considerable amounts of money for it, and for such things as "free" coffee and refreshments in these rooms. So if you ever wondered why the cost of attending a STAR is so high, this is part of the answer. AND....those costs have to be considered when choosing a host hotel. Some places just cost to much to allow them to be break even, let alone profitable, facilities.
Very good points, we have a conference from work held every year with a similar size group, with both large meetings and small ones, and various breaks with beverages and snacks. The cost of those rooms, the AV eqeuipment and any kind of snack or beverage service can all add up. The cost of a simple box lunch (sandwich, ships, fruit, beverage, cookie) are in the area of $15-20 at some places.
So keeping those additional costs down for those things is a must for the STAR planning group. I know the club doesn't do much with food/beverages during the meetings, and there's a good reason for that.
I recall one STAR many years ago (Charleston WV in 2003 I think) there was a banquet ticket or something like that in the packet, and printed on it was a summary of the costs for the event, with the total being the fee paid for registration. The banquet was a very large portion of that, as most would expect with a good catered meal. Things like sit down or buffet service affect those costs, the types and variety of food etc.
Post by: RIDEMYST on July 11, 2016, 03:18:52 PM
[/quote]
When I suggested Middle TN, I wasn't thinking of June. Personally I favor dates for STAR based on the locations. The weather in the mid -south states is usually great in September. They are all too hot in June unless you have some altitude, which you won't have in any south central location.
[/quote]
Personally I would like to see STAR held in May or September. With cooler weather it would open up more options for locations. However I want to say that the last time this was tried was Kerrville TX and attendance was poor.
Maybe Michael, Moose or Brick can shed a little light on non-June STAR's in the past? -JEP-
Sent by using these little bitty keys on my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Brick on July 11, 2016, 08:21:33 PM
Let's Ride!
Brick
Post by: touringman on July 11, 2016, 09:40:46 PM
Historically STAR has been planned during summer school break. It's an incentive to bring family and keep it more of a family vacation. The current EC should address the desire to have STAR on non traditional dates.
Let's Ride!
Brick
That was probably a great idea when there were young children, but most have children like mine that range from 46 to 37, and they wouldn't be too exited about me taking the grandchildren to a motorcycle rally! Cooler weather and the possibility of off season rates sounds great to me. Bring it on! Syd
Post by: Patmo on July 12, 2016, 06:58:47 AM
For many of us now moving the date to a time where school is in session is no longer a hardship. But its still not true for all, and if we hope to attract younger people into our ranks we still need consider how a date during normal school dates would effect their potential attendance. If, by choosing a spring or fall date, we open up the possibility of moving a STAR event to a few places in the South (most notably Texas), it would probably eliminate having it in the north or in the mountains at the same time of year. I don't know that there is a perfect time of year that will work best for everyone or every location or will guarantee great weather. Really can't complain about the weather during this years event in Vermont, but it was pretty hot and humid (even for me) in Arkansas last year. Keep in mind that the temps in BOTH places were above normal for those locations at the time of year we visited.......100 degrees in Ark. is not normal, nor is 85 degrees in Vermont! (Or is this the NEW normal?)
BUT, perhaps we should consider changing the dates based on location and see what happens? We are probably at a point now in our membership demographics where with a full year of lead time most will be able to arrange to have the time off if necessary......and if we move STAR to a spring or fall date a full year in advance we would still have time to move a regional event date to prevent a conflict.
Post by: ipnman on July 12, 2016, 08:13:37 AM
I too would like to see a Spring or Fall STAR 2018. That time of the year does open up some locations that wouldn't work in June.
Keep the suggestions coming, I'm doing my homework now for STAR 2018.
