The Backroads Report December 21st 2024 #349

Published: Sat, 12/21/24

Updated: Sat, 12/21/24

Mark Byers'

On the Mark

Racing Among Gentlemen

The last few weeks of the MotoGP racing season, at both the intermediate (Moto2) and top (MotoGP) levels, has been exemplary. Far from the Jersey Shore on four wheels that is NASCAR, MotoGP provided thrilling races in a straightforward championship format between riders that are actually gentlemen. The crashes, and there have been quite a few, have mostly been the result of rider errors from pushing too hard rather than fratricidal bunting of fellow competitors and so far, there hasn’t been any post-race pugilism.

On the Mark

Welcome to the Jungle proudly brought to you by

Law Office of Paul Gargiulo, P.C.

2025 Suzuki GSX-S1000GX+

https://suzukicycles.com/crossover/2025/gsx-s1000gx-plus

While sharing its core elements with the other models in the GSX-S series, the GSX-S1000GX+ introduces new features and advanced functions that give it a unique position as Suzuki’s new Sport Crossover model.

The GSX-S1000GX+ is well worthy of taking its place as the king of Crossover touring comfort and riding pleasure, with a level of aggressive-looking SuperSport styling and attention to detail that will resonate soundly with discerning riders.

Suzuki

Backroads Summer Solstice Rally

https://backroadsusa.com/backroads-events

June 19 - 22nd, 2025

You didn't think we'd NOT be doing some special things in celebration our three decades of exploring the backroads of the USA, did ya?!

The format might be a little different but the riding, the venues, and the things we will toss in during the ride will be pure vintage Backroads Motorcycle Magazine!

We promise a most excellent time, and you should book your rooms now... today - we mean now - as they are limited and will go fast.

Stay tuned for more news as it rolls around the twisties at us!

Ride, Safe. Ride Smart. ride the Backroads.

Backroads Summer Solstice Rally

What Happened to

America’s First Megacity?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruWuAas8T7Y

In its prime, Cahokia was a prosperous city with a population similar to London’s. But this sprawling Native American metropolis from the Mississippian culture vanished long before Europeans arrived in North America. What happened?

Hosted by Joe Hanson from Be Smart, Overview uses stunning 4k drone footage to reveal the natural and human-made marvels shaping our planet--from a 10,000-foot view--literally.

Cahokia

51st Chilly Chili Run

A New Year's Day Tradition!

There is no better way to start the new year off than by riding for a cause!

Now in its 51st year the Chilly Chili Run is a neat escorted run through Sussex County New Jersey and is run by the Blue Knights NJIX - one of the most generous and respected motorcycle clubs in the nation.

We hope for an excellent day and turn out, and we hope to see you there!

Chilly Chili Run

ZAAR Z380E Acoustic / Electric Guitar with GT-6 Pickup

We are big fans of Zaar Guitars. The Arizona Company has some wonderfully crafted instruments, and have just introduced their new flagship model the ZC375.
If you are looking for a new guitar, or wisout h to add to your collection check this and their other fine guitars on their website...The Z380E stands out in the world of string instruments for its innovative design and exceptional sound quality the craftsmanship of the Zaar Z380E deserves high praise
It is a remarkable investment for both budding musicians and seasoned professionals alike.

Guitar Thrills

The Science of Measuring Snowfall

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/how-to-measure-snowfall?_kx=m1mcnBEw1k6QgGoCFlWJMf8a38M9ns4M0ZlyHozxEKA.UUnqkC

When a winter storm wallops a region, an army of volunteers springs into action—but exact totals can be tricky.

The Blue Hill Observatory, a few miles south of Boston, recorded the deepest snow cover in its 130-year history, an incredible 46 inches, in February 2015. The same month, Bangor, Maine, tied its record for deepest snow at 53 inches. Mountainous locations will sometimes see triple-digit snow depths.

Impressive numbers, for sure, but assuming you have a measuring stick long enough to reach the ground beneath all the white, how hard can it be to measure? You stick a ruler or yardstick into the snow and get a number, right? Well, not so fast. It’s a little more complicated than you might think to get those oh-so-important snow totals for winter storms.

Snow!

Nice to Be King!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC8yJl2IM3g

How One Man Became The KING of MOTORCYCLE RACING - Marc Marquez - a short story.

Whether you are a fan... or most assuredly not, Marquez is an amazing rider.
This is for John... we'll always have Austin!

Marquez

Pennsylvania’s 6 Most Beautiful Backroads

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/trip-ideas/pennsylvania/most-beautiful-backroads-pa?lctg=663c991d5f118c05c7af27d6

Summer is Coming....

Beautiful days are meant for enjoying one of the many beautiful scenic drives in Pennsylvania. After all, the many backroads and scenic byways that travel across the state give us a peek into so much natural beauty and history - from sprawling farmland to historic towns. Even just an hour behind the wheel gives us the chance to drink in some of Pennsylvania's beauty.

PA Backroads

What? You Don't Read

Backroads Magazine?

Some of you just get The Backroads Report

but you really need to read the magazine...

All Issues Available Here!

Backroads Magazine Current Edition

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Progressive

Bluebird of Bitterness

The Escape of the Week

https://www.atvrider.com/mines-meadows-atv-rv-resort-underground-atv-adventure/

The Mines & Meadows ATV/RV Resort

Wampum, Pennsylvania

Riding Mines & Meadows ATV Resort With Kawasaki
Thad Josey

I generally consider myself fairly lucky to have traveled to the places I have and experienced the four-wheeled adventures that life has thrown my way over the years. I've ridden the lush mountains of Hawaii, carved through the massive sand bowls in California, explored West Virginia's rugged Hatfield-McCoy trails, sunk deep in East Texas mudholes and have literally been raised dodging trees and the occasional abandoned moonshine still in the thick technical wooded trails of Northern Georgia. In all honesty, I can't even remember half of the places that I've been fortunate enough to let loose my wheels. But one thing is for sure: It's difficult to forget those places that throw in an interesting twist to the overall adventure. Which brings us to my latest endeavor as an ATV adventurist, that being the Mines & Meadows ATV/RV Resort.

ATV Rider

Presents

Song of the Week

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N2bl3GdXJA

Return of the Sun

Paul Winter Consort

The Paul Winter Consort celebrates the Winter Solstice with a musical journey through the longest night of the year, recorded live in the stunning acoustics of the world's largest Gothic cathedral, New York's St. John the Divine. SOLSTICE LIVE!

We have seen this in person many times... tonight is THE night... let's get back to riding as soon as we can!

Maybe even a Pagan Celebration at MWAG!

Return of the Sun

Best of Backroads 2024!

Coming Sooner Rather Than Later...

We Swear!

The Best of Backroads 2024

Take a look in the mirrors at the year that was with our annual Best of Backroads 2024. Great-All American Diner Run, Mysterious America... what were your favorites?

This issue is a keepa - and soon it will be riding season - so plan your adventures and day trips now!

Ride far, Ride smart...Ride the Backroads!

Backroads