Archive for the ‘Motorcycle Rides’ Category

Proof I Have a Brain: A Concussion, Recovery, and Getting Back to Riding

Posted: March 21, 2026 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle safety
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Cartoon clip art of a brain riding a motorcycle, wearing a helmet, representing concussion recovery, mental health awareness, and getting back to riding after injury

A Personal Update

It has been a while since my last post, and for good reason. Last month, I had an accident that brought everything to a sudden stop. I slipped on black ice and hit my head—hard—on concrete. What followed was not just a bump or a scare, but a serious medical issue that forced me to slow down in a way I never expected

The Accident and Diagnosis

After the fall, I was diagnosed with a severe concussion accompanied by brain bleeding. Because of the seriousness of the injury, I was admitted to the hospital for observation. After being released, I was sent home with very strict medical instructions designed to give my brain the best possible chance to heal fully.  

Living Under Concussion Protocols

If you’ve never experienced concussion recovery, let me tell you—the protocols are no joke. To support healing and prevent further damage, I was instructed to avoid nearly all forms of stimulation:

  • No watching TV
  • No phone use
  • No computer screens
  • No reading
  • No music

In short: no distractions, no entertainment, and no mental escape. While these rules are necessary for recovery, they make for a long and incredibly boring stretch of time.

Why Rest Matters After a Head Injury

As frustrating as it was, these restrictions exist for a reason. Limiting screen time, visual input, and mental strain helps reduce symptoms and lowers the risk of prolonged or permanent effects. Concussion recovery isn’t about toughness—it’s about patience, discipline, and letting your brain do the work it needs to do.

This was not my first concussion.  During my time in the Army I suffered several more.  Back then the protocol was pain relievers, sunglasses and back to work.

Cleared and Back to Normal Ready to Ride Motorcycles

The good news? I’m now fully cleared to return to normal activities. That means riding, writing, riding, creating, and sharing again. I’m grateful for the care I received and for the reminder that even when you “just want to ride,” your health always comes first.

What’s Next for ijustwant2ride.com

With recovery behind me, it’s time to move forward. Be on the lookout for:

Thank you to everyone who checked in, reached out, or simply stuck around while things were quiet. Sometimes the ride pauses—but it always starts again.

And a very special thank you to my wife and riding partner for life. You took great care of me even when I was… you know!

Ride On Ride Safe

Axial CT scan of the brain used by doctors to assess concussion severity after a fall showing a brain bleed
The bleeding is in white and circled
Brain CT imaging performed after head trauma to monitor concussion recovery
Now more like a minor bruse

C&O Canal Lock 75 Motorcycle Stop – North Branch Lockhouse Guide

Posted: February 16, 2026 in C&O Canal, Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism
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Motorcycle ride to Lock 75 on the C&O Canal

This post is another installment in my Chesapeake & Ohio Canal motorcycle tour, where my goal is to visit every motorcycle‑accessible stop along the 184‑mile C&O Canal, stretching from Washington, DC to New Cumberland, Maryland.

Location:

North Branch Lock 75 C&O Canal

Mile Marker:

175.7

Historical Comments:

Lock 75 is the final lock on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. While it carries the number 75, there were only 74 locks actually built. The unusual numbering comes from construction changes downstream from the Paw Paw Tunnel, where four locks were planned but only three were needed, resulting in Lock 65 being skipped entirely.

The lock was rebuilt in 1869, and new downstream gates were installed in the 1990s.

The original Lockhouse 75 was consumed by beetles, and this version is built on the original foundation.

Ride to the Site: The North Branch Lock 75 site sits off the main road, so riders should pay close attention to posted park signs to avoid missing the turnoff. The approach is straightforward and suitable for street motorcycles.

Amenities:

When we visited there were portable toilets and a couple picnic tables.

Road Conditions (from main road):

Paved all the way to the parking lot.

Railway Situation:

There are no railway crossings to navigate.

Parking Lot Conditions:

Small gravel heavily packed.