Thanks,
Dennis
Post by: RichGrab on July 13, 2016, 10:41:59 AM
Members, Thank You all for the suggestions on where and what time of the year for future STAR's.Dennis and all, a date change might work but a word of caution. The non-profit I work for had traditionally held their annual conference to coincide with the July 4th holiday. When we started moving the date around several years ago, people were up in arms. I''m just saying, having the "normalized" date in June is what people are used to. Also, I seem to recall there are many regional sanctioned events from late August thru Early October (MPFB, FCR to name a couple) as well as JFF events and squeezing a STAR in there might be tough. Just a thought and I like the discussion.
I too would like to see a Spring or Fall STAR 2018. That time of the year does open up some locations that wouldn't work in June.
Keep the suggestions coming, I'm doing my homework now for STAR 2018.
Thanks,
Dennis
Post by: qman8 on July 13, 2016, 01:37:59 PM
Anybody look for a national or regional listing of casinos/resorts rather than "just" a convention hotel? Might find something just the right size in a more rural area...
been waiting for someone else to bring this up.....
Last summer my wife and I, along with another couple, spent a night at the Belterra Casino and Resort, located on the Indiana bank of the Ohio River and half way between Cincinnati and Louisville. If anyone watched the NASCAR race from Kentucky Speedway last night, this is located about 10 miles north of the track and is a very rural area. The closest towns are Florence and Vevay, Indiana and Warsaw, Ky. The resort is a 4 Star hotel with 6 different restaurants and a lobby bar. it has plenty of (nice!) rooms, parking, and meeting rooms. I can't remember exactly how many rooms it has, but there is also a small motel across the road and hotels in Vevay and by the Speedway if we needed more. Pretty sure it has a banquet room big enough for our group (9500 sq feet) There is plenty of good riding on both sides of the river in Southern Indiana and Northern Kentucky, along with the Markland Dam crossing about a mile from the resort. This may be considered too far east to be a "central" STAR, but it should at least be considered a possibility. I passed along the contact information for the resort to another member that asked me to check it out.
In addition, here's something I hadn't realized....those meeting rooms and the audio/visual equipment is NOT free......these places charge considerable amounts of money for it, and for such things as "free" coffee and refreshments in these rooms. So if you ever wondered why the cost of attending a STAR is so high, this is part of the answer. AND....those costs have to be considered when choosing a host hotel. Some places just cost to much to allow them to be break even, let alone profitable, facilities.
Do you really think a casino hotel would welcome riders (at a reasonable price) knowing they will be out riding, going to seminars, meetings, etc.....and NOT gambling???? I'm gonna say that's not an option.
Post by: qman8 on July 13, 2016, 01:40:01 PM
Post by: stk0308 on July 13, 2016, 02:49:33 PM
Post by: ipnman on July 13, 2016, 03:45:54 PM
The EC should have a CDs worth of info that will lay out all the requirements of putting on a STAR. I haven't run across it on this site, but it should be obtainable from the EC. If anyone is really curious about what the club needs in a STAR location, that'd be a perfect place to start.
Hope this helps
Some things to consider when choosing a location.....
The ROADS....y'all know what we want
The Hotel.....we want enough rooms to get our whole crowd at one place....approx. 200-300 rooms and an overflow hotel nearby
We need space for the seminars and a banquet room big enough for the wed. night banquet...350-450 people
Plenty of choices for dinner/lunch
Most people want a hot breakfast included at the hotel and in the room price
Speaking of room prices.....have to be a reasonable price...under a $100 a night
And.....we need the rooms available from Thursday to Thursday morning and plenty of space to park the bikes, any trailers, and motor homes.....camping on grounds/nearby is a plus to!
Local MSTA members nearby to help coordinate behind the scene activity...routes, maps, printing needs, lunch ride site, hotel site visit, discounts from local businesses...etc,etc,etc
Thank You Pat Mogavero for your input
Hope this gives all members an insight in planning a STAR
Dennis
Post by: Patmo on July 13, 2016, 07:44:00 PM
Do you really think a casino hotel would welcome riders (at a reasonable price) knowing they will be out riding, going to seminars, meetings, etc.....and NOT gambling???? I'm gonna say that's not an option.
