Ducati Monster Forum

I'm going to ride from Valdosta, Ga up to Pittsburgh, Pa Next month. Bike needs some work before I can leave though. I've never ridden this far before and I'm very excited, but I need advice on what route to take. I was told to hit Asheville or Little Switzerland NC. Nice twisties. So what roads would you suggest? Only other thing is that I will be followed by my pregnant wife in our car, and my father-in-law will be riding down to meet us halfway. Thanks for any advice!!!

you could check out the local boards (http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?action=forum#6) for the areas you're going to ride through  [thumbsup]


road trips are fun! I can't wait to do one again

Well, knowing you've got car support negates some of my planned advice, since it was about stuff to carry and how to carry it.

But, I've got some other thoughts.

If she is going to be directly following the same route, you should lay out some meet up points before hand - and don't stress sticking together  1 - 2 on the road.  It can be difficult/stressful for some folks to try and keep pace with a bike in some cases.. but she will have the advantage of AC, widnscreen and langer fuel range, thus able to stick to a road longer and possibly pull a faster long term average speed.

Possibly look at a bluetooth helmet module and walkie for her if you want some extra security.  Something with a few miles range - so you don't have to rely on cell coverage

EARPLUGS.  Wind noise will fatigue you faster than anything but cold.  Get a gel seat if you can too.  Maybe bungee a small bag to the rear seat to act as a backrest.

As some of you know, I'm a member here because I plan on trading my harley superglide in for a ducati.  However, for the time being, this trip will be a little more comfortable some some of you might think, lol.  Slower, but comfortable nonetheless.

If you are looking for a great view (and some good roads), the Blue Ridge Parkway, around Asheville, NC, is great.  There are also some really good roads with tight turns that run off of it.  Not sure what kind of roads you are looking for, but that area has it all. 

+1 on the Blue Ridge Pkwy.  Some of the best views in that area.

Harley or not, the earplugs are mandatory.

Especially on a Harley. ;)

Zing!!

+1 on the plugs.  I did a round trip 300ish mile ride this weekend (mostly slab) with good earplugs and my ears were still a bit ringy by the time I got too and from my destination.  I couldn't imagine doing the same ride without them. 

If you have access to a machine, shoot me a PM when you get to the burgh!

Will do!  I'm really worried about the heat...I don't own a mesh jacket and wont be able to afford one before the trip. :(
I was thinking about just wearing a motocross jersey instead, but I'm a little worried since we are going through deals gap.  Maybe I'll pack my heavy leather jacket for when we are "tearing it up" lol.

Fixed ;) - Have a nice ride -Enjoy it [thumbsup] [moto]



I "scrape" all the time on my V-rod 8)

Lol, I know what you mean.  I hang WAY off the side of the bike to cut back on some of the scraping...plus contrary to harley code of conduct, I actually raised the rear end instead of lowering it.  Got rid of the ape hangers for a low drag bar too.  Still won't ride like a monster though.