Main Attractions:

The main attractions include Lock 75 and the lockhouse tours, when available.

My Thoughts:

Lock 75 makes a great destination stop for riders traveling to western Maryland or completing a C&O Canal route ride. With light traffic, historical depth, and minimal crowds, it’s an easy stop that rewards riders interested in history without requiring off‑road riding.

The C&O Canal is a Maryland and in particular western Maryland, history ride for motorcyclist.

Lock 75 Coordinates

  • Latitude: 39.58716° N
  • Longitude: -78.74091° W

A few other stops from my Chesapeake & Ohio Canal motorcycle tour include:

Ferry Hill Plantation                                  Williamsport/Cushwa Basin

Hancock Visitors Center                           Dam #5

Motorcycle ride to Lock 75 on the C&O Canal

The 9 Best Motorcycle Memes of 2025: Top Photo Memes, Selection Process, and Biker Humor for Riders

Posted: January 22, 2026 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides
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BEST motorcycle memes of 2025 ijustwant2ride
How I Chose the 9 Best Motorcycle Memes of 2025: A Year-Long Ride in Curation

Every year, the world of motorcycle memes gets a little wilder, funnier, and more creative.

For 2025, I set out to find what I considered the best motorcycle-themed memes to share with the http://www.ijustwant2ride.com community. But picking just nine out of the dozens I set aside during the year wasn’t easy!

I drop many as they were cute motorcycle memes, but not really funny. Others were dropped because the quality was just not there. Still more were dropped because they were a bit off-color or not tasteful (as a vet I do have a somewhat sideways sense of humor).

Narrowing Down to the Best 9

At the end of the year, I reviewed my collection (dozens) and scored picked those that I liked the best.

The top nine memes were those that consistently excelled in at making me smile or laugh. I also made sure to include a mix of styles, some classic, some new, and all guaranteed to make riders smile.

Which one do you like best?

Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.
Funny motorcycle meme 2025 – crazy, funny but with hit of truth about the motorcycle world.

Ride to Eat #4: Bob Evans Farm – Where it all began.

Posted: November 20, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, ride to eat eat to ride
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bob evens farm rio grande oh ijustwant2ride,com

There’s a certain magic in rolling up to a spot where history and homestyle cooking collide. That’s the real “ride to eat” jackpot. This time, our handlebars pointed toward Rio Grande, Ohio—ground zero for Bob Evans sausage, biscuits, and gravy. If you’ve ever wondered where the legend began, this is it, the original Bob Evans Farm, serving up comfort since 1962.

Location: State Route 588, Rio Grande, Ohio

Rolling into the farm, you know right away this isn’t your average pit stop. The Evans Homestead still stands tall—a throwback to the days of stagecoaches and home-cooked meals. Bob Evans himself lived here with Jewell and their six kids, and you can almost picture the family waving from the porch as you rumble past.

It was in this front yard that Evans opened The Sausage Shop, serving up the farm-fresh sausage that truckers and travelers couldn’t get enough of. That roadside stop became the foundation for what would grow into a nationwide chain.

There’s even a Bob Evans Restaurant museum and homestead tours—though thanks to post-covid changes, you’ll have to time your visit with the annual Bob Evans Farm Festival if you want the full experience. Otherwise, you’ll just have to settle for a plate of biscuits and a peek at history from the parking.

The Food:

We’ve hit plenty of Bob Evans joints on our travels, and this one’s no different when it comes to the grub—good food, fair prices, and décor that says “classic Bob Evans” rather than “Instagram influencer.” But let’s be honest, you’re here for the story as much as the sausage.

Overall Thoughts: A nice visit to where it all began.

For a rider, the trip is worth it not just for the food but for the connection to history. Sitting down to a plate of biscuits and gravy at the farm feels different than ordering the same meal at a Bob Evans off the interstate. Here, you’re eating where it all began, where the sausage was first made, and where the idea of farm-to-table wasn’t a marketing slogan—it was just daily life.

