DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

This is a new post to provide a single source of details regarding the SE ClubLexus Meet at Deal's Gap in early September. Some of the other posts have become a bit to long to immediately get at the information for the meet.

Please note that the following posts will be edited and updated in place as new information is received so that there is one source for the 'latest and greatest'

*Other auto enthusiasts are also welcome. We'll likely have some NSXs, Porsche and S2000 folks join us among others.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Several of us have been working on details for the meet and have some tentative plans to share so participants can put it on your calendar!

W H E N
We're targeting the weekend of September 6 - 8. This should give folks a little time to plan and arrange travel plans, etc. The weather should be a bit cooler for outdoor activities as well.

W H A T
We're suggesting:
- short local meets to form up folks who may want to drive together to the combined meet (and allow members who don't come to get together AND meet new members)
- day drives on some of the most challenging roads in the USA as well as the most scenic
- evening entertainment opportunities
- alternative daytime events for guests
- chance to win prizes from our sponsors

W H E R E
A central location that most folks in GA, NC, AL, TN, and VA can get to (as well as other ambitious folks). We're planning on a combination Deal's Gap and Cherokee, NC event. Deal's gap is one of the most noted driving roads in the east coast. Cherokee is a small city in NC most noted for hosting a casino run by Harrah's (so those that are so inclined can do a bit of gambling in the evening if they wish).

People that don't want to do the twisty drive can go to Asheville, NC and tour the Biltmore Estate, and then meet up in Cherokee in the evening (about an hour away).

Some additional info on Deal's Gap can be found at the following sites.

http://www.tailofthedragon.com/dragon.html
http://www.dickson.net/doc/gap/index.shtml
http://miatadrives.com/gap2001/index.html
http://www.dealsgap.com
http://www.cherokee-nc.com/

it's very tough finding a 'central' location to suit all. We ended up picking the location also based on what it offers - a great driving location, great scenery and (as a plus) a casino for some evening entertainment.

Cherokee is:
175 miles from Charlotte, NC
160 miles from Atlanta, GA
75 miles from Knoxville, TN
300 miles from Roanoke, VA
190 miles from Winston-Salem, NC
290 miles from Goose Creek, SC

Additional Info on Harrah's (possible evening entertainment)
http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/che/
Info on the Biltmore Estate (alternative day event)
http://www.biltmore.com


What's next
- Make your hotel reservations SOON (SEE NEXT POST FOR DETAILS). Rooms are running out - please do not wait.
- Look here for the detailed event agenda / timing. Most of the formal meet activites will likely take place on Saturday.
- We need continue local participation. If you want to volunteer to organize your local area attendees AND possibly canvas for some local sponsorship, PM me. Flyers as I have attached below are being posted in Charlotte and Atlanta Lexus dealers.
- Determine communication methods during the drive

More info to follow! I hope other folks are as excited as I am about driving Deal's Gap, it's a legendary course.

We will have some safety rules to follow for the drive "on the Dragon", and will probably stagger cars in groups according to model & suspension modifications.

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

OK guys, here's the deal on hotels.

There's another larger group coming into town that weekend and they seem to have a lock on all of the 'group deal' rooms with all the hotels I emailed or called.

The best alternative I've found is directly through Harrah's as posted eariler. They have a special block of rooms reserved at $77 per night which includes two $10 certificates redeemable at their casino. Also have shuttle service there so we don't have to park at the casino if we want to go there in the PM. This $77 (less the $20 if you go to the casino) deal is good at a number of hotels in the area including Baymont, Comfort Suites, Comfort Inn, Best Western, El Camino, Holiday Inn, Quality Inn, Hampton Inn, Craig's, Ramada and some others, but they are limited so get them soon. Works out to $57 a night - not a bad deal at all.

The lady I spoke with recommended the top 3 hotels in this order and I have their availability as of today (8/8/2002 4pm):

1) Hampton Inn 5 roooms
2) Comfort Suites 2 rooms
3) Baymont Inn 10 rooms

There are several other hotels that have rooms (Comfort Inn, Best Western, El Camino, Holiday Inn, Quality Inn, Craig's) that we can use as fallback. The deal is $77 per night regardless of hotel (less the certificates if you gamble).