Yes, I do. The group/meeting coordinator I talked with seemed very interested and welcoming. I'm not a gambler myself, so I spent very little time in the casino part of the complex. But we did visit a couple of restaurants, stay in the hotel, and while my wife and daughter visited the spa my son-in-law and I played golf. Many of these places have morphed into total resorts, and gambling is only a part of the package. In some instances, like French Lick in Indiana, they were resorts before gambling became available on site. Not saying they are a slam dunk, but still should be considered a possibility.
Post by: GlibGuy on July 14, 2016, 07:12:44 AM
And a lot of people enjoy a little gaming. I attended a large convention in Las Vegas once and was surprised how much fun I (and my non-gambling/non-drinking wife) had.
Do you really think a casino hotel would welcome riders (at a reasonable price) knowing they will be out riding, going to seminars, meetings, etc.....and NOT gambling? ??? I'm gonna say that's not an option.
Yes, I do. The group/meeting coordinator I talked with seemed very interested and welcoming. I'm not a gambler myself, so I spent very little time in the casino part of the complex. But we did visit a couple of restaurants, stay in the hotel, and while my wife and daughter visited the spa my son-in-law and I played golf. Many of these places have morphed into total resorts, and gambling is only a part of the package. In some instances, like French Lick in Indiana, they were resorts before gambling became available on site. Not saying they are a slam dunk, but still should be considered a possibility.
Post by: touringman on July 14, 2016, 09:26:02 AM
I know my riding years will end at some point, and I'd like to see us pay more attention to the attractiveness of the area and the venue, rather than where it's located. I don't want to remember my "Western" Stars per say, but rather my "Best" Stars. It's possible to say next years venue can't be within 500, 800, or 1000 miles from last years, but I think regional influence, while it can be considered, should not be the sole determining factor for a location. I could ride to West Virginia every weekend for a year, and not run out of fun territory! Charleston would be fun, as well as Beckley, if there is a suitable venue there. Let's put more emphasis on quality here! JMHO Syd :D
Post by: touringman on July 14, 2016, 09:56:04 AM
Post by: stevegrab on July 14, 2016, 12:30:28 PM
I get the feeling that PatMo has gotten involved in the search process, and his posting this discussion on the forum (and possibly elsewhere, I don't do the FB) is a way to get the regular members input. I have heard a lot of negative things from members the past few years about the EC and how they do things and the US and THEM vs. WE you mentioned. But when you ask those people to help out, be a volunteer, do something for the club they say "nope sorry" and give their excuses. (This is not directed at you Syd, or most other posting here.) So the EC getting help is not easy, unless people just want to voice their complaints (or valuable opinion) and hope that creates the change they're looking for.
As for the regions and the whole west not being very far west (Colorado), well the further west we go the less attendance there is, that is what I have heard. Mammoth was the furthest west in my 15 years as a member, and I heard attendance was very low. Avon is popular and draws a crowd, Taos and Rapid City less so. Kerrville was west, but required a date change that I know affected some peoples ability to attend (which speaks to the possible date change). I was hoping it would be in Idaho in 2017, as I rode a little there while exploring Montana after STAR14 and saw a lot of great potential riding. But again there's the issue of being closer to our membership, and having volunteers in the area to help.
All that said, having some discussion in any way by both regular members and the EC or others doing the planning is a great thing.
Post by: RIDEMYST on July 14, 2016, 01:11:09 PM
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Post by: tino on July 14, 2016, 01:46:31 PM
Tino
Post by: bcd on July 14, 2016, 01:57:17 PM
Does the membership director have historical data?
Post by: HawkGTRider on July 14, 2016, 02:02:06 PM
<snip> Personally, I love the west and wouldn't rule out anything short of Fairbanks <snip>Tok IS short of Fairbanks, and there is a motorcycle only campground there. I think that would be a fine destination.
