Tail Of The Dragon - Meet/Road Trip, August 17th & 18th 2019 Options

[NetsToy]

Hey Celica Family,

I'm organizing a Tail Of The Dragon meet for the weekend of August 17th & 18th 2019!

So, for those who don't know, the Tail of the Dragon is a stretch of road between Tennessee & North Carolina that's 11 miles long and includes 318 curves! THREE HUNDRED AND EIGHTEEN CURVES! That's insane! Anyway - This road attracts motorcyclists and car enthusiasts from far and wide, who all want to experience this road. I've always wanted to go, so I decided to put a group together. I'm super excited for a weekend away with a bunch of friends & Celica's!

I've created a Facebook event for this, but I wanted to put this here for those of you who are not on the FB.

If you're interested in going, let me know!

I will add details here as I put them together. I'm currently working on the itinerary.

[Box]

Hmmm, does it have to be a Celica? >.> <.< My brother and I have been meaning to do the TotD for awhile now, but something keeps coming up. Either I don't have a car and/or he's wanting to put parts on his first. Though the rate things are going that's how it'll be again this year anyway...

[NetsToy]

Hmmm, does it have to be a Celica? >.> <.< My brother and I have been meaning to do the TotD for awhile now, but something keeps coming up. Either I don't have a car and/or he's wanting to put parts on his first. Though the rate things are going that's how it'll be again this year anyway...

All cars are welcome! The more the merrier!

[enderswift]

I plan on going that weekend. Are you guys staying at Fontana?

[bryanf]

I will try to go that weekend.

[Box]

Hmmm, does it have to be a Celica? >.> <.< My brother and I have been meaning to do the TotD for awhile now, but something keeps coming up. Either I don't have a car and/or he's wanting to put parts on his first. Though the rate things are going that's how it'll be again this year anyway...

All cars are welcome! The more the merrier!

Ahh ok cool. Will largely depend on if I have another Miata by then(and my fibro, among other things), since I don't feel like hustling the Firebird through the TotD.

That and if he could get off work... One of these days we'll do it.

[punkxrckprincess]

I plan on going that weekend. Are you guys staying at Fontana?

No plans have been set we need to figure all that out.
My $$ saving suggestion was rent a big house airbnb we all split.

Also I feel like I am missing something- is one end of the dragon more desirable than the other? I figured we would be staying at the 'close' end and driving one way and driving back but I see a lot of NC suggestions.

[bloodMoney]

If you guys are going to stay at Fontana, I would have someone call NOW and see what the availability looks like, and see if you can get a group rate for X number of people.

It's too popular to wait until even the month before to call for lodging.

[narly_charley]

I'm not going, and I know people have different opinions, but honestly, an Airbnb sounds like a great idea. The only con is that you couldn't get your money back if you had to bail last minute, as you'd screw everyone else over.

[enderswift]

Airbnb does sound good but I may have to back out depending on how my car is doing and what my plans for the following weekend look like.

So fontana it is for me

[NetsToy]

Fontana Village Resort it is!

I'm all booked for Friday & Saturday nights! Aug 16 & 17.

If you're planning on going, I recommend booking a room soon, as I'm told they fill up quickly!

Yay! I'm excited for this meet!

This post has been edited by NetsToy: Jul 20, 2019 - 1:07 AM

[CoolZeen]

they will be an oldsmobile tour that weekend and they will be at fontana for breakfast and leaving at 10 am.

[GT650Schultz]

how many people are in so far? I'm debating on riding my bike down there for the weekend.

I literally just got back but can't wait to go again

[punkxrckprincess]

how many people are in so far? I'm debating on riding my bike down there for the weekend.

I literally just got back but can't wait to go again

10 per the facebook event.
We're staying at Deals Gap Saturday night

[Bitter]

I'm not on the Facebook but I'll be there, I'm planning on coming down to Knoxville on Friday and staying in the area through Monday, going back on Tuesday. Is anyone else sticking around on Sunday?

[2KGTS]

So, could I tag along? I don't do Facebook. So I don't really know all that's going on. I know that the Village has some rooms. I'm just wondering if folks will be meeting up for drives, lunch/dinner, etc.

[NetsToy]

Hey All!

It's one month until the Tail of the Dragon meet and I've just put together all the details for the trip.

I believe there are going to be around 8-10 cars according to the Facebook event, but with the non Facebook people, we may have higher numbers then that.

I'm really excited for this trip and I look forward to hanging out with everyone. Also, if you're driving down from Chicago on Friday and want to meet up with me in Indianapolis, I'm happy to caravan down to the Dragon together.

Annette



Tail Of The Dragon
Celica + Friends Meet 2019

Friday August 16th
- Drive to Tail Of The Dragon
- Accommodations:
Fontana Village Resort
300 Woods Rd.
Fontana Dam, NC 28733
1-828-498-2211

Saturday August 17th
- 9:30AM - All Cars Assemble: say hello, take photos, shop souvenirs
Tail of Dragon Store
17555 Tapoco Road
Robbinsville, NC 28771
1-800-768-7129

*It’s on 129 just north of 28, across the street from the Deals Gap Motorcycle resort. You’ll see the big dragon statue, like in this event’s banner photo.