To get this deal, you have to go through Harrah's reservations at 1-800-HARRAHS and select the options to get you to "Harrah's Cherokee". Unless you are a big time gambler with Harrah's and have a 'total rewards' balance (which is where they 'comp' you rooms) you can just tell them you want the package deal with the local-area hotels and give them the list above.

There is a 48 hour cancelation policy, so the reservations are changeable if you need to back out for some reason.

Also forgot to mention above, there ARE rooms available at Harrah's itself, but they are $199 per night (unless you're a high roller ).

http://www.harrahs.com/our_casinos/...otel_rooms.html
http://www.tapocolodge.com/index.html

The Tapoco Lodge still has availability for that weekend for a more rustic setting and it is right on the road we'll be driving. It's more of a B&B/Lodge type place. Their rates were something like $79 room only, $99 w/breakfast and $139 with three meals. Other places can be found here
http://www.dickson.net/doc/gap/html/info.shtml

I plan to arrive late Friday night so that I'm 'fresh' for the drive on Saturday AM. I also plan to stay Saturday night and depart Sunday morning.

Roll Call for Participants and Hotels thus far :
In Cherokee, NC
Hampton Inn (FULL): me (GS) & my GF (NSX), Static911 (LS), Dr Rick (GS) , 1Sicklex (GS), trudremz16 (SC)
Sleep Inn: Bitkahuna (GS), Mumbles (GS)
Comfort Inn: Dex (GS), Kaygee (GS), Jazziz (GS)
Harrah's: JohnnySC (SC)
unknown: BrowserBoy (GS)

Cherokee isn't that big, so all these hotels should be within a mile or two of each other.

Staying outside of Cherokee:
Days Inn West, Candler NC: Paddy Wagon (RX)
Jeff - Porsche 911 Carrera 4S (co-worker of mine, also has an IS) - staying in Asheville
Hilary (gsr2is300) - IS300 staying in Asheville


Day Trippers (up/back same day for Saturday event)
GA400 (LS, Atlanta)
Jonnystan (RX, Boone)
GSTrance(GS, Atlanta)
VVT-i (GS, Atlanta)
ccarnel (S2000, Friendsville)


Interested (but not yet confirmed)
Azazel (GS)
Brendanlim (GS)
SorayamaK (LS)
Neal Rikal (SC)
IS300TURBO (IS)
BAWLEX94 (ES)
Mariusz (TT GS!)
Service folks from Hendrick Lexus
SRT Representative
two NSX guys (via email)
two S2000 guys (via email)

The list above is incomplete (I'm certain there are some I've exchanged pm or email with that I am forgetting). I also have a decent sized Charlotte Lexus email group with mostly SC and IS owners I sent meet info to (about 10 people), plus folks we pick up from IS300.NET, SELOC and local Lexus dealer flyers.

Please get your hotels soon folks before all the cheap rooms are gone. You can always cancel within 48 hours if you need to back out.

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

A G E N D A

PLEASE NOTE: The comments below are still in process of being updated with more precise details. PM me with comments or questions

Friday, September 6
Groups leave Atlanta, Charlotte. Local mini-meet if interest.
<Charlotte Caravan leaves at 3pm>
Arrival & Check-in
Car Wash / touchup
Dinner or late night meeting

Car Wash is available local to Cherokee at:
Car Wash Express
Cherokee, NC 28719
Phone: (828) 497-1387

They have wand bays as well as brush-type (ugh) drive through.
Located on 441 right near the Waffle House and Food Lion. I think they're the only game in town.

Note: Ethan, Dex, Bit, Paddy Wagon myself, my GF. are planning to arrive around 7 - 7:30 pm and plan to grab a late bite to eat. PM me if you're interested in joining us. Assume we'll meet up at the Hampton Inn Cherokee around 7:45pm.

Saturday, September 7
>> Additional Wash / Touchup at local car wash as needed

>> 9 AM Breakfast with all who care to join (optional of course) Location TBD (somewhere quick like McD's or a bagel shop), group leaves from the Hampton Inn.

