Interstate freeways vs US Highways
Thread Starter
|
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 935
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
Interstate freeways vs US Highways
Hello, all. Planning a trip from Indianapolis, IN to Pigeon Forge, TN over the memorial weekend. Leaving Friday and coming back the following Tuesday. What's your opinion taking Interstate freeways vs US Highways? It's only about 50 miles difference between the two.
Here is my dilemma: I'm not uncomfortable riding on the interstates except maybe through cities (e.g. Louisville, KY). I know I'll probably see more on US highways, but am worried about traffics cutting in and out, cagers making turns in front of me, etc. I was thinking at least on freeways, everone will be going in the same direction, just have to watch out for merging traffics and tail-gaters.
This is my first longer trip and I'll be riding solo. MSF courses (basic and experienced) still fresh in my mind, SEE, what-ifs, etc. So I don't think I'll be paying much attention to the scenery anyway. What do you guys/gals think?
Here is my dilemma: I'm not uncomfortable riding on the interstates except maybe through cities (e.g. Louisville, KY). I know I'll probably see more on US highways, but am worried about traffics cutting in and out, cagers making turns in front of me, etc. I was thinking at least on freeways, everone will be going in the same direction, just have to watch out for merging traffics and tail-gaters.
This is my first longer trip and I'll be riding solo. MSF courses (basic and experienced) still fresh in my mind, SEE, what-ifs, etc. So I don't think I'll be paying much attention to the scenery anyway. What do you guys/gals think?
Tourer
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 384
Likes: 0
From: Oro Valley, AZ
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
I prefer the US highways, because as you said you can see more. I also ride the super slab back and forth to work everyday and don't want to spend my "off time" on it I don't have too. No matter which way you go, it's better on the bike
Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 16,320
Likes: 306
From: Boynton Beach, FloriDuh
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
My preference usually is to stay off the interstate. In your case, travel time and how long you can stay in the saddle are likely to be the controlling factors.
I suggest you go to Google Maps where you can plan your trip using different routes. Google will compute your travel (running) time for each route. Note, this will be riding time, not including any stops you make for rest, food, fuel, etc.
I suggest you go to Google Maps where you can plan your trip using different routes. Google will compute your travel (running) time for each route. Note, this will be riding time, not including any stops you make for rest, food, fuel, etc.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 2,179
Likes: 0
From: Great Falls, Va.
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
Well, in the interest of time, Interstates will be faster. However, if you have the option to run US routes parallel to the Interstates and just want a break from the trucks and hectic pace, than by all means, mix it up. In July, I'll be heading to Indy for the Brickyard (11th year in a row) and I will be alternating between the super slab and US routes.
[IMG]local://upfiles/48168/85AD1BC4AE06456EA4AE6AE76359CBEA.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]local://upfiles/48168/85AD1BC4AE06456EA4AE6AE76359CBEA.jpg[/IMG]
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,337
Likes: 3
From: Houston, Texas
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
i guess it depends on your time restraints. here in texas since all the big cities are quite a few miles from each other,i use the superslabs if im going on business on my bike. my ride from houston to austin can either be 3 hours on the superslab or 4 1/2 hours on the side roads.
Thread Starter
|
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 935
Likes: 1
From: Indiana
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
Wow!!! You guys are great, 5 replies within 30 mins. of posting..... I don't think time is an issue, as I plan on stopping every 1 1/2 hour anyway. I can take all day, well, 12 hours, to cover the 440 miles one way. I do like Capt's idea of mixing the two, as I picked out the route US highways almost parallel to interstates (I can jump over back and forth, all within 5-12 miles) except of a section in KY.
I think the general consensus suggested taking the US routes over the freeways. Sounds good to me. Thanks everyone!!
I think the general consensus suggested taking the US routes over the freeways. Sounds good to me. Thanks everyone!!
Trending Topics
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 2,230
Likes: 12
From: Mount Holly, NC
RE: Interstate freeways vs US Highways
I'm probably on your route... in shelbyville. I40 east/west of knoxville is excellent road. I75 south isn't too rough, but the northbound lane has some damned rough spots.
I'll PM you my contact info in case you have problems in KY and need tools/directions/cultural advice
I'll PM you my contact info in case you have problems in KY and need tools/directions/cultural advice
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