Post by: tino on July 14, 2016, 02:41:39 PM
Perfect! We will have an outdoor banquet with room for hundreds!<snip> Personally, I love the west and wouldn't rule out anything short of Fairbanks <snip>Tok IS short of Fairbanks, and there is a motorcycle only campground there. I think that would be a fine destination.
Post by: Brick on July 14, 2016, 03:07:20 PM
Now that I'm retired and have the time the left coast membership doesn't really host big regional events any more.
I never found a good way and love that you all are trying. I think y'all are doing a great job! Keep it up!
Let's Ride!
Brick
Post by: NinjaBob on July 14, 2016, 06:54:35 PM
It's been asked before, but I'll echo it: can anyone provide a list of attendance numbers for all the STARs? For accurate interpretation, it would also be useful to have the total membership numbers for each year, so you could look not only at absolute attendance but also percentage of membership, since that has been dwindling for some time now.
Does the membership director have historical data?
I maintain a web page of past STAR locations and info. Data is incomplete but we have attendance for many STARs including the first two in California. 131 in 1986 In Lake Taho and 181 in first Mammoth Lakes. Not the second Mammoth lake but we have the group photo which gives a good idea of attendance for that year.
http://www.wfr-ridersclub.com/stars/stars.htm (http://www.wfr-ridersclub.com/stars/stars.htm)
Post by: TN2Wheeler on July 15, 2016, 08:52:27 AM
Might be just my red/green color blindness but I have a hard time seeing the red stars on your map. For me it would be easier to see them if they were a more contrasting color - white, black, blue etc, something that's not even close to the colors on the background topo map. Thanks for posting!
Jim
Post by: normkern on July 15, 2016, 09:35:55 AM
Appreciated Brick's comments about California MSTA. It is certainly a dilemma that CA is separated from the rest of the membership by such a great distance.
Norm Kern
Post by: NinjaBob on July 15, 2016, 10:39:53 AM
Hey Bob, I had forgotten about your web page. I added a link in the Events drop down on the main MSTA webpage to it.
Might be just my red/green color blindness but I have a hard time seeing the red stars on your map. For me it would be easier to see them if they were a more contrasting color - white, black, blue etc, something that's not even close to the colors on the background topo map. Thanks for posting!
Jim
Thanks Jim. When I add the new star for Stratton Mountain I will see if I can change the colors of the stars.
Update: I have added a star for 2016 and changed them all to blue. Should help with the red/green colorblindness. Overall for me the contrast is good but the blue does not contast as well on the green background. I am open to suggestion. I will add the group photo when I get it and I have already added the date, venue and attendance to the database. I have 265 for attendance, correct me if I'm wrong.
Post by: stevegrab on July 15, 2016, 12:37:36 PM
When I joined HSTA California had one of the largest memberships of all states and they were very active. It seems that a few of the very active members died and no one stepped up. This is the death of an area. The roads in CA are FANTASTIC! And I had always wanted to attend one of the regional events there. But as you all know traveling from Ohio while still working is very difficult!Back in those early days how many STAR were held in the extreme west? Say west of the western border of CO/NM? Ok thanks to NinjaBob's link I can see there were 3 in the first 10 years (86 & 91) and a third in 2004. Next furthest west STARs are Taos and Avon/Aspen.
Now that I'm retired and have the time the left coast membership doesn't really host big regional events any more.
I never found a good way and love that you all are trying. I think y'all are doing a great job! Keep it up!
Let's Ride!
Brick
I don't think reduced numbers or activity in CA is the issue with being able to have a STAR there, though attendance would probably be a bit better with a stronger CA group. But that the vast majority of members are in the east (of Mississippi River), so the further west you make it the further the trip for the masses. Even Rapid City in 2014 had very low numbers, compared to Avon 2012 or any STAR I attended in the east going back to 2001.
I agree with bcd, numbers for the past events, along with the membership number at that time would help show the percentage attending in different regions.