- 11:00AM - Drive the Tail of the Dragon: cruise
**Staying together: One rule that we've always had: When caravanning, you are responsible for the car behind you. If you are driving down a road and the car behind disappears, if the group turns off the road, you are obligated to wait there until the car/cars behind you catch up. Don't worry about losing the group, because the person in front of you will have to wait for you to catch up---
**DO NOT PASS DOUBLE YELLOW CENTER LINE! There are lots of motorcycles, and crossing the center line may cause an accident, or even worse kill someone!
**HAVE FUN & BE SAFE

- 12:30PM - Lunch at:
Lynn’s Place
237 E Main St, across from the courthouse
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*American food, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
*Ranked as #3 Best Restaurant in the area

- 2:00 Drive to: hike, visit, take photos
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forrest
1133 Massey Branch Rd
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*I’m open to trail suggestions, if anyone knows the area

- 7:00 Dinner at:
Tapoco Tavern
14981 Tapoco Rd
Robinsville, NC 28771
*American Pizza & Bar, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten free options
*Perched on banks of Cheoah River (can dine outside), will take reservations for big groups. CALL FOR RESERVATION: 828.498.2800
*Ranked as #2 Best Restaurant in the area
**Tavern closes at 10:00, after that everyone is on their own
- 10:00 Drive back to Fontana for sleeps

Sunday August 18th
- Drive home from TOTD

NOTES:
**There is no cell service in the mountains, BRING WALKIE TALKIES!
**Bring GPS as cell phones wont work/no service area
print out maps ahead of time, so you’re not relying on your phone for navigation
**Nearest Gas Station is in Robinsville

[Bitter]

Weather permitting, I may go out for a drive on one of these on Sunday or Monday if anyone is still around and wants to tag along. https://grahamchamber.com/things-to-do/scenic-roadways/
My mom's place is about 15 minutes from the start of 129 in Knoxville, so I'm about 90 minutes away, according to google, from the Fontana Village place. Looks like a nice drive all the way south on The Dragon to meet up there so I should get a morning run down before it's crowded and then whenever we drive it I get to go again. I want to say that the last time I was down there with a group we drove 441 across the Smoky Mountains park to a pick-nick spot by Clingmans dome, and that was a very nice drive as well.

My mom's boyfriend (that sounds so weird because they're both old) has a BRZ so I told my mom he's welcome to come out and tag along, I didn't think the group would object to one more senior, him and 'gramps' can talk about old guy stuff.

This post has been edited by Bitter: Jul 20, 2019 - 9:47 AM

[2KGTS]

90 minutes from Knoxville may turn into something a lot longer depending on traffic on the TOTD, maybe?

I'm tempted to stay at Fontana Village Friday and Saturday nights and try to figure out how to stay one more day. Maybe in Knoxville. I should be able to get a hotel room on points (free) that way.

AWESOME planning and schedule! Well done!

[Bitter]

Meh, I'll make it work for me, not suggesting anyone else stay in Knoxville just stating my plans.

[Box]

Wish I could make it and bother Jordan in real life, oh well maybe next year.

[Bitter]

I'd let you drive the Celica some too....mayb, no clutch pedal to bother your knee! That is if you could handle the sacrilege of it.
Yes, next year. My friend from California may make it out either with his MR2 or by flying into Indy and riding along with me, almost worked out this year but it was a little bit short notice to plan around his job.

[Box]

I'd be up for a ride along at the least, and maybe a short jaunt myself to see what it's like. I don't like driving others' cars for long, makes me anxious. That and I can only handle driving an automatic for so long before getting bored and/or concentrating on my anxiety. I BETTER have my Miata by then, so I can like return the favour or even get there in the first place.

This post has been edited by Box: Jul 30, 2019 - 9:42 PM

[2KGTS]

Done deal. Driving down Friday and staying at the Inn at Fontana Dam. And so I can make up my mind about an extra day at the time, a "free" room Just outside Knoxville, Alcoa?

Pretty psyched to revisit the area with folks that actually enjoy driving. I've been dialing in a few things and will get a chance to really see how they are the end of August. So this is a great bit of tune-up/break-in to see how the car feels now. The move from all-seasons to proper summer rubber alone put a big smile on my face.

Anxious to see everyone there and to visit some real automotive Americana!

[Bitter]

So if some of us are meeting up in Indy to drive together...are we doing 65 through Louisville or 74 to 275 to 75 around by Cincinnati? I've driven it both ways, from memory the Cincinatti route was more laid back and scenic, roughly the same distance and the same driving time.
https://goo.gl/maps/qEzA1To653WkUFJf6

[NetsToy]

Who all is planning on meeting me in Indy to drive down?

I would like to drive down through Cinci, so we can meet up with Rob, who will be passing through there.

I'm not opposed to staying an extra day if I can find logging in Knoxville, or wherever.

So if some of us are meeting up in Indy to drive together...are we doing 65 through Louisville or 74 to 275 to 75 around by Cincinnati? I've driven it both ways, from memory the Cincinatti route was more laid back and scenic, roughly the same distance and the same driving time.
https://goo.gl/maps/qEzA1To653WkUFJf6

[Bitter]

Who all is planning on meeting me in Indy to drive down?

I would like to drive down through Cinci, so we can meet up with Rob, who will be passing through there.

I'm not opposed to staying an extra day if I can find logging in Knoxville, or wherever.

