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

Motorcycle News: Harley Davidson, Meet the new boss, same as the old boss?

Posted: August 12, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news
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What You Need to Know

Harley-Davidson has appointed a new CEO. After what many consider to be a challenging five years under Jochen Zeitz’s leadership, the company now welcomes Arthur “Artie” Starrs. 

Mr. Starrs was, most recently, the CEO of Topgolf International. Before that he was the CEO of Global Pizza Hut, President & Chief Financial Officer of Untied States Pizza Hut, and Chief Financial Officer of Rave Cinemas.

In a quick interweb search I could find no evidence that he rides any type of motorcycle. 

My Take

I’m not convinced that a lateral move is what Harley-Davidson needed. Transitioning from a cultural warrior to a financial officer doesn’t inspire confidence in me.

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

Ride to Eat #1: Free Folk Brewery and Ample Pizza

Posted: August 2, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism, ride to eat eat to ride
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ride to eat free folk beer hico wv ijustwant2ride

Welcome to the first installment of our ‘Ride to Eat, Eat to Ride’ series, where we explore the best food destinations for motorcycle enthusiasts. Grab the throttle and get ready for a delicious adventure!

Free Folk and Ample Pizza are literally within 10 yards of each other and share the same grounds, outdoor space and parking lot. And, why not, beer and pizza go well together!

Prime Location: Free Folk Brewery and Ample Pizza on US Route 60

The location for these establishments is on US Route 60 in Hico WV. US 60 is also known as The American Byway “Midland Trail” near the New River Gorge National Park.  This spot used to be the New River Harley Davidson dealership, a beloved landmark before it closed its doors.

The parking lot is ample and paved but does have a moderate downhill slant.

We have ridden by this spot so many times as Route 60 is one of the best motorcycling roads in West Virginia.  The section of 60 between Hico and Gauley Bridge is also known as “The Talon” and rivals many of the best motorcycling roads in the United States.

The Food

As you might have guessed, beer and pizza take center stage here. Free Folk Brewery offers a selection of craft beers with quirky names that are sure to catch your eye. Where else will you be able to drink FAYETTEVILLE FOG, ALLEGHANY ALLIGATOR or FLYING SQUIRREL beer.  I had the pleasure of trying the ORANGE OSWALD beer, and it was outstanding.

By the way, the artwork on their labels and cans is nothing short of spectacular.

Ample Pizza is a wood fired pizzeria.  Hand tossed dough is the base for all their pizza pies.  While you can get all the normal types of pizza like pepperoni they do make some “special” pies as well.  A few examples of those special pies would be a “West Virginia Ramp” pizza or a “Spring Harvest” pizza with Swiss chard, komatsuna mustard greens, herbed white sauce, red onion, and crushed toasted almond. 

Not feeling very adventurous this day we went with a standard pepperoni pie.  It was quite good!

Overall Thoughts

Turns out that Free Folks has quite a bit of a motorcycle theme going.  Multiple old motorcycles, including an Ariel, are hanging from the ceilings intermixed with large posters of the beer artwork. 

We enjoyed our meal and plan to return, especially since my mother lives just 5 miles away.

Have you been to here? Do you think you might try it out during a motorcycle ride?

1970 Penton Berkshire
1953 Ariel Huntmaster
The wife and artwork
1973 Hodaka Dirt Squrit

Motorcycle Recalls July 2025: BMW, Zero, Can Am, Honda

Posted: July 29, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V480000

Manufacturer BMW of North America, LLC

Components COMMUNICATION

Summary: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 F 900 GS, F 800 GS, R 1300 GS Adventure, R 1300 GS, S 1000 RR, S 1000 R, and K 1600 GT vehicles equipped with the optional emergency call system. The emergency call system (eCall) may have been deactivated due to a software programming error.

Remedy: The electronic control unit software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed September 12, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V459000

Manufacturer Zero Motorcycles Inc.

Components SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC

Summary Zero Motorcycles Inc. (Zero) is recalling certain 2024 DSR/X, DS, DSR, and DSRP motorcycles. The front brake hose may be twisted and become damaged, which can cause a brake fluid leak and a loss of brake pressure.

Remedy Dealers will inspect and replace the hose as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 28, 2025. Owners may contact Zero customer service at 1-888-841-8085. Zero’s number for this recall is SV-RCL-025-017

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V448000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components POWER TRAIN

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc. (BRP) is recalling certain 2025 Can-Am Canyon motorcycles. On these motorcycles, the drive belt lower idler support will fail and possibly cause a belt failure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new drive belt lower Idler support, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 15, 2025. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222. The manufacturer number for this recall is Bulletin 2025-4.

