n e arkansas riding at byrds

[jonolanracin]

Ok im trying to find a nice new place to camp and ride and came across byrds adventure center in ozark which looks like a nice place and was wondering if anyone has been there and can tell me what type riding it is. Is it trike friendly and my wife will be riding the rhino and she wants easy trails and they allow night riding which will be great as we usally go to st joe but want to ride at night . thanks for any info

[ATC King]

Byrd's is in a nice area. I haven't been on the trails in a long time there, but I remember them as mostly Jeep trails.

It's right on the Mulberry River, which great for canoeing. It's really near Cass, Ozark is 20 miles or so south of there. You'll also be very close to the Mill Creek OHV area. http://www.riderplanet-usa.com/atv/trails/info/arkansas_08530/ride_8b75.htm

I've never camped there, so I cannot comment on those services, but the whole area is nice, as far as the Ozarks go. You would also be only minutes from Oark General Store, which was opened in 1890. http://www.oarkgeneralstore.com/home.html

It's a really popular place to eat and they have good food. The drive there is scenic and it really is a destination worth visiting. There's typically a crowd of motorcycle riders of all types there, as the ride there is that nice.

Then there is Turner Bend just around the corner. http://turnerbend.com/ They have canoe rentals and cabins, sell fuel, beer, and other typical small store items. Be sure to buy a Pig Trail (Highway 23) sticker if you stop by.

Another place to camp or lodge is Mulberry Mountain, which has trails that connect to Mill Creek. http://www.mulberrymountainlodge.com/things-to-do/atv-trails/ That is where the now defunct Wakarusa music festival used to be held. http://www.wakarusa.com/


I used to live within minutes of those places and rode my trike all over the place. It's been a while since I have though. I mostly buzz through on dual sport bikes now, being street legal really opens up riding opportunities.

[jonolanracin]

Thanks for the info id like to go there but its a long drive and want to make sure its worth the drive

[captainweezy]

Act king, that is some great info. I will have to look into a trip that way in the future.

[The_Steve_Man]

Mill Creek is a fun place. I have been once last year but wanting to go back. It is only a couple hours from me.

[jonolanracin]

NHey captian i

[jonolanracin]

Hey captian aand or steve im looking to go in the next 2 weeks either of you want to make the trip

[captainweezy]

i dont think i am going to go anywhere in the next few weeks. If i do it will probably be back to st joe. My buddy starts a 3 week vacation the 10th and wants to go.
We may try the cliffs in astoria. Its not far.

[jonolanracin]

Cliffs in astoria where is that do they have csmping and whats the ruding like

[ATC King]

For anyone planning a trip to northwest Arkansas and places like Mill Creek, Byrd's, and the general area, just let me know if you'd like to meet. I've been living in the area off and on for several years and know it fairly well, even if I haven't been on the trails in a while.

I don't have a trike with me right now and they're all hardtails anyway, so I wouldn't be able to stay up with the sport trike riders, but I could tag along on my bike.

[jonolanracin]

We are going next weekend either to byrds or cloud 9 ranch ill let you know where we decide to ride

[jonolanracin]

For anyone planning a trip to northwest Arkansas and places like Mill Creek, Byrd's, and the general area, just let me know if you'd like to meet. I've been living in the area off and on for several years and know it fairly well, even if I haven't been on the trails in a while.

I don't have a trike with me right now and they're all hardtails anyway, so I wouldn't be able to stay up with the sport trike riders, but I could tag along on my bike.ok we just booked up the hillbilly hilton lol and grannys cabin and will be there fri the 12th thru sunday if your near come on out and ride and i usally bring an extrs trike just in case we break one so i may even had you a softtail to ride or anyone else that wants to join us at byrds adventure crnter

[ATC King]

Right on!

I'll head that way Saturday morning.

I'll PM you my contact info.

[ATC King]

jonolanracin, do you or any in your group like beer?

I ask because I was going to bring something from one of the local breweries if you do.

[ATC King]

Thank you to all of your group for a fun time, and especially for the chance to ride your Tri-Z (which I shouldn't have done, because now I want one).

The weather couldn't have been better, cool and no dust on the trails/gravel roads. If y'all ever come back, I'll get a camping spot and do some night riding, and probably use my Big Red for that.


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[jonolanracin]

Heck rob says will be back he liked and thanks for the beer me and robs wlfe drank half it and we both got a nice buzz that was some stout beer . and glad you enjoyed the tri z ride and me so sorry it makes you want 1 lol let me know when you want 1 i can hook you up haha if only we could have seen a bear or 2 it would have been perfect i think the way the place is set up it be a good place to have a big group riding event

[ATC King]

I'm working on putting some routes together for another ride at Byrd's. I'd like to make at least a fifty mile route, with the possibility for a hundred, mostly on gravel roads.

If it was to be a quicker pace, I'd ride a bike, and if no one objected to an all day ride, I'd take the BR or 185S.

It'll be a couple months before I have the chance to ride it and get it all set. Oark store would be about the halfway point and a fuel stop, regardless of the distance.

Story about Oark store: http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2017/feb/12/oasis-for-amity-food-in-oark-20170212/

I stopped by there last weekend and the place was busy as usual.

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[Aulbaugh]

Sounds like a great time! I'd be interested in riding the next go around. Great story on the Ozark store!

[ATC King]

I'm going to try and make the Byrd's spring ATV rally. http://www.byrdsadventurecenter.com/event-calendar/icalrepeat.detail/2017/03/10/103/43/spring-atv-a-side-by-side-rally.html

It's soon, but the BR is good(enough) to go, although it's ugly, slow, and it tends to smoke whenever it feels the need. I can't take a bike because the pace will be too slow, so the BR will have to do even if it won't be the best example of a trike.

At some point, I'd like camp at Mulberry Mountain and ride Mill Creek for a weekend. It's just down the road from Byrd's and has direct access to the Mill Creek trail complex. http://www.mulberrymountainlodge.com/
https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5350135.pdf

[ATC King]

The Byrd's rally is a go for me. If anyone here manages to make it, I'll see you, or you'll see me there.

I'll be there Friday morning through Sunday.

[ironchop]

Pics please.

Sent from my Z958 using Tapatalk

[Aulbaugh]

The Byrd's rally is a go for me. If anyone here manages to make it, I'll see you, or you'll see me there.

