dyno, the peak rear-wheel torque was 106 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm, and more than 100 lb-ft was available between 2,000 and 5,000 rpm.
Even though I was riding in one of the normally hottest months of the year, it had been an unseasonably cool summer, and when SR-14 leveled off and the scenery opened up just before the turnoff for SR-148, which leads up to Cedar Breaks, the ambient temperature was a brisk 58 degrees. I was glad I had donned the extra layer that morning.
DUCK CREEK VILLAGE Dixie National Forest spans a total of 2 million acres of very diverse southern Utah landscape, and the part I was riding through is green most of the year as a result of the higher elevation and regular summer thunderstorms. Long sweepers cut through alternating expanses of grassy meadows and stands of aspen, pine, spruce, and fir trees. It was cloudy the day I passed through, but on a clear day, you’ d swear you’ ve never seen skies so blue.
Continuing on SR-14 into Kane County takes you deeper into the trees and past several great spots for outdoor and powersport enthusiasts. You pass Navajo Lake first, a small reservoir that has fishing, boating, and lodging, and about 7 miles later you come to the unincorporated community of Duck Creek Village. Comprising of essentially one main road that parallels SR-14 for about a mile and offers any amenities you might need for a quick stop or overnighter, Duck Creek is a popular area for anglers, ATV riders, and snowmobilers.
Just outside of Duck Creek, you can take a side jaunt to Mammoth Cave, one of the largest lava tubes in Utah, with over 2,200 feet of passages and five entrances. The largest cavern is closed seasonally to protect hibernating bats, but the closure also coincides with the
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