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V435000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components TIRES

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2024 Honda NC750X motorcycles. Due to an improper manufacturing process, the inner structure of the front tire may loosen and unravel, which can result in a loss of vehicle handling and control. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 119, “New Pneumatic Tires – Other Than Passenger Cars.”

Remedy Dealers will replace the front tire, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 25, 2025. Owners may contact Honda customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KS4.

*****  

Ride On, Ride Safe

Big, Beautiful Bill—What It Means for American Motorcycles (and You)

Posted: July 2, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, Motorcycle Rides
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If it passes as is, as of this date, of course.

If you’re a rider with your eye on a fresh set of wheels—or just want Uncle Sam to finally throw you a bone—then there’s a new piece of legislation that might just fire up your interest.

Nicknamed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” this proposed law is revving its way through Washington and could have a huge impact on American-made motorcycles and the folks who ride them. Here’s what you need to know.

What’s in the Bill?

At the heart of the bill is a tax break for people who buy U.S.-assembled motorcycles for personal use. Here are the key takeaways:

  • Interest Deduction on Motorcycle Loans Riders can deduct interest on motorcycle loans—up to $10,000 per year—from their taxes between 2025 and 2028. That’s money back in your pocket just for financing your bike.
  • Above-the-Line Deduction You don’t even need to itemize your taxes to claim it. This opens the door for a lot more everyday riders to benefit.
  • Income Limits Apply This isn’t for the high rollers—deductions start to phase out at $100K for individuals and $200K for joint filers.

In short: this bill is designed to support middle-class riders—the bread and butter of the American motorcycling scene.

Why It Matters

Over half of new bike buyers finance their rides. Whether it’s your first cruiser or your fifth sport tourer, this bill could shave serious dollars off your cost of ownership. That’s good news for:

  • American manufacturing: More demand for U.S.-assembled bikes.
  • Local dealerships and service shops: Increased business and stability.
  • DIYers and gearheads: You’ve got more to invest in mods and gear.

The Catch?

It’s not 100% clear if this deduction will apply strictly to American brands like Harley-Davidson and Indian, or also to foreign brands that assemble bikes here in the States (think Honda or BMW in Ohio). Either way, assembly location matters—so keep your eyes on that factory tag.

My Thoughts

At IJustWant2Ride.com, we’re all about making the riding life better—safer, smarter, and just a little more rebellious. The Big, Beautiful Bill isn’t perfect, but it’s a rare bit of legislation that benefits the riding community.

We’ll be keeping an eye on how this bill evolves. In the meantime, if you’ve been dreaming about a new ride in your garage, 2025 might be your year.

Motorcycle Recalls June 2025: Kawasaki “Do Not Ride”, 82K Harley Davidsons, 19K Helmets, Honda

Posted: June 28, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
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Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V376000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary: Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (Kawasaki) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Ninja ZX-6R motorcycles. The motorcycles may lose engine power during operation due to seizure of a metal crankshaft bushing.

Remedy: Owners are advised not to ride their motorcycles until the repair has been completed. The #5 metal crankshaft bushing must be inspected on all eligible units already in operation. If there is no abnormality with or damage to the bushing, the bolts holding the crankshaft together in the crank case must be re-tightened with proper torque. If there is any abnormality with or damage to the bushing, the parts must be replaced and the crankshaft properly tightened, or the engine must be otherwise repaired or replaced. The manufacturer has not yet provided a schedule for recall notification. Owners may contact KMC customer service at 1-866-802-9381.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V375000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SUSPENSION

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles. The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new bracket, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 16, 2025. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0188. Some of the vehicles included in this recall were previously repaired under recall 23V591, and will need to have the new remedy completed.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E041000

Manufacturer Harley-Davidson Motor Company

Components SUSPENSION

Summary Harley-Davidson Motor Company (Harley-Davidson) is recalling certain Tail Rear Shock Absorbers (part number 54000294) and Low Rear Suspension Shock Absorbers (part number 54000134) designed to fit certain 2018-2024 Softail motorcycles. The mounting tab on the rear shock pre-load adjuster may break, allowing the rear shock absorber adjuster to damage the rear tire, causing a loss of tire pressure.

Remedy Dealers will install a new bracket, free of charge. Owners may contact Harley-Davidson customer service at 1-800-258-2464. Harley-Davidson’s number for this recall is 0189.