I'll be there Friday morning through Sunday.

I am going to try to make it if I can get things in line Chris.

[ATC King]

That'd be awesome, I hope you can make it.

This'll be the first time I've been to their ATV rally, and I imagine it's just going to be a slow cruzing weekend and just hanging around and relaxing. That's what I'm going to make of it anyway.

I've got a bunch of parts in for my BR to put on this weekend. Front and rear brake shoes and cables, most importantly. It's already got an HID headlight, so it'll be good for the night ride on Friday. I have some LED headlights to install on my truck too, so it's going to be a pretty busy weekend for me.

I'll be taking my truck, and sleeping in the camper shell. They have ice at the little store there, so it won't be a problem keeping food and drinks cold. There's also Turner Bend store 5-8 miles down the road in case something else is needed, like fuel (91 E0) http://turnerbend.com/store/.

[ATC King]

Pics please.

Sent from my Z958 using Tapatalk

I'll make a true effort to. I'm the kind of person who takes pictures through the windshield while traveling.

Here's one I got while replacing brakes on the BR this weekend.

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At least the third time that has happened to my brakes. Different trikes and brand of shoes, they all seem to have a propensity for it, but replacing rear shoes on an 200ES is a PITA.




New air filter, front and rear brake shoes and cables, seat cover, rear brake side axle bearing and seal, front wheel bearings and seals, fresh oil, and it's still just as ugly as before, but it goes and is loaded for the weekend.

[Aulbaugh]

Well things didn't work this time around for me with my ride being down. Let us know how it goes and what to expect next year.

[ATC King]

Alright.

I'm planning on going several times this year, but since it looked like I'd be able to make Byrd's annual rally it was impromptu anyway and just wanted to throw it out there in case anyone else could make it.

Anytime you think you'd like to get out this way, I can probably manage to make a weekend out of it. Like I also mentioned, I'd like to camp at Mulberry Mountain at least one weekend and ride the Mill Creek trails.

[The_Steve_Man]

I have only been to Mill Creek once but want to go back. It is only 2 hrs from me.

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[ATC King]

Any time you're able to go, post up and I may be able to ride with you.

It's less than an hour for me to get there.

[Aulbaugh]

Alright.

I'm planning on going several times this year, but since it looked like I'd be able to make Byrd's annual rally it was impromptu anyway and just wanted to throw it out there in case anyone else could make it.

Anytime you think you'd like to get out this way, I can probably manage to make a weekend out of it. Like I also mentioned, I'd like to camp at Mulberry Mountain at least one weekend and ride the Mill Creek trails.

Ok that sounds good. I had a few things in the works when you posted up the byrds ride and I thought I would have things ready by then but I didn't. If it was a month away I'd be set to go. I'm definitely down for the Mulberry Mountain and Mill Creek trails. I'm on the lookout for a camper shell for my dodge.

[ATC King]

On the camper shell, the one piece of advice I'll give you is make sure you can get your trike in it if that's what you intend to do instead of pulling a trailer.

The taller ones, or at least the ones that the back glass hinges at the highest level make it much easier to load. I have to fold the bars down on my 200ES to get it in and an SX is even taller, so without a more interesting technique, I don't think one of those would fit in mine.

The shells that replace the tailgate with an actual door, and the entire back still lifts up for loading are pretty sweet.

Good luck on the search. It took me a couple years to find the proper one for my truck, as it's a vintage factory Ford shell and the only one that properly fits and looks right on it. I made a 400 mile round trip to get mine.

[Aulbaugh]

Yeah I do have a trailer I will put the trikes on to haul. I've been looking at a few different styles and definitely trying to find a used one for my style of truck. We'll see what turns up. Having one will go far once were out there.

[The_Steve_Man]

Any time you're able to go, post up and I may be able to ride with you.

It's less than an hour for me to get there.
I can about anytime. Really liked it down there but just haven't been back.

Sent from my SM-G930R4 using Tapatalk

[ATC King]

I had a great time at Byrd's and I'll post some more pictures and go into more detail later in the week.

It rained all day Saturday, so today is a clothes washing, gear drying marathon so I don't have it to do during the week. It also snowed (very little) Saturday night and there was enough ice on the windshield this morning that I used the ice scraper.

An absolute blast other than the weather. I was the only triker there, and easy to spot. I even participated in the timed sprint race Saturday evening, although I'm pretty certain I had the smallest engine there and as soon as I seen a couple of them blow through the finish line like lightning, I knew I was racing against myself only (two attempts).

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[ATC King]

I got to Byrd's about noon on Friday, paid the $45 event fee, then set up camp. The event fee includes the camping for the weekend, a buffet (burgers,dogs, and fixins) and a raffle ticket for Saturday evening and night.

I got a spot right next to the river.

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Pretty close to the shower house as well, which is a very nice shower house.

From my site to shower house.
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Next to and inside. Showers on left and toilets on right. Nice hot showers were very appreciated this weekend and the place stayed clean all weekend, even with all the muddy boots in and out.
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Next, some wandering around the grounds and random pictures of the other sites.

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[ATC King]

The store on site has ice, drinks, snacks, Byrd's shirts, caps, hoodies, and is where you normally check in. The women working there were very nice and helpful.
240702

The restaurant is just across from the store. I didn't eat there this weekend as I brought more than enough for myself.
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They do have a beer selection including they typical domestics and some wine, but they also carry a few craft brews. I was more than happy to see one of my new go-to's in their cooler, an Arkansas brew that is a great drinking beer and very refreshing. It was only about a $1 more here than in town, which I consider completely within line for the convenience of not having that much more stuff to pick up before the trip and pack and carry with me.
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[ATC King]

I met several people over the weekend. A couple of those were representatives of the CMA (Christian Motorcyclists Association). They provided me a few cups of coffee and I chatted with them for a good little bit. Please forgive me for not remembering your names, but I do remember the conversation and stories; thanks guys.
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[ATC King]

The most riding I done was Friday, being that it rained just about all day Saturday, and by Sunday I just needed to get home and start cleaning things.