>> 9:30 AM Local drive on Blue Ridge Parkway (AM) or the 'Road to Nowhere'. Snap some overlook pictures

>> 11:15 AM Gas up and head to Dragon Launch point (late AM)

>> 12:30 PM Lunch Meeting
The place we will be gathering for the launch point is called the Tapoco Lodge. It's 4 miles away from the entrance of Deal's Gap on the NC side. More info --> http://www.tapocolodge.com

If you want to prepare a mapquest map to the Tapoco, use this address as your destination. Their phone # is also listed below.

14981 Tapoco Road
Robbinsville, North Carolina 28771
828.498.2435 or 800.822.5083

The "Launch Point" is conveniently also the "Lunch Point". I've made reservations for 15 people at their restaurant for 12:30 pm. Casual dining, they can also do a box lunch for those that arrive late upon request. Should be a nice relaxed place to meet up and grab a bite before the drive. Lots of parking available, find the Lexus group and park with us.

>> 1:30 PM Gather group in parking lot, (including day-trip participants) for Safety Meeting & Group Formation

>> 1:45 - 2 pm Drive the Dragon (leave in groups)

Gather at endpoint to hurl, curse and cry <more detail to be added for directions to parking lot at end of the dragon>

>> ~2:45 - 3 pm Official ClubLexus Meet - Prize Drawings and pictures. (location is endpoint lot)

>> Additional Dragon runs as needed

>> Return to Cherokee (or home cites for day-trip folks)

>> 7:30 pm Dinner for those spending the Evening. I've made reservations for 15 at a recommended local spot called the Hungry Bear (next to Quality Inn) Hwy 441 S off 74 (exit 74). Trout is their specialty, but they have 'something for everyone' (828 497 2073)

>> 9pm + Casino activities (gambling or shows)

Sunday, September 8
Early morning Dragon run or Parkway drive
Group Breakfast
Depart for home cities


M A P S
Links to maps for the meet, Tail of the Dragon and of the local area will be posted here.

Map with location of the launch point (Tapoco Lodge)
http://www.tapocolodge.com/pics02/GRCMAP_TOPOCO.gif



P R I Z E S

This is a partial list of PRIZES from our sponsors, more details coming...

>> Two $100 gift certificates to www.l-tunedparts.com courtesy of Ethan and ClubLexus

>> 5 Lexus Hats and 5 Lexus Shirts courtsey of Hennessy Lexus in Atlanta, GA and CL member VVT-i

>> Lexus/TRD/Tom' s stuff TBD coming courtesy of Steve Ganz at Carson Toyota / www.l-tunedparts.com

>> Two awesome trance CD's "In Lextacy" professionally mixed by our ClubLexus member Iceman (these are CDs are great, I snuck a listen ) courtesy of DJ Iceman and DaveGS4

>> ClubLexus window decals and 'leavebehind' cards courtesy of Ethan and ClubLexus

Note - major prizes are specifically for ClubLexus members. We'll work out all the rules before the meet.

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

S A F E T Y:
We're all excited about this meet and the challenging driving, but the worst thing that could happen would be someone getting hurt. So let's keep it safe on the group drive.

Of course I can't possibly enforce all these guidelines, but the Dragon warrants making sure we think about some common sense rules that can help keep this drive a safe event. It's up to each participating driver to make sure this happens.

We will distribute the safety rules in writing below prior to our Dragon drive. Please review them before coming to the meet and give me any feedback and suggestions or additions that can make our meet a safe one.


1) Follow posted rules and regulations (speed limit, road cautions, etc).

The Dragon is a very dangerous road when you 'push it'. Several motorcyclists have lost their lives this year (and in past years) and the speed limit in some areas has been dropped from 40mph to 30mph. Even at the lower speeds, the course will offer plenty of challenge. Speed limits in the Deal's Gap area in particular are strictly enforced.