The ride in? Pure Ohio—rolling hills, winding roads, and enough scenery to make you forget about your GPS. By the time you roll into Rio Grande, you’ll be ready for breakfast that sticks to your ribs. That first bite isn’t just food, it’s a taste of tradition.

So, if you’re looking for a ride that combines history, heritage, and homestyle cooking, point your bike toward Rio Grande. The Bob Evans Farm isn’t just the first restaurant—it’s the heart of a story that grew from one man’s farm into a national tradition. And like any good ride to eat, it leaves you full in more ways than one.

bob evens farm ijustwant2ride.com motorcycle touring ride to 3at

Eat to Ride #3: Hillbilly Hotdogs a West Virginia Motorcycle Ride

Posted: October 6, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism, ride to eat eat to ride
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motorcycle ride to hillbilly hotdog

Ride Destination: Hillbilly Hot Dogs, Lesage, WV                        Route Taken: OH-7 to US-35, then WV-2 south along the Ohio river Distance: ~150 miles round trip                                                  Vibe: Backwoods carnival meets roadside Americana

Hotdogs are a true American staple—loved by many, for better or worse. Hillbilly Hotdogs takes that classic comfort food and gives it a major Appalachian twist, both in flavor and atmosphere.

Location: Hillbilly Hotdog on WV Route 2 north of Huntington, WV.

This West Virginia Motorcycle ride and destination is one you can’t miss it: wedged between the road and the mountain, it’s a roadside attraction that grabs your attention whether you stop or just ride by.

The place is packed with quirky, hillbilly-themed décor, including a “Weddin Chaple” that’s hosted real weddings! It will engage your eyes as there is something everywhere you look!

The gravel parking lot offers plenty of space, with overflow parking on both sides of the chapel.

Seating is plentiful, thanks to a couple of converted school buses and a collection of outdoor tables.

The Food

Let’s talk dogs. These aren’t your ballpark franks—they’re Frankenstein creations of chili, slaw, jalapeños, mac & cheese, and whatever else the hillbilly imagination conjure. Here are a few standouts:

  • The Homewrecker: A 15-inch beast loaded with everything but regret. It’s a challenge and a meal, and yes, they make you sign a waiver.
  • The Mothman Dog: Spicy, smoky, and just mysterious enough to make you wonder if you saw something in the woods on the way in.
  • Hillbilly Nachos: Because why not? Pulled pork, cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce that could win awards.

The menu is extensive, with over 30 different types of hotdogs—so many, I wish I had snapped a photo for reference!

On our visit, Debbie opted for the “Ketchup Puppy” (not feeling adventurous that day), while I went for the Taco Dog, loaded with all the classic taco fixings. The dogs themselves are flavorful and high-quality, and the toppings on my Taco Dog were fresh and delicious.

Overall Thoughts: Must-visit food stops for bikers on a West Virginia motorcycle trip.

Hillbilly Hotdogs is a must-visit if you’re anywhere nearby. It’s exactly what your stomach needs during a day trip or a long ride. Even Guy Fieri stopped by to tackle the Homewrecker for “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” The restaurant’s quirky spirit is so iconic, it even appears in the video game Fallout 76.

If you’re planning a ride through West Virginia, make sure Hillbilly Hotdogs is on your itinerary. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that blends great food, fun atmosphere, and true roadside Americana.

Have you been to Hillbilly Hotdog? If so comment below and let me know your thoughts.

If you have not been to Hillbilly Hotdogs, you need to add it to your WV motorcycle ride list.

Ride On, Ride Safe

hillbilly hotdog

Video from our Mothman Ride!

Posted: October 1, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism
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ijustwant2ride Illustration of Mothman riding a red motorcycle down a foggy urban street, with buildings on both sides. Cryptid biker with glowing red eyes and bat-like wings symbolizes mysterious road adventures. Perfect for motorcycle blog content about urban rides, legends, and local flavor.

My video skills are still a work in progress, but I’m working on it.