So if some of us are meeting up in Indy to drive together...are we doing 65 through Louisville or 74 to 275 to 75 around by Cincinnati? I've driven it both ways, from memory the Cincinatti route was more laid back and scenic, roughly the same distance and the same driving time.
https://goo.gl/maps/qEzA1To653WkUFJf6

Lindsay (Lindsey? 2KGTS) and myself are meeting in Indy somewhere somehow at some point in time lol. You're local to that area and know it well so wherever you think would be good to meet up at is fine I'm sure. Not sure which way others are going? I'm assuming others from the Chicago area are going to NW Indiana and 65 south, it's possible some of them and myself may want to meet somewhere and dodge potholes together on 65.

[narly_charley]

it's possible some of them and myself may want to meet somewhere and dodge potholes together on 65.

I grew up in DeMotte, IN (about two miles off exit 230 on 65). They've done quite a bit of construction on 65 between Merrillville and Indy.

[NetsToy]

Let's meet on 74 on the SE side of Indy, the first exit once you get on 74 is 'Exit 96 - Post Rd'. There's a Circle K gas station right off the exit.

Circle K
3801 S Post Rd.
Indianapolis, IN

Is that good with you guys? What time would you like to meet there?

This way we can gas up, etc. And you won't be back tracking at all... we'll be right on the route.

[Bitter]

it's possible some of them and myself may want to meet somewhere and dodge potholes together on 65.

I grew up in DeMotte, IN (about two miles off exit 230 on 65). They've done quite a bit of construction on 65 between Merrillville and Indy.

Is it no longer frost heaves and craters? It was kind of rough last time I drove on it and my boss was always bitching about it going to see his daughter at school down in Indy a couple years back. He said the craters between the lanes made changing lanes wheel and tire roulette.

[2KGTS]

I don't know about meeting on I-74. Works for me because that's the way I'll be coming. Chicago folks are likely coming on 65, then 465 around Indy, then back to 65. The time's important because we'll want to allow time for dinner and still rolling into the Inn before it gets too dark on those roads. All-told it's about 10.5hrs for me.

There are routes that will include tolls (I-75, I think?). I don't know if that turns anyone off. But US 129 South is apparently a toll-free option that adds almost no time. Whether we go 65 or Bitter's option, they both meet up in Maryville, TN. Maybe that's a good place to look for food? Or someplace between there and the Inn?

Can we leave tomorrow?

[Bitter]

Completely unrelated to this thread but it was important anyway.

Saw Chris but with Devin's mustache walking down the street today, it was pretty boss. Chris, you've got time make it happen!

[bloodMoney]

Completely unrelated to this thread but it was important anyway.

Saw Chris but with Devin's mustache walking down the street today, it was pretty boss. Chris, you've got time make it happen!

Umm.... Yea. No.

[Bitter]

Completely unrelated to this thread but it was important anyway.

Saw Chris but with Devin's mustache walking down the street today, it was pretty boss. Chris, you've got time make it happen!

Umm.... Yea. No.

You'd be like a stockier Thorny from Super Troopers, but not Indian.

[bloodMoney]

Completely unrelated to this thread but it was important anyway.

Saw Chris but with Devin's mustache walking down the street today, it was pretty boss. Chris, you've got time make it happen!

Umm.... Yea. No.

You'd be like a stockier Thorny from Super Troopers, but not Indian.

My response stands.

[Bitter]

Well you're just no fun.

But on a real note I'm bringing a torque wrench with a deep 21 socket for anyone who wants to check their lug nuts, my portable air compressor, and if you haven't changed your brake fluid in more than 5 years it would be wise to get fresh fluid in there so no one boils their brakes.

[richee3]

[bloodMoney]

You

are

just

wrong....

[Bitter]

Yep, totes works.

[Box]

Nightmare fuel.

[narly_charley]

I want you to draw me like one of your French girls.

[cheela]

derailed 6gc threads are fun...

[navseal345]

Wow. I would expect a better photoshop out of that. Kinda dissapointed.

[2KGTS]

I thought he was, "like part Samoan...?"

[bloodMoney]

12/10 chances he did it on his phone.

[cheela]

12/10 chances it's not even a photoshop and that's how Chris looks for real these days.

[Bitter]

What have I started....

[Box]

Indeed... reap what you sow, reap what you sow...

[Bitter]

Ok, everyone here?

Google says it's 3 hours for me to get to indy-area, so in the real world that's about 4 hours. If a Celica drives south east at 70 miles an hour for 4 hours how far can a chicken jump rope in Delaware? I should hit Indy around 9AM-ish easily, I might be a little early. Indy seems like a good area to coalesce the Chicago area people and continue on down together-ish. I know jack **** about the Indy area except that there's a 50/50 chance that I miss my turn for the bypass and drive right through the city.

So Annette, where we meet is up to you since you know the area. I was thinking somewhere just outside on the south east side around the 465/74 interchange but google is literally showing me that's just churches, a liquor store, and a strip club so maybe we should pick somewhere else to group up because I'm not too keen on loitering around any of those places.

[Box]

It'd be amusing if the churches are right next to the liquor store and strip club.

[navseal345]

Would be one hell of a Sunday.

[Bitter]

No offense to any bible belters but... I imagine that's kind of how it works round them parts. Usually some dens of sin right round the corner from the churches, I image they keep each other in business.