2) Exercise your good sense and take extra caution

Follow some good sense rules here. As seen in some recent polls, we have a fairly competitive profile for our group. This ISN'T a competition. As such:

- Please don't tailgate the person in front of you. We will establish some guidelines for requesting pullover/passing.
- Don't assume how tight a turn will be, even if you think you can see around it. There are switchbacks and curves beyond what you expect on this road and the driver in front of you may have suddenly slowed.
- NO DRIFTING. This is especially important for the safety of motorcyclists coming the other direction.
- Be observant. There will be other folks out there that are not as safe as our group will be. There may also be some logging trucks that create obstacles.

3) Turn Headlights ON

This one is simple - please turn on your headlights for the additional visibility. Plus it looks cool in photos.

4) Grouping for Safety:

We're going to leave in groups according to suspension capabilities and driver comfort. Initial thoughts on group breakdown as follows:

--> Ultra Capability Handling Group. This group includes Porsche, NSX, S2000, and modified IS300
--> High Capability Group. This group includes IS300's, suspension modified SC4/SC3 or suspension modified GS4/GS3. Suspension modified means at least upgraded springs/shocks and swaybars (or combination of other suspension component upgrades). Bitkahuna will organize and lead this group.
--> Sport Capability Group. This group includes GS4/GS3, SC4/SC3, suspension modified LS4, and suspension modified ES.
--> Factory Handling Group. This group includes LS, RX, LX, ES
--> Safety Group. This group includes DaveGS4. I'll be looking for cars in trees and gullies; those pulled over by the fuzz, etc. and will wait to make sure we all complete the drive.

The list above isn't intended to offend anyone - if you think I've done injustice to your auto's handling capabilities (sorry) please PM me and let's discuss. I've driven all the cars listed above and just went by
My impressions.

Please don't try to catch the next group.... Remember this isn't a competition. Within each group drivers will have different capabilities, so we'll plan on a 3-5 minute time gap between each group.

5) Passing Rules:

The entire portion of 129 known as the Dragon is DOUBLE YELLOW (no on-road passing).

First - give the driver in front a chance to get comfortable with the road. We'll have a number of predetermined spots for pull-offs and pictures; the best chance to re-organize the group is that time.

Except for the large gravel starting area, the pullovers on the Dragon are only large enough for 4/5 cars, and the overlook will fit about 10 cars.

If you CAN'T wait, use your Motorola to check status on the person in front of you (call out a description if you don't know them) and request a pass. Barring that, use your headlights OR be patient and wait for the next safe area to change position.

There are several little pullovers that will hold 1 or 2 cars specifically for passing - please use them and allow a pass to occur. Please do not do a complete two-lane (over the double yellow line) pass during this event.

6) Pictures and Video:

Unless there is a video hard-mount in your car OR you have a passenger taking the photo/video, please do NOT take pictures during the drive unless you're pulled over at an overlook or other spot and your car is stopped. If the car behind you has a passenger and you'd like for them to take some action pictures for you with your own camera - ask them!

A second consideration for videos is evidence in case we are pulled over. Of course if we follow all the regulations and posted limits, etc. this isn't an issue. HOWEVER, we don't want any cool video we shoot to show up in court. If you have any tape of drives prior to the Dragon drive, please leave it in your hotel. I'd suggest you discuss the fact you will be shooting video with the two cars immediately in front and behind you to make sure they are comfortable with it. We can re-arrange the group lineup as needed if you are concerned about being on an upcoming episode of 'COPS'.

7) Communications:

All cars should try to have a communications device to call/ask for help. We're using Motorola (or similar) FRS radios and cell phones as backup. There are four available to borrow if you do not have one or want to purchase one yourself.

We'll distribute at least two cellular phone numbers to the group to contact if they get in trouble outside of the dragon. CELL PHONES WILL NOT WORK IN THE DRAGON.

We highly suggest that you use hands-free devices or speaker when driving - or pull over to talk.

Thank you for taking the time to read this!

Static911

I will be bringing 4 Motorola T6400 Walky Talkies. I haven't even opened them yet...

I bought them for ClubLexus events. So if you need them, let me know.

If anybody wants to purchase one for your own personal use, you can buy at, http://www.discountfamilyradios.com/.