This short video captures our motorcycle ride with the Mothman Harley Davidson dealership. We rode from the dealership to the town of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, to visit the home and statue of the legendary Mothman.”

Exploring Ohio’s Backroads: Our First Ride with Borderline HOG

Posted: September 16, 2025 in Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring
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We recently embarked on a run 200+ mile motorcycle ride with our new Harley Owners Group (HOG) Chapter. This was our first adventure with the Borderline HOG, and it took us through the scenic backroads of Ohio, around our new home. The experience was nothing short of amazing! 

Discovering New Places: Our ride led us to explore places we had never been to before, and we were thrilled by the beauty and charm of the Ohio countryside. Each turn revealed a new sight, and we found ourselves falling in love with the winding roads and picturesque landscapes.

By the way, we circumvented Lake Senica which is much larger than one would expect. We rode around most of the lake and it took quite a while.

Unexpected Encounter: One of the highlights of our ride was encountering a goat that thinks it’s a dog! This quirky moment added a touch of humor and delight to our adventure, making it even more memorable.

Navigational Challenges: While I can’t provide the exact route we rode, I can share that we faced a few navigational challenges. The app our leader was using stopped working when we lost cell signal, leading to a few wrong turns. However, these detours only added to the excitement and fun of the ride.

Conclusion: Overall, our first ride with the Borderline HOG Chapter was an incredible experience. We discovered new places, enjoyed the camaraderie of fellow riders, and embraced the unexpected moments that came our way. We can’t wait for our next adventure on the open road!

Eat to Ride #2: Triple Nickle Dinner – Farm to Fork, Rider to Table

Posted: August 25, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, Product Reviews, ride to eat eat to ride
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Exterior of Triple Nickel Diner with subtle roadside signage

There’s something about a good diner that makes a motorcycle rider feel like they’ve found the end of the rainbow—and at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill, Ohio, that rainbow ends in a plates of eggs, pancakes and burgers…Oh and homemade pie.

Talking with the staff the diner works to get as much as possible from the local community.  It is a real farm to folk operation.

Location: Triple Nickle Diner on Ohio 555

Nestled on High Street, just off the winding curves of Ohio State Route 555 (aka the “Triple Nickel”).  It can be easy to miss as their roadside sign blends into the local background a little too much. 

The diner is about 100 yards off the main road in Chesterhill. The parking lot was a mix of small gravel and cinder and is not much of an issue the average motorcycle rider.

This cozy roadside gem is more than just a pit stop—it’s a pilgrimage. If you’re riding the 555 and not stopping here, you’re doing it wrong.

The Food

This isn’t your kale-and-quinoa and small portions kind of joint. This is comfort food with a capital “C.” Again all locally sourced as much as possible.

Breakfast Highlights:

  • Eggs your way
  • Garden omelets
  • French toast made with locally baked bread

Lunch & Dinner Favorites:

  • Black Angus burgers
  • Bison burgers for the bold
  • Steak, lamb, and meatloaf—again, as local as it gets

On our visit, we rolled in for breakfast. I went with the egg, sausage, and jalapeño omelet, paired with toast and home fries. Fresh, flavorful, and exactly what a rider needs after a morning of throttle therapy.

Also, we know the pies are homemade, a guy in a pickup was delivering the pies while we ate.  Of course we had to try a slice of warm apple pie.

Overall Thoughts

The Triple Nickel Diner isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place to arrive. It’s where the ride meets the reward, and where every bite feels like a high-five from the road itself. So next time you’re carving up the 555, make the stop. Your stomach—and your soul—will thank you.

BUT – Hours Matter: Closed Monday and Tuesday and opens at 11AM for lunch on Wednesdays. Plan accordingly or risk heartbreak.