The trails at Byrd's range from easy to difficult. A lot of very steep terrain and being in the Ozarks, a lot of rock. A very solid bash plate is a good idea, or like me, low range and crawling to avoid slamming into rocks. These are my idea of fun trails. Some more open stuff, but plenty of technical riding to keep it interesting. Fully functioning brakes are an absolute necessity, engine braking alone isn't effective on these steep grades.

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This rock garden is right at camp.
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These are from the sprint race Saturday evening. I don't know what they really called it, but it was timed and one vehicle at a time, with the best of two runs counting. I managed to keep the rubber side down, but one drive rolled their UTV, which I didn't get pictures of because I was playing in the mud pit right next to it.

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Notice the route tape in the two pictures of the same UTV. First pick it's up and the next it's down. The driver slammed into the tree really hard that it was tied to, and that's what caused it to fall.

Here is a good vantage point. It's not the highest point, but the trees are cleared so it's a nice view. It's one of the few places phone reception may be possible, just something else to remember when riding out here.

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[ATC King]

There is another ATV rally this October 13-15. I plan to make that one as well.

It was a great weekend overall. I didn't ride much Saturday because of the rain, combined with the cold weather. There were some people that left Saturday because of the weather, although most stayed. I at least wanted to stick around for the buffet and raffle that evening, and there were a couple hours that the rain slacked up enough for me to get a ride in, although I cut that ride short because, it started to rain again.

I got there early Friday, so I registered at the store, but Saturday staff were attending the booth on the entrance road to register people, which meant a little bit of a wait for those people. They have you sign a liability waiver and rules form.

It was a very relaxed atmosphere and I didn't hear nor see anything that indicated otherwise. The trike was something of a conversation starter and several people struck up a conversation with me just base on that, all good. Several people said they used to have one or there was a comment about not seeing 'one of those' in a long time. I did mention to a couple people that trikes are still a big thing to a small group.

More later.

[ATC King]

This post will wrap up what the weekend was like.

After getting there Friday and having everything set up, I was looking forward to the night ride, which was the only scheduled event for Friday.

The night ride is a guided, social ride. It was less than six miles and took about 2 1/2 hours, which included a lot of stopping. Absolutely nothing technical and the last little bit was on gravel road. I was expecting something a little more fast paced and technical and was getting somewhat bored (OK, really bored), but some people behind me in their UTV started playing some White Zombie over the radio, which helped perk me back up. I was in low range and first gear for most of the ride, but that wasn't even slow enough, so I just pulled over a few times to let the group go ahead so I could at least go faster than an idle and not be overheating the clutch from partial engagement.

Know what you're getting into, then prepare accordingly and it could be fun. I wouldn't take anything with a manual clutch or any type of sport machine. An ATC110 in low range, with even lower final gearing, would be about right. I'm not certain if there were any inexperienced drivers holding up the show, but it seemed like that was a possibility, as it felt like a traffic jam in the woods for most of the ride.

I'm not certain if I'll do that again, but I may forget about it between now and October and do it again. It was fun to get out at night, but I I'll try getting at the front of the pack next time to see if that helps. I started at nearly the very back on purpose, because I just wanted to hang out and do my own thing without feeling pushed, which turned out not to be a concern.


Saturday had a few scheduled events. There was a drag race an obstacle course of sorts, neither of which I made it to because that was the precious little time the rain let up and I was out on the trails. They weren't any professional type of event, like the evening spring race, they're just for fun. I did ride around the obstacle course on Friday, and it looked like fun.

The sprint race was for anyone and the best of two runs counted. Just got in line, gave the girls at the start my name, and went when the timer was ready. Real simple and fun. I played around in the mud a bit after my first run until I heard someone mention there is more than one run, so I got back in line and made my second. It started raining again during the race and my most difficult time was trying to get the front tire to bite enough to turn instead of just pushing straight ahead. I'll definitely participate in that again.

Later in the night was the buffet and then the awards ceremony and raffle. Someone was throwing out some free swag the entire time too. They handed out awards for competition winners and also for the farthest drive there, which was more than 600 miles. I think the top raffle prize was an electric winch. I got to the raffle just as they started, so I was at the very back and didn't see much of what was going on.

Sunday, thankfully Sunday was nice weather and made packing up an easy and relaxing thing. If it weren't for the rain Saturday, I may have rode some more, but I just had too much wet and muddy stuff to take care of to put it off for during the week.

[Aulbaugh]

After getting there Friday and having everything set up, I was looking forward to the night ride, which was the only scheduled event for Friday.

The night ride is a guided, social ride. It was less than six miles and took about 2 1/2 hours, which included a lot of stopping. Absolutely nothing technical and the last little bit was on gravel road. I was expecting something a little more fast paced and technical and was getting somewhat bored (OK, really bored), but some people behind me in their UTV started playing some White Zombie over the radio, which helped perk me back up. I was in low range and first gear for most of the ride, but that wasn't even slow enough, so I just pulled over a few times to let the group go ahead so I could at least go faster than an idle and not be overheating the clutch from partial engagement.

Know what you're getting into, then prepare accordingly and it could be fun. I wouldn't take anything with a manual clutch or any type of sport machine. An ATC110 in low range, with even lower final gearing, would be about right. I'm not certain if there were any inexperienced drivers holding up the show, but it seemed like that was a possibility, as it felt like a traffic jam in the woods for most of the ride.

I'm not certain if I'll do that again, but I may forget about it between now and October and do it again. It was fun to get out at night, but I I'll try getting at the front of the pack next time to see if that helps. I started at nearly the very back on purpose, because I just wanted to hang out and do my own thing without feeling pushed, which turned out not to be a concern.




Great pictures and write up Chris! The scenery looks amazing! How cold was it Saturday morning? Anything different on the rally in Oct?

[Aulbaugh]

After getting there Friday and having everything set up, I was looking forward to the night ride, which was the only scheduled event for Friday.

The night ride is a guided, social ride. It was less than six miles and took about 2 1/2 hours, which included a lot of stopping. Absolutely nothing technical and the last little bit was on gravel road. I was expecting something a little more fast paced and technical and was getting somewhat bored (OK, really bored), but some people behind me in their UTV started playing some White Zombie over the radio, which helped perk me back up. I was in low range and first gear for most of the ride, but that wasn't even slow enough, so I just pulled over a few times to let the group go ahead so I could at least go faster than an idle and not be overheating the clutch from partial engagement.