[Bitter]

Hey All!

It's one month until the Tail of the Dragon meet and I've just put together all the details for the trip.

I believe there are going to be around 8-10 cars according to the Facebook event, but with the non Facebook people, we may have higher numbers then that.

I'm really excited for this trip and I look forward to hanging out with everyone. Also, if you're driving down from Chicago on Friday and want to meet up with me in Indianapolis, I'm happy to caravan down to the Dragon together.

Annette



Tail Of The Dragon
Celica + Friends Meet 2019

Friday August 16th
- Drive to Tail Of The Dragon
- Accommodations:
Fontana Village Resort
300 Woods Rd.
Fontana Dam, NC 28733
1-828-498-2211

Saturday August 17th
- 9:30AM - All Cars Assemble: say hello, take photos, shop souvenirs
Tail of Dragon Store
17555 Tapoco Road
Robbinsville, NC 28771
1-800-768-7129

*It’s on 129 just north of 28, across the street from the Deals Gap Motorcycle resort. You’ll see the big dragon statue, like in this event’s banner photo.

- 11:00AM - Drive the Tail of the Dragon: cruise
**Staying together: One rule that we've always had: When caravanning, you are responsible for the car behind you. If you are driving down a road and the car behind disappears, if the group turns off the road, you are obligated to wait there until the car/cars behind you catch up. Don't worry about losing the group, because the person in front of you will have to wait for you to catch up---
**DO NOT PASS DOUBLE YELLOW CENTER LINE! There are lots of motorcycles, and crossing the center line may cause an accident, or even worse kill someone!
**HAVE FUN & BE SAFE

- 12:30PM - Lunch at:
Lynn’s Place
237 E Main St, across from the courthouse
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*American food, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
*Ranked as #3 Best Restaurant in the area

- 2:00 Drive to: hike, visit, take photos
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forrest
1133 Massey Branch Rd
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*I’m open to trail suggestions, if anyone knows the area

- 7:00 Dinner at:
Tapoco Tavern
14981 Tapoco Rd
Robinsville, NC 28771
*American Pizza & Bar, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten free options
*Perched on banks of Cheoah River (can dine outside), will take reservations for big groups. CALL FOR RESERVATION: 828.498.2800
*Ranked as #2 Best Restaurant in the area
**Tavern closes at 10:00, after that everyone is on their own
- 10:00 Drive back to Fontana for sleeps

Sunday August 18th
- Drive home from TOTD

NOTES:
**There is no cell service in the mountains, BRING WALKIE TALKIES!
**Bring GPS as cell phones wont work/no service area
print out maps ahead of time, so you’re not relying on your phone for navigation
**Nearest Gas Station is in Robinsville

Quoting so it's not buried.

Friday plans for anyone coming from Chicago area are...

Circle K off of 74. Exit 96
3801 S Post Road
Indianapolis, IN
At 9:30AM on Friday morning.
There's a McDonalds right near it so anyone who's hungry can eat something before moving on.

Stop somewhere around Cincinnati for Lunch, TBD by Lindsay

Friday night dinner
Outback Steak House
314 Merchant Dr, Knoxville, TN 37912
However there's a BUNCH of options in that area if there's something else. There's a few good BBQ places near by, going south of there the next place to eat would be in Maryville, if there's people coming from south that would prefer to eat down there we can adjust accordingly.

[Box]

No offense to any bible belters but... I imagine that's kind of how it works round them parts. Usually some dens of sin right round the corner from the churches, I image they keep each other in business.

I'm in the bible belt and no offense, but I have no use for established religions of any denomination. Though I'm ok with the ones that aren't killing people in the name of god and/or forcing their beliefs onto others. Jewish people are ok, they brought the world latke and bagels. Oh and kosher wine.

This post has been edited by Box: Aug 10, 2019 - 2:02 PM

[2KGTS]

Why in the world am I the one picking lunch in Cincy? LOL I'll look into it. But will people just want to drive-thru or get out and stretch their legs?

Hey All!

It's one month until the Tail of the Dragon meet and I've just put together all the details for the trip.

I believe there are going to be around 8-10 cars according to the Facebook event, but with the non Facebook people, we may have higher numbers then that.

I'm really excited for this trip and I look forward to hanging out with everyone. Also, if you're driving down from Chicago on Friday and want to meet up with me in Indianapolis, I'm happy to caravan down to the Dragon together.

Annette



Tail Of The Dragon
Celica + Friends Meet 2019

Friday August 16th
- Drive to Tail Of The Dragon
- Accommodations:
Fontana Village Resort
300 Woods Rd.
Fontana Dam, NC 28733
1-828-498-2211

Saturday August 17th
- 9:30AM - All Cars Assemble: say hello, take photos, shop souvenirs
Tail of Dragon Store
17555 Tapoco Road
Robbinsville, NC 28771
1-800-768-7129

*It’s on 129 just north of 28, across the street from the Deals Gap Motorcycle resort. You’ll see the big dragon statue, like in this event’s banner photo.

