The Eastern Shore

June 3^rd, 2004

Gary Houglan

Itinerary: Virginia Beach to Maryland (and back) via the Eastern Shore.
Riders: Four (two Harleys / two Hondas)
Distance / Timeline: Approximately 200 miles / Start by 09:00 and Return by 16:00
Expectations: Back roads

The ride started great. First, it was day two of a three-day weekend. We were a full 24 hours away from traffic jams of frustrated drivers trying to rush home after their mini-vacations. Second, it was an overcast day that blocked the sun. We just hoped the dark clouds wouldn't result in an impromptu bike wash.

After paying $10 at the Bay Bridge Tunnel (The cost went up to $12 and $5 if you return in 24 hours on June 1), we started across the bay. We soon found out that the overcast day and sea breezes were giving us a practical lesson in wind chill. Despite the cooler weather, I've always enjoyed the feel of being near the water. Watching the large ships heading for the channel as we approached the tunnels, bought back memories of "formation steaming" (traveling in packs for the non-Navy folks).

On the other side of the bridge, our leader turned off US 13 and we commenced the next phase of our trip. If I knew you better, I'd tell you which roads we took. But, experienced riders already know what roads they like, and new riders, well.... I'm relearning that the fun of riding is finding your own way. I will tell you, I don't think you can make a wrong turn on the Eastern Shore. Whichever way we went, it seemed like we were on one of those roads in a motorcycle commercials. Tree shaded winding roads, open land, enough road and scenic diversity to remind you of why you wanted a motorcycle. Of course, observing the number of dead possums, I started to believe that the Chicken joke was true. You know the one, "Why did the chicken cross the road? To prove to the possum that it could be done."

Reaching Maryland (had to cross the state line for bragging rights), we turned around, gassed up, and headed south. This time we stayed on US 13 because of threatening clouds, needing to be back by 16:00, and wanting to find a place to eat. We decided to eat at a Stuckey's. Why didn't we choose a seafood restaurant? I refer you to the reasons for taking US 13 (clouds / time) and the lack of options on that stretch of US 13. Sitting there with our soup and sandwiches, we realized we shared a common childhood past - stopping with our families at Stuckey's for that famous Pecan Log (you had to be there). Group stops are the second best part of a group ride.

The group agreed on a side trip to Parksley so I could get one of my HROT Grand Tour sites checked off. R.G. Cycle was closed, but the Dollar General around the corner willing to sell me a bag of mints. We quickly returned to US 13 and headed south. Along the way, there was plenty of opportunity to wave at fellow riders who were out enjoying the riding experience. We made a last stop at Stingray's for drinks, regrouped and headed for home. We paid our $4 and were on the high seas once again. On the other side of the bridge, I was the first to break away from the group. Waving as I signaled my departure, I was already thinking about the next trip.

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