Know what you're getting into, then prepare accordingly and it could be fun. I wouldn't take anything with a manual clutch or any type of sport machine. An ATC110 in low range, with even lower final gearing, would be about right. I'm not certain if there were any inexperienced drivers holding up the show, but it seemed like that was a possibility, as it felt like a traffic jam in the woods for most of the ride.

I'm not certain if I'll do that again, but I may forget about it between now and October and do it again. It was fun to get out at night, but I I'll try getting at the front of the pack next time to see if that helps. I started at nearly the very back on purpose, because I just wanted to hang out and do my own thing without feeling pushed, which turned out not to be a concern.




Great pictures and write up Chris! The scenery looks amazing! How cold was it Saturday morning? On the night ride I wonder if it would have been better to be dead last? Anything different on the rally in Oct?

[ATC King]

The October rally looks to have the same schedule. http://www.byrdsadventurecenter.com/event-calendar/icalrepeat.detail/2017/10/13/107/-/fall-atv-a-side-by-side-rally.html

I was dead last at one point. There was someone riding sweep and I hung back with them for a while. It didn't help any, but it was what it was, and it's still nice that they put that together. Not many places will do that.

Essentially all of the Ozarks has nice scenery, that's why outdoor activities are so abundant here. Hiking, biking, motorcycle riding (lots of good street riding too), camping, kayaking, canoeing, climbing, ATV, Jeep, the list is really long.

The Mulberry River is right at Byrd's, so it's also a great place to camp and kayak/canoe. There are spots to put in up river and places to take out down river and Byrd's has a canoe service. http://www.byrdsadventurecenter.com/activities/canoe.html

[ATC King]

The_Steve_Man,

All I have right now is a 200ES, so you know it won't be anything at X speeds. If you can handle putting around on your X, then we can make a day or weekend of trail riding.

[The_Steve_Man]

All I have is 2 Rs. I do have a Recon I can put around on. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170327/16301ea0feb220103ee8b08e613011f3.jpg

[ATC King]

Truly, I'd go for riding one of my bikes with your R, but the traffic on the trails here is generally very slow and not someplace performance machines can be opened up without getting the stink eye.

The Recon would probably be better suited, but that's your call. I enjoy putting around on the BR and bought another 185 a couple weeks ago that I'm deciding what to do with, but disassembling it in the meantime until I do. The frame has some rust, but the more I disassemble, the more I find in OK/usable condition with a little work, so I may try to turn it back into a rider. Of course, the seat pan is trashed, but the fuel tank didn't have any leaks, meh. It had a couple of Kenda version trailpro on it; both trashed.

[ATC King]

I haven't dropped off the radar.

I had an oil leak to repair (meaning it was dripping oil on the ground when I wasn't moving) and by the time I got around to it, summer was here. I mean July-August in Arkansas, and it's not the best time to enjoy being in the woods with no breeze, near 100% humidity, and enough no-see-ums to eat a person alive. Breaking down and having to walk in those conditions is not a situation I care to invite upon myself. Been there, done that, and only had a few hot beers for a ten mile walk (no water).

I also refurbished (brass brazed holes then RedKote) a spare fuel tank, because I thought several years of running around with a screw plugging a hole in the current one was begining to push my luck just a little too much. I've got a couple plastic tanks for the 185/200 ATCs, but I feel they have all the wrong shapes to even remotely look like they belong on these trikes.

I've got everything to put it back together and am just waiting on a little cooler weather before riding some more. Maybe the later part of September or begining of October.

[ATC King]

After looking at Byrd's event schedule, I've decided I'm going to attend ByrdFest 15.

http://byrdfest.com/home.html
https://byrdsadventurecenter.com/event/byrdfest-15-music-festival/

I've never been to ByrdFest and I can't think of anywhere else that has a music festival and OHV park together. It ought to make for a unique experience. Ride during the day, then kick back for some live music at night.

The band list consist largely of cover bands for the Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin and Tool, along with some bands with original material. The link above includes YouTube links to get an idea of what to expect.

Same set-up for me, truck with camper shell and E-Z UP canopy. At least a dry place to sit if it rains. I do have a small tent or two (2-4 person) I can lend if anyone else attends and needs one.

They have their other ATV rally later in October, which I also plan to attend again.

[ATC King]

The plan so far is to be there early Friday. Sept. 22-23 is the music festival, but if anyone would like to get there Thursday and get some riding in, I can do that.

The fee for Friday-Saturday is $60 per person, which covers camping and music. It's and additional $10 for Thursday (normal primitive camping fee). Their bathrooms and showers are good enough I don't consider it primitive though.

ByrdFest dates are the same as Bikes Blues and BBQ, which is about an hour away in Fayetteville. All of the highways around there will be heavy with motorcycle traffic, especially the Pig Trail (Highway 23), 215 (highway to Byrd's), and 103 (to Clarksville). I normally lead a small motorcycle group on scenic rides during BB&BBQ, but I'm going to spend this year at ByrdFest. A LOT of motorcycle riders are going to make a trip out to Oark to eat at the Oark Café (historic general store). If anyone would like to eat there, earlier is better, because the closer to lunch, the more packed it will become.

There will be no shortage of things to do in 2-3 days, but I'd like to keep it relaxed; not overdo it. Some trail riding, live music, and cold brews sounds like a nice weekend.

[ATC King]

The 200ES is ready and the weather has cooled down, a lot.

Less than two weeks to go.

3 wheeler riding, music, and some cold beer. It should be cool enough for a campfire too.

[ATC King]

Great weekend!

Temps (and humidity) came back up from a couple weeks ago though, but Saturday night was actually a little on the cool side, so it made for a nice finish to the festival.

I had a busy week before and I didn't get out there until Friday noon. I also bought some electrical accessories for the BR and didn't have time to install them during the week, so I installed them Friday afternoon there. I bought a new GPS, but it's an automotive type so it needed external power. I installed a power port (12v and 5v USB) for it. I bought a cheap motorcycle stereo off EBay and installed it too. I didn't clean up the wiring for the stereo, but it works and worked well all weekend.

Friday, because of trying to finish up that stuff, I didn't ride.