 *****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E040000

Manufacturer Micro DOT Helmet Co.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Micro DOT Helmet Co. (Micro DOT) is recalling certain Blister and Twister original helmets, sizes XXS – XXL. The helmets may lack proper penetration protection. As such, these helmets fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 218, “Motorcycle Helmets.”

Remedy Micro DOT will replace the helmets, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 6, 2025. Owners may contact Micro DOT customer service at 1-817-478-0497.

*****   

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V363000

Manufacturer Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A.

Components ENGINE, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. (KMC) is recalling certain 2025 BJ230A (W230 ABS) motorcycles. The electrical ground connection between the battery and frame may become unstable and result in an engine stall.

Remedy KMC will replace the battery harness and secure the ground connection, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 12, 2025. KMC’s number for this recall is MC25-06.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V358000

Manufacturer Honda (American Honda Motor Co.)

Components ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

Summary Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2024 XL750, 2025 CMX1100, and CRF1100 motorcycles. The crankcase sealing bolt may have been improperly manufactured, which can cause the engine to leak oil onto the rear tire.

Remedy Dealers will replace the crankcase sealing bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 25, 2025. Owners may contact Honda’s customer service at 1-866-784-1870. Honda’s number for this recall is KS2.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

Motorcycle Touring Aid? Unboxing the Anker Charging Station.

Posted: June 24, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle Rides, motorcycle touring, motorcycle tourism, Product Reviews
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When we tour, on the motorcycle, we carry a lot of cords, cables and power supplies to keep everything charged and working. Because of that, I am always looking for new ideas when it comes to charging electronic devices.

I saw this device on Amazon and thought… let’s try it out. With 2 AC plugs, 4 USB-C and 2 USB-B charging ports.

Stay tuned for a long-term review.

Town Creek Aquaduct: C&O Canal Motorcycle Ride

Posted: June 10, 2025 in Uncategorized
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Location: Town Creek Aquaduct

Mile Marker: 162

Historical Comments: The Town Creek Aqueduct is one of the historic aqueducts on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal (C&O Canal). It was designed to carry canal boats over Town Creek, a tributary of the Potomac River essentially a river over a river.

Construction of the aqueduct began in 1837 but was abandoned in 1838 due to financial difficulties faced by the Canal company. It was later completed between 1848 and 1850 by Michael Byrne

Ride to Site: A good distance from an interstate.  You will need to want to go to this site, you will not just run across this site.

Amenities:  No restrooms or picnic areas.

Road conditions (from main road): A lengthy gravel road with more then a few potholes.

Railway Situation: No railroad crossings.

Parking Lot Condition: Level gravel parking lot.

Main Attraction: Remains of the aqueduct and fishing.

My Thoughts: When I was there the gravel road and parking lot were very “pot wholly”.  Not a real issue as you can easily weave through.

Ijustwant2ride c&0
Remains of the Town Creek Aquaduct
Ijustwant2ride
Path from parking lot
Town Creek
Parking lot
Road to Canal

Motorcycle Recalls May 2025: Dainese Helmets, Can-Am

Posted: May 28, 2025 in Motorcycle, Motorcycle advocacy, Motorcycle news, motorcycle recall, motorcycle safety
Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
0

Be aware that this motorcycle recall list is for the United States for the last 30 days, there is no way I could cover the entire world. But in the world of global manufacturing, if a motorcycle is being recalled in one country there is a good chance it is under recall in others. So, safety first.

Also, (DISCLAIMER) this should not be considered a definitive list, check for yourself if you have any questions.

If you are US based, use the NHTSA website http://www.safercar.gov. Enter your VIN number to see if your motorcycle is affected by the recall.

If you are based outside the USA, use the appropriate website to locate recalls that may impact you. 

***** 

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25E031000

Manufacturer Dainese S.p.A.

Components EQUIPMENT

Summary Dainese S.p.A. (Dainese) is recalling certain AGV DOT Tour modular helmets with model number E2206. The chin guard plate may break, allowing the helmet to loosen or detach during a crash.

Remedy Dainese will repair the chin guard plates, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed June 2, 2025. Owners may contact Dainese customer service at 1-855-327-5639.

*****

NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V275000

Manufacturer Bombardier Recreational Products, Inc.

Components ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Summary Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) is recalling certain 2025 Can-Am Origin and Pulse electric motorcycles. The breather valve may not seal properly and allow moisture or water to enter the high voltage battery.

Remedy Dealers will install a new protection plate or replace the breather valve if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2025. Owners may contact BRP customer service at 1-888-272-9222.

*****

Ride On, Ride Safe

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