Post by: bcd on July 15, 2016, 02:58:42 PM
Post by: NinjaBob on July 15, 2016, 04:05:12 PM
Thanks, Bob, that's a cool web page! It seems like someone in the club should have hard numbers to fill in where you have blanks. I wish I knew who to ask. I only have vague ideas of a couple of them being bigger than average.Thanks Bryan. I think the only way to get the numbers might be the STARreviews. At one time I had an intention of saving them all but after about 20 years or so I gave up on that. Roger Prince has provided me with many of the group pictures, I think he's been to more stars than anybody except Jim Girton. I'll ask Roger if he has any other Star details.
Post by: Ohiomsta on July 15, 2016, 09:26:23 PM
It's been asked before, but I'll echo it: can anyone provide a list of attendance numbers for all the STARs? For accurate interpretation, it would also be useful to have the total membership numbers for each year, so you could look not only at absolute attendance but also percentage of membership, since that has been dwindling for some time now.
Does the membership director have historical data?
I maintain a web page of past STAR locations and info. Data is incomplete but we have attendance for many STARs including the first two in California. 131 in 1986 In Lake Taho and 181 in first Mammoth Lakes. Not the second Mammoth lake but we have the group photo which gives a good idea of attendance for that year.
http://www.wfr-ridersclub.com/stars/stars.htm (http://www.wfr-ridersclub.com/stars/stars.htm)
197 at the last Mammoth Lakes. Cal. Membership at that time was 250 or so and Ohio had more members at that STAR than Cal. It was poorly supported by the Cal. Membership. West coast STARs simply do not draw worthwhile numbers.
Jon Sr.
Post by: STLTHMSTA on July 15, 2016, 09:30:50 PM
Clearly as this discussion has brought up, it ain't easy being a STAR coordinator. Not everyone will be happy and some will NEVER be happy.
I give my thanks to ALL who have ANYTHING to do with STAR planning. If I can't make it to a STAR because of location or some other reason, you will NOT hear me bitchin' unless I really wanted to go but couldn't. Ride safe STAR gazers, TM
Post by: Tigger on July 19, 2016, 04:50:10 PM
As a side note, I do not know where the geographic restrictions East-West-Center came from. I know that for a real peachy riding location I would schlep hundreds, even over a thousand miles, whereas it will be a fight to drag me over to the next state if the roads suck. Doesn't matter where between the Atlantic and the Pacific.
Once we have that (and if we don't then the geographic restrictions should become a mute point), then we can look for a hotel that has 80-90 rooms available, and that is surrounded by similar hotels who will be only too happy to compete among themselves for a share of the bounty. If we insist on finding one single property that can host all of us, we screw ourselves on a few counts:
1. Such properties are few and far between, and tend to be secluded resorts like we had this year.
2. Said resort has no immediate competitor for our business and will offer only lip service to price accommodations.
3. Once the deal is signed, they have no incentive whatsoever to go above and beyond by providing convenience services.
4. We end up not patronizing small, local businesses, but rather big foreign hedge funds who own the mega-hotel-resorts.
I would like to know how many actual rooms our group rented this year. We may find out that there was no need to be exiled in an empty Eagle's nest and that 400 rooms is a pie in the sky. Instead of coming up with eye-popping numbers to negotiate a symbolic rate drop, I think that realistic numbers combined with natural competition between close-by hotels will yield a better result for everyone.