Getting into the festival meant a quick vehicle search for the typical stuff they don't want in there. I didn't care for that much, as I'm not accustomed to even going through checks to get into a ball game (I don't go to ball games), but like I said, a quick search. Essentially, if someone is stupid enough to leave something out in the open, that's what they're looking for. The police patrolled the grounds on an ATV, but it wasn't intrusive at all, they would just ride through once in a while and not stop to get off.

That was just for this festival, it's not like that for the ATV rally. Different crowd. The office checking my truck did comment that he hadn't seen a three wheeler in a long time. He was the one patrolling by ATV. The three wheeler got approval throughout the weekend. Something like, you meet the nicest people while riding a Honda three wheeler. If you don't like to stop and have a conversation with strangers, don't ride a three wheeler.

All types of people have memories with three wheelers, they're great conversation starters (unless it has a Cobra exhaust).

Friday, I started to meet some people and get settled in. After settling in, I realized I needed to camp closer to the road, simply because this is a music festival and technically, ATVs aren't allowed. Yes, it's somewhat odd, because Byrd's is also an ATV destination, but they have such a diverse event schedule, they try to tailor each event so those people have the good time they expect.

I camped in the lower area, the one right next to the river. They open up more camping closer to the gate for ByrdFest. Next time, I'll set up there. From what I've seen, it's the more family type area and a couple other ATV riders set up there.

Friday was hot and humid, and I probably took a couple showers. The bands were great. I stayed up much too late (early), but some chick gave me some Glostik Willy stickers while I was talking to a college student from France and I started to get more relaxed from there.

I got a late start Saturday, but I did ride. I had already planned to ride to Oark and back, but it was nearly 2P.M.. Screw it, lets go. I loaded up a can of gas, some water, some food, and hit the trail. I was hoping to make it back before dark, so I didn't stop much.

A rear rack on a hardtail is almost a cruel joke. About 30 minutes in, I look back and my gas can is off the rack and dragging behind me by the strap. Sure, stuff stays on the rack at farm speeds, but anything faster than that and you're lucky even the rack stays attached. I strapped the crap out of the gas can after that. Another 30 minutes in, I hear something rubbing. The stinking right rear mud flap had been sucked under and rubbing on the tire. Ruined a good mud flap. The cheap EBday stereo is still going strong though and actually loud enough I can clearly hear the lyrics.

Now, the route I took was about 1/3 rocky ATV trail, 1/3 unmaintained gravel road, and 1/3 maintained gravel road. If anyone from the group I rode with last year (jonolanracin)
, about all of that 1/3 maintained gravel road is what we rode. That was the easy part. In all, it was a 70 mile round trip and I only used ~1/2 tank of fuel. Oark store sells 87 E-0 fuel, but I took extra anyway, although I never used it.

I'm not going to make it seem easy. On a hardtail, I was pretty worn out by the end. It would be very easy to make a 100 miles out of it, there are plenty of other trails and gravel road. That should be an early start and all day ride plan though. I'm no racer, but doing this on a hardtail took me all evening and I only averaged low 20's on speed. The trails here are very rocky and rough. My BR is also in need of a rebuild, and thus, very weak. If the road isn't flat, my BR (with me on it) isn't capable of top gear, or even third. Some hills had me down into high range first, and that was the roads. There is a lot of elevation change on this route. Good brake are a necessity.

It's still a very rideable route on a hardtail, but realize the '84 200ES is the heaviest and slowest of the 185/200 hardtails. It would be much easier on a 185S/200S with the right tires (no trail pros).

When I got back from Oark, I was pretty tired. I was setting down, trying to get motivated, then I could hear the band playing some Talking Heads. Psyco Killer got me up, fa fa fa fa fa fa fa...


Really good Saturday night. I carried my chair and beer to the stage area and really enjoyed the bands, the fire eaters, the hoop girls and some dude with squiggly lights that were really trippy. A whole lot of stuff going on. The entire stage area was surrounded by vendors and food trucks, so there really wasn't much need to bring food or clothes. Buy some tie-dyed shirts and eat some tacos.

FIREWORKS!

Yes, they even had fireworks. It was freaking awesome. I didn't expect that.


It was a very unique weekend and I want to go next spring. Several of the people I talked to had been going for years. I got the whole music festival experience, with the added benefit of being able to explore the Ozark forest at length in the same time.

I'm just going to lump the pics in together. You get the location and the event and I'm sure you can make them out.




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[ATC King]

I won't be going to the ATV Rally in October. I could be talked into it, but unless there is some serious rain before then, it'll be a dust fest and that just isn't fun.

I would definitely need a mask and goggles.

Some time after some rain later this year is my plan for more riding.

A little off topic, but because I'm out there by myself a lot, I'm always thinking about things like bears and other wildlife if I'm in the woods at night. Large animals are the quietest, you've really got to be looking for them and sneaking through the woods at night is a great way to possibly surprise one. I was talking to someone about bear hunting yesterday and I learned it's a bigger deal in Arkansas than I thought. 440 bears were harvested in just two days last year.

Point is, at least carry a bear bag if you're going to wilderness camp. Food in your tent is a very, very bad idea.

[ATC King]

It's still very dry here. Most of the state is under a burn ban.


It looks like it'll be next year before I'll ride again, possibly not until Spring. In the meantime, I'm working on getting a couple hardtail projects going. I've got a pile of freshly painted parts and bags on new OEM small parts and need to start putting them together.

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[ATC King]

There's a lot of negative mojo on this site right now. Is anyone just wanting to ride and have fun?


Edit: Getting a little cabin fever and got carried away with the dribble, thinking about riding. We did get some rain though. I probably won't be riding until a couple more months. It sucks not living somewhere I can just hop on the trike and go, like many other places I've lived. Some day...

[ATC King]

I won't be triking much this year, if at all.

I had an opportunity to travel the country for a good cause, and I took it up. It may be a few months to nearly the rest of the year. I have so many irons in the fire, that my year is going to be pretty busy, but in a very good way.

There's earning a check, then there's experiencing life and bringing it to others.

Not to be cryptic, I'll be volunteering for a cause that helps MS patients by raising money for treatment and research. We'll also be directly helping MS patients during many of our stops.

Anyone with more interest is welcome to PM me. I have a lot of emotions going into this, but it is still very exciting.