- 11:00AM - Drive the Tail of the Dragon: cruise
**Staying together: One rule that we've always had: When caravanning, you are responsible for the car behind you. If you are driving down a road and the car behind disappears, if the group turns off the road, you are obligated to wait there until the car/cars behind you catch up. Don't worry about losing the group, because the person in front of you will have to wait for you to catch up---
**DO NOT PASS DOUBLE YELLOW CENTER LINE! There are lots of motorcycles, and crossing the center line may cause an accident, or even worse kill someone!
**HAVE FUN & BE SAFE

- 12:30PM - Lunch at:
Lynn’s Place
237 E Main St, across from the courthouse
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*American food, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
*Ranked as #3 Best Restaurant in the area

- 2:00 Drive to: hike, visit, take photos
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forrest
1133 Massey Branch Rd
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*I’m open to trail suggestions, if anyone knows the area

- 7:00 Dinner at:
Tapoco Tavern
14981 Tapoco Rd
Robinsville, NC 28771
*American Pizza & Bar, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten free options
*Perched on banks of Cheoah River (can dine outside), will take reservations for big groups. CALL FOR RESERVATION: 828.498.2800
*Ranked as #2 Best Restaurant in the area
**Tavern closes at 10:00, after that everyone is on their own
- 10:00 Drive back to Fontana for sleeps

Sunday August 18th
- Drive home from TOTD

NOTES:
**There is no cell service in the mountains, BRING WALKIE TALKIES!
**Bring GPS as cell phones wont work/no service area
print out maps ahead of time, so you’re not relying on your phone for navigation
**Nearest Gas Station is in Robinsville

Quoting so it's not buried.

Friday plans for anyone coming from Chicago area are...

Circle K off of 74. Exit 96
3801 S Post Road
Indianapolis, IN
At 9:30AM on Friday morning.
There's a McDonalds right near it so anyone who's hungry can eat something before moving on.

Stop somewhere around Cincinnati for Lunch, TBD by Lindsay

Friday night dinner
Outback Steak House
314 Merchant Dr, Knoxville, TN 37912
However there's a BUNCH of options in that area if there's something else. There's a few good BBQ places near by, going south of there the next place to eat would be in Maryville, if there's people coming from south that would prefer to eat down there we can adjust accordingly.

[Bitter]

Because Annette picked the Indy meeting spot, I picked dinner, which makes it your turn for lunch.

I'm probably not in the minority of us that don't eat in their car or while driving so I dunno fast food is fine if it's dine in. Even just pick an exit area with some places to eat and a gas station. Or we can just eat at whatever is by the gas station when we stop for gas.

This post has been edited by Bitter: Aug 11, 2019 - 4:11 PM

[narly_charley]

BK has the vegan burger now.

[Bitter]

BK has the vegan burger now.

Is it vegan if they cook it on the same grill as the beef?

[narly_charley]

BK has the vegan burger now.

Is it vegan if they cook it on the same grill as the beef?

It's a debatable topic. Haha! I got it the other day and you have the choice of them cooking the patty in their microwave or on the broiler with the beef. I chose microwave, as it's the "pure vegan" way to do it. It was alright, as it didn't have the charred grill texture or flavor.

If I was to get it again, I would just get it on the broiler. It's not like they cook it in a pan with grease just pooled up - it's on a broiler conveyor belt.

[97GTinKC]

Guess I should check in more often,,, completely missed this.

I was there last year on my bike. Would love to take the Celica to that area. I found the Blue Ridge Parkway to be the nicer ride though. Take it if you can over towards Maggie Valley.

[Box]

BK has the vegan burger now.

Is it vegan if they cook it on the same grill as the beef?

Technically not even vegetarian at that point either, though I guess the transfer on a grated grill would be minimal versus a griddle.

[Bitter]

People, check your spare tires before this long trip. Mine was completely flat, I know I put air in 5 years ago!

[narly_charley]

People, check your spare tires before this long trip. Mine was completely flat, I know I put air in 5 years ago!

Good advice. I've been lucky enough to never have to use one. I do check mine every time I change my oil (which is when I rotate my tires). Checking your spare is a good habit to get in to.

[Box]

Or chunk it, especially if 10+ years old, for a plugging kit and 12V compressor. Weight reduction, and can service multiple tires if need be. In fact I think that's what most new cars are doing anyway.

Which in the instance of my mom's Challenger it seems moot from the weight reduction standpoint, but still servicing multiple tires is nice.

[NetsToy]

I added the lunch time info! SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS!

Hey All!

It's one month until the Tail of the Dragon meet and I've just put together all the details for the trip.

I believe there are going to be around 8-10 cars according to the Facebook event, but with the non Facebook people, we may have higher numbers then that.

I'm really excited for this trip and I look forward to hanging out with everyone. Also, if you're driving down from Chicago on Friday and want to meet up with me in Indianapolis, I'm happy to caravan down to the Dragon together.

Annette



Tail Of The Dragon
Celica + Friends Meet 2019

Friday August 16th
- Drive to Tail Of The Dragon
- Accommodations:
Fontana Village Resort
300 Woods Rd.
Fontana Dam, NC 28733
1-828-498-2211

Saturday August 17th
- 9:30AM - All Cars Assemble: say hello, take photos, shop souvenirs
Tail of Dragon Store
17555 Tapoco Road
Robbinsville, NC 28771
1-800-768-7129

*It’s on 129 just north of 28, across the street from the Deals Gap Motorcycle resort. You’ll see the big dragon statue, like in this event’s banner photo.

