Cycle Source magazine and the Limpnickie Lot crew put on the first annual The Big Mountain Run at Hiwassee Outfitters in Reliance, Tennessee, June 18th to the 20th. Some of those attending met with Chris Callen, the editor and supreme emperor of Cycle Source and rode to Tilley Harley-Davidson in North Carolina where the Gypsy Run part of the event was destined to start. Other riders met on the way.

I opted to meet them at the wheels Through Time Museum in Maggie Valley. This place, owned and built by master Harley- Davidson restorer and dealer owner, Dale Walksler, is so awesome I will write a separate, highly distinctive piece about it. I'm still in awe.

The second day included a stop at Deals Gap and riding the Tail Of The Dragon, which is 318 curves in 11 miles, and then turning around and doing it again before heading off to the event.

One of the younger riders was a tad too aggressive and the dragon bit him. He lost control and slid for 70 feet. He got away with minor injuries, but by the law of the mountain, he was forced to hang a damaged component from his bike the Tree Of Shame, which is a local busted bike part landmark.

Tattoo Duke, who is old enough to know better was having big fun later in the day shooting sparks off his floorboards and also ended up with some injuries. He was able to laugh about it later.

"I was just havin to much fun," he said.

Hoping ya a quick recovery my friend.

Partying with the crew from Limpnickie is always fun. It reminded me of the old days in Sturgis Park. There were some grey beards there, but more of the younger riders who are keeping the real biker tradition alive.

If you get a chance to attend one of their events you should definitely do so. Yuppies and those who want to talk about how much they spent on their motorcycle are as welcome as is everyone, but probably won't have as much fun as those who wrench their bikes and or have made parts for their ride.

I am looking forward to the next party already.

-- ROGUE