[ironchop]

I won't be triking much this year, if at all.

I had an opportunity to travel the country for a good cause, and I took it up. It may be a few months to nearly the rest of the year. I have so many irons in the fire, that my year is going to be pretty busy, but in a very good way.

There's earning a check, then there's experiencing life and bringing it to others.

Not to be cryptic, I'll be volunteering for a cause that helps MS patients by raising money for treatment and research. We'll also be directly helping MS patients during many of our stops.

Anyone with more interest is welcome to PM me. I have a lot of emotions going into this, but it is still very exciting.Always good to see someone doing something significant that makes them feel good and makes an impact on others.

Bravo!

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[ATC King]

Life is made of memories, and the year I rode with you and others at Trikefest is part of mine.

You and your son in the rental box truck (awesome idea), the guys who camped next to me and I straightened out their BR bars at least once, the ATVonDemand guys who camped to my other side (the picture of me sitting on the 350X and I bought the DirtWheels edition to go with it), and the guy who got me back on track after I got to overwhelmed and was sleeping it off in a ditch. Yeah, some of you may remember that (and the butthole who decided to ride my trike while I was absent, yeah, I was mad about that, but I asked you 'how it rode' because the alternative would've ruined my trip and been an insult to the guy who helped a stranger), but I recovered and had a blast the rest of the night. Whoever let me sit on their Tecate and rev the crap out of it ++.I was embarrassed during the awards though, when my name was called for a newbie award, because they also called a girl's name who actually helped with the event. I just had too much fun, and didn't contribute anything, so I stayed seated so someone who actually done something could get it. I've always felt I offended that guy because I didn't answer when my name was called; I apologize. He really befriended me.

The mud from there is very difficult to remove though, and I lost part of my front fender because of it. I did find a dirtbike rider's front fender while looking for mine (and gave it back to him).

[ironchop]

Life is made of memories, and the year I rode with you and others at Trikefest is part of mine.

You and your son in the rental box truck (awesome idea), the guys who camped next to me and I straightened out their BR bars at least once, the ATVonDemand guys who camped to my other side (the picture of me sitting on the 350X and I bought the DirtWheels edition to go with it), and the guy who got me back on track after I got to overwhelmed and was sleeping it off in a ditch. Yeah, some of you may remember that (and the butthole who decided to ride my trike while I was absent, yeah, I was mad about that, but I asked you 'how it rode' because the alternative would've ruined my trip and been an insult to the guy who helped a stranger), but I recovered and had a blast the rest of the night. Whoever let me sit on their Tecate and rev the crap out of it ++.I was embarrassed during the awards though, when my name was called for a newbie award, because they also called a girl's name who actually helped with the event. I just had too much fun, and didn't contribute anything, so I stayed seated so someone who actually done something could get it. I've always felt I offended that guy because I didn't answer when my name was called; I apologize. He really befriended me.

The mud from there is very difficult to remove though, and I lost part of my front fender because of it. I did find a dirtbike rider's front fender while looking for mine (and gave it back to him).Yup good times. That whole dirt cul-de-sac was full of some great ppl who I hope to be camping next to this year.

I was hoping to see your orange dentside but I know you have a bigger mission right now. Someday I'll get down to AR if I borrow my sister in laws 200ES and you can tour me thru Byrd's of you're not busy. Beautiful country down there.


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[ATC King]

Alright, there's a whole lot going on in my life right now. Byrdfest is going on right now and I think I'm going tomorrow. I know I'm closer than just about anyone else and it's last minute.

My BR is having issues, but I'm just going to keep it close to Byrd's and hang around for the music.

Shortly after Byrdfest, I'm traveling across the county, but before that, I'm quitting my job and moving, but I already have another job waiting. A lot of changes going on for me and I need a good send-off, so I'm just going to bite it and have fun.

The weather has been really stormy, but I'll try to make the best of it and have some major chill on Saturday.

[ironchop]

Alright, there's a whole lot going on in my life right now. Byrdfest is going on right now and I think I'm going tomorrow. I know I'm closer than just about anyone else and it's last minute.

My BR is having issues, but I'm just going to keep it close to Byrd's and hang around for the music.

Shortly after Byrdfest, I'm traveling across the county, but before that, I'm quitting my job and moving, but I already have another job waiting. A lot of changes going on for me and I need a good send-off, so I'm just going to bite it and have fun.

The weather has been really stormy, but I'll try to make the best of it and have some major chill on Saturday.Where you moving to?

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[ATC King]

Still in Arkansas, just a couple hundred miles from where I am now.

[ATC King]

Alright, back in Arkansas to stay for a bit. Seen the east coast and west coast, and a lot of cool stuff between.

Ironchop, too bad timing didn't work out, and if I don't get to open this bottle with you, I'll think of you when I do. I did pick it up in your state.
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(That's a small farmhouse in Dyess, Arkansas, for anyone who may know it)

Rocktoberfest https://byrdsadventurecenter.com/events/list/?tribe_paged=2&tribe_event_display=list is happening a couple months from now at Byrd's. I don't own a rock buggy, but figure it'd be fun to watch and hang out.

Is anyone else interested?

I don't even know if I can go yet (new job), but would like to make it happen if possible and especially if there can be a trike presence, and I get to hang out with other experimental trike pilots (barn storming crazy people on 3 wheeled death machines, but we know that isn't true).

[Arky-X]

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(That's a small farmhouse in Dyess, Arkansas, for anyone who may know it)



Johnny Cash's boyhood home. I need to visit that someday.

[ATC King]

No better time than now to do that.

That bottle on the hood, was also something I've wanted for a while. It was a small want, but I finally got it. The Cash boyhood home hasn't been open to the public for too long, four years, but I've been wanting to tour it. I did take the tour, and got to go inside the house. His mother's piano, the one she played for them as children, is in there. Some other original Cash items are in there as well, but the house was in very bad condition and a lot had to be repaired or replaced. Many items are period correct, and not original to the Cash's ownership.

The tour starts at the visitor center, which is pretty nice. They bus the people to the house (just a couple miles away, but on a short gravel road). There's a concert every year, right next to the house. There's nowhere to stay in Dyess though, so anyone going there will need to seek a hotel or other accommodation elsewhere.