- 11:00AM - Drive the Tail of the Dragon: cruise
**Staying together: One rule that we've always had: When caravanning, you are responsible for the car behind you. If you are driving down a road and the car behind disappears, if the group turns off the road, you are obligated to wait there until the car/cars behind you catch up. Don't worry about losing the group, because the person in front of you will have to wait for you to catch up---
**DO NOT PASS DOUBLE YELLOW CENTER LINE! There are lots of motorcycles, and crossing the center line may cause an accident, or even worse kill someone!
**HAVE FUN & BE SAFE

- 12:30PM - Lunch at:
Lynn’s Place
237 E Main St, across from the courthouse
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*American food, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten Free Options
*Ranked as #3 Best Restaurant in the area

- 2:00 Drive to: hike, visit, take photos
Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forrest
1133 Massey Branch Rd
Robbinsville, NC 28771
*I’m open to trail suggestions, if anyone knows the area

- 7:00 Dinner at:
Tapoco Tavern
14981 Tapoco Rd
Robinsville, NC 28771
*American Pizza & Bar, Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, Gluten free options
*Perched on banks of Cheoah River (can dine outside), will take reservations for big groups. CALL FOR RESERVATION: 828.498.2800
*Ranked as #2 Best Restaurant in the area
**Tavern closes at 10:00, after that everyone is on their own
- 10:00 Drive back to Fontana for sleeps

Sunday August 18th
- Drive home from TOTD

NOTES:
**There is no cell service in the mountains, BRING WALKIE TALKIES!
**Bring GPS as cell phones wont work/no service area
print out maps ahead of time, so you’re not relying on your phone for navigation
**Nearest Gas Station is in Robinsville

Quoting so it's not buried.

Friday plans for anyone coming from Chicago area are...

Circle K off of 74. Exit 96
3801 S Post Road
Indianapolis, IN
At 9:30AM on Friday morning.
There's a McDonalds right near it so anyone who's hungry can eat something before moving on.

Lunch/Gas Fill Up at 11:15AM - Just south of Cinci on 71, at the Florence Y'all water tower Exit 181. (We are meeting with Rob at this location to add to our convoy)
BP
8039 Burlington Pike
Florence, KY

Friday night dinner
Outback Steak House
314 Merchant Dr, Knoxville, TN 37912
However there's a BUNCH of options in that area if there's something else. There's a few good BBQ places near by, going south of there the next place to eat would be in Maryville, if there's people coming from south that would prefer to eat down there we can adjust accordingly.

[NetsToy]

For dinner in Knoxville, TN I would like to suggest Stock & Barrel. I'd like to try something local to the area, that I can't find here at home.

Let me know Lindsay & Bitter if this place looks good to you!

Stock & Barrel
35 Market Square
Knoxville, TN 37902

https://thestockandbarrel.com/?fbclid=IwAR2...auWwelCvyENm3qM

[Bitter]

Or chunk it, especially if 10+ years old, for a plugging kit and 12V compressor. Weight reduction, and can service multiple tires if need be. In fact I think that's what most new cars are doing anyway.

Which in the instance of my mom's Challenger it seems moot from the weight reduction standpoint, but still servicing multiple tires is nice.

Inflator kit only helps with a small puncture or leak, not with a gaping hole punched by a big bolt or something else. I'd rather have a spare.

[Box]

I personally don't trust doughnut spares once they're over 10 years old so for me it's just easier and cheaper to replace it with a plugging kit and compressor than trying to hunt down a newer spare I would trust. All assuming that such an event either is even needed. Not sure if by sheer dumb luck, but my brother that does at least 20K miles a year has only had 1 flat since driving and it was from a nail so the tire was easily plugged. Now if you have a full size spare that gets replaced with each set of tires that's another story, but I don't think many cars past the 80's had such.

[Bitter]

Spares are built of different stuff than normal tires and have a much longer service life, but yea around the 10 year mark is the designed life span. I've used mine a once and it's noisy as hell. There's no cracks and the rubber feels supple so I'm not too worried about it, you can buy brand new spare tires but they're not cheap for some reason, supply and demand I suppose.

[2KGTS]

For dinner in Knoxville, TN I would like to suggest Stock & Barrel. I'd like to try something local to the area, that I can't find here at home.

Let me know Lindsay & Bitter if this place looks good to you!

Stock & Barrel
35 Market Square
Knoxville, TN 37902

https://thestockandbarrel.com/?fbclid=IwAR2...auWwelCvyENm3qM

Excellent! Not that I've been there, but some local flavor's cool!

I promise I'll find a good exit as we go by/through Cincy.

Did you say something about meeting folks as we go through that area? Is there a meeting spot set yet?

[Box]

Well the issue with the Firebird is it's 5x120.65 which isn't used anymore(and was only GM towards the end for the longest time), except for the C7 Vette which is one of those cars that don't come with a spare(and isn't even being made now, and I doubt the C8 sticks with the pattern or will even have a spare either). So yeah... Much rather take chances on a plug kit and compressor versus a 23+ year old doughnut spare. Maybe someone out there makes new spares in said bolt pattern, but I wouldn't be surprised if they don't.

That's ok though, I'll be getting a car that's either 5x114.3 or 4x100 and those are the most common patterns out there. I'll still go with plugging kit and compressor.