Ethan

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

I ordered a 6400. I've always wanted one anyway.

Daddy-O

For those looking to save a little $$$. There's a Days Inn 40 miles east of Cherokee, 15 miles west of Asheville.

Ashville, Days Inn West, Candler NC, $44-50 per night.

or Waynesville Days Inn, Waynesville, NC 18 miles east of Cherokee...$71/night

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

Another very good resource (worthy of a separate post) is the S2000 International website. The Honda S2000 crew there is also having a Deal's Gap meet called 'Dragonball' the weekend right after ours in September. I looked on their site after my girlfriend was contacted by a couple of S2000 guys asking to come along on our run (she has a post out on a NSX forum as well).

I found a very well organized group event with over 50 S2000's / 80 people attending (and growing). They have an entire forum section devoted to the meet linked here -->http://www.s2ki.com/forums/forumdisp...?s=&forumid=49

<on soapbox> Please note - by posting this link I assume that we all can be mature auto enthusiasts and avoid the spaming & bashing we've recently seen with some of our German friends. I think it's great if some of these guys want to come along with us for a practice run and I welcome them! Remember, this isn't a competition - it's an enthusiasts meet. Please keep it friendly .... <off soapbox>

I've been in contact with the gentleman planning their event and we're going to share materials and information. He's done the Tail of the Dragon drive six times, so he's a great resource for us on finding great places to stop in groups, photo spots, saftety tips etc.

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

kaygee, mumbles and I are planning to caravan up to Cherokee on Friday from Atlanta starting around 5p.m. probably from around where I work which is N. Druid Hills Rd and I85.

Others are welcome to join us or join the convoy en route.

And I don't plan to race, so if you want to do triple digits, knock yourself out. It would be a bummer to start the weekend with a ticket.

Granted, it's going to be HARD not to lead foot it up there with GS's around me.

Jazziz

I was planning on leaving around noon or 1pm on Friday. I am thinking of taking the scenic route through north Georgia on the roads I usually ride my bike on. I haven't been up there this year, and have never taken the GS in them parts. The reason for the early departure is no way I would want to do it in fading daylight with the 180 degree switchbacks and no guardrails. Some areas have 100-150 foot sheer dropoffs just 6 feet from the edge of the roadway on one particular road I just luv. Everytime I'm up there riding solo, deep in the back of my head the thought of my body not being found for a month keeps me very focused.
This will be my fifth trip to Deals Gap, 3 times on the bike, and once in a Gran Am rental out of Knoxville while on business there. If the weather cooporates, I guarantee it will be enjoyed by all. One note though, the place is crowded on the weekends and Johnny Law's presence has increased dramatically over the years since I started going.

KayGee

Noon or 1:00 sounds better to me also. I am planning on taking the day off on Friday. That means that I have to Zano on Thursday night.

bitkahuna

iTrader: (20)

KeyGee, no problem if you want to go up with Jazziz earlier.

Jazziz, there's lots of switchbacks just getting to the hotel!? Doesn't look that way judging from the map. I was planning to take 985/23/441, etc. by the way.

DaveGS4

iTrader: (2)

Just wanted to let you guys know I'm trying to line up a deal with a local detailer for discount car washes once we arrive (or full detail if you want one). I will have mine clean before I leave CLT, but will want a decent wash to get rid of bugs and brake dust once I get to Cherokee on Friday. I got a call back from them today, will let you know what kind of price we can get.

I'll also get locations for wand and touchless car washes for those who want to DIY.

DrRick

i plan on leaving after work at around 7. if anyone is gonna get a late start like me, you are welcome to join. let me know.......

Jazziz

Bit,
The route you're taking is the direct one I usually take when coming home from our annual week long tiring bike trip up the Blue Ridge Pkwy, and more than likely the return route from this meet. My planned route will take us through Dahlonega, Suches, and Blairsville, GA plus Murphy and Andrews, NC, very beautiful countryside. That's another reason I wanted to leave early enough to see these places again and make it to Cherokee @ check-in time. This route in also contingient on the weather as well. I'm off that week, so I have the time.