Posts Tagged ‘Ohio motorcycle road’

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

One of the best driving and riding roads in the United States is Ohio State Road 555, better known as the “Triple Nickle”. This is not just my opinion it is also from Car and Drive and many other publications. Also 555 is also one of the Ohio “Windy9” roads and is heavily promoted, by the state, in many motorcycle publications.

Well, the Triple Nickle use to be a great motorcycle riding anyway!

Starting at the southern terminus of the road the road Ohio has “repaired” by the “Chipseal” method (or Tar and Chip where I grew up).  SR 555 is a ROYAL MESS.  I cannot recommend you ride a motorcycle on this road at this time, maybe in a year?

Gravel chips are everywhere.  Tight turns, and this road has many, can be dangerous along with every driveway and intersection.  When it gets hot the tar may become slippery if the chips have been removed by traffic or weather.

I don’t know how far north the chipseal goes as we turned off after about 10 miles. State Route 555 is just unsafe for motorcycles.

So, to answer the question, “How do you ruin a great motorcycle riding road?”  Just chipseal it, you could ruin it for years!

*****

Ride on, Ride safe