Lastly, if I understand well the 2018 geographic restrictions, they would mean mainly 3 choices:
1. Ozarks
2. Wisconsin/UP
3. Texas if we bend the western line a bit.
Post by: DirtFlier on July 19, 2016, 04:55:36 PM
Post by: RichGrab on July 19, 2016, 05:29:04 PM
Okay, if I may offer my 0.02... let's take a gazetteer or the Mad Maps or just plain a good map and draw two vertical lines, both running north to south. Those be the boundaries that for some reason, we want to inflict on ourselves. Next, let's spot the (say) 5 highest concentrations of good roads, per their path on that region on the map. Next, let's check that they actually have decent pavement for the most part and are not residential developments. That should give us some options.Tigger, this was my first STAR so hopefully I'm not out of line. But, I heard attendance this year was around 250. If that's the case, at double occupancy that makes 125 rooms. I for one think having everyone staying in the same hotel promotes the integration, camraderie and mixing of people. If there are 2, 3 or 4 locations at which to stay, the club ends up with little cliques at different hotels, and members don't meet other people. With pretty much everyone staying at the Black Bear Lodge this year, I met so many people who I only knew as a face on Facebook or a handle on the Forum. As for patronizing local businesses, I did plenty of that at STAR in VT. Ate lunch at several small locally owned places, bought gas, beer and other snacks etc. from local businesses. The lunch ride was to a local bar (and the food was plentiful and good). So, there is plenty of opportunity to spend locally, and even staying in a large resort type place still pays staff (local people) for cleaning, cooking etc.
As a side note, I do not know where the geographic restrictions East-West-Center came from. I know that for a real peachy riding location I would schlep hundreds, even over a thousand miles, whereas it will be a fight to drag me over to the next state if the roads suck. Doesn't matter where between the Atlantic and the Pacific.
Once we have that (and if we don't then the geographic restrictions should become a mute point), then we can look for a hotel that has 80-90 rooms available, and that is surrounded by similar hotels who will be only too happy to compete among themselves for a share of the bounty. If we insist on finding one single property that can host all of us, we screw ourselves on a few counts:
1. Such properties are few and far between, and tend to be secluded resorts like we had this year.
2. Said resort has no immediate competitor for our business and will offer only lip service to price accommodations.
3. Once the deal is signed, they have no incentive whatsoever to go above and beyond by providing convenience services.
4. We end up not patronizing small, local businesses, but rather big foreign hedge funds who own the mega-hotel-resorts.
I would like to know how many actual rooms our group rented this year. We may find out that there was no need to be exiled in an empty Eagle's nest and that 400 rooms is a pie in the sky. Instead of coming up with eye-popping numbers to negotiate a symbolic rate drop, I think that realistic numbers combined with natural competition between close-by hotels will yield a better result for everyone.
Lastly, if I understand well the 2018 geographic restrictions, they would mean mainly 3 choices:
1. Ozarks
2. Wisconsin/UP
3. Texas if we bend the western line a bit.
I'm with you on the roads. I live in mid-south Michigan and not a whole lot of twisties around. So, I don't mind going to OH, PA, NY for a good ride. And I'd love to go explore places like WI, TX, and points west. What I'm getting at I guess is, especially for a National Event, I think it is very important to have the majority of the attendees staying in the same place. Just my $0.02 worth. YMMV. (Now back to your regularly scheduled program.) ;D
Post by: Ohiomsta on July 19, 2016, 07:57:41 PM
Okay, if I may offer my 0.02... let's take a gazetteer or the Mad Maps or just plain a good map and draw two vertical lines, both running north to south. Those be the boundaries that for some reason, we want to inflict on ourselves. Next, let's spot the (say) 5 highest concentrations of good roads, per their path on that region on the map. Next, let's check that they actually have decent pavement for the most part and are not residential developments. That should give us some options.Two problems, one: most members like to be at one hotel, two: 80 room hotels don't have a meeting room or catering for 250 to 400.
As a side note, I do not know where the geographic restrictions East-West-Center came from. I know that for a real peachy riding location I would schlep hundreds, even over a thousand miles, whereas it will be a fight to drag me over to the next state if the roads suck. Doesn't matter where between the Atlantic and the Pacific.