This post has been edited by Box: Aug 13, 2019 - 10:04 PM

[Bitter]

My mom says Market Square in Knoxville on a Friday is going to be hell to park, at least an hour wait to just get a table there IF they're not already got a full queue for the night, and then the service might be slow. She's been there a few times and anytime on Friday or Saturday evening they've been turned away or told the wait was over an hour except once. So a group is going to be hard to get in there.

She suggested Buddy's BBQ on Emory road, it's an indoor sit down and it's super easy to get to off the highway and get back on.
https://goo.gl/maps/v5TtJp8cM9CCqADF7
I'm down for some BBQ.

[2KGTS]

It's about six hours or less to get to Maryville, TN from Indy. If we meet in Indy at 9:30am, perhaps get rolling by 10 or 10:30am, that still puts us in Maryville for an early dinner (Calhoun's is a local place there that may be good). It's another hour and a half to get to Fontana Village where food is very limited with much of it closing by 8pm from what I've been able to find.

So the current thinking seems to be that we'll gas up in Indy, perhaps get some road snacks/food (deli-type sandwich or whatever you like) and just journey on towards Maryville. We can figure out gas stops and where to eat in/around Maryville while on the road.

Welcome to any other input or ideas! Otherwise, see you at 9:30 or so in Indy on Friday!

[2KGTS]

Well, nevermind me. My Friday schedule's been forced to change. I won't be able to leave before 7:45-8a and it's a 10 hour drive (without gas or other stops) to get to Fontana Village. I'm hoping to get there by 7:30. Sorry I'll miss the caravan!

[Bitter]

Idiot here decided he had time to sleep in a little bit forgot about the timezones change, I needed the extra sleep though so whatever. Not sure if I'll miss dinner but I'll try to stay in touch with the group.

[Box]

Have fun everyone!

[CelicaSlowboi]

Just to make sure, the official meet spot for 9:30 Saturday is the TOTD store? I’ll be coming up in my 6gc and my brother will be in his 7th gen.

[Bitter]

Got here round 7:30. Good night.

[Bitter]

https://www.photoreflect.com/store/ThumbPag...mp;g=04RK03K90B KillBoy
https://www.photoreflect.com/store/ThumbPag...mp;g=0QAK03G803 129photos

Moonshine is harder to link, just google them yourself and 129slayer is also hard to link so google that one. Those two didn't categorize us into our own group so...

[enderswift]

Photos look awesome! Really wish I could have joined

[Box]

The body roll on that RA though.

Maybe next year I'll have a functioning MR2 or Miata to go with.

[Bitter]

Photos look awesome! Really wish I could have joined

The body roll on that RA though.

Maybe next year I'll have a functioning MR2 or Miata to go with.

Both of you hopefully can come out next year! Maybe there will be someone I can have some fun with for once.

[Box]

Indeed, it's something I've been wanting to do for some time now. Also, I am quite fun.

[Bitter]

I'll see if I can make you queasy in my car, I think my new goal is to make someone ask to pull over to vomit haha

[Box]

That won't take much since I suffer from motion sickness, so I won't count.

[Bitter]

https://store.129slayer.com/ Goto 8/17 and look for 11:59 AM.

[Box]

That camper with trailer at 11:50 though. Jeez, confirms my fears though with so many vehicles in such a short span... Just another freaking tourist trap now...

ALSO WHY Jordan WHY.

[enderswift]

That camper with trailer at 11:50 though. Jeez, confirms my fears though with so many vehicles in such a short span... Just another freaking tourist trap now...

ALSO WHY Jordan WHY.

You have to go during the week; Monday through Thursday. The road is damn near empty much of the time

Weekends are always either a parade of slow moving harleys or crowded with large groups

This post has been edited by enderswift: Aug 18, 2019 - 11:40 PM

[Bitter]

Just spreadin the love. Just spreadin the love.

[Bitter]

That camper with trailer at 11:50 though. Jeez, confirms my fears though with so many vehicles in such a short span... Just another freaking tourist trap now...

ALSO WHY Jordan WHY.

You have to go during the week; Monday through Thursday. The road damn near empty much of the time

Weekends are always either a parade of slow moving harleys or crowded with large groups

Too true. I've got little to nothing planned tomorrow so I'm tempted to get up there but I don't feel like going up alone but hey maybe I should anyway, might meet some cool people. Saturday wasn't too bad, a little busy but not awful I guess, I don't really have a comparison because this is the first time driving it but I could imagine it being much worse than it was. I wish I'd gotten down here on Thursday like my original plan was so I had Friday to recover, Saturday for fun, then Sunday to hang out, and Monday to go home. I was SOO exhausted on Saturday and all day today I felt a bit dizzy. I'm actually pretty stunned I was able to maintain my focus and drive as well as I did but had I been properly rested I would have had more fun, by the last time down it felt more like a chore. I was scouring my GPS for a different way but everything else was substantially longer. Also it's been pretty hot which didn't help things either, no AC when I'm cutting up the corners but AC on the drive back once I was to the highway was so nice.

I got 35MPG between Indy and Knoxville 9.9 gallons burnt, 22MPG on Saturday driving the Dragon and to/from Knoxville 8.6 gallons burnt. I honestly expected Saturday to be worse, closer to 18. I may have done some light hypermiling on the way down from Indy, slow lane drafting trucks and using the AC only on downhill to assist with engine braking. Gravity powered air conditioning for the win! It's free real estate.