Eat to Ride #2: Triple Nickle Dinner - Farm to Fork, Rider to Table

Experience the Beauty of Motorcycle Riding on Ohio Route 555

Posted: August 21, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism
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ijustwant2ride.com ohio 555 triple nickle
A Really Good Motorcycle Ride

Ohio State Route 555 is renowned for its challenging curves and elevation changes, making it a favorite among motorcyclists and sports car drivers. The route runs between Zanesville in the north and Little Hocking in the south, passing through the rolling hills and lush forests of the Appalachian region. Riders can expect a mix of tight twists, sweeping bends, and occasional straightaways, providing an exhilarating experience from start to finish.

Scenic Beauty

One of the highlights of the Triple Nickle is the stunning scenery that accompanies the ride. As you navigate the route, you’ll be treated to wonderful views of the Ohio countryside.

The landscape is dotted with quaint farms, dense woodlands, and serene streams, offering plenty of opportunities for photo stops and moments of reflection. During the fall, the route transforms into a vibrant tapestry of autumn colors, making it an ideal time for a ride.

Points of Interest

Along the way, there are several points of interest worth exploring. In Zanesville, you can visit the famous Y-Bridge, a unique structure that spans the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum Rivers.

Further south, the small town of Chesterhill offers a glimpse into rural Ohio life, with its historic buildings and friendly locals. Chesterhill also has a nice local diner, the Triple Nickle Diner, expect a Eat to Ride article on it soon. As you approach the southern end of the route, consider stopping by the Wayne National Forest for a hike or a picnic.

Tips for the Trip
  • Plan Ahead: The Triple Nickle is a rural route with limited services, so it’s essential to plan your trip in advance. Ensure your motorcycle is in good condition, fueled up, and you have water, and snacks for the ride.
  • Ride Safely: The curves and elevation changes can be challenging, especially for inexperienced riders. There are multiple blind hills with turns at the top so take your time, ride at a comfortable pace, and be mindful of other vehicles and farm equipment on the road.

Also pay attention for “ROAD APPLES” (see below).

  • Respect the Locals: The route passes through several small communities, so be respectful of residents and their property. Keep noise levels down and follow posted speed limits.  The Amish have a large community along Ohio 555 watch for their horse drawn wagons as well as the “droppings” from the horse’s exhaust.
Conclusion

Ohio State Route 555, the Triple Nickle, is more than just a road; it’s an adventure waiting to be experienced. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the ride or the tranquility of the countryside, this route has something to offer every traveler. So, gear up, hit the road, and discover the magic of the Triple Nickle for yourself.

For us we made this a day ride stopping at Fink’s Harley Davidson in Zanesville and rode through historic Marietta, OH before heading to the house.  A nice day out on the motorcycle.

Ride On, Ride Safe

Nice add to the route
Careful, generates road apples
A little faster and I can clear the trees

Old Town & Lock 70: C & O Canal Motorcycle Ride

Posted: August 6, 2025 in C&O Canal, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism
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C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride

Location: Old Town and Lock 70

Mile Marker: 166.7

Historical Comments: This is one of the larger stops on the canal.  It is easy to image that the area hasn’t changed much since the canal stopped operations in 1924. Lockhouse 70 is right next to the canal and is where the lock tender and family lived.

Lockhouse 70, situated right next to the canal, was once the residence of the lock tender and their family.

Today, Lockhouse 70 serves as a small museum open on weekends, offering insights into the Old Town area.

Thomas Cresap, a frontiersman and friend of George Washington, settled in Old Town in the early 1740s and established a fort near the Potomac River. One of the oldest structures in Allegany County, Maryland, is the 1764 Michael Cresap house, built by Thomas Cresap’s son, Michael.

Ride to the Site: he Old Town location is off the main road, so be sure to follow the road signs carefully to reach the park.

Amenities: When we visited there were portable toilets and a single picnic table.

Road Conditions (from main road): Paved all the way to the parking lot.

Railway Situation: There are no railway crossings to navigate..

Parking Lot Conditions: Small gravel heavily packed.

Main Attractions: The main attractions include Lock 70 and the small museum.

My Thoughts: Old Town is a charming destination for a weekend day ride

C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
C & O Canal Old Town motorcycle ride
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