There's a whole lot to see and do in Arkansas, and I could easily take a week vacation and never leave the state, and I've had extended travel in a lot of states. Arkansas is pretty blessed in the outdoor category, and quite a bit of historical significance too. For example, the first national river, the Buffalo, is in Arkansas. Also, gangsters, like Al Capone used to hide out in Hot Springs because of the illegal gambling. We've had some pretty powerful people come from here as well, like the Clintons :shiftyeyes:

[ironchop]

Ironchop, too bad timing didn't work out, and if I don't get to open this bottle with you, I'll think of you when I do. I did pick it up in your state.


Yeah I'm sorry I didn't have a chance to break away and meet up. Another time, surely.



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[Sharell]

Thank you very much for the information that was very valuable and necessary!

[ATC King]

It's getting close to cooler temps and lower humidity. Is anyone wanting to ride here?

[Arky-X]

It's getting close to cooler temps and lower humidity. Is anyone wanting to ride here?

I really really really need to get mine back together......long ways to go still.

[ATC King]

I was wanting to do some camping in the Ouachita's this weekend, but the humidity is still just too high. It's not comfortable sitting around, much less, being active. I took a few breaks while just putting the camper shell back on my truck.

Plus, there's been a crapload of flooding here recently. Most of the public use areas are closed in the Ouachita National Forest.

There was a police manhunt near here, a few days ago, they even had to call off because of the humidity. Sweat doesn't evaporate, you just overheat.

[ATC King]

The fall ATV rally is coming up in about a month.

https://byrdsadventurecenter.com/event/fall-atv-side-by-side-rally-2020/

$45 for the weekend

Friday, October 9th, 2020
9:00am to 5:00pm Registration
7:00pm Night Ride

Saturday, October 10th, 2020
9:00am to 2:00pm Trail Rides
3:00pm to 6:00pm Skills Course and Games
7:00pm Dinner, Prize Giveaway, and Raffle

Sunday, October 11th, 2020
9:00am to 2:00pm Open Trail Rides

[ATC King]

I'm planning on going. It will be nice to attend an event closer to home.

I've still got to unload the truck, and my hippie stank clothes from last weekend are punishing the washer right now.

[ATC King]

I had a blast this weekend.

The weather was great, but conditions were dusty. It wasn't so dusty that a group couldn't ride and still keep a visual from a distance though.

The night ride on Friday and group ride to Oark was great. This was the first time I done the group ride to Oark. When going alone, I ride very little pavement and come out close to the store on a gravel road. With a large group, the rules change, so it's quite a bit of pavement to get there. In parts of the state, ATVs are allowed paved road travel to connect trails with no additional licensing requirements. In a group of SxSs, the ol' 200ES wasn't doing so well trying to keep up at pavement speeds, but I managed to not kill it to death.

There was a large number of people and no shortage of finding somewhere to ride, someone to ride with, or just someone to hang out and talk to. AFAIK, I was the only trike rider there, which garnered some attention. I didn't have any issues on the group ride, but the ride leader stopped a couple times to see if I made it over some rougher sections (which he told me about before the ride). Trikes still have a lot of stigma attached and I don't think people understand how capable they are. I'm certainly used to pushing, lifting and heaving a trike over large logs, rock ledges, and whatever type of obstacle I'm unable to clean, but there wasn't any of that on the group rides, so everything was copacetic.

It would've been a good idea to take a water bladder with me, instead of having to wait until the grouped stopped before I could get a sip from my water bottle. Trikes don't have cup holders.

[ATC King]

Sitting in front of the boob tube this morning, watching one of those garbage shows with washed up actors and TV personalities hosting it, lo and behold...

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A picture I took at the same general area this past weekend.
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[ATC King]

If you've never been to Oark General Store, this place is hopping year round.

It's ATVs, cars, dual sport motorcycles, Harleys, any and everything with wheels that comes to this place. When Byrd's has a big ride heading that way, they call ahead, but still don't expect them to not be swamped when you want a quick burger. They've built a pavilion with tables since the Covid-19 stuff and are currently only taking orders through their window, otherwise, you'd be able to get a seat inside. The pavilion is nice though, and during good weather, I'd rather eat there.

Fuel is also available here. They've still got the old style pumps with rotary numbers.

The group ride on Saturday goes here for lunch. The earlier picture in this thread of my trike here is when I done a solo ride to Oark.

There was a group of Nissan Z enthusiasts who positioned their cars for a picture. I took this picture before they all lined up, but the cars covered several generations.
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Where's the Big Red? My 200ES isn't sporting the same Camelflage tank and red fenders it was in post #50.
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[Arky-X]

Enjoying the pics and descriptions. Knowing this is only a couple hours away has me Jones-ing to buy something to ride.

I see your 200ES tucked in behind those SxS devil-machines.

[ATC King]

...those SxS devil-machines.

He he. Yeah.

There was an older couple in one of those devil machines though, still getting out an enjoying themselves. The guy had bad knees and his wife was on oxygen. (Edit) Had to come back and include the positive energy I got from those SxS drivers. Some of them got a kick out of watching me ride, saying as much, and several struck up conversations about trikes and their memories. It was an enjoyable group to ride with and I had a chance to hang out with some of them back at camp. Just a great time.

The ride leader was also carrying some gear, including a chainsaw, which he put to use cutting up a tree that was blocking the trail and a few of us guys threw the cut pieces out of the way and had the trail cleared in about ten minutes.

The riding here is definitely suited more for the utility trikes. The left hand would certainly get a workout on anything with a manual clutch. Again, I used the low range on mine most of the time and still can't go up the hills as slow as those SxS. I'd have to let them get up the hill a little before I went or I'd be on their rear in low range first gear, and that's pretty dang slow. I was too close behind one time and while the driver was trying to figure out what he was going to do, I went around him so I didn't have to stop. I explained afterward why I passed him on the climb and he already figured as much. I wasn't trying to be 'that guy' on a large group ride.

Slipping that centrifugal clutch is a good way to cook the oil in short order. Got to keep the RPMs up enough for full engagement when climbing steep hills.

It's a lot like trying to ride a dirtbike in a SxS/ATV group. Just have to let them get up the hill so you have some room to keep momentum.