This post has been edited by Bitter: Aug 18, 2019 - 11:06 PM

[Box]

Why no A/C while cutting up the corners? Oh yeah... never mind. I forget that makes a difference on some cars. Sigh... that's one thing I'm going to miss.

[bloodMoney]

So, now you all understand why I've never really had any interest running RT-71?

Nothing compares that that road.

[Bitter]

So, now you all understand why I've never really had any interest running RT-71?

Nothing compares that that road.

I still like 71 a lot, they're different roads with different character. I'd just love 71 to be about 4 times longer
71 has a few tight spots and some broader curves, but they're weakly banked which is a whole different thing. The higher banked curves of 129 are great too but it's a much different feel being pushed into the road vs being pulled off the road, if I'm explaining it correctly. I enjoy both kinds of curves equally for their different challenges they provide.

Anyway, the only car we had that I believe might have given me some fun was old man's Kia Stinger and it blew off an some charge cooling hose on the way to the meeting spot from the hotel, I couldn't spot where it had come loose. It wasn't totally off but it was leaking enough he could only make a couple PSI boost. Then later on he dislodged a front sway bar bushing. Luckily none of this is an indication of Kia quality, the boost has been turned up a bit and the sway bar/bushing/bracket were Eibach. Now I'm not trying to toot my own horn or fluff myself up here but I think among the Celica in attendance mine was the 2nd best looking after the silver 77. From what I could see of how they were handling the curves I think it's a good thing that Lindsay and myself hung toward the back of the pack. I didn't get the trans too hot cruising with the group which was nice, the relaxed pace was good as I got to actually enjoy some of the scenery and wave at the cameras more. On the way up by myself I think that the lowest speed through a corner was around 20 on something really tight and blind to the left.


Is anyone planning to come out for the Starved Rock meet on the 24th or whenever that happens? I'm for sure down for the 'fix Chee's Celica' meet as well!

This post has been edited by Bitter: Aug 19, 2019 - 8:19 AM

[2KGTS]

Both of you hopefully can come out next year! Maybe there will be someone I can have some fun with for once.

???

...

Anyway, the only car we had that I believe might have given me some fun was old man's Kia Stinger and it blew off an some charge cooling hose on the way to the meeting spot from the hotel, I couldn't spot where it had come loose. It wasn't totally off but it was leaking enough he could only make a couple PSI boost. Then later on he dislodged a front sway bar bushing. Luckily none of this is an indication of Kia quality, the boost has been turned up a bit and the sway bar/bushing/bracket were Eibach.

...

I'm beginning to think the diverter valve was compensating for what it thought was an overboost situation. I did turn down the boost and made sure I stayed in lower gears to get the grunt of the V6 without needing much boost. But later that day and a bit on the way home, I couldn't seem to replicate the loss of power and blowoff noise with the louder, lower tone. I'll have to do more checking.

The hardest I drove the Tail was Saturday night after I'd gone back to Marysville for more gas. I had the road mostly to myself and took the opportunity to really push it a bit after waiting in a Pull Off area for a couple of race bikes to go by so I could try some follow-the-leader. Once I got her into four wheel drifts and leaping in and out of the dips in the middle of the curves I was pretty happy! Finally got the tires pushed where they would sing a bit.

But yes, when I rolled into the Inn I could hear the rattle. I was just hoping it was the aftermarket sways and/or endlinks. When I got it up in the air at a Firestone in Knoxville, we could see the bushing and slipped out of it's "mount". The tech was easily able to put it back, but the raised edges of both bushings - designed to help keep them in place, I guess - were all chewed up. I'm having a conversation with Eibach starting today. Bitter came up with a good idea for an interim solution, though.

Driving that road feeds something inside me, truly. I could stay there and drive it all day every day!

GREAT JOB @NetsToy!!! Thank you for your hard work!

[Bitter]

I meant cars near the size and weight of mine lol. The Stinger is great but it's a different class of car entirely, like a Miata vs a Corvette.

[bloodMoney]

Driving that road feeds something inside me, truly. I could stay there and drive it all day every day!

Hit the nail on the head Lindsay. It's difficult to translate the feeling into words for me.

Did you guys hit up the Cherohala Skyway at all?

Those two roads are my driving nirvana.

[Bitter]

I don't believe we did. Next time I hope to drive down on Thursday and have Friday to recover so I'm well rested on Saturday. That was my plan but work put the skadoosh on it. My last time down I was so so tired but still had a great time,my focus was starting to wane however.

[Box]

That's my biggest concern, I'd have to go a few days in advance just to recover from driving there. Especially if in a Miata or MR2, but those are the only two cars I even remotely want within my budget so it is what it is.

[Bitter]

So I assume everyone made it back home safely?

[2KGTS]

Please let me know if these links don't work:

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipOrmNU...mNnVU16cFRQX0x3

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPacC-...nhHWkw3OHlKVGRn

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipMoJL8...FlDVzdIOWMzTGRn

Driving into Robbinsville with some Harry Nilsson:

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPb7W_...FZCV1QwU2FDRWFR

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipOMJD_...TNqQW05dmZhTHFR

https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPCXhb...FFrbVJ1Vm9uSkJn


https://photos.google.com/share/AF1QipPwMXn...TgyVXVRT2tBS2N3