artists , vendors , and much more were available for anyone to enjoy .
The purpose of the OTR is to draw folks to Tazewell by giving them a venue to engage with and enjoy their favorite pastimes with fellow
Inside Back of the Dragon Brewery .
enthusiasts . The event ’ s slogan is “ Ride ’ Em or Drive ’ Em ,” and all brands and types of vehicles are welcome . Motorcycles lined the streets as live music played from a stage . Vendor booths dotted the strip leading up to the BOTD
Brewery , where a huge dragon sculpture is ready for photos to prove you rode ( or drove ) the famous route .
Inside the brewery is a wide array of merchandise and memorabilia . I hadn ’ t ridden the Back of the Dragon yet , so I skipped the merch until I earned my bona fides . After enjoying the sights and sounds of the rally , I walked back to the Farmhouse Suite and lounged amongst the stylish and tasteful decor , enjoyed a decadent soak in the rainfall shower , and fell asleep in the king- size bed . This suite was going to spoil me !
Early the next morning , I rode my Versys to the start of the BOTD route . The REVER app said it should take 56 minutes to complete the 32- mile section of SR- 16 , which is an average of 34 mph even though the posted speed limit is 55 mph . That was my first clue I was in for a challenge .
FARMHOUSE SUITE
Located at 113 Fincastle Turnpike in the Historic District of Tazewell , the Farmhouse Suite is a distinctive place to stay . The decor blends antique style with modern elements and luxury conveniences . Eco- conscious yet elegant , the suite offers a waterfall shower , sumptuous robes and towels , and delicious snacks and drinks in the pantry and mini fridge . This suite is a comfortable place to sleep and a relaxing place to recharge between rides . Find more info at Vrbo . com / 4088799 .
22 / APRIL 2025 / RIDERMAGAZINE . COM