This is definitely good stuff for a 200E or 200ES, and anything with a low range. Just good technical stuff all around. Lots of big rocks to navigate without bashing the bottom of the trike on them, which will still happen anyway. It's the kind of riding I like, but there's plenty of fire and dirt roads for some easy cruising too.

Since Byrd's is right next to National Forest, you've got all kinds of riding opportunities. Stay on Byrd's property, which has some challenging trails and climbs or venture out on some NF gravel roads and trails. They've got a little trail in the woods right there at the campground too, and the young people especially, have a blast just sticking around there and riding.

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Before you realize it, the weekend is over.
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[ATC King]

I'm just reminiscing, but I won't forget this...

http://www.3wheelerworld.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=234035&d=1471199017


Awesome weekend and group of people. I rode that Tri-Z like I owned it, and not a word was said.

I would love to get a small group of trike riders together for a weekend. I'm looking at moving again (work) and probably won't be back in Arkansas for a while.

[patriot1]

King:

I hate to see you are moving before I get to ride with you. My son (15 years old) are going to Fairfield bay tomorrow if weather permits.? I chose there because the trails will be easy enough for him on his four wheeler and I need to test my 250R. I might also take my X just because it needs to be ridden. I am sure that he will pull both of them back to the trailer at some point. lol It'll be good for us because we haven't done any father/son stuff in awhile.

I have spent most of my spare time trying to build something worthy of riding and selling a few along the way to fund my keepers, now it's time to go enjoy a little.

Where are you moving to?

[ATC King]

No idea at this point. I've had some applications go through, one interview, but still haven't heard anything.

This late in the year, I wouldn't start any of the jobs until January, with all the holidays coming up. Just going to relax and ride out 2020 now.

Y'all have fun. This cooler weather is great for riding.

[jonolanracin]

That was a great time and place to ride. Plus the homemade beer you brought was awesome. Luckily i still have all 3 of them trikes lol.

[jonolanracin]

I'm just reminiscing, but I won't forget this...

http://www.3wheelerworld.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=234035&d=1471199017


Awesome weekend and group of people. I rode that Tri-Z like I owned it, and not a word was said.

I would love to get a small group of trike riders together for a weekend. I'm looking at moving again (work) and probably won't be back in Arkansas for a while.

You didnt ride that z near as hard as i do lol

[ATC King]

Good to hear!


I think that was beer from Fossil Cove. They're a pretty well established craft brewery in Fayetteville, right next to one of those shady strip joints, with bars on the windows; The Bottoms Up Club.

[ATC King]

I forgot to mention the last ATV rally they had, incorporated a poker run style of night ride.

Style as in, they didn't record everyone's hand, so there were people using multiple hands to put together whatever they could. For a loner like me, than meant a snowballs chance of wining. Not an actual poker run, but it spaced everyone out more and kept things moving. That was their goal, and they said as much at the start.

It was fun and that's all I cared about. I certainly enjoyed the quicker pace and sucking less dust.

[ironchop]

Great pics. Looks like a good time. I don't know how I missed the posts in this thread since September

So the white BR is the old camo gas tank, black front fender trike that you were riding when we went riding last? (2015 I think).... Either way, looks really nice fixed up.

I've got a crush on my sister-in-laws 84 Big Red. I'd love to cam it for a little more torque, but I'm pretty impressed with its capabilities as it is. She won't sell it to me. I've tried haha.

Are you just moving because you're tired of Arkansas, cuz that state is awesome as long as you aren't trying to get rich. Plus it's the home of Nick Shoulders... And who doesn't like Nick Shoulders and his mullet?

If I had my way, I'd get the wife to move near the Ozarks.

One of these days, I'd like to go on a Byrd's ride. Spare time is in short supply these days.

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[ATC King]

Great pics. Looks like a good time. I don't know how I missed the posts in this thread since September

So the white BR is the old camo gas tank, black front fender trike that you were riding when we went riding last? (2015 I think).... Either way, looks really nice fixed up.

Yeah, same one. Thanks! Same tired engine though. Guess I went for form over function, but those rear fiberglass fenders were on sale, so I had to make the rest match. That was before Maier started selling new ones.

It's very probable, that front fender is still in the mud somewhere at Haspin. It rained, I rode, the fender disappeared.




Are you just moving because you're tired of Arkansas, cuz that state is awesome as long as you aren't trying to get rich. Plus it's the home of Nick Shoulders... And who doesn't like Nick Shoulders and his mullet?


head, Shoulders, knees and toes. Maybe a future album name?

I love Arkansas and don't want to move. It's all about work. If I could get a good paying job that had great coworkers, it wouldn't be so hard, but a lot of good paying jobs around here have workers who don't understand how well they have it made and are pretty lazy because of it. It's typically the ones who fell into a good job at an early age, before having a bunch of crappy ones. They're usually the older hands who've made a niche for themselves and their lazy habits, with a status quo system firmly in place. High turnover rates should be a red flag. It's too stressful having to work with lazy coworkers, so I work lower paying jobs that I like, even if my work partners are lackluster. That means government work, and travel. It also means I'm working seasonal jobs, so if the place is a shitshow, I'm not stuck trying to swim up a brown river.

One job in the near past, had mountain hiking trails right outside the complex. That's how I spent my lunch time, because I didn't want to hear the same man gossip every day, or be in a testosterone knitting circle. That mid day trail hike made the day go by so much better, and that was literally my job, working on the trails. They made us come back in for lunch though, which I thought was stupid and a waste of tax dollars for the time to drive back, and back again.

I also like to be close enough to work I can ride a bicycle, or walk if absolutely need be. I've managed to get jobs in most places I can do that. Cycling to work is like drinking a whole pot of coffee. I'm there and ready to go, the day starts of great for me. Sometimes I've had a nice little place to stop halfway and just listen at watch things before sunrise, maybe even eat a little breakfast. After work, I can take the long way home, over a mountain or through town and neighborhood streets new to me. I've worked in places where I can do both. Some had mountain bike trails within a couple miles of work, so I could ride my mountain bike to work, then hit the trails afterwards, before riding home.

Maybe the trend here is, I don't like a sedate life. There's nothing happy about getting fat and old if that's because of inactivity. I'm fat because I drink too much beer, I'm getting older because I'm a moving target, and that's the way I like it.