Once we have that (and if we don't then the geographic restrictions should become a mute point), then we can look for a hotel that has 80-90 rooms available, and that is surrounded by similar hotels who will be only too happy to compete among themselves for a share of the bounty. If we insist on finding one single property that can host all of us, we screw ourselves on a few counts:
1. Such properties are few and far between, and tend to be secluded resorts like we had this year.
2. Said resort has no immediate competitor for our business and will offer only lip service to price accommodations.
3. Once the deal is signed, they have no incentive whatsoever to go above and beyond by providing convenience services.
4. We end up not patronizing small, local businesses, but rather big foreign hedge funds who own the mega-hotel-resorts.
I would like to know how many actual rooms our group rented this year. We may find out that there was no need to be exiled in an empty Eagle's nest and that 400 rooms is a pie in the sky. Instead of coming up with eye-popping numbers to negotiate a symbolic rate drop, I think that realistic numbers combined with natural competition between close-by hotels will yield a better result for everyone.
Lastly, if I understand well the 2018 geographic restrictions, they would mean mainly 3 choices:
1. Ozarks
2. Wisconsin/UP
3. Texas if we bend the western line a bit.
Post by: HawkGTRider on July 19, 2016, 08:03:40 PM
My first STAR was in Helen GA. We were spead out in a bunch of different motels all over town, but there was a banquet hall where group meals were held. I don't remember if we had any seminars or not, but having a place for them might have been problematic as well as a central location for any vendors that wanted to participate. I'm not suggesting that we do something like that again, but is something that 'could' be considered.
I agree with Jon SR...we do like to be in one place and it's nice to have meeting rooms and catering facilities all together.
Post by: RichGrab on July 20, 2016, 10:35:13 AM
Post by: stevegrab on July 20, 2016, 04:19:02 PM
I've been to over 10 STARS in my 15+ years and virtually every one stuck to that arrangement, and we were not limited in where we went (Lexington twice but different hotels, Avon a few times at the Christie Lodge).
As for the roads, we need decent to good roads, and things to see and do, not the twistiest bit of tarmac around. I can ride twistier roads in SE Ohio on a day ride than we had at Stratton, or in Avon, but its the new places, the parks, monuments, and other things that add to the experience of a STAR and a true vacation somewhere new or different. I saw scenery out west I can never see in Ohio, and traveled through some very interesting places on the way to Stratton, and Fort Ticonderoga was really cool (wish I had another 3-4 hours there).
Post by: RichGrab on July 20, 2016, 05:10:39 PM
As for the roads, we need decent to good roads, and things to see and do, not the twistiest bit of tarmac around. I can ride twistier roads in SE Ohio on a day ride than we had at Stratton, or in Avon, but its the new places, the parks, monuments, and other things that add to the experience of a STAR and a true vacation somewhere new or different. I saw scenery out west I can never see in Ohio, and traveled through some very interesting places on the way to Stratton, and Fort Ticonderoga was really cool (wish I had another 3-4 hours there).
Agreed, scenery and places to visit are something I'll remember forever from this past STAR. Walking through Fort Ticonderoga was just an incredible experience that sent chills up my spine several times. We rode about 10 minutes in the rain at the end to get there, and I was thinking "Man, this sucks." and it was barely raining. But after going through the place, I would have gladly ridden a couple hours in the rain for that experience. Bring on the new locales, I'm ready for more STAR tripping.
Post by: RIDEMYST on July 20, 2016, 05:24:44 PM
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Post by: stevegrab on July 20, 2016, 07:20:38 PM
Richard, I don't want to burst your bubble but ......(I'm going out on a limb here....) I don't think that you personally will top this year's STAR. ;) -JEP-Maybe not but I doubt he stops buying raffle tickets ;)
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I said to him that night in the hotel room "I'm sure you feel this way, but I feel like this whole STAR trip has just completely changed for me." And that was before he knew he'd be riding the bike home.
Post by: RichGrab on July 21, 2016, 10:36:31 AM
Richard, I don't want to burst your bubble but ......(I'm going out on a limb here....) I don't think that you personally will top this year's STAR. ;) -JEP-Maybe not but I doubt he stops buying raffle tickets ;)
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I said to him that night in the hotel room "I'm sure you feel this way, but I feel like this whole STAR trip has just completely changed for me." And that was before he knew he'd be riding the bike home.
Yes Jim I know. Will be really hard to top this STAR, but looking forward to trying. And yes Steve, you did make that comment and glad it had a positive effect on you. As for continuing buying tickets, it is something I definitely plan to do if for no other reason than I don't want to see the Raffle Bike giveaway go away. Everyone should have the chance to know that exhilaration at least once in their life time.
Post by: Brick on July 21, 2016, 03:33:28 PM
[/quote]
Yes Jim I know. Will be really hard to top this STAR, but looking forward to trying. And yes Steve, you did make that comment and glad it had a positive effect on you. As for continuing buying tickets, it is something I definitely plan to do if for no other reason than I don't want to see the Raffle Bike giveaway go away. Everyone should have the chance to know that exhilaration at least once in their life time.
[/quote]
I agree and that's why I'm going to win the Africa Twin at STAR next year. ... Oh wait they didn't tell y'all yet did they?!?!
Oops!
Let's Ride!
Brick
Post by: HawkGTRider on July 21, 2016, 09:36:14 PM
Yes Jim I know. Will be really hard to top this STAR, but looking forward to trying. And yes Steve, you did make that comment and glad it had a positive effect on you. As for continuing buying tickets, it is something I definitely plan to do if for no other reason than I don't want to see the Raffle Bike giveaway go away. Everyone should have the chance to know that exhilaration at least once in their life time.
[/quote]
I agree and that's why I'm going to win the Africa Twin at STAR next year. ... Oh wait they didn't tell y'all yet did they?!?!
Oops!
Let's Ride!
Brick
[/quote]
If next year's bike were to be an Africa Twin, I wouldn't mind at all. I might even bump up the number of tickets I purchase. I think I can make room for one of those in my garage even if I have to sell something else.
Post by: Brick on July 21, 2016, 10:12:55 PM
Quote from: HawkGTRider
[/quote
[/quote
If next year's bike were to be an Africa Twin, I wouldn't mind at all. I might even bump up the number of tickets I purchase. I think I can make room for one of those in my garage even if I have to sell something else.
Whoa! Read this very carefully! That is the best recommendation ever from Geoffery... For him to sell a bike!!! Amazing!
Let's Ride!
Brick
Post by: HawkGTRider on July 22, 2016, 12:24:05 AM
Post by: TN2Wheeler on July 22, 2016, 06:36:28 AM
What can I say? I test rode one in Vermont...I liked it!^^^^ Me too. I could definitely find room for one of those and I too would buy more tickets.
Post by: qman8 on July 22, 2016, 09:18:30 AM
What can I say? I test rode one in Vermont...I liked it!^^^^ Me too. I could definitely find room for one of those and I too would buy more tickets.
I liked the Africa Twin demo...with the exception of the excessive vibration at the handlebars at higher RPMs, and the stock luggage they had looked REALLY low quality.
Post by: tunerider335 on September 06, 2016, 08:09:01 PM
Just south of Nashville,TN, near Franklin on I-65. Central Time zone, south central to SW TN area. Embassy Suites. It's only 15 miles from the famous Loveless Cafe and the northern end of the Natchez Trace Parkway,(NTP) which btw, is the best, most curvy and scenic portion of the NTP.I was on that ride and think it would be a great spot! Could Corithn handle us again?
There are many good roads between I-65 and an area that stretches from there, west to the Tennessee River. Basically in an area bordered by I-40 to the north, AL and MS to the south, I-65 to the east and the TN River on the west.
The best roads that come to mind are : NTP, TN13, TN99,TN 128, TN28, TN100, TN203. I led some LA riders up there last fall and all agreed the roads were fun.
Just something to consider...
Tino
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Post by: tunerider335 on September 06, 2016, 08